Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Metagest Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Metagenics

Metagest label
See full label image
Tablet Or Pill Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Minor
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Metagest 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

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Minor

Metagest is a dietary supplement by Metagenics with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), bloating and gas, indigestion.Based on those ingredients, 36 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated minor. The ingredients most likely to interact are Betaine HCl. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Metagest by Metagenics

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Metagest by Metagenics — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
Prefer a human? Send your question to our licensed pharmacists — free, answered by email within 24 hours.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Metagest by Metagenics

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.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Aug 20, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 2 of its 2 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Metagest contains two active ingredients: betaine HCl and pepsin. Betaine HCl is a form of hydrochloric acid designed to increase stomach acid, while pepsin is a digestive enzyme that breaks down protein.

Together, they're meant to support the stomach's natural digestive work. The tablet also contains several inactive ingredients—stearic acid, microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose, silica, magnesium stearate, and a coating—that serve as fillers and binders.

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: complement natural stomach digestive agents.
  • We looked for evidence on: Dyspepsia, indigestion, bloating, gastric acid deficiency.
  • The closest evidence on file: Betaine Hydrochloride is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Dyspepsia (Natural Medicines).

The evidence for both ingredients in Metagest is limited. For betaine HCl, the data we hold shows insufficient reliable evidence to rate its effectiveness for indigestion, diarrhea, low thyroid function, rheumatoid arthritis, food allergies, or hay fever.

Pepsin has no effectiveness ratings in our data, so we cannot speak to what the science shows about its role in this product.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Betaine Hydrochloride Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases)

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 2 of the 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Betaine HCl can irritate the stomach and should be avoided if you have ulcers, gastritis, or true acid reflux disease—the opposite of what this product claims to help. It may cause heartburn or stomach upset.

Pepsin is generally well tolerated but can occasionally cause digestive upset or allergic reactions; occupational exposure to pepsin dust has rarely triggered asthma or allergic inflammation in the nose and eyes. For pregnancy, safety data for betaine HCl is not established, so it should be avoided.

Pepsin safety in pregnancy also has not been established, so it should be avoided unless your doctor prescribes it. During breastfeeding, neither ingredient has solid safety data; betaine HCl should be avoided, and pepsin is not recommended without medical advice.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Betaine Hydrochloride Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases)

Meds to double-check

Minor interactions only
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Minor only

Only Minor-severity interactions are documented for these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Betaine Hydrochloride.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Minor.
  • For scale: 36 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check your medications against this product if you take H2-blockers, antacids, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)—all Minor interactions where betaine HCl may reduce their effectiveness. No interactions are documented for the pepsin ingredient we checked.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Only minor medication interactions are documented, and safety information is well characterized.

Metagest pairs two digestive-support ingredients with limited evidence behind them and a notable catch: if you take acid-reducing medications for reflux or ulcers, this product works against them. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting—especially if you have a history of ulcers, gastritis, or reflux disease, or if you take H2-blockers, antacids, or PPIs.

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 25, 2013.

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

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Metagest, straight from the product label.

Brand Metagenics
Net contents 270 Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Oct 25, 2013
DSLD ID 27188
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
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 Metagest by Metagenics, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Tablet(s)
Servings per container
135
IngredientAmount% DV
Betaine HCl1300 mg--
Pepsin90 mg--

Other ingredients: Stearic Acid, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cellulose, Silica, Magnesium Stearate, Coating

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
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.
Brand IP Statement(s)

Metagest(R) features betaine HCl combined with pepsin-a proteolytic enzyme-to complement the natural production of digestive agents in the stomach.

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.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

DIRECTIONS: Take two tablets with each meal, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Precautions

CAUTION: If stomach discomfort occurs after administration, discontinue use and consult your healthcare practitioner. Do not use if there is a prior history of or a current peptic or duodenal ulcer.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Storage

STORAGE: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Do not refrigerate.

Formulation

Formulated to Exclude: Wheat, gluten, corn protein, soy, dairy products, nuts, tree nuts, fish, crustacean shellfish, colors, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.

General Statements

Genetic Potential Through Nutrition

Digestive Support Formula

{QR Code} Lot# 0810037 Exp 0412

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Metagest by Metagenics label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Metagest label

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)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Metagest by Metagenics

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container135 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.

Betaine HCl

Interacts with
36 drugs
1300 mg per serving

Betaine hydrochloride is a supplement used to temporarily increase stomach acid in people who may have low acid levels. Evidence for its benefits is l...

Betaine HCl monograph & interactions

Pepsin

No known
interactions
90 mg per serving Form: Porcine

Proteolytic enzymes are proteins that help break down other proteins, and common examples include bromelain (from pineapple), papain (from papaya), tr...

Pepsin monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Stearic Acid, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cellulose, Silica, Magnesium Stearate, Coating. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Metagest by Metagenics Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Metagest?

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 checker
36Drugs
36 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Betaine HCl 36

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Metagest interact with 36 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 2 ingredients in Metagest interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Betaine HCl

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Metagest with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Betaine HCl3 drug types · 36 drugs

Antacids

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of antacids.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. Antacids are taken to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with antacids might decrease the effects of the antacids.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
H2-Blockers

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of H2-blockers.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. H2-blockers are used to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with H2-blockers might decrease the effects of H2-blockers.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Proton Pump Inhibitors (Ppis)

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity and could decrease the effects of PPIs.
In human research, betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acidity. PPIs are used to decrease stomach acidity. Theoretically, taking betaine hydrochloride along with PPIs might decrease the effects of PPIs

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Betaine HCl full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Metagest, from the product label.

Metagenics

See all Metagenics products
Name
METAGENICS, INC. Makers of Professional Quality Supplements
Street Address
100 Ave. La Pata
City
San Clemente
State
CA
ZipCode
92673
Web Address
www.metagenics.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Metagest by Metagenics: Common Questions

Does Metagest by Metagenics interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Metagest has a known interaction with 36 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Metagest contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take Metagest if I have acid reflux?
No—this product is not recommended if you have true acid reflux disease. Betaine HCl increases stomach acid, which can worsen reflux and interfere with the medications used to treat it. If you have reflux symptoms, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before trying this.
What are betaine HCl and pepsin supposed to do?
Betaine HCl is meant to increase stomach acid to support digestion, while pepsin is an enzyme that breaks down protein. Together they're intended to mimic the stomach's natural digestive action, but the evidence for how well they work is not established in our data.
What side effects might I experience?
Betaine HCl may cause heartburn or stomach irritation, especially if you have ulcers or gastritis. Pepsin can occasionally cause digestive upset or allergic reactions. Rarely, inhaling pepsin dust occupationally has triggered asthma or nasal allergies.
Is Metagest safe during pregnancy?
No. Safety data for both betaine HCl and pepsin during pregnancy is not established, so both should be avoided unless your doctor specifically prescribes them.
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
The safety data for both ingredients during breastfeeding is limited or absent. Betaine HCl should be avoided, and pepsin is not recommended without medical advice. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether it's right for you.
Does this product have any fillers?
Yes. Metagest contains inactive ingredients including stearic acid, microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose, silica, magnesium stearate, and a coating that serve as binders and fillers.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Metagest is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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.

Metagest label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Metagest’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Betaine Hydrochloride

Interacts with 36 drugs

Betaine hydrochloride is a supplement used to temporarily increase stomach acid in people who may have low acid levels. Evidence for its benefits is limited and mostly based on tradition rat...

Read the full Betaine Hydrochloride monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases)

Proteolytic enzymes are proteins that help break down other proteins, and common examples include bromelain (from pineapple), papain (from papaya), trypsin, chymotrypsin, and pancreatin. Peo...

Read the full Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Metagest'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.

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 5 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.

Betaine Hydrochloride 2 references
  1. Yago MR, Frymoyer A, Benet LZ, Smelick GS, Frassetto LA, Ding X, Dean B, Salphati L, Budha N, Jin JY, Dresser MJ, Ware JA. The use of betaine HCl to enhance dasatinib absorption in healthy volunteers with rabeprazole-induced hypochlorhydria. AAPS J. 2014 PubMed
  2. Yago MR, Frymoyer AR, Smelick GS, Frassetto LA, Budha NR, Dresser MJ, Ware JA, Benet LZ. Gastric reacidification with betaine HCl in healthy volunteers with rabeprazole-induced hypochlorhydria. Mol Pharm. 2013 Nov 4;10(11):4032-7. PubMed

See these in context on the Betaine Hydrochloride monograph →

Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) 3 references
  1. Weeks JA, Harper RA, Simon RA, Burdick JD. Assessment of sensitization risk of a laundry pre-spotter containing protease. Cutan Ocul Toxicol. 2011;30(4):272-9. PubMed
  2. Marquès LI, Lara S, Abós T, Bartolomé B. Occupational rhinitis due to pepsin. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(2):136-7. DOI
  3. Cartier A, Malo JL, Pineau L, Dolovich J. Occupational asthma due to pepsin. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1984;73(5 Pt 1):574-7. PubMed

See these in context on the Proteolytic Enzymes (proteases) 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

Keep exploring
Supplement interaction checker › Check any supplement or product against your medications Drug–drug interactions › Check two or more of your medications against each other Browse medications A–Z › Every drug we've checked against herbs & supplements NDC & pricing lookup › Find a drug’s NDCs, packaging and costs Ask a pharmacist › Free, personal answer from our licensed team