Life Start Vegan Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Natren
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Life Start Vegan against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.
Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy
Life Start Vegan is a dietary supplement by Natren with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for common cold and immune support, antioxidant support, skin health and collagen formation.Based on those ingredients, 386 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Vitamin C, Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Life Start Vegan by Natren
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Life Start Vegan by Natren — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Life Start Vegan by Natren
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Partial disclosure
Life Start Vegan contains 2 active ingredients: vitamin C and Bifidobacterium longum infantis, a live probiotic bacteria. The product also includes several inactive ingredients — brown rice milk concentrate, organic whole grain brown rice protein, cellulose powder, and brown rice syrup solids — which serve as carriers and binders.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient your body needs for immune function and wound healing. Bifidobacterium longum infantis is a strain of beneficial bacteria that naturally live in your gut and are thought to support digestive and immune health.
Does it work?
Not established
Vitamin C is effective for preventing and treating vitamin C deficiency, and there's possibly effective evidence it may help with anemia related to chronic disease, atrial fibrillation, cataracts, and respiratory infections triggered by exercise. For Bifidobacterium longum infantis, the evidence we hold doesn't establish effectiveness for the conditions listed — including age-related cognitive decline, allergies, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, anxiety, asthma, or athletic performance.
That doesn't mean it doesn't work; it means the data we have isn't strong enough to rate it yet.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Vitamin C is generally well tolerated at normal dietary and supplement doses. However, very high doses can cause side effects including abdominal cramps, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, and headache — especially above 2 grams daily.
Rare serious effects from very high-dose infusions include kidney problems and a condition called hyperoxalosis. People prone to kidney stones should be cautious.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis is generally well tolerated in healthy people, though rare cases of the bacteria entering the bloodstream (bacteremia) have occurred in critically ill or immune-compromised patients. Mild gastrointestinal side effects like bloating and flatulence have been reported rarely.
Safety data are limited, especially during breastfeeding — talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using if you're nursing.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking Life Start Vegan, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners like warfarin, estrogen-based medications (birth control or hormone replacement), chemotherapy drugs, aluminum-containing compounds, thyroid medication (levothyroxine), the HIV drug indinavir, the antipsychotic fluphenazine, or any antibiotics. No interactions are documented for the remaining medications we checked.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product may be worth considering if you're looking to supplement vitamin C or add a probiotic, but it's not a decision to make on your own if you take any prescription medications — especially blood thinners, birth control, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, thyroid medication, or antibiotics. Check your exact medications with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, and avoid high-dose vitamin C unless they advise it.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 22, 2024.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Life Start Vegan, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Natren |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 052557541253 |
| Net contents | 1.25 Ounce(s); 35.4 Gram(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Mar 22, 2024 |
| DSLD ID | 307091 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Powder |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Vegan, Vegetarian, Pregnant Women, Infants/Baby (0 - 1 Year), Lactating, Gluten Free |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for Life Start Vegan by Natren, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 20 mg | 22% |
| Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Brown Rice Milk Concentrate, organic whole Grain Brown Rice Protein, Cellulose, Powder, Brown Rice syrup solids
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula
Potency guarantee: Minimum of 1 billion CFU of live, active B. infantis beneficial probiotic bacteria NLS super strain per serving (approx. 1/4 teaspoon) guaranteed through expiration date, if kept dry and refrigerated.
A unique brown rice based probiotic formula
Optimizes digestive health of infants, expectant and nursing mothers
Probiotic powder for infants, toddlers & mothers Viable super strain beneficial probiotic bacteria B. infantis NLS, to support developing newborns, infants and toddlers
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use for infants, expectant or nursing mothers: Daily, 0.5 grams (approx. 1/4 level teaspoon) mixed with 30 mL (1 oz.) unchilled, filtered (chlorine-free) water, preferably before meals to optimize digestion. Life Start Vegan should be taken at least 2 hours apart from herbs, garlic and prescription drugs for optimal results. May be taken along with other Natren products. Expectant or nursing mothers may use Life Start Vegan in conjunction with Natren's Health Trinity System.
Formulation
The Trenev Process, a unique proprietary process, substantially increases the probiotic benefits by keeping the bacteria in their natural environment (supernatant) to ensure potency and efficacy, eliminating the need for additives. For more information, please call for a complimentary brochure.
Vegan
Gluten free Dairy free
Contains no preservatives or artificial colors and flavors. Natren does not use ingredients produced using biotechnology. Gluten free Dairy free Soy free No GMOs No FOS
Made in USA
Storage
Do not freeze or expose to moisture, heat or direct sunlight. Keep refrigerated and dry to maintain potency guarantee.
Precautions
Do not accept if seal is broken.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Natren The Probiotic Specialist Recognized Worldwide since 1982
Copyright 2021
Seals/Symbols
Guaranteed 100% potency through expiration date Natasha
FDA Statement of Identity
Probiotic Dietary Supplement
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Life Start Vegan by Natren label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in Life Start Vegan by Natren
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size0.5 Gram(s) Dosage formPowder Servings per container70 Amounts shown are per serving.
Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.
Vitamin C
Interacts with207 drugs
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for im...
Vitamin C monograph & interactionsBifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Interacts with182 drugs
Bifidobacterium longum is a 'friendly' bacterium found naturally in the human gut and used as a probiotic. It is generally well tolerated and is most...
Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Brown Rice Milk Concentrate, Organic whole Grain Brown Rice Protein, Cellulose, Powder, Brown Rice syrup solids. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Life Start Vegan by Natren Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Life Start Vegan by Natren contains vitamin C and Bifidobacterium longum infantis, both of which have documented interactions with medications.
The most serious concerns involve vitamin C, which can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin at high doses — a Moderate-severity interaction that may affect how well the drug prevents clots.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C also interacts with several other medication types. It may increase blood levels of estrogens (from birth control or hormone replacement), potentially boosting their effects.
It can theoretically reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs like alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics, raising concerns if you're undergoing cancer treatment. Additionally, vitamin C can increase how much aluminum your body absorbs from aluminum-containing compounds, and it may alter how your body handles the thyroid medication levothyroxine and the HIV drug indinavir.
There's also a Moderate interaction with the antipsychotic fluphenazine.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis has one documented Moderate interaction: antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of the probiotic by killing off the live organisms. If you take antibiotics, space them at least 2 hours apart from this product.
Altogether, these interactions span 386 individual medications. Use the medication checker below to see if any of your prescriptions are affected before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Life Start Vegan?
Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.
Go to the checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Life Start Vegan interact with 386 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Life Start Vegan interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Vitamin C Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Bismuth Subsalicylate, Metronidazole, TetracyclineHelidac
How Bismuth Subsalicylate, Metronidazole, Tetracycline interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Bismuth Subsalicylate, Metronidazole, Tetracycline interactionBleomycinBlenoxane
How Bleomycin interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAntitumor Antibiotics Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
Read the full Vitamin C + Bleomycin interactionBusulfanBusulfex, Myleran
How Busulfan interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAlkylating Agents Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
Read the full Vitamin C + Busulfan interactionCapreomycinCapastat
How Capreomycin interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Capreomycin interactionCarbenicillin Indanyl SodiumGeocillin
How Carbenicillin Indanyl Sodium interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Carbenicillin Indanyl Sodium interactionCarboplatinParaplatin
How Carboplatin interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAlkylating Agents Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
Read the full Vitamin C + Carboplatin interactionCarmustineBiCNU, Gliadel, Gliadel Wafer
How Carmustine interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAlkylating Agents Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
Read the full Vitamin C + Carmustine interactionCefaclorCeclor, Ceclor CD
How Cefaclor interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefaclor interactionCefadroxilCef-Tab, Duricef, Ultracef
How Cefadroxil interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefadroxil interactionCefamandoleMandol
How Cefamandole interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefamandole interactionCefazolinAncef
How Cefazolin interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefazolin interactionCefdinirOmnicef
How Cefdinir interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefdinir interactionCefditoren PivoxilSpectracef
How Cefditoren Pivoxil interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefditoren Pivoxil interactionCefepimeMaxipime
How Cefepime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefepime interactionCefiderocol Sulfate TosylateFetroja
How Cefiderocol Sulfate Tosylate interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefiderocol Sulfate Tosylate interactionCefiximeSuprax
How Cefixime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefixime interactionCefmetazoleZefazone
How Cefmetazole interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefmetazole interactionCefonicidMonocid
How Cefonicid interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefonicid interactionCefoperazoneCefobid
How Cefoperazone interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefoperazone interactionCefotaximeClaforan
How Cefotaxime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefotaxime interactionCefotetanCefotan
How Cefotetan interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefotetan interactionCefoxitinMefoxin
How Cefoxitin interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefoxitin interactionCefpodoxime ProxetilVantin
How Cefpodoxime Proxetil interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefpodoxime Proxetil interactionCefprozilCefzil
How Cefprozil interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefprozil interactionCeftazidimeCeftazidime, Ceptaz, Fortaz, Tazicef, Tazidime
How Ceftazidime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ceftazidime interactionCeftibutenCedax
How Ceftibuten interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ceftibuten interactionCeftizoximeCefizox
How Ceftizoxime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ceftizoxime interactionCeftolozane Sulfate, Tazobactam SodiumZerbaxa
How Ceftolozane Sulfate, Tazobactam Sodium interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ceftolozane Sulfate, Tazobactam Sodium interactionCeftriaxoneRocephin
How Ceftriaxone interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Ceftriaxone interactionCefuroximeCeftin, Kefurox, Zinacef
How Cefuroxime interacts with Life Start Vegan — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis NlsAntibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B.
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum Infantis Nls + Cefuroxime interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Life Start Vegan with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Vitamin C
Alkylating Agents
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, carmustine, busulfan, and thiotepa. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Aluminum
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Research in animals and humans shows that vitamin C increases aluminum absorption, theoretically by chelating aluminum and keeping it in solution where it is available for absorption. In people with normal renal function, urinary excretion of aluminum will likely increase, making aluminum retention and toxicity unlikely. Patients with renal failure who take aluminum-containing compounds such as phosphate binders should avoid vitamin C supplements in doses above the recommended dietary allowances.
Antitumor Antibiotics
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs which generate free radicals, such as doxorubicin. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effects, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Estrogens
Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Increases in plasma estrogen levels of up to 55% occur under some circumstances when vitamin C is taken concurrently with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, including topical products. It is suggested that vitamin C prevents oxidation of estrogen in the tissues, regenerates oxidized estrogen, and reduces sulfate conjugation of estrogen in the gut wall. When tissue levels of vitamin C are high, these processes are already maximized and supplemental vitamin C does not have any effect on estrogen levels. Increases in plasma estrogen levels may occur when patients who are deficient in vitamin C take supplements. Monitor these patients for estrogen-related side effects.
Fluphenazine (Prolixin)
Theoretically, vitamin C might decrease levels of fluphenazine.
In one patient there was a clinically significant decrease in fluphenazine levels when vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) was started. The mechanism is not known, and there is no further data to confirm this interaction.
Indinavir (Crixivan)
Vitamin C can modestly reduce indinavir levels.
One pharmacokinetic study shows that taking vitamin C 1 gram orally once daily along with indinavir 800 mg orally three times daily reduces the area under the concentration-time curve of indinavir by 14%. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown, but it is unlikely to be clinically significant in most patients. The effect of higher doses of vitamin C on indinavir levels is unknown.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Vitamin C can increase levothyroxine absorption.
Two clinical studies in adults with poorly controlled hypothyroidism show that swallowing levothyroxine with a glass of water containing vitamin C 500-1000 mg in solution reduces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and increases thyroxine (T4) levels when compared with taking levothyroxine alone. This suggests that vitamin C increases the oral absorption of levothyroxine, possibly due to a reduction in pH.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
High-dose vitamin C might reduce the levels and effectiveness of warfarin.
Vitamin C in high doses may cause diarrhea and possibly reduce warfarin absorption. There are reports of two people who took up to 16 grams daily of vitamin C and had a reduction in prothrombin time. Lower doses of 5-10 grams daily can also reduce warfarin absorption. In many cases, this does not seem to be clinically significant. However, a case of warfarin resistance has been reported for a patient who took vitamin C 500 mg twice daily. Cessation of vitamin C supplementation resulted in a rapid increase in international normalized ratio (INR). Tell patients taking warfarin to avoid taking vitamin C in excessively high doses (greater than 10 grams daily). Lower doses may be safe, but the anticoagulation activity of warfarin should be monitored. Patients who are stabilized on warfarin while taking vitamin C should avoid adjusting vitamin C dosage to prevent the possibility of warfarin resistance.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking high-dose vitamin C (3 grams) 1.5 hours after taking acetaminophen 1 gram slightly increases the apparent half-life of acetaminophen from around 2.3 hours to 3.1 hours. Ascorbic acid competitively inhibits sulfate conjugation of acetaminophen. However, to compensate, elimination of acetaminophen glucuronide and unconjugated acetaminophen increases. This effect is not likely to be clinically significant.
Aspirin
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction is not clinically significant.
Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate (Trilisate)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase choline magnesium trisalicylate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Niacin
Vitamin C might decrease the beneficial effects of niacin on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.
A combination of niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels in patients with coronary disease and low HDL levels. Clinical research shows that taking a combination of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium) along with niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) attenuates this rise in HDL, specifically the HDL-2 and apolipoprotein A1 fractions, by more than 50% in patients with coronary disease. It is not known whether this adverse effect is due to a single antioxidant such as vitamin C, or to the combination. It also is not known whether it will occur in other patient populations.
Salsalate (Disalcid)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase salsalate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams/day vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Bifidobacterium longum infantis NLS
Antibiotic Drugs
Theoretically, taking Bifidobacterium longum with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of B. longum.
Since B. longum preparations usually contain live and active organisms, simultaneously taking antibiotics might kill a significant number of the organisms. Tell patients to separate administration of antibiotics and B. longum preparations by at least 2 hours.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Life Start Vegan, from the product label.
Natren
See all Natren products- Name
- Natren Inc
- City
- Westlake Village
- State
- CA
- ZipCode
- 91361
- Phone Number
- 800-992-3323
- Web Address
- www.natren.com
Life Start Vegan by Natren: Common Questions
Does Life Start Vegan by Natren interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this if I'm on antibiotics?
Is the vitamin C dose in here high enough to cause side effects?
Is this safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Will this help my digestion?
What is Bifidobacterium longum infantis for?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Life Start Vegan is safe with your meds?
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Life Start Vegan’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Vitamin C
Interacts with 207 drugsVitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for immune function, collagen, and acts as an...
Read the full Vitamin C monograph → Herb & supplement monographBifidobacterium Longum
Interacts with 182 drugsBifidobacterium longum is a 'friendly' bacterium found naturally in the human gut and used as a probiotic. It is generally well tolerated and is most studied for digestive issues, though evi...
Read the full Bifidobacterium Longum monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Life Start Vegan's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.
The 72 references behind this product’s interaction data
Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.
Vitamin C 51 references
- McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
- Back DJ, Breckenridge AM, MacIver M, et al. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1516.
- Morris JC, Beeley L, Ballantine N. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man [letter]. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;283:503.
- Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
- Dwyer JH, Merz NB, Shirocre AM, et al. Progression of early atherosclerosis and intake of vitamin C and vitamin E from supplements and food. The Los Angeles Atherosclerosis Study. 41st Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevent
- Levine M, Rumsey SC, Daruwala R, et al. Criteria and recommendations for vitamin C intake. JAMA 1999;281:1415-23. PubMed
- Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
- Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/0309069351/html/.
- Houston JB, Levy G. Drug biotransformation interactions in man VI: Acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. J Pharm Sci 1976;65:1218-21. PubMed
- Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
- Rosenthal G. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1971;215:1671. DOI
- Hume R, Johnstone JM, Weyers E. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;219:1479. DOI
- Smith EC, Skalski RJ, Johnson GC, Rossi GV. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;221:1166. DOI
- Traxer O, Huet B, Poindexter J, et al. Effect of ascorbic acid consumption on urinary stone risk factors. J Urol 2003;170:397-401.. PubMed
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Richart C. Effect of ascorbic acid on gastrointestinal aluminum absorption (letter). Lancet 1991;338:1467.
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Influence of some dietary constituents on aluminum absorption and retention in rats. Kidney Int 1991;39:598-601. PubMed
- Partridge NA, Regnier FE, White JL, Hem SL. Influence of dietary constituents on intestinal absorption of aluminum. Kidney Int 1989;35:1413-7. PubMed
- Mc Leod DC, Nahata MC. Inefficacy of ascorbic acid as a urinary acidifier (letter). N Engl J Med 1977;296:1413. DOI
- Hansten PD, Hayton WL. Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration. J Clin Pharmacol 1980;20:326-31. PubMed
- Dysken MW, Cumming RJ, Channon RA, Davis JM. Drug interaction between ascorbic acid and fluphenazine. JAMA 1979;241:2008. DOI
- Vihtamaki T, Parantainen J, Koivisto AM, et al. Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas 2002;42:129-35. PubMed
- Slain D, Amsden JR, Khakoo RA, et al. Effect of high-dose vitamin C on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of the protease inhibitor indinavir in healthy volunteers. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:165-70. PubMed
- Cheung MC, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Antioxidant supplements block the response of HDL to simvastatin-niacin therapy in patients with coronary artery disease and low HDL. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2001;21:1320-6. PubMed
- Feetam CL, Leach RH, Meynell MJ. Lack of a clinically important interaction between warfarin and ascorbic acid. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1975;31:544-7. PubMed
- Weintraub M, Griner PF. Warfarin and ascorbic acid: lack of evidence for a drug interaction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1974;28:53-6. PubMed
- Lee DH, Folsom AR, Harnack L, et al. Does supplemental vitamin C increase cardiovascular disease risk in women with diabetes? Am J Clin Nutr 2004;80:1194-200. PubMed
- Taylor EN, Stampfer MJ, Curhan GC. Dietary factors and the risk of incident kidney stones in men: new insights after 14 years of follow-up. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004;15:3225-32. PubMed
- Ward NC, Hodgson JM, Croft KD, et al. The combination of vitamin C and grape-seed polyphenols increases blood pressure: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2005;23:427-34.. PubMed
- Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
- Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
- Fairweather-Tait S, Hickson K, McGaw B, et al. Orange juice enhances aluminium absorption from antacid preparation. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1994;48(1):71-3.
- Gruenwald, J., Graubaum, H. J., Busch, R., and Bentley, C. Safety and tolerance of ester-C compared with regular ascorbic acid. Adv.Ther. 2006;23(1):171-178.
- Rahimi, R., Nikfar, S., Rezaie, A., and Abdollahi, M. A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of combined vitamin C and E supplementation in preeclamptic women. Hypertens.Pregnancy. 2009;28(4):417-434. PubMed
- Einerson, B., Nathorn, C., Kitiyakara, C., Sirada, M., and Thamlikitkul, V. The efficacy of ascorbic acid in suboptimal responsive anemic hemodialysis patients receiving erythropoietin: a meta-analysis. J Med.Assoc.Thai. 2011;94 Suppl 1:S134-S146.
- Li, G., Li, L., Yu, C., and Chen, L. Effect of vitamins C and E supplementation on Helicobacter pylori eradication: a meta-analysis. Br.J Nutr 2011;106(11):1632-1637.
- Chen X, Shen L, Gu X, et al. High-dose supplementation with vitamin C--induced pediatric urolithiasis: the first case report in a child and literature review. Urology. 2014;84(4):922-4. PubMed
- Sattar A, Willman JE, Kolluri R. Possible warfarin resistance due to interaction with ascorbic acid: case report and literature review. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2013;70(9):782-6. PubMed
- Yaich S, Chaabouni Y, Charfeddine K, et al. Secondary oxalosis due to excess vitamin C intake: a cause of graft loss in a renal transplant recipient. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2014;25(1):113-6. PubMed
- Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
- Rumbold A, Ota E, Nagata C, Shahrook S, Crowther CA. Vitamin C supplementation in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(9):CD004072. PubMed
- Seo MS, Kim JK, Shim JY. High-dose vitamin C promotes regression of multiple pulmonary metastases originating from hepatocellular carcinoma. Yonsei Med J. 2015;56(5):1449-52. PubMed
- Skelin M, Lucijanic T, Amidzic Klaric D, et al. Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review. Clin Ther. 2017 Feb;39(2):378-403. PubMed
- Jiang K, Tang K, Liu H, Xu H, Ye Z, Chen Z. Ascorbic acid supplements and kidney stones incidence among men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol J. 2019;16(2):115-120.
- Thomas S, Patel D, Bittel B, et al. Effect of High-Dose Zinc and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation vs Usual Care on Symptom Length and Reduction Among Ambulatory Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2 PubMed
- Giffen MA, McLemore JL. Hyperoxalosis Secondary to Intravenous Vitamin C Administration as a Non-Allopathic Treatment for Cancer. Acad Forensic Pathol 2019;9(1-2):118-126. PubMed
- Maike A, Sturgill D, Gallan A. Oxalate Nephropathy in a Renal Transplant Recipient After Receiving High Dose Ascorbic Acid. Am J Med Sci 2021. PubMed
- Shen ZY, Chen YR, Wang MC, Chang SS. High-dose vitamin C-induced acute oxalate nephropathy in a renal transplant recipient: a case report and literature review. Asian J Surg 2022. PubMed
- Yanase F, Spano S, Maeda A, et al. Mega-dose sodium ascorbate: a pilot, single-dose, physiological effect, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Crit Care 2023;27(1):371. PubMed
- Sharma Y, Sumanadasa S, Shahi R, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. Sci Rep 2024;14(1):11846. PubMed
- Pejcic AV, Petrovic NZ, Djordjic MD, Milosavljevic MN. Vitamin C Levels in Pregnant Women and the Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplements in Preventing Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Balkan Med J 2024;41(4):248-260. PubMed
Bifidobacterium Longum 21 references
- Ha GY, Yang CH, Kim H, Chong Y. Case of sepsis caused by Bifidobacterium longum. J Clin Microbiol 1999;37:1227-8.
- Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
- Xiao JZ, Takahashi S, Odamaki T, et al. Antibiotic susceptibility of bifidobacterial strains distributed in the Japanese market. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2010;74(2):336-42. PubMed
- Rautava S, Kainonen E, Salminen S, Isolauri E. Maternal probiotic supplementation during pregnancy and breast-feeding reduces the risk of eczema in the infant. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;130(6):1355-60. PubMed
- Pruccoli G, Silvestro E, Pace Napoleone C, Aidala E, Garazzino S, Scolfaro C. Are probiotics safe? Bifidobacterium bacteremia in a child with severe heart failure. Infez Med. 2019;27(2):175-178.
- Pellonperä O, Vahlberg T, Mokkala K, et al. Weight gain and body composition during pregnancy: a randomised pilot trial with probiotics and/or fish oil. Br J Nutr. 2020 Nov 4:1-11. PubMed
- Pellonperä O, Mokkala K, Houttu N, et al. Efficacy of fish oil and/or probiotic intervention on the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in an at-risk group of overweight and obese women: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial PubMed
- Shahriari A, Karimi E, Shahriari M, Aslani N, Khooshideh M, Arab A. The effect of probiotic supplementation on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus among high-risk pregnant women: A parallel double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial PubMed
- Esaiassen E, Hjerde E, Cavanagh JP, Simonsen GS, Klingenberg C; Norwegian Study Group on Invasive Bifidobacterial Infections. Bifidobacterium bacteremia: Clinical characteristics and a genomic approach to assess pathogenicity. J Clin Microbiol. 2017;55(7) PubMed
- Enomoto T, Sowa M, Nishimori K, et al. Effects of bifidobacterial supplementation to pregnant women and infants in the prevention of allergy development in infants and on fecal microbiota. Allergol Int 2014;63(4):575-85. PubMed
- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Dear Healthcare Provider Letter: Warning Regarding Use of Probiotics in Preterm Infants. September 2023. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/media/172606/download?attachment. Accessed November 1, 2023.
- Pillai A, Tan J, Paquette V, Panczuk J. Does probiotic bacteremia in premature infants impact clinically relevant outcomes? A case report and updated review of literature. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2020;39:255-259. PubMed
- Sabaté JM, Iglicki F. Effect of Bifidobacterium longum 35624 on disease severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol 2022;28(7):732-744.
- Malaguarnera M, Greco F, Barone G, Gargante MP, Malaguarnera M, Toscano MA. Bifidobacterium longum with fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) treatment in minimal hepatic encephalopathy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Dig Dis Sci 2007;52(11) PubMed
- Zbinden A, Zbinden R, Berger C, Arlettaz R. Case series of Bifidobacterium longum bacteremia in three preterm infants on probiotic therapy. Neonatology 2015;107(1):56-9.
- Tamaki H, Nakase H, Inoue S, et al. Efficacy of probiotic treatment with Bifidobacterium longum 536 for induction of remission in active ulcerative colitis: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled multicenter trial. Dig Endosc 2016;28(1):67-74.
- Bertelli C, Pillonel T, Torregrossa A, et al. Bifidobacterium longum bacteremia in preterm infants receiving probiotics. Clin Infect Dis 2015;60(6):924-7. PubMed
- Esaiassen E, Cavanagh P, Hjerde E, Simonsen GS, Støen R, Klingenberg C. Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis bacteremia in 3 extremely preterm infants receiving probiotics. Emerg Infect Dis 2016;22(9):1664-6.
- Tena D, Losa C, Medina MJ, Sáez-Nieto JA. Peritonitis caused by Bifidobacterium longum: case report and literature review. Anaerobe 2014;27:27-30. PubMed
- Sangkanjanavanich S, Pradubpongsa P, Mitthamsiri W, Sangasapaviliya A, Boonpiyathad T. Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 efficacy in patients with uncontrolled asthma: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2022;129(6):790-792. PubMed
- Wilson HL, Ong CW. Bifidobacterium longum vertebrodiscitis in a patient with cirrhosis and prostate cancer. Anaerobe 2017;47:47-50. PubMed
See these in context on the Bifidobacterium Longum monograph →
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC