Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

MicroDefense Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Pure Encapsulations

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

MicroDefense is a dietary supplement by Pure Encapsulations with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for source of vitamin c, digestive complaints, antimicrobial (seed extract).Based on those ingredients, 1,442 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Berberine Sulfate, Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) extract, Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations

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

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 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

MicroDefense contains five active ingredients: grapefruit extract, berberine sulfate, olive extract, sweet wormwood extract, and clove powder. These are enclosed in a vegetarian capsule with hypoallergenic plant fiber as the only inactive ingredient.

Each ingredient plays a different role — grapefruit and berberine are included for their antimicrobial properties, while olive extract, sweet wormwood, and clove are traditional immune-support botanicals.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
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

This product doesn't appear to be marketed for a specific use, so we graded its ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.

Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports its ingredients for:

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.
  • Since the label doesn't commit to one use, we graded the ingredients' overall clinical evidence instead.
  • On file: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) — rated "Possibly Effective" (Clove) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) — rated "Possibly Effective" (Sweet Annie) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Diabetes — rated "Possibly Effective" (Berberine) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Helicobacter pylori — rated "Possibly Effective" (Berberine) (Natural Medicines).
  • On file: Hyperlipidemia — rated "Possibly Effective" (Berberine) (Natural Medicines).

The evidence for these ingredients is mixed. Berberine is possibly effective for high cholesterol, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), blood pressure support, diabetes, and helicobacter pylori infection.

Sweet wormwood is possibly effective for allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Grapefruit, olive extract, and clove do not have established effectiveness ratings in our data — the evidence for acne, asthma, atherosclerosis, headache, upper respiratory infection, depression, and other uses is insufficient.

If you're taking this for a specific health reason, talk with your pharmacist about what the science actually supports.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Grapefruit Berberine Olive Sweet Annie Clove

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 5 of the 5 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 5 of 5.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 5 of 5.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Grapefruit and berberine are generally well tolerated by mouth, though berberine commonly causes digestive upset — abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and flatulence. Berberine may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, and headache.

Grapefruit can trigger arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) and QT prolongation in large amounts, and preliminary research suggests that people who eat a quarter or more of a whole grapefruit daily may have a higher breast cancer risk, though more evidence is needed. Olive and clove are well tolerated in food amounts; clove oil in small doses (5–10 mL) can be toxic in children.

Sweet wormwood is generally well tolerated but rarely causes liver inflammation (hepatitis) — if you develop abdominal pain, dark urine, or yellowing skin, stop and seek care immediately. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: berberine is advised against during pregnancy and lactation because it may cross the placenta and pass into breast milk and has been linked to newborn harm.

Avoid sweet wormwood during pregnancy because of possible harm to the developing baby and while breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. No pregnancy/breastfeeding data is on file for grapefruit, olive, or clove in this product.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Grapefruit Berberine Olive Sweet Annie Clove

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 4 of the 5 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Clove, Sweet Annie, Grapefruit, Berberine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,443 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.

Before taking MicroDefense, check if you use any of these: cyclosporine or other immunosuppressants (Major risk from grapefruit and berberine); scopolamine, amiodarone, buspirone, or terfenadine (Major risk from grapefruit); any sedatives or CNS depressants, blood pressure medications, blood thinners (anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs), or diabetes medications (Moderate risk from berberine and/or clove); and any drugs metabolized by your liver's CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP3A4, CYP1A2, or CYP2B6 enzymes, since multiple ingredients may affect these pathways. Use the medication checker on this page to verify your exact drugs.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

MicroDefense is a multi-ingredient supplement with significant interaction potential, especially if you take immunosuppressants, heart medications, sedatives, diabetes drugs, or blood thinners. Before you start, run your medications through the interaction checker below — this is not optional given the number of drugs involved.

If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your pharmacist first, particularly because of berberine and sweet wormwood. Check in with your pharmacist if digestive upset or dizziness develops.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 25, 2019.

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 MicroDefense, straight from the product label.

Brand Pure Encapsulations
Barcode (UPC) 766298016658
Net contents 180 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 25, 2019
DSLD ID 184659
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten 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 MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations, 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:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
180
UPC/BARCODE
766298016658
IngredientAmount% DV
Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) extract85 mg--
Berberine Sulfate100 mg--
Olive (Olea europaea) extract100 mg--
Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) extract200 mg--
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) powder75 mg--

Other ingredients: Vegetarian Capsule, hypoallergenic Plant Fiber

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.
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Recommendations: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule daily, just before a meal, with 6-8 oz water, for 2-3 months, or as directed by a health professional.

Precautions

Warning: Not to be taken by pregnant or lactating women. If you have any health condition or are taking any medication, consult your health professional before use.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Use only if safety seal is intact.

General Statements

Scan to learn about our hypoallergenic supplements

Contents may not fill package in order to accommodate required labeling. Please rely on stated quantity.

Supports microbial balance for gastrointestinal and immune health

Formulation

Certified Gluten-Free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization, www.gluten.org

Gluten-free, Non-GMO & Hypoallergenic

Gluten-free, Non-GMO & Hypoallergenic

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Seals/Symbols

GF

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

General

v3 code: MI21

See for yourself

MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container180 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.

Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) extract

Interacts with
990 drugs
85 mg per serving

Grapefruit is a nutritious citrus fruit rich in vitamin C and other nutrients, and it is generally safe to eat. However, grapefruit is famous for seri...

Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) extract monograph & interactions

Berberine Sulfate

Interacts with
1,160 drugs
100 mg per serving

Berberine is a yellow plant compound that has shown promise for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol in some studies, but the quality of research vari...

Berberine Sulfate monograph & interactions

Olive (Olea europaea) extract

No known
interactions
100 mg per serving Form: Oleuropein

Olive comes from the same tree that gives us olives and olive oil, and its leaf and fruit contain antioxidant compounds like oleuropein and hydroxytyr...

Olive (Olea europaea) extract monograph & interactions
200 mg per serving

Sweet Annie (Artemisia annua) is the source of artemisinin, a compound used in prescription antimalarial drugs. While the purified drug is well studie...

Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) extract monograph & interactions

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) powder

Interacts with
977 drugs
75 mg per serving

Clove is a common cooking spice that is also used in traditional medicine, especially as a topical numbing agent for tooth pain thanks to its main com...

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) powder monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Vegetarian Capsule, Hypoallergenic Plant Fiber. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against MicroDefense?

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
1,442Drugs
776 Major 629 Moderate 37 Minor

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in MicroDefense 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.

Berberine Sulfate15 drug types · 1,160 drugs

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Berberine can increase serum levels of cyclosporine.
Berberine can reduce metabolism and increase serum levels of cyclosporine. Berberine might inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes cyclosporine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro and in vivo research suggest that berberine can inhibit platelet aggregation. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects when used with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs and increase the risk of bleeding.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, berberine may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that berberine may lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that berberine can have hypotensive effects. Also, a clinical study suggests that taking berberine in combination with amlodipine can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Animal research suggests that berberine may have sedative effects. Theoretically, use of berberine along with CNS depressants might produce additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit CYP2C9. Theoretically, taking berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical evidence show that berberine can inhibit CYP2D6. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical research show that berberine moderately inhibits CYP3A4. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

Theoretically, berberine may increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) activity and reduce the metabolism of dextromethorphan. This may increase the effects and side effects of dextromethorphan.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Losartan (Cozaar)

Berberine might reduce the therapeutic effects of losartan by decreasing its conversion to its active form.
Preliminary clinical research suggests that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) activity and reduce metabolism of losartan.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, berberine might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
In vitro and animal studies show that berberine can increase the systemic exposure and half-life of metformin, potentially increasing metformin's effects and side effects. This interaction seems to be most apparent when berberine is administered 2 hours prior to metformin. Taking berberine and metformin at the same time does not appear to increase systemic exposure to metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

Berberine can reduce metabolism of midazolam, which might increase the risk of severe adverse effects.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity and reduce metabolism of midazolam.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Berberine might increase the sedative effect of pentobarbital.
Evidence from animal research shows that berberine can prolong pentobarbital-induced sleeping time. Theoretically, combining berberine and pentobarbital might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Berberine has been associated with increased blood levels of tacrolimus.
In a 16-year-old patient with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who was being treated with tacrolimus 6.5 mg twice daily, intake of berberine 200 mg three times daily increased the blood concentration of tacrolimus from 8 to 22 ng/mL. Following a reduction of the tacrolimus dose to 3 mg daily, blood levels of tacrolimus decreased to 12 ng/mL.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Acetazolamide

Laboratory studies and initial clinical findings suggest that berberine has the potential to increase acetazolamide concentrations in the body. More research is needed to confirm this interaction.

Likelihood Possible Evidence C

Grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi) extract62 drug types · 990 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of amiodarone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of amiodarone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits metabolism and increases absorption of amiodarone. Grapefruit juice increases amiodarone plasma levels by 50% and peak concentration by 84%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Artemether (Artenam, Paluther)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral artemether, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of artemether.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the levels of oral artemether by 90% to 250% in healthy males.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Benzodiazepines

Grapefruit juice might increase blood levels of some oral benzodiazepines, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these drugs.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can increase plasma triazolam concentrations. Repeated consumption of grapefruit juice greatly increases triazolam concentrations and prolongs the half-life, probably due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Some studies show that grapefruit juice, particularly when taken in large quantities, reduces the clearance and increases the maximum blood levels, area under the plasma concentration curve (AUC), and duration of effect of midazolam. However, there is no effect on intravenous midazolam. Grapefruit juice has also been shown to increase the maximum blood levels and duration of effect of diazepam, but the clinical significance of this is not known. This interaction does not appear to occur with alprazolam.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Buspirone (Buspar)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of buspirone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of buspirone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of buspirone.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Calcium Channel Blockers

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral calcium channel blockers, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these drugs.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of amlodipine, nifedipine, nisoldipine, verapamil, felodipine, nimodipine, nicardipine, diltiazem, pranidipine, nitrendipine, and manidipine, This interaction is likely the result of the inhibition of intestinal metabolism of these drugs by CYP3A4, although some research suggests grapefruit may alter plasma drug levels by reducing the rate of gastric emptying. Consuming grapefruit juice 1 liter daily increases steady state concentrations of verapamil by as much as 50%. However, some references dispute the clinical relevance of the interactions with amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil. Other research in healthy individuals suggests plasma levels of felodipine and nifedipine are not affected when given intravenously. There is considerable interindividual variability in the effect of grapefruit juice on drug metabolism, which might account for inconsistent study results. In healthy older adults, the hemodynamic response to felodipine plus grapefruit juice might be influenced by altered autonomic regulation. In older healthy adults, a single dose of grapefruit juice and felodipine enhanced the blood pressure-lowering effects of felodipine. However, after a week of grapefruit juice and felodipine (steady state), the hypotensive activity was reduced, possibly due to compensatory tachycardia. Research indicates it is necessary to withhold grapefruit juice for as long as 3 days to avoid interactions with felodipine and nisoldipine.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of carbamazepine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases absorption and plasma concentrations of carbamazepine.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Carvedilol (Coreg)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of carvedilol, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of carvedilol.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the bioavailability of a single dose of carvedilol by 16%.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Celiprolol (Celicard)

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of celiprolol, potentially decreasing the clinical effects of celiprolol.
In human research, taking grapefruit juice within two hours of celiprolol appears to decrease absorption and blood levels of celiprolol by approximately 85%. This interaction is due to grapefruit-induced inhibition of organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP). Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cisapride (Propulsid)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of cisapride, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of cisapride.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the absorption and plasma concentrations of cisapride. According to the cisapride prescribing information, grapefruit juice is contraindicated in patients taking cisapride.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Clomipramine (Anafranil)

Theoretically, grapefruit juice might increase blood levels of clomipramine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of clomipramine.
Case reports have shown that clomipramine trough levels increase significantly after the addition of grapefruit juice to the therapeutic regimen.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of the active metabolite of clopidogrel, thereby decreasing the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel.
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet prodrug that is metabolized primarily by cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) to form the active metabolite. A small clinical study shows that taking grapefruit juice with clopidogrel decreases plasma levels of the active metabolite by more than 80% and impairs the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. This effect is possibly due to grapefruit-induced inhibition of CYP2C19.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of oral cyclosporine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of cyclosporine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice increases the absorption and plasma concentrations of cyclosporine. The mechanism of action is unclear. However, there is no effect on intravenous cyclosporine.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Grapefruit juice can increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism of drugs, causing increased drug levels and potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects. When taken orally, effects of grapefruit juice on CYP3A4 levels appear to last at least 48 hours. Grapefruit's ability to inhibit CYP3A4 has even been harnessed to intentionally increase levels of venetoclax, which is metabolized by CYP3A4, in an elderly patient with acute myeloid leukemia who could not afford full dose venetoclax. The lower dose of venetoclax in combination with grapefruit juice resulted in serum levels of venetoclax in the therapeutic reference range of full dose venetoclax and positive treatment outcomes for the patient.
Professional consensus recommends the consideration of patient age, existing medical conditions, additional medications, and the potential for additive adverse effects when evaluating the risks of concomitant use of grapefruit juice with any medication metabolized by CYP3A4. While all patients are at risk for interactions with grapefruit juice consumption, patients older than 70 years of age and those taking multiple medications are at the greatest risk for a serious or fatal interaction with grapefruit juice.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of dextromethorphan, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of dextromethorphan.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism, causing increased dextromethorphan levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Estrogens

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of estrogens, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of estrogens.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit increases the levels of endogenous and exogenous estrogens by inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes. Grapefruit juice increases exogenously administered 17-beta-estradiol by about 20% in females without ovaries and ethinyl-estradiol in healthy females.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Etoposide (Vepesid)

Grapefruit juice can decrease blood levels of etoposide, potentially decreasing the clinical effects of etoposide.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice decreases the absorption and plasma concentrations of etoposide. There is some evidence that grapefruit juice co-administered with oral etoposide can reduce levels of etoposide by about 26%. Grapefruit juice seems to inhibit organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP), which is a drug transporter in the gut, liver, and kidney. Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Halofantrine

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of halofantrine, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of halofantrine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism, which increases halofantrine levels and peak concentration, as well as a marker of ventricular tachyarrhythmia potential.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of statins that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of these statins. Additionally, grapefruit juice might interfere with the bioavailability of statins that are substrates of organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP).
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits metabolism and increases absorption and plasma concentrations of statins that are metabolized by CYP3A4. These include lovastatin, simvastatin, and atorvastatin. Keep in mind that there is considerable variability in the effect of grapefruit juice on drug metabolism, so individual patient response is difficult to predict.
Some statins, including pravastatin, fluvastatin, pitavastatin, and rosuvastatin, are not metabolized by CYP3A4. However, grapefruit juice might still affect the bioavailability of these statins. These statins are substrates of OATP. Grapefruit juice can inhibit OATP. Therefore, grapefruit juice may reduce the bioavailability or increase drug levels of these statins depending on the type of OATP. However, grapefruit juice affects OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration by at least 4 hours is likely to avoid this interaction.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Methadone (Dolophine)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of methadone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of methadone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice inhibits the metabolism of methadone, increasing methadone levels and peak concentrations. In one case, a 51-year-old male taking methadone 90 mg daily and no other medications was found unresponsive. The patient reported drinking grapefruit juice 500 mL daily for 3 days prior to the event. Methadone is a substrate of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), and grapefruit juice-induced inhibition of CYP3A4 is the likely cause of this interaction.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Methylprednisolone

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of methylprednisolone, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of methylprednisolone.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can increase the plasma concentration of orally administered methylprednisolone. Grapefruit juice 200 mL three times daily given with methylprednisolone 16 mg increased methylprednisolone half-life by 35%, peak plasma concentration by 27%, and total area under the curve by 75%.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Grapefruit juice can decrease levels of drugs that are substrates of OATP.
In vitro and clinical research show that consuming grapefruit juice inhibits OATP, which reduces the bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP. Various clinical studies have shown reduced absorption of OATP substrates when taken with grapefruit, including fexofenadine, acebutolol, aliskiren, celiprolol, levothyroxine, nadolol, and pitavastatin. Grapefruit juice is thought to affect OATP for only a short time. Therefore, separating drug administration and consumption of grapefruit by at least 4 hours is likely to prevent this interaction.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Praziquantel (Biltricide)

Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of praziquantel, potentially increasing the effects and adverse effects of praziquantel.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism of praziquantel. Plasma concentrations of praziquantel can increase by as much as 160% when administered with 250 mL of commercially available grapefruit juice.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Qt Interval-Prolonging Drugs

Grapefruit or grapefruit juice, especially if consumed in large amounts, can cause additive QT interval prolongation when taken with QT interval-prolonging drugs, potentially increasing the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that drinking 6 liters of grapefruit juice over 6 hours prolonged the QTc by a peak amount of 14 milliseconds (ms). This prolongation was similar to the QT prolongation caused by the drug moxifloxacin. In individuals with long QT syndrome, a smaller dose of grapefruit juice, 1.5 liters, resulted in a greater peak QTc prolongation of about 30 ms. The effect of smaller quantities of grapefruit juice on the QT interval is unclear.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quetiapine (Seroquel)

Grapefruit juice may increase blood levels of quetiapine, increasing the effects and adverse effects of quetiapine.
Quetiapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Grapefruit can inhibit CYP3A4. In one case report, a healthy 28-year-old female with bipolar disorder stabilized on quetiapine 800 mg daily presented with quetiapine toxicity considered to be related to consuming a gallon of grapefruit juice over the past 24 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quinidine

Grapefruit juice can alter blood levels of quinidine, potentially increasing or decreasing the clinical effects of quinidine.
Clinical research shows that grapefruit juice decreases quinidine absorption, clearance, and metabolism, and prolongs the half-life by about 20%.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) powder7 drug types · 977 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of clove extracts with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical and laboratory research suggest that polyphenol extracts from clove flower buds might lower blood glucose levels. Dosing adjustments for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents may be necessary when taken with clove. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, concomitant use of clove may increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research shows that eugenol, the principal constituent of clove, can inhibit CYP1A2 in a dose-dependent manner,. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, concomitant use of clove may increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro research shows that eugenol, the principal constituent of clove, inhibits CYP2C9 in a dose-dependent manner. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, concomitant use of clove may increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research shows that eugenol, the principal constituent of clove, can inhibit CYP2D6 in a dose-dependent manner. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, concomitant use of clove may increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that eugenol, the principal constituent of clove, can inhibit CYP3A4 in a dose-dependent manner. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, clove oil may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Laboratory research suggests that eugenol, a constituent of clove, has antiplatelet activity. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Ibuprofen (Advil, Others)

Theoretically, topical application of clove oil with ibuprofen might increase the absorption and side effects of topical ibuprofen.
Laboratory research shows that topical application of clove oil increases the absorption of topical ibuprofen. This interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) extract3 drug types · 889 drugs

Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Sweet Annie may alter plasma levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that the Sweet Annie constituent artemisinin induces CYP2B6, possibly increasing CYP2B6 activity by 1.6-fold. However, Sweet Annie extract seems to inhibit the activity of CYP2B6 in vitro, suggesting that other constituents of Sweet Annie play a role in its effects on the overall activity of this enzyme. More information is needed to determine whether taking Sweet Annie extract affects the metabolism of CYP2B6 substrates.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Sweet Annie may alter plasma levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that the Sweet Annie constituent artemisinin induces CYP3A4, possibly increasing CYP3A4 activity by 1.9-fold. However, Sweet Annie extract seems to inhibit the activity of CYP3A4 in vitro, suggesting that other constituents of Sweet Annie play a role in its effects on the overall activity of this enzyme. More information is needed to determine whether taking Sweet Annie extract affects the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use might have additive adverse hepatotoxic effects.
There is some concern that Sweet Annie can adversely affect the liver.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

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

Pure Encapsulations

See all Pure Encapsulations products
Name
Pure Encapsulations
Street Address
490 Boston Post Road
City
Sudbury
State
MA
Phone Number
1-800-753-2277
Web Address
www.PureEncapsulations.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations: Common Questions

Does MicroDefense by Pure Encapsulations interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, MicroDefense has a known interaction with 1,442 medications, including 776 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
MicroDefense contains 5 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 MicroDefense if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Berberine is advised against during both pregnancy and breastfeeding because it may cross the placenta and pass into breast milk and has been linked to harm in newborns. Sweet wormwood is also advised against during pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to safety concerns. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before taking this product if you're pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding — they can help you decide based on your individual situation.
What's berberine in this supplement, and what is it for?
Berberine is an alkaloid compound extracted from plants. In this product, it's included for its antimicrobial and immune-support properties. Research shows it may help with high cholesterol, PCOS, blood pressure, diabetes, and H. pylori infection, though it's not FDA-approved to treat these conditions and you should not rely on it instead of prescribed medications.
Does grapefruit extract in this product have the same interactions as grapefruit juice?
Yes — grapefruit extract carries the same Major-severity interactions as grapefruit juice because both inhibit the same liver enzyme (CYP3A4). The product facts show that grapefruit extract can raise blood levels of certain heart and immunosuppressant drugs substantially and lower levels of others, just as juice does. If you take any medications, you must check them against the interaction tool before starting.
Will MicroDefense make my blood sugar drop too low if I take diabetes medication?
Theoretically, yes — berberine and clove may both lower blood glucose levels, so taking them alongside diabetes medications could increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you use insulin or oral diabetes drugs, talk with your pharmacist about monitoring and possible dose adjustments before taking this product.
What are the most common side effects of MicroDefense?
The most common side effects come from berberine: abdominal pain and distension, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting. Berberine may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and fatigue. Grapefruit and sweet wormwood can cause nausea. Clove is generally well tolerated in the small amount in this supplement, and olive is well tolerated. If digestive upset is severe or persistent, stop and talk with your pharmacist.
Is there scientific evidence that MicroDefense actually works?
Only berberine has strong effectiveness data in our records — it's possibly effective for high cholesterol, PCOS, blood pressure, diabetes, H. pylori, and other conditions. Sweet wormwood is possibly effective for allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Grapefruit, olive, and clove do not have established evidence for the conditions listed in our data. If you're taking this for a specific health goal, talk with your pharmacist about whether the science supports that use.

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

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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.

MicroDefense label
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The Full Monographs Behind MicroDefense’s Ingredients

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

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

MicroDefense'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 237 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.

Grapefruit 157 references
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