Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 3 of 4 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Mitochodrial Basics Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Life Extension

Mitochodrial Basics label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Mitochodrial Basics 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: Major

Mitochodrial Basics is a dietary supplement by Life Extension with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for bone health and osteoporosis prevention, dietary calcium deficiency, heartburn relief (calcium carbonate antacids).Based on those ingredients, 601 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are R-Lipoic Acid, ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride, Calcium. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension

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

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension

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 4 of its 4 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Mitochondrial Basics contains four active ingredients. Calcium supports bone health and is established for preventing bone loss (osteoporosis).

ArginoCarn (acetyl-L-carnitine arginate) and R-lipoic acid are both compounds the body uses in energy production and may help with nerve damage from diabetes and cognitive aging, though evidence remains limited. BioPQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is a cofactor involved in cellular energy, but we hold no interaction data for it.

The remaining ingredients are inactive fillers—cellulose, silica, wax, and other binders that hold the capsule together.

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
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: supports optimal mitochondrial biogenesis and function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Heart failure, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular energy production — and 1 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Acetyl-l-carnitine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related cognitive decline (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Acetyl-l-carnitine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Alzheimer disease.
  • Also on file: Alpha-lipoic Acid is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Heart failure.

Calcium in this product is established effective for preventing and treating bone loss (osteoporosis) and for correcting low blood calcium. Acetyl-L-carnitine and R-lipoic acid are rated possibly effective for diabetic nerve damage and possibly effective for age-related memory problems and depression—meaning small studies show promise, but larger, stronger evidence is still needed.

We hold no effectiveness rating for BioPQQ in our data.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Calcium Acetyl-l-carnitine Alpha-lipoic Acid

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 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Calcium is generally well tolerated at recommended doses, though high amounts can cause constipation, upset stomach, or in rare cases, kidney stones. Adequate calcium is important in pregnancy and breastfeeding when you stay within recommended amounts.

Acetyl-L-carnitine is generally well tolerated short-term, with common side effects including dry mouth, headache, insomnia, and reduced appetite; a metabolite may cause a fishy odor in urine, breath, or sweat. Long-term safety is not fully established, and it should be avoided in pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

R-lipoic acid is generally well tolerated but can lower blood sugar and should be used under medical guidance; it is best avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of reliable safety data.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Calcium Acetyl-l-carnitine Alpha-lipoic Acid

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?
  • 3 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Alpha-lipoic Acid, Calcium, Acetyl-l-carnitine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; cancer treatments; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 601 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 Mitochondrial Basics, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take HIV integrase inhibitors (dolutegravir, elvitegravir), intravenous ceftriaxone, blood thinners (warfarin, acenocoumarol, other anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs), serotonergic drugs (certain antidepressants or migraine medications), thyroid hormone or thyroid medication, heart rhythm or blood pressure drugs (sotalol, diltiazem), diabetes medication, or chemotherapy drugs. Timing of doses or close monitoring may be needed.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product may help with bone health and possibly support nerve and memory function, but it carries significant interactions with HIV medications, blood thinners, certain heart and thyroid drugs, and chemotherapy. If you take any prescription medications—especially blood thinners, heart rhythm drugs, thyroid medication, or cancer treatment—talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.

The same applies if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have diabetes and are on medication.

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

Assessment coverage: 3 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Apr 22, 2016.

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 Mitochodrial Basics, straight from the product label.

Brand Life Extension
Barcode (UPC) 737870176930
Net contents 30 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Apr 22, 2016
DSLD ID 59197
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
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 Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension, 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)
UPC/BARCODE
737870176930
IngredientAmount% DV
Calcium15 mg2%
ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride250 mg250%
R-Lipoic Acid100 mg--
BioPQQ Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt10 mg--

Other ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Cellulose, Silica, Calcium Silicate, Vegetable Stearate, Candelilla Wax, Beeswax

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.
General Statements

Scan for product info

Supports Optimal Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Function

To report a serious adverse event or obtain product information, contact 1-866-280-2852.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Read the entire label and follow the directions carefully prior to use. DIRECTIONS: Take one (1) capsule once or twice daily, preferably early in the day, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner. This product can be taken with or without food.

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place.

Precautions

WARNINGS: ~ KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

~ DO NOT EXCEED RECOMMENDED DOSE. ~ Do not purchase if outer seal is broken or damaged.

~ When using nutritional supplements, please consult with your physician if you are undergoing treatment for a medical condition or if you are pregnant or lactating.

Formula

with BioPQQ Pyrroloquinoline Quinone

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Brand IP Statement(s)

BioPQQ is a registered trademark of MGC (Japan). Bio-Enhanced is a registered trademark of Geronova Research, Inc.ArginoCarn is a registered trademark of Sigma-tau HealthSciences, Inc. and is protected by US patents 6,365,622, US 6,703,042 and EP1202956.

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.

General

Q01769B

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

See for yourself

Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension label

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

Mitochodrial Basics 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 Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule 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.

Calcium

Interacts with
168 drugs
15 mg per serving Form: Calcium Carbonate

Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet f...

Calcium monograph & interactions

ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride

Interacts with
203 drugs
250 mg per serving

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a form of the amino acid carnitine that the body uses to help produce energy in cells. It is most studied for nerve pain and mem...

ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride monograph & interactions

R-Lipoic Acid

Interacts with
263 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: Na-RALA Sodium R-Lipoate

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain,...

R-Lipoic Acid monograph & interactions

BioPQQ Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt

10 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Vegetable Cellulose, Silica, Calcium Silicate, Vegetable Stearate, Candelilla Wax, Beeswax. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Mitochodrial Basics?

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
601Drugs
7 Major 490 Moderate 104 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

R-Lipoic Acid 263
ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride 203
Calcium 168

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Mitochodrial Basics interact with 601 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

3 of the 4 ingredients in Mitochodrial Basics interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. R-Lipoic Acid ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride Calcium

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Mitochodrial Basics 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.

R-Lipoic Acid5 drug types · 263 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro, alpha-lipoic acid inhibits platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antitumor Antibiotics

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs, which work by generating free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormone drugs.
Animal research suggests that co-administration of thyroxine with alpha-lipoic acid reduces conversion into the active T3 form.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking alpha-lipoic acid with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Although some small clinical studies have suggested that alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood glucose levels, larger clinical studies in patients with diabetes have shown no clinically meaningful effect. Additionally, co-administration of single doses of alpha-lipoic acid and glyburide or acarbose did not cause detectable drug interactions in healthy volunteers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
R-Lipoic Acid full monograph & interactions

ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride4 drug types · 203 drugs

Acenocoumarol (Sintrom)

Theoretically, acetyl-L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol.
L-carnitine, the parent compound of acetyl-L-carnitine, might enhance the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol, an oral anticoagulant that is similar to warfarin, but shorter-acting. There are at least two case reports of INR elevation when L-carnitine was taken with acenocoumarol. In one case, a 33-year-old male with a previously stable INR had an elevated INR of 4.65 after L-carnitine was started and continued for 10 weeks. INR normalized after discontinuation of the L-carnitine-containing product. It is unclear if such an interaction would also occur with acetyl-L-carnitine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Theoretically, acetyl-L-carnitine might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome and cerebral vasoconstrictive disorders, when taken with serotonergic drugs.
Animal research shows that acetyl-L-carnitine can increase levels of serotonin in the brain.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, acetyl-L-carnitine might decrease the effectiveness of thyroid hormone replacement.
L-carnitine appears to act as a peripheral thyroid hormone antagonist by inhibiting entry of thyroid hormone into the nucleus of cells. Taking L-carnitine also seems to diminish some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. It is unclear if such an interaction would occur with acetyl-L-carnitine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, acetyl-L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
L-carnitine, the parent compound of acetyl-L-carnitine, might increase the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol, a shorter-acting oral anticoagulant similar to warfarin. There is not enough information to know whether this interaction occurs with acetyl-L-carnitine and warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
ArginoCarn Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate Dihydrochloride full monograph & interactions

Calcium18 drug types · 168 drugs

Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)

Co-administration of intravenous calcium and ceftriaxone can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys.
Avoid administering intravenous calcium in any form, such as parenteral nutrition or Lactated Ringers, within 48 hours of intravenous ceftriaxone. Case reports in neonates show that administering intravenous ceftriaxone and calcium can result in precipitation of a ceftriaxone-calcium salt in the lungs and kidneys. In several cases, neonates have died as a result of this interaction. So far there are no reports in adults; however, there is still concern that this interaction might occur in adults.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Dolutegravir (Tivicay)

Calcium seems to reduce levels of dolutegravir.
Advise patients to take dolutegravir either 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium carbonate 1200 mg concomitantly with dolutegravir 50 mg reduces plasma levels of dolutegravir by almost 40%. Calcium appears to decrease levels of dolutegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Elvitegravir (Vitekta)

Calcium seems to reduce levels of elvitegravir.
Advise patients to take elvitegravir either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking calcium supplements. Pharmacokinetic research suggests that taking calcium along with elvitegravir can reduce blood levels of elvitegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aluminum

Calcium citrate might increase aluminum absorption and toxicity. Other types of calcium do not increase aluminum absorption.
Calcium citrate can increase the absorption of aluminum when taken with aluminum hydroxide. The increase in aluminum levels may become toxic, particularly in individuals with kidney disease. However, the effect of calcium citrate on aluminum absorption is due to the citrate anion rather than calcium cation. Calcium acetate does not appear to increase aluminum absorption.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

Calcium might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption when taken in a fasting state.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide and calcium can be taken together if taken with food. However, if taken on an empty stomach, bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should not be taken with, or 2 hours after, calcium containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

Calcium reduces the absorption of bisphosphonates.
Advise patients to take bisphosphonates at least 30 minutes before calcium, but preferably at a different time of day. Calcium supplements decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Calcipotriene (Dovonex)

Taking calcipotriene with calcium might increase the risk for hypercalcemia.
Calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog used topically for psoriasis. It can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to cause systemic effects, including hypercalcemia. Theoretically, combining calcipotriene with calcium supplements might increase the risk of hypercalcemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Using intravenous calcium with digoxin might increase the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias.
Hypercalcemia increases the risk of fatal cardiac arrhythmias with digoxin. However, one retrospective analysis of clinical data suggests that intravenous calcium does not increase the risk of dysrhythmias or mortality in patients receiving digoxin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Others)

Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of diltiazem.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, calcium might increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of diltiazem.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption and effectiveness of levothyroxine.
Advise patients to take levothyroxine and calcium supplements at least 4 hours apart. Calcium reduces levothyroxine absorption, probably by forming insoluble complexes. Calcium carbonate supplements reduce effectiveness of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Lithium

Theoretically, concomitant use of calcium and lithium may increase this risk of hypercalcemia.
Clinical research suggests that long-term use of lithium may cause hypercalcemia in 10% to 60% of patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of lithium and calcium supplements may further increase this risk.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of quinolone antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral quinolones at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements or calcium-fortified foods. Taking calcium at the same time as oral quinolones can reduce quinolone absorption. Calcium binds to quinolones in the gut.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Raltegravir (Isentress)

Calcium may reduce levels of raltegravir.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that taking a single dose of calcium carbonate 3000 mg along with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily modestly decreases the mean area under the curve of raltegravir, but the decrease does not necessitate a dose adjustment of raltegravir. However, a case of elevated HIV-1 RNA levels and documented resistance to raltegravir has been reported for a patient taking calcium carbonate 1 gram three times daily plus vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 400 IU three times daily in combination with raltegravir 400 mg twice daily for 11 months. It is thought that calcium reduced raltegravir levels by chelation, leading to treatment failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Sotalol (Betapace)

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of sotalol.
Advise patients to separate doses by at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after calcium. Calcium appears to reduce the absorption of sotalol, probably by forming insoluble complexes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Calcium seems to reduce the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics.
Advise patients to take oral tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after calcium supplements. Taking calcium at the same time as oral tetracyclines can reduce tetracycline absorption. Calcium binds to tetracyclines in the gut.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Thiazide Diuretics

Taking calcium along with thiazides might increase the risk of hypercalcemia and renal failure.
Thiazides reduce calcium excretion by the kidneys. Using thiazides along with moderately large amounts of calcium carbonate increases the risk of milk-alkali syndrome (hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis, renal failure). Patients may need to have their serum calcium levels and/or parathyroid function monitored regularly.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Verapamil (Calan, Others)

Theoretically, calcium may reduce the therapeutic effects of verapamil.
Hypercalcemia can reduce the effectiveness of verapamil in atrial fibrillation. Theoretically, use of calcium supplements may increase this risk of hypercalcemia and reduce the effectiveness of verapamil.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Calcium Channel Blockers

Intravenous calcium may decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers; oral calcium is unlikely to have this effect.
Intravenous calcium is used to decrease the effects of calcium channel blockers in the management of overdose. Intravenous calcium gluconate has been used before intravenous verapamil (Isoptin) to prevent or reduce the hypotensive effects without affecting the antiarrhythmic effects. But there is no evidence that dietary or supplemental calcium when taken orally interacts with calcium channel blockers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Calcium full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Mitochodrial Basics, from the product label.

Life Extension

See all Life Extension products
Name
Quality Supplements and Vitamins, Inc.
City
Ft. Lauderdale
State
Florida
ZipCode
33309
Phone Number
1-866-280-2852
Web Address
www.lef.org
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension: Common Questions

Does Mitochodrial Basics by Life Extension interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Mitochodrial Basics has a known interaction with 601 medications, including 7 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Mitochodrial Basics contains 4 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.
Does calcium in this supplement interact with my thyroid medication?
Yes—calcium can interfere with how your body absorbs levothyroxine (Synthroid) and similar thyroid drugs. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you to take them at least 4 hours apart to keep your thyroid medication working properly.
What are the most common side effects of taking this supplement?
From calcium, you might experience belching, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach upset. Acetyl-L-carnitine may cause dry mouth, headache, insomnia, or reduced appetite, and in some cases a fishy odor in urine or breath. Most people tolerate it well when used as directed.
Is this safe to take if I'm pregnant?
Calcium is likely safe in pregnancy at recommended amounts and is actually important for fetal development. However, acetyl-L-carnitine and R-lipoic acid don't have enough safety data, so it's best to avoid those ingredients or check with your doctor first. Talk with your prenatal care provider about whether this product is right for you.
Can I take this if I'm breastfeeding?
Calcium is fine at recommended amounts during breastfeeding. However, acetyl-L-carnitine and R-lipoic acid have insufficient safety data for breastfeeding, so avoiding them is the safer choice—discuss this with your healthcare provider.
What is ArginoCarn (acetyl-L-carnitine) supposed to do?
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a compound involved in how your cells make energy. Research suggests it may help with diabetic nerve pain and possibly age-related memory changes, though evidence is still developing and not definitive.
Does this product help with weight loss?
R-lipoic acid in the product is rated possibly effective for obesity in our data, meaning some smaller studies show potential benefit, but larger studies are needed to confirm real-world results.

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

Not sure if Mitochodrial Basics is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Mitochodrial Basics label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Mitochodrial Basics’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Calcium

Interacts with 168 drugs

Calcium is an essential mineral your body needs for strong bones, nerve signaling, and muscle function, and supplements can help fill gaps when diet falls short. Most people do best getting...

Read the full Calcium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Acetyl-l-carnitine

Interacts with 203 drugs

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a form of the amino acid carnitine that the body uses to help produce energy in cells. It is most studied for nerve pain and memory-related conditions, though the evide...

Read the full Acetyl-l-carnitine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Alpha-lipoic Acid

Interacts with 263 drugs

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain, where some evidence suggests it may help...

Read the full Alpha-lipoic Acid monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Mitochodrial Basics'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 132 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.

Calcium 62 references
  1. Shils M, Olson A, Shike M. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lea and Febiger, 1994.
  2. Hernandez-Avila M, Gonzalez-Cossio T, Hernandez-Avila JE, et al. Dietary calcium supplements to lower blood lead levels in lactating women: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Epidemiology 2003;14:206-12.. PubMed
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