Mega Dophilus Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Natren
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Mega Dophilus 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
Mega Dophilus 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, Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Mega Dophilus by Natren
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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 Mega Dophilus 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
Mega Dophilus contains 2 active ingredients: vitamin C and Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1, a live probiotic organism. The powder also includes inactive ingredients — milk, lactose, and whey — so it's not suitable if you're avoiding dairy.
Vitamin C supports immune function and overall health, while L. acidophilus is a beneficial gut bacteria believed to support digestive and immune health.
Does it work?
Moderate evidence
Vitamin C is effective for preventing and treating vitamin C deficiency, and possibly effective for anemia of chronic disease, atrial fibrillation, cataracts, and exercise-induced respiratory infections. The evidence for those last four uses is limited, so results vary.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is possibly effective for irritable bowel syndrome, Helicobacter pylori infection, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and bacterial vaginosis. For acute respiratory distress syndrome, there isn't enough reliable evidence to say whether it works.
For atopic disease (allergic conditions), it appears ineffective.
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 stomach cramps, heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Doses above 2 grams daily are more likely to trigger these effects.
Kidney stones have been reported in people prone to them, and rare cases of kidney damage have occurred with very high intravenous doses. Lactobacillus acidophilus is generally well tolerated in healthy adults and children.
Occasionally, people experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating, gas, or abdominal pain when starting probiotics, though these events are uncommon. Since this product contains milk and lactose, it's not appropriate if you're avoiding dairy.
On pregnancy and breastfeeding, vitamin C at recommended dietary amounts and from prenatal vitamins is considered likely safe, but high-dose supplements should be avoided unless your doctor advises otherwise. No safety data on file for Lactobacillus acidophilus in pregnancy or lactation.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking Mega Dophilus, double-check if you use estrogens (birth control or hormone therapy), blood thinners like warfarin, antipsychotics like fluphenazine, thyroid medications like levothyroxine, HIV drugs like indinavir, aluminum-containing products, or chemotherapy drugs — all Moderate interactions with the vitamin C. Antibiotics are a Moderate interaction with the Lactobacillus ingredient; separate doses by a few hours if possible.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Mega Dophilus may be worth considering if you're looking to support digestion with probiotics and add vitamin C, and you don't have dairy sensitivity. If you take birth control, hormone therapy, warfarin, thyroid medication, or antibiotics, talk to your pharmacist before starting — the interactions matter.
Check your exact medications using the tool on this page.
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 Oct 24, 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 Mega Dophilus, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Natren |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 052557102508 |
| Net contents | 2.5 Ounce(s); 70.9 Gram(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Oct 24, 2024 |
| DSLD ID | 307095 |
| Product type | Other Combinations |
| Supplement form | Powder |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), 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 Mega Dophilus by Natren, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Total Carbohydrates | 1 Gram(s) | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 13 mg | 14% |
| Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 | 0 NP | -- |
Other ingredients: Milk, Nonfat, Lactose, Whey
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 2 billion cfu of live, active L. acidophilus beneficial probiotic bacteria DDS-1 super strain per gram (approx. 1/2 teaspoon) guaranteed through expiration date, if kept dry and refrigerated.
Dairy Beneficial probiotic in the small intestine Probiotic dairy powder Viable super strain beneficial probiotic bacteria L. acidophilus DDS-1, to optimize digestion, absorption and regularity
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use: Take one gram (approx. 1/2 level teaspoon) daily mixed with 6 oz. unchilled, filtered (chlorine-free) water, preferably before meals to optimize digestion. Take Megadophilus at least 2 hours apart from herbs, garlic and prescription drugs for optimal results. Take with Natren's Bifido Factor and Digesta-Lac as part of the Healthy 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 (such as FOS - a type of sugar). For more information, please call for a complimentary brochure.
1 in the Healthy Trinity probiotic system
Contains no preservatives or artificial colors and flavors. Natren does not use ingredients produced using biotechnology. Gluten free Soy free No GMO's 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.
Contains milk.
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.
Mega Dophilus 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 Mega Dophilus by Natren
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 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 & interactionsLactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1
Interacts with182 drugs
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' bacterium used as a probiotic to support gut and vaginal health. It is generally well tolerated in healthy p...
Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Milk, Nonfat, Lactose, Whey. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Mega Dophilus by Natren Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Mega Dophilus by Natren contains two active ingredients, and the vitamin C in it does interact with medications.
The most serious interactions are with hormone therapies — vitamin C can increase blood levels of estrogens, which may affect how your birth control or hormone replacement therapy works. This is a Moderate severity interaction.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C also has Moderate interactions with several other drug types: blood thinners like warfarin (high doses may reduce their effectiveness), certain antipsychotics like fluphenazine, thyroid medications like levothyroxine, and HIV medications like indinavir. It can also theoretically reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs that work by generating free radicals.
Additionally, vitamin C increases aluminum absorption from aluminum-containing compounds and can cause stomach upset or other side effects at high doses.
The Lactobacillus acidophilus ingredient has one documented Moderate interaction: antibiotics taken at the same time may kill the live organisms in this supplement, reducing its benefit. Altogether, these interactions span 386 individual medications.
Before you start Mega Dophilus, run your exact medications through the search tool on this page.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Mega Dophilus?
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 Mega Dophilus interact with 386 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Mega Dophilus interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Vitamin C Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1
Alginic Acid, Aluminum HydroxideRafton
How Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAltretamineHexalen
How Altretamine interacts with Mega Dophilus — 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 + Altretamine interactionAluminum Acetate, Benzethonium ChlorideBuro-Sol Otic Solution
How Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Acetate, Benzethonium Chloride interactionAluminum ChlorideAluminum Chloride, Anhydrol Forte, Driclor, Drysol
How Aluminum Chloride interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Chloride interactionAluminum HydroxideAlu-Cap, Amphojel, Gaviscon
How Aluminum Hydroxide interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #2
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Aluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Aluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Aspirin, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Maalox, Mucogel
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug)Mylanta
How Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, CalciumDomeboro
How Aluminum, Calcium interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Calcium interactionAluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug)Almagel
How Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Magnesium (otc Drug) interactionAluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug)Wingel
How Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aluminum, Magnesium Hydroxide (otc Drug) interactionAmikacinAmikin, Arikayce
How Amikacin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amikacin interactionAmoxicillinAmix, Amoram, Amoxident, Amoxil Capsules, Amoxil Injection, Galenamox +3 more
How Amoxicillin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amoxicillin interactionAmoxicillin VeterinaryBiomox
How Amoxicillin Veterinary interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amoxicillin Veterinary interactionAmoxicillin, Clavulanate PotassiumAugmentin, Augmentin '125/31 SF', Augmentin '250/62 SF', Augmentin XR, Augmentin-Duo 400/57, Clavulin
How Amoxicillin, Clavulanate Potassium interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amoxicillin, Clavulanate Potassium interactionAmoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, RifabutinTalicia
How Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amoxicillin, Omeprazole Magnesium, Rifabutin interactionAmphotericin, TetracyclineMysteclin-F
How Amphotericin, Tetracycline interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Amphotericin, Tetracycline interactionAmpicillinOmnipen, Omnipen-N, Penbritin, Principen, Rimacillin
How Ampicillin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Ampicillin interactionAmpicillin, SulbactamUnasyn
How Ampicillin, Sulbactam interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Ampicillin, Sulbactam interactionAspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium HydroxideAscriptin Codeine #3
How Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Aluminum Moderate
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Aspirin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Codeine Phosphate, Magnesium Hydroxide interactionAvibactam Sodium, CeftazidimeAvycaz
How Avibactam Sodium, Ceftazidime interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Avibactam Sodium, Ceftazidime interactionAzithromycinAzasite, Zithromax, Zmax
How Azithromycin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Azithromycin interactionAztreonamAzactam
How Aztreonam interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Aztreonam interactionBacampicillinPenglobe
How Bacampicillin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Bacampicillin interactionBacitracinBaci-IM, Baciguent, Bacitracin Ointment
How Bacitracin interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Bacitracin interactionBazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated EstrogensDuavee
How Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Read the full Vitamin C + Bazedoxifene Acetate, Conjugated Estrogens interactionBendamustineBelrapzo, Treanda, Vivimusta
How Bendamustine interacts with Mega Dophilus — 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 + Bendamustine interactionBendamustine HydrochlorideBendeka
How Bendamustine Hydrochloride interacts with Mega Dophilus — 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 + Bendamustine Hydrochloride interactionBenznidazoleBenznidazole
How Benznidazole interacts with Mega Dophilus — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1Antibiotic Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L.
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus Dds-1 + Benznidazole interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Mega Dophilus 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.
Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1
Antibiotic Drugs
Theoretically, taking Lactobacillus acidophilus with antibiotic drugs might decrease the effectiveness of L. acidophilus.
L. acidophilus preparations usually contain live and active organisms. Therefore, simultaneously taking antibiotics might kill a significant number of the organisms. Tell patients to separate administration of antibiotics and L. acidophilus preparations by at least two hours.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Mega Dophilus, 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
Mega Dophilus by Natren: Common Questions
Does Mega Dophilus 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?
Does this have any fillers or extra ingredients I should know about?
Will it cause stomach upset?
Is vitamin C in here enough to prevent colds?
Is this safe during pregnancy?
What is Lactobacillus acidophilus DDS-1 supposed to do?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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The Full Monographs Behind Mega Dophilus’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 monographLactobacillus Acidophilus
Interacts with 182 drugsLactobacillus acidophilus is a 'friendly' bacterium used as a probiotic to support gut and vaginal health. It is generally well tolerated in healthy people, and there is reasonable evidence...
Read the full Lactobacillus Acidophilus monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Mega Dophilus'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 66 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
Lactobacillus Acidophilus 15 references
- Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
- Begtrup LM, de Muckadell OB, Kjeldsen J, Christensen RD, Jarbøl DE. Long-term treatment with probiotics in primary care patients with irritable bowel syndrome--a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. Scand J Gastroenterol 2013;48(10):1127-35 PubMed
- Chatterjee S, Kar P, Das T, Ray S, Gangulyt S, Rajendiran C, Mitra M. Randomised placebo-controlled double blind multicentric trial on efficacy and safety of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Bifidobacterium BB-12 for prevention of antibiotic-associated
- Shavakhi A, Tabesh E, Yaghoutkar A, Hashemi H, Tabesh F, Khodadoostan M,Minakari M, Shavakhi S, Gholamrezaei A. The effects of multistrain probiotic compound on bismuth-containing quadruple therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection: a randomized placebo-c
- Karamali M, Dadkhah F, Sadrkhanlou M, et al. Effects of probiotic supplementation on glycaemic control and lipid profiles in gestational diabetes: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Metab 2016;42(4):234-41. PubMed
- Badehnoosh B, Karamali M, Zarrati M, et al. The effects of probiotic supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018 May;31(9):1128-1136.
- Kumar S, Kumar R, Rohilla L, Jacob N, Yadav J, Sachdeva N. A high potency multi-strain probiotic improves glycemic control in children with new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled pilot study. Pediatr Diabete
- 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
- Xiao SD, Zhang DZ, Lu H, et al. Multicenter, randomized, controlled trial of heat-killed Lactobacillus acidophilus LB in patients with chronic diarrhea. Adv Ther. 2003;20(5):253-60.
- Rossi F, Amadoro C, Gasperi M, Colavita G. Lactobacilli infection case reports in the last three years and safety implications. Nutrients. 2022;14(6):1178. PubMed
- Ozer M, Goksu SY, Shahverdiani A, Mustafa M. Lactobacillus acidophilus-induced endocarditis and associated splenic abscess. Case Rep Infect Dis 2020;2020:1382709.
- Sadrin S, Sennoune S, Gout B, et al. A 2-strain mixture of Lactobacillus acidophilus in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. Dig Liver Dis 2020;52(5):534-540. PubMed
- Stoffer JN, Slingsby TJ, Giuliari GP. Lactobacillus acidophilus endophthalmitis after intravitreal bevacizumab injection requiring intraocular lens explantation. Can J Ophthalmol 2022;57(1):e21-e22. PubMed
- Cukovic-Cavka S, Likic R, Francetic I, Rustemovic N, Opacic M, Vucelic B. Lactobacillus acidophilus as a cause of liver abscess in a NOD2/CARD15-positive patient with Crohn's disease. Digestion 2006;73(2-3):107-10.
- Hui J, Ren Y, Wang Y, Han Q. Lactobacillus acidophilus endophthalmitis postcataract operation: A case report with a literature review. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023.
See these in context on the Lactobacillus Acidophilus 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