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Dietary supplement

Nature's Hoodia Formula Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Nature's Sunshine

Nature's Hoodia Formula label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 16, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Nature's Hoodia Formula 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: Moderate

Nature's Hoodia Formula is a dietary supplement by Nature's Sunshine with 9 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for blood sugar support in type 2 diabetes, weight loss and appetite control, insulin sensitivity.Based on those ingredients, 2,191 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Marshmallow, Psyllium, Gymnema. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine

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 27, 2026

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 9 active ingredients.
  • “Proprietary Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (970 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Nature's Sunshine Hoodia Formula contains 9 ingredients, one of which is a proprietary blend. The active ingredients are L-carnitine, chromium, marshmallow, psyllium, gymnema, hoodia gordonii, caralluma fimbriata aerial parts extract, apple cider vinegar extract, and garcinia pericarp extract.

The formula also contains inactive ingredients—gelatin capsule, water, and silicon dioxide—which serve as fillers and capsule material.

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: appetite suppression formula.
  • We looked for evidence on: Binge eating disorder, Weight management, Appetite control, Food cravings.
  • The closest evidence on file: Chromium is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Binge eating disorder (Natural Medicines).

L-carnitine is effective for carnitine deficiency and possibly effective for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), heart failure (congestive heart failure), and chest pain (angina). Chromium is likely effective for chromium deficiency and possibly effective for diabetes, though it's rated possibly ineffective for prediabetes.

Psyllium is effective for constipation and likely effective for high cholesterol and heart disease. For the other ingredients in this formula—marshmallow, gymnema, hoodia gordonii, caralluma, apple cider vinegar extract, and garcinia—the evidence we hold does not establish effectiveness for their claimed uses; the data either shows insufficient evidence to rate them or rates them as possibly or likely ineffective.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Chromium L-carnitine Marshmallow Blond Psyllium Gymnema Hoodia Caralluma Apple Cider Vinegar

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 8 of the 9 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 9 of 9.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 9 of 9.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

L-carnitine is generally well tolerated at typical doses, though high doses can cause stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, and a fishy body odor. The safety data advises against use during pregnancy, but it's possibly safe while breastfeeding.

Chromium is usually well tolerated at typical supplement doses, though small amounts from diet are preferred in pregnancy and lactation; higher supplement doses should be avoided without a doctor's approval. Psyllium is generally well tolerated for most adults when taken with enough water and is likely safe during pregnancy and lactation.

Marshmallow is generally well tolerated short-term, but the safety data advises against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Gymnema is generally well tolerated short-term but can lower blood sugar; the data advises against use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Hoodia has limited safety data and adverse effects including headache, dizziness, nausea, and concern about increased blood pressure and heart rate; avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Caralluma is generally tolerated short-term and may cause gastrointestinal upset, constipation, or flatulence in the first two weeks; avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Apple cider vinegar is safe in food amounts but can cause hypokalemia (low potassium), elevated blood pressure, and bone loss with long-term use at high doses. Garcinia is generally tolerated short-term but rare reports link it to liver injury, heart inflammation, and mood changes; the safety data advises against use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Chromium L-carnitine Marshmallow Blond Psyllium Gymnema Hoodia Caralluma Apple Cider Vinegar

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 8 of the 9 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Marshmallow, Apple Cider Vinegar, Garcinia, Gymnema, Blond Psyllium, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 2,192 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 this product, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners (like warfarin or acenocoumarol), diabetes or blood sugar medications (including insulin and metformin), blood pressure or heart medications (including beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors), thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine), lithium, antidepressants, or medications metabolized by your liver. These are the main medication types most likely to be affected by the ingredients in this formula.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This formula is a multi-ingredient product with significant medication interactions across blood thinners, diabetes and blood pressure medications, and several other drug types. If you take any prescription medications—especially for heart, blood pressure, diabetes, or blood clotting—you'll need to check each of your drugs against this product before starting.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether it's right for you and whether any dose adjustments are needed for your medications.

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

Assessment coverage: 9 of 9 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 25, 2012.

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 Nature's Hoodia Formula, straight from the product label.

Brand Nature's Sunshine
Barcode (UPC) 099904030091
Net contents 90 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 25, 2012
DSLD ID 4591
Product type Other Combinations
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 Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine, 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:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
45
UPC/BARCODE
099904030091
IngredientAmount% DV
L-Carnitine0 NP--
Chromium100 mcg83%
Marshmallow0 NP--
Psyllium0 NP--
Gymnema0 NP--
Proprietary Blend970 mg--
Hoodia gordonii0 NP--
Caralluma fimbriata aerial parts extract0 NP--
Apple Cider Vinegar extract0 NP--
Garcinia pericarp extract0 NP--

Other ingredients: Capsule, Gelatin, Water, Silicon Dioxide

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.
FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

RECOMMENDATION Take one or two capsules between meals three times daily.

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.

Formula

Hoodia gordonii Aerial Stem 20:1 drying ratio.

General Statements

©2011 Nature's Sunshine Products, Inc.

01003009030611

Appetite Suppression Formula

GUARANTEED PURE

Hoodia gordonii is a plant eaten by primitive San Bushmen of South Africa to suppress hunger in a land with little food. For thousands of years this succulent plant has been a native food of the San Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert. Now, people everywhere are beginning to see the benefits of this food as a nutritional supplement.*

LOT: Full Potency Through:

Nature's Sunshine uses natural source materials in its products that are subject to color variation.

Product of U.S.A.

WEIGHT LOSS

Weight Management Support

Seals/Symbols

QUALITY, SERVICE, INTEGRITY

Precautions

Caution: May cause allergic reaction in persons sensitive to inhaled or ingested psyllium.

This bottle was sealed for your protection. Do not use if inner seal is missing or damaged.

General

Stock No. 3009-8

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

See for yourself

Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine label

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

Nature's Hoodia Formula 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 Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine

These are the 9 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container45 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.

Chromium

Interacts with
178 drugs
100 mcg per serving Form: Chromium Amino Acid Chelate

Chromium is an essential trace mineral involved in how the body handles sugar and fat. Some studies suggest it may modestly help blood sugar control i...

Chromium monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Capsule, Gelatin, Water, Silicon Dioxide. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Nature's Hoodia Formula?

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
2,191Drugs
963 Moderate 1,228 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Marshmallow 2,040
Psyllium 2,025
Gymnema 851
Garcinia pericarp extract 704
Hoodia gordonii 262

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Nature's Hoodia Formula interact with 2,191 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

8 of the 9 ingredients in Nature's Hoodia Formula interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Marshmallow Psyllium Gymnema Garcinia pericarp extract Hoodia gordonii Chromium Apple Cider Vinegar extract L-Carnitine

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Nature's Hoodia Formula 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.

Marshmallow3 drug types · 2,040 drugs

Lithium

Theoretically, due to potential diuretic effects, marshmallow might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Marshmallow is thought to have diuretic properties. To avoid lithium toxicity, the dose of lithium might need to be decreased when used with marshmallow.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, marshmallow flower might have antiplatelet effects.
Animal research suggests that marshmallow flower extract has antiplatelet effects. However, the root and leaf of marshmallow, not the flower, are the plant parts most commonly found in dietary supplements. Theoretically, use of marshmallow flower with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs can have additive effects, and might increase the risk for bleeding in some patients.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Oral Drugs

Theoretically, mucilage in marshmallow might impair absorption of oral drugs.
Marshmallow contains mucilage which can affect oral drug absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take marshmallow 30-60 minutes after oral medications.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Marshmallow full monograph & interactions

Psyllium7 drug types · 2,025 drugs

Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, blond psyllium might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Blond psyllium might reduce carbamazepine absorption and serum levels. A preliminary study using blond psyllium reported decreased carbamazepine bioavailability due to binding of the drug to psyllium, as well as reduction of available fluid in the gut for dissolution of the drug.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, taking blond psyllium at the same time as lithium might reduce lithium absorption.
The fiber in blond psyllium might decrease the absorption of lithium. Some case reports describe a reduction in plasma lithium levels with concomitant administration of blond psyllium. This was reversed when psyllium was stopped.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, blond psyllium might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
Concurrent use of blond psyllium with metformin slows and increases metformin absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)

Theoretically, taking blond psyllium at the same time as olanzapine might reduce olanzapine absorption.
The fiber in blond psyllium might decrease the absorption of olanzapine. A single case report describes a reduction in the effectiveness of olanzapine when it was taken concomitantly with an unspecified type of psyllium 3 grams orally twice daily. This effect was reversed when psyllium was stopped.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, taking blond psyllium at the same time as digoxin might reduce digoxin absorption.
Psyllium might bind digoxin in the gut. However, some clinical evidence suggests that psyllium does not impact digoxin absorption.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Ethinyl Estradiol

Theoretically, taking blond psyllium at the same time as ethinyl estradiol might alter levels of estradiol.
Concurrent use of blond psyllium with ethinyl estradiol results in a slight increase in the extent of ethinyl estradiol absorption and a slower rate of absorption. However, this is unlikely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Oral Drugs

Theoretically, psyllium might increase, decrease, or have no effect on the absorption of oral drugs.
Psyllium seems to have variable effects on drug absorption. To avoid changes in absorption, take psyllium 30-60 minutes after oral medications. Animal research shows that blond psyllium delays and increases the absorption of metformin and ethinyl estradiol. Conversely, case reports and animal research suggest that blond psyllium might reduce absorption of lithium, digoxin, olanzapine, and carbamazepine. Finally, some pharmacokinetic studies show that psyllium does not affect the absorption of levothyroxine or warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Psyllium full monograph & interactions

Gymnema6 drug types · 851 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking gymnema with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Gymnema reduces blood glucose levels in some human and animal research. In human studies, it has been shown to enhance the blood glucose lowering effects of hypoglycemic drugs. However, other research in adults with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome suggests that gymnema does not reduce fasting levels of blood glucose. Until more is known, monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, gymnema might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Animal and in vitro research shows that gymnema can inhibit the CYP1A2 enzyme. In one animal study, oral administration of gymnema for 7 days increased the plasma concentrations of phenacetin, a CYP1A2 substrate, by about 1.4-fold and reduced the clearance of phenacetin by about 29%.

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

Theoretically, gymnema might increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Animal research shows that gymnema can induce the CYP2C9 enzyme. In one animal study, gymnema caused a 2.4-fold increase in the clearance of tolbutamide, a CYP2C9 substrate, in rats. In vitro research also shows that gymnema can inhibit CYP2C9.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenacetin

Theoretically, taking gymnema with phenacetin might increase the levels of phenacetin.
Animal research shows that gymnema, administered orally for 7 days, decreases the clearance of phenacetin in a dose-dependent manner by about 21% to 29% and increases plasma levels about 1.3- to 1.4-fold when compared to control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tolbutamide (Orinase)

Theoretically, taking gymnema with tolbutamide might the decrease levels of tolbutamide.
Animal research shows that gymnema, administered orally for 7 days, increases the clearance of tolbutamide by 2.4-fold when compared to control.

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

Theoretically, gymnema might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
One in vitro study using rat liver microsomes shows that gymnema can modestly inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme. However, other in vitro research using human liver microsomes shows that gymnema does not affect CYP3A4 activity. Animal research also shows that gymnema does not alter the function of CYP3A4. In one study in rats, oral administration of gymnema for 7 days did not alter the clearance of amlodipine, a CYP3A4 substrate.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Gymnema full monograph & interactions

Garcinia pericarp extract4 drug types · 704 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the main active ingredient in garcinia, might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
HCA inhibits platelet aggregation in vitro. The inhibitory effect seems to be greater in platelets extracted from diabetic subjects than non-diabetic subjects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the main active ingredient in garcinia, might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
HCA reduces fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels in animal models, theoretically by delaying glucose absorption. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of developing liver damage.
There have been reports of acute hepatitis with elevated liver enzymes associated with garcinia, when taken alone or in combination with other ingredients. Case reports collected from the Drug Induced Liver Injury Network suggest this risk may be greater in people who carry the HLA B*35:01 allele.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Theoretically, combining garcinia with other serotonergic drugs might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome.
In one report, a patient experienced serotonin syndrome after taking garcinia extract (60% hydroxycitric acid) 1000 mg daily in combination with escitalopram 20 mg, which had been taken for a year. The patient was switched to sertraline 50 mg daily and again experienced serotonin syndrome.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Garcinia pericarp extract full monograph & interactions

Hoodia gordonii4 drug types · 262 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Animal research shows that a steroid glycoside of hoodia, gordonoside F, increases glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by activating GPR119. This effect enhances glucose disposal. Theoretically, concomitant use of hoodia with antidiabetes medications may enhance blood glucose-lowering effects and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Some antidiabetes medications include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Clinical research shows that hoodia can increase blood pressure. Theoretically, concomitant use of hoodia with antihypertensive drugs might decrease the effectiveness of the antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypertension. Some antihypertensive drugs include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), diltiazem (Cardizem), Amlodipine (Norvasc), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDiuril), furosemide (Lasix), and many others.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Beta-Blockers

Evidence from in vitro research shows that hoodia may stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors. Also, clinical research shows that hoodia can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Theoretically, using hoodia with beta-blockers might decrease the effects of these medications. Some beta-blocker drugs include atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard), and propranolol (Inderal).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Insulin

Animal research shows that a steroid glycoside of hoodia, gordonoside F, increases glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by activating GPR119. Theoretically, concomitant use of hoodia with insulin may enhance the blood glucose-lowering effects of insulin. Blood glucose levels should be monitored.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hoodia gordonii full monograph & interactions

Chromium5 drug types · 178 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, chromium may have additive effects with antidiabetic agents and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Some research shows that taking chromium might lower blood glucose levels, especially in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Insulin

Theoretically, concomitant use of chromium and insulin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In clinical research, chromium has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity,

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)

Chromium might bind levothyroxine in the intestinal tract and decrease levothyroxine absorption.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that taking chromium picolinate 1000 mcg with levothyroxine 1 mg decreases serum levels of levothyroxine by 17% when compared to taking levothyroxine alone. Advise patients to take levothyroxine at least 30 minutes before or 3-4 hours after taking chromium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aspirin

Theoretically, aspirin might increase chromium absorption.
Animal research suggests that aspirin may increase chromium absorption and chromium levels in the blood.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (Nsaids)

NSAIDs might increase chromium levels in the body.
Drugs that are prostaglandin inhibitors, such as NSAIDs, seem to increase chromium absorption and retention.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Chromium full monograph & interactions

Apple Cider Vinegar extract4 drug types · 162 drugs

Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Theoretically, concomitant use of apple cider vinegar with digoxin might increase the risk of cardiac toxicity.
A case of hypokalemia related to chronic use of apple cider vinegar has been reported. Theoretically, overuse of apple cider vinegar could decrease potassium levels, increasing the risk of toxicity with digoxin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of apple cider vinegar with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
A case of hypokalemia related to chronic use of apple cider vinegar has been reported. There is some concern that people taking apple cider vinegar along with potassium depleting diuretics might have an increased risk for hypokalemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Insulin

Theoretically, concomitant use of apple cider vinegar with insulin might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
A case of hypokalemia related to chronic use of apple cider vinegar has been reported. Theoretically, overuse of apple cider vinegar concomitantly with insulin might increase the risk of hypokalemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking apple cider vinegar with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Apple cider vinegar might reduce fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels and decrease gastric emptying in people with diabetes. However, not all research agrees. Theoretically, it might have additive effects on glucose levels when used with antidiabetes drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Apple Cider Vinegar extract full monograph & interactions

L-Carnitine3 drug types · 19 drugs

Acenocoumarol (Sintrom)

Theoretically, L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol.
L-carnitine might enhance the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol, an oral anticoagulant similar to warfarin, but shorter-acting. There are at least two case reports of INR elevation with concomitant use. 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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, 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.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
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 L-carnitine and warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
L-Carnitine full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Nature's Hoodia Formula, from the product label.

Nature's Sunshine

See all Nature's Sunshine products
Name
Nature's Sunshine Products, Inc
City
Spanish Fork
State
Utah
ZipCode
84660
Phone Number
1-800-223-8225
Web Address
www.naturessunshine.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine: Common Questions

Does Nature's Hoodia Formula by Nature's Sunshine interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Nature's Hoodia Formula has a known interaction with 2,191 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Nature's Hoodia Formula contains 9 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 this if I'm pregnant?
The safety data advises against use during pregnancy for most ingredients in this formula—L-carnitine, marshmallow, gymnema, hoodia, caralluma, and garcinia. Chromium in supplement doses should be avoided in pregnancy unless your doctor approves, and psyllium is likely safe but should be discussed with your doctor. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you during pregnancy.
Is this safe while breastfeeding?
Safety data advises against breastfeeding for marshmallow, gymnema, hoodia, caralluma, and garcinia. L-carnitine is possibly safe while breastfeeding, chromium is likely safe, and psyllium is likely safe, but apple cider vinegar safety while breastfeeding is not well studied. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
Does this product actually help with weight loss?
The ingredients hoodia gordonii, caralluma, and garcinia are marketed for weight loss, but the evidence we hold rates them as either possibly ineffective or insufficient reliable evidence to rate them for obesity. The product is not established to work for weight loss based on the data available to us.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects from ingredients in this formula are gastrointestinal—abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, and nausea. L-carnitine and apple cider vinegar can also cause a fishy body odor and low potassium, respectively, with long-term use.
What is L-carnitine in this formula for?
L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps your body transport and burn fat for energy. In this formula it may help support energy and metabolism, though its established uses are for carnitine deficiency and possibly for high cholesterol and heart conditions.
Why does this formula contain so many ingredients?
The formula combines ingredients traditionally used to support appetite control and metabolism—hoodia, caralluma, and garcinia for appetite, chromium and L-carnitine for metabolism, and psyllium for digestive health. However, most are rated as having insufficient evidence or being possibly ineffective for weight loss.

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

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Nature's Hoodia Formula label
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The Full Monographs Behind Nature's Hoodia Formula’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Chromium

Interacts with 178 drugs

Chromium is an essential trace mineral involved in how the body handles sugar and fat. Some studies suggest it may modestly help blood sugar control in certain people with type 2 diabetes, b...

Read the full Chromium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

L-carnitine

Interacts with 19 drugs

L-carnitine is a compound your body makes naturally and also gets from foods like meat. It helps cells turn fat into energy, and supplements are most clearly useful for people with a true ca...

Read the full L-carnitine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Marshmallow

Interacts with 2,040 drugs

Marshmallow root is a traditional herb rich in soothing, gel-like fibers called mucilage, which is why it has long been used for coughs, sore throats, and stomach irritation. Evidence for th...

Read the full Marshmallow monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Blond Psyllium

Interacts with 2,025 drugs

Blond psyllium is a soluble fiber from the seed husks of Plantago ovata, and it is one of the better-studied fiber supplements. It can help with both constipation and diarrhea and may modest...

Read the full Blond Psyllium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Gymnema

Interacts with 851 drugs

Gymnema is an Ayurvedic herb best known for possibly helping lower blood sugar and reducing the taste of sweetness on the tongue. Some early human studies are encouraging for blood sugar sup...

Read the full Gymnema monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Hoodia

Interacts with 262 drugs

Hoodia is a succulent plant from southern Africa that is marketed as an appetite suppressant for weight loss, but solid human evidence that it actually works is lacking. The few quality stud...

Read the full Hoodia monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Caralluma

Caralluma fimbriata is an edible succulent plant from India that is marketed mainly as an appetite suppressant and weight-loss aid. Some small studies suggest it may modestly reduce appetite...

Read the full Caralluma monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Apple Cider Vinegar

Interacts with 162 drugs

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented apple product that many people use hoping to help with blood sugar, weight, or digestion. The evidence for most of these uses is limited and mixed, and the...

Read the full Apple Cider Vinegar monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Garcinia

Interacts with 704 drugs

Garcinia is a tropical fruit whose rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), widely marketed for weight loss and appetite control. The scientific evidence is weak and mixed, with most studies...

Read the full Garcinia monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Nature's Hoodia Formula'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 198 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.

L-carnitine 41 references
  1. Ellaway CM, Williams K, Leonard H, et al. Rett syndrome: randomized controlled trial of L-carnitine. J Child Neurol 1999;14:162-7. PubMed
  2. Anon. Carnitor (levocarnitine) package insert. Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals Inc, Gaithersburg, MD. December 1999.
  3. Cherchi A, Lai C, Angelino F, et al. Effects of L-carnitine on exercise tolerance in chronic stable angina: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1985;23:569-72.
  4. Plioplys AV, Plioplys S. Amantadine and L-carnitine treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Neuropsychobiology 1997;35:16-23. PubMed
  5. Benvenga S, Ruggeri RM, Russo A, et al. Usefulness of L-carnitine, a naturally occurring peripheral antagonist of thyroid hormone action, in iatrogenic hyperthyroidism: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Clin Endocrinol Meta
  6. Martinez E, Domingo P, Roca-Cusachs A. Potentiation of acenocoumarol action by L-carnitine. J Intern Med 1993;233:94.
  7. Bachmann HU, Hoffmann A. Interaction of food supplement L-carnitine with oral anticoagulant acenocoumarol. Swiss Med Wkly 2004;134:385. PubMed
  8. Evans AM, Fornasini G. Pharmacokinetics of L-carnitine. Clin Pharmacokinet 2003;42:941-67. PubMed
  9. 12761 Benvenga S, Amato A, Calvani M, Trimarchi F. Effects of carnitine on thyroid hormone action. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2004;1033:158-67. PubMed
  10. Ciacci C, Peluso G, Iannoni E, et al. L-Carnitine in the treatment of fatigue in adult celiac disease patients: a pilot study. Dig Liver Dis 2007;39:922-8. PubMed
  11. Cruciani RA, Dvorkin E, Homel P, et al. Safety, tolerability and symptom outcomes associated with L-carnitine supplementation in patients with cancer, fatigue, and carnitine deficiency: a phase I/II study. J Pain Symptom Manage 2006;32:551-9. PubMed
  12. Lebrun C, Alchaar H, Candito M, et al. Levocarnitine administration in multiple sclerosis patients with immunosuppressive therapy-induced fatigue. Mult Scler 2006;12:321-4. PubMed
  13. Malaguarnera M, Cammalleri L, Gargante MP, et al. L-Carnitine treatment reduces severity of physical and mental fatigue and increases cognitive functions in centenarians: a randomized and controlled clinical trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2007;86:1738-44. PubMed
  14. Mantovani G, Maccio A, Madeddu C, et al. Randomized phase III clinical trial of five different arms of treatment in 322 patients with cancer cachexia. Oncologist 2010;15:200-11.
  15. Angelova-Fischer I, Rippke F, Fischer TW, Neufang G, Zillikens D. A double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled efficacy assessment study of a skin care formulation for improvement of mild to moderately severe acne. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2013 Jul PubMed
  16. Hatamkhani S, Khalili H, Karimzadeh I, Dashti-Khavidaki S, Abdollahi A, Jafari S. Carnitine for prevention of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity: a randomized, clinical trial. J Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2014 May;29(5):997-1004. PubMed
  17. Boehm G, Stahl B. Oligosaccharides from milk. J Nutr 2007;137(3 Suppl 2):847S-849S.
  18. Van Oudheusden, L. J. and Scholte, H. R. Efficacy of carnitine in the treatment of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent.Fatty Acids 2002;67(1):33-38. PubMed
  19. Derosa, G., Cicero, A. F., Gaddi, A., Mugellini, A., Ciccarelli, L., and Fogari, R. The effect of L-carnitine on plasma lipoprotein(a) levels in hypercholesterolemic patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clin Ther 2003;25(5):1429-1439. PubMed
  20. Foitzik, K., Hoting, E., Heinrich, U., Tronnier, H., and Paus, R. Indications that topical L-carnitin-L-tartrate promotes human hair growth in vivo. J Dermatol.Sci 2007;48(2):141-144. PubMed
  21. Kumar, A., Singh, R. B., Saxena, M., Niaz, M. A., Josh, S. R., Chattopadhyay, P., Mechirova, V., Pella, D., and Fedacko, J. Effect of carni Q-gel (ubiquinol and carnitine) on cytokines in patients with heart failure in the Tishcon study. Acta Cardiol. 20
  22. Cruciani, R. A., Dvorkin, E., Homel, P., Culliney, B., Malamud, S., Lapin, J., Portenoy, R. K., and Esteban-Cruciani, N. L-carnitine supplementation in patients with advanced cancer and carnitine deficiency: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Pa PubMed
  23. Malaguarnera, M., Vacante, M., Avitabile, T., Malaguarnera, M., Cammalleri, L., and Motta, M. L-Carnitine supplementation reduces oxidized LDL cholesterol in patients with diabetes. Am J Clin.Nutr 2009;89(1):71-76. PubMed
  24. Alvarez, T. M., Guardiola, P. D., Roldan, J. O., Elviro, R., Wevers, R., and Guijarro, G. [Primary trimethylaminuria: the fish odor syndrome]. Endocrinol.Nutr. 2009;56(6):337-340.
  25. Wu, Z. M., Lu, X., Wang, Y. W., Sun, J., Tao, J. W., Yin, F. H., and Cheng, H. J. [Short-term medication of L-carnitine before intracytoplasmic sperm injection for infertile men with oligoasthenozoospermia]. Zhonghua Nan.Ke.Xue 2012;18(3):253-256.
  26. Tarighat, Esfanjani A., Mahdavi, R., Ebrahimi, Mameghani M., Talebi, M., Nikniaz, Z., and Safaiyan, A. The effects of magnesium, L-carnitine, and concurrent magnesium-L-carnitine supplementation in migraine prophylaxis. Biol.Trace Elem.Res 2012;150(1-3): PubMed
  27. DiNicolantonio, J. J., Lavie, C. J., Fares, H., Menezes, A. R., and O'Keefe, J. H. L-carnitine in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis. Mayo Clin Proc. 2013;88(6):544-551. PubMed
  28. Huang, W. W., Wang, M. Y., Shi, H. M., Peng, Y., Peng, C. S., Zhang, M., Li, Y., Lu, J., and Li, X. B. Comparative study of bioactive constituents in crude and processed Glycyrrhizae radix and their respective metabolic profiles in gastrointestinal tract
  29. Madsen KL, Preisler N, Orngreen MC, Andersen SP, Olesen JH, Lund AM, Vissing J. Patients with medium-chain acyl-coenzyme a dehydrogenase deficiency have impaired oxidation of fat during exercise but no effect of L-carnitine supplementation. J Clin Endocri
  30. Prohaska ES, Muzyk AJ, Rivelli SK. Levocarnitine-induced hypophosphatemia in a hemodialysis patient with acute valproic acid toxicity. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2012 Winter;24(1):E18-9. PubMed
  31. Shang R, Sun Z, Li H. Effective dosing of L-carnitine in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Cardiovasc Disord. 2014 Jul 21;14:88. PubMed
  32. Zhang JJ, Wu ZB, Cai YJ, Ke B, Huang YJ, Qiu CP, Yang YB, Shi LY, Qin J. L-carnitine ameliorated fasting-induced fatigue, hunger, and metabolic abnormalities in patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled study. Nutr J. 2014 Nov 26;13:110. PubMed
  33. Koeth RA, Wang Z, Levison BS, Buffa JA, Org E, Sheehy BT, Britt EB, Fu X, Wu Y, Li L, Smith JD, DiDonato JA, Chen J, Li H, Wu GD, Lewis JD, Warrier M, Brown JM, Krauss RM, Tang WH, Bushman FD, Lusis AJ, Hazen SL. Intestinal microbiota metabolism of L-carn
  34. Jun DW, Kim BI, Cho YK, Kim HJ, Kwon YO, Park SY, Han SY, Baek YH, Jung YJ, Kim HY, Kim W, Heo J, Woo HY, Hwang SG, Rim KS, Choi JY, Bae SH, Lee YS, Lim YS,Cheong JY, Cho SW, Lee BS, Kim SH, Sohn JH, Kim TY, Paik YH, Kim JK, Lee KS. Efficacy and safety of
  35. An JH, Kim YJ, Kim KJ, et al. L-carnitine supplementation for the management of fatigue in patients with hypothyroidism on levothyroxine treatment: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Endocr J. 2016;63(10):885-95. PubMed
  36. Chen N, Yang M, Zhou M, Xiao J, Guo J, He L. L-carnitine for cognitive enhancement in people without cognitive impairment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;3:CD009374. PubMed
  37. Khajeh B, Dashti-Khavidaki S, Nasiri-Toosi M, Mohammadi K, Jafari A. Effects of pre-transplant L-carnitine supplementation on primary graft dysfunction in liver transplant recipients: a pilot, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Res Pharm Sci. PubMed
  38. Kubota K, Uojima H, Shao X, et al. Additional L-carnitine Reduced the Risk of Hospitalization in Patients with Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy on Rifaximin. Dig Dis 2021. PubMed
  39. Amini L, Yaghini O, Ghazavi M, Aslani N. L-carnitine versus propranolol for pediatric migraine prophylaxis. Iran J Child Neurol 2021;15(2):77-86.
  40. Shakibaei F, Jelvani D. Effect of adding l -carnitine to risperidone on behavioral, cognitive, social, and physical symptoms in children and adolescents with autism: A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial. Clin Neuropharmacol 2023;4 PubMed
  41. Moustafa I, Connolly C, Anis M, Mustafa H, Oosthuizen F, Viljoen M. A prospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vitamin E and levocarnitine prophylaxis against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in adult breast cancer patients. J Oncol Phar PubMed

See these in context on the L-carnitine monograph →

Chromium 53 references
  1. Cerulli J, Grabe DW, Gauthier I, et al. Chromium picolinate toxicity. Ann Pharmacother 1998;32:428-31. PubMed
  2. Urberg M, Zemel MB. Evidence for synergism between chromium and nicotinic acid in the control of glucose tolerance in elderly humans. Metabolism 1987;36:896-9. PubMed
  3. Mohamedshah FY, Moser-Veillon PB, Yamini S, et al. Distribution of a stable isotope of chromium (53Cr) in serum, urine, and breast milk in lactating women. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;67:1250-5. PubMed
  4. Wasser WG, Feldman NS, D'Agati VD. Chronic renal failure after ingestion of over-the-counter chromium picolinate. [letter]. Ann Intern Med 1997;126:410. PubMed
  5. Mertz W. Interaction of chromium with insulin: a progress report. Nutr Rev 1998;56:174-7. PubMed
  6. Anderson RA. Chromium, glucose intolerance and diabetes. J Am Coll Nutr 1998;17:548-55. PubMed
  7. McLeod MN, Gaynes BN, Golden RN. Chromium potentiation of antidepressant pharmacotherapy for dysthymic disorder in 5 patients. J Clin Psych 1999;60:237-40. PubMed
  8. Fowler JF Jr. Systemic contact dermatitis caused by oral chromium picolinate. Cutis 2000;65:116. DOI
  9. Trent LK, Thieding-Cancel D. Effects of chromium picolinate on body composition. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 1995;35:273-80.
  10. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
  11. Rabinovitz H, Friedensohn A, Leibovitz A, et al. Effect of chromium supplementation on blood glucose and lipid levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus elderly patients. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 2004;74:178-82. PubMed
  12. Lanca S, Alves A, Vieira AI, et al. Chromium-induced toxic hepatitis. Eur J Intern Med 2002;13:518-20. PubMed
  13. Kockler DR, McCarthy MW, Lawson CL. Seizure activity and unresponsiveness after hydroxycut ingestion. Pharmacotherapy 2001;21:647-51.. PubMed
  14. Davidson JR, Abraham K, Connor KM, McLeod MN. Effectiveness of chromium in atypical depression: a placebo-controlled trial. Biol Psychiatry 2003;53:261-4.. PubMed
  15. Food Standards Agency. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals. Available at: http://cot.food.gov.uk/sites/default/files/vitmin2003.pdf.
  16. Mouser JF, Hak EB, Helms RA, et al. Chromium and zinc concentrations in pediatric patients receiving long-term parenteral nutrition. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999;56:1950-6. PubMed
  17. Stevens T, Qadri A, Zein NN. Two patients with acute liver injury associated with use of the herbal weight-loss supplement hydroxycut. Ann Intern Med 2005;142:477-8. PubMed
  18. Wani S, Weskamp C, Marple J, Spry L. Acute tubular necrosis associated with chromium picolinate-containing dietary supplement. Ann Pharmacother 2006;40:563-6. PubMed
  19. Kleefstra N, Houweling ST, Jansman FG, et al. Chromium treatment has no effect in patients with poorly controlled, insulin-treated type 2 diabetes in an obese Western population: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Diabetes Care 2006;29: PubMed
  20. Martin J, Wang ZQ, Zhang XH, et al. Chromium picolinate supplementation attenuates body weight gain and increases insulin sensitivity in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2006;29:1826-32. PubMed
  21. Singer GM, Geohas J. The effect of chromium picolinate and biotin supplementation on glycemic control in poorly controlled patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized trial. Diabetes Technol Ther 2006;8:636-43. PubMed
  22. John-Kalarickal J, Pearlman G, Carlson HE. New medications which decrease levothyroxine absorption. Thyroid 2007;17:763-5. PubMed
  23. Yazaki Y, Faridi Z, Ma Y, et al. A pilot study of chromium picolinate for weight loss. J Altern Complement Med 2010;16:291-9. PubMed
  24. Davis ML, Seaborn CD, and Stoecker BJ. Effects of over-the-counter drugs on chromium retention and urinary excretion in rats. Nutrition Research 1995;15(2):201-210.
  25. Young P, Turiansky G, Bonner M, and et al. Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis induced by chromium picolinate. J.Am Acad.Dermatol. 1999;41(5 Pt 2):820-823. PubMed
  26. Gibb, H. J., Lees, P. S., Pinsky, P. F., and Rooney, B. C. Lung cancer among workers in chromium chemical production. Am J Ind.Med 2000;38(2):115-126. DOI
  27. Gibb, H. J., Lees, P. S., Pinsky, P. F., and Rooney, B. C. Clinical findings of irritation among chromium chemical production workers. Am J Ind.Med 2000;38(2):127-131. PubMed
  28. Pittler, M. H. and Ernst, E. Dietary supplements for body-weight reduction: a systematic review. Am.J.Clin Nutr. 2004;79(4):529-536. PubMed
  29. Pei, D., Hsieh, C. H., Hung, Y. J., Li, J. C., Lee, C. H., and Kuo, S. W. The influence of chromium chloride-containing milk to glycemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Metabolism 2 PubMed
  30. Hisatomi, K., Ishii, H., Hashiguchi, K., Seki, M., Ide, M., Sugiyama, K., Ishimoto, H., Nakayama, S., Mukae, H., and Kohno, S. Interstitial pneumonia caused by inhalation of fumes of nickel and chrome. Respirology. 2006;11(6):814-817. PubMed
  31. Kleefstra, N., Houweling, S. T., Bakker, S. J., Verhoeven, S., Gans, R. O., Meyboom-de Jong, B., and Bilo, H. J. Chromium treatment has no effect in patients with type 2 diabetes in a Western population: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled tri DOI
  32. Parsons, A., Ingram, J., Inglis, J., Aveyard, P., Johnstone, E., Brown, K., Franklin, M., and Bermudez, I. A proof of concept randomised placebo controlled factorial trial to examine the efficacy of St John's wort for smoking cessation and chromium to pr
  33. Bagdon RE and Hazen RE. Skin permeation and cutaneous hypersensitivity as a basis for making risk assessments of chromium as a soil contaminant. Environ.Health Perspect. 1991;92:111-119. PubMed
  34. Bharmal, S. V., Moyes, V., Ahmed, S., and Grossman, A. Hypoglycaemia: possible mediation by chromium salt medication. Hormones.(Athens.) 2010;9(2):181-183. PubMed
  35. Krol, E., Krejpcio, Z., Byks, H., Bogdanski, P., and Pupek-Musialik, D. Effects of chromium brewer's yeast supplementation on body mass, blood carbohydrates, and lipids and minerals in type 2 diabetic patients. Biol.Trace Elem.Res. 2011;143(2):726-737.
  36. Unisa, S., Jagannath, P., Dhir, V., Khandelwal, C., Sarangi, L., and Roy, T. K. Population-based study to estimate prevalence and determine risk factors of gallbladder diseases in the rural Gangetic basin of North India. HPB (Oxford) 2011;13(2):117-125. PubMed
  37. Noda, S., Asano, Y., and Sato, S. Lichen planus in a patient with long-term exposure to chrome. Eur.J.Dermatol. 2011;21(3):417-418. PubMed
  38. Xiang, J., Sun, Z., and Huan, J. N. Intensive chromic acid burns and acute chromium poisoning with acute renal failure. Chin Med.J.(Engl.) 7-5-2011;124(13):2071-2073.
  39. Chhabra, D., Oda, K., Jagannath, P., Utsunomiya, H., Takekoshi, S., and Nimura, Y. Chronic heavy metal exposure and gallbladder cancer risk in India, a comparative study with Japan. Asian Pac.J.Cancer Prev. 2012;13(1):187-190. PubMed
  40. Huszonek, J. Over-the-counter chromium picolinate. Am J Psychiatry 1993;150(10):1560-1561. PubMed
  41. Bunner S and McGinnis R. Chromium-induced hypoglycemia. Psychosomatics 1998;39(3):298-299. PubMed
  42. Martin, W. R. and Fuller, R. E. Suspected chromium picolinate-induced rhabdomyolysis. Pharmacotherapy 1998;18(4):860-862. DOI
  43. Proctor, D. M., Fredrick, M. M., Scott, P. K., Paustenbach, D. J., and Finley, B. L. The prevalence of chromium allergy in the United States and its implications for setting soil cleanup: a cost-effectiveness case study. Regul.Toxicol Pharmacol 1998;28(1 PubMed
  44. De Marchi S, Cecchin E, De Marchi SU. Systemic allergic dermatitis resulting from oral administration of chromium with a food supplement. Contact Dermatitis 2014;70(2):123-5. PubMed
  45. Hedberg YS, Gumulka M, Lind ML, Matura M, Lidén C. Severe occupational chromium allergy despite cement legislation. Contact Dermatitis. 2014;70(5):321-3. PubMed
  46. Thyssen JP, Jellesen MS, Møller P, Menné T, Johansen JD. Allergic chromium dermatitis from wearing 'chromium-free' footwear. Contact Dermatitis 2014;70(3):185-7. PubMed
  47. Liu Y, Cotillard A, Vatier C, et al. A Dietary Supplement Containing Cinnamon, Chromium and Carnosine Decreases Fasting Plasma Glucose and Increases Lean Mass in Overweight or Obese Pre-Diabetic Subjects: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. PLoS One.
  48. Jamilian M, Asemi Z. Chromium Supplementation and the Effects on Metabolic Status in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Ann Nutr Metab. 2015;67(1):42-8. PubMed
  49. Guimarães MM, Carvalho AC, Silva MS. Effect of chromium supplementation on the glucose homeostasis and anthropometry of type 2 diabetic patients: Double blind, randomized clinical trial: Chromium, glucose homeostasis and anthropometry. J Trace Elem Med Bi PubMed
  50. Paiva AN, Lima JG, Medeiros AC, et al. Beneficial effects of oral chromium picolinate supplementation on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized clinical study. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2015;32:66-72. PubMed
  51. Yin RV, Phung OJ. Effect of chromium supplementation on glycated hemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose in patients with diabetes mellitus. Nutr J. 2015;14:14. PubMed
  52. Jamilian M, Zadeh Modarres S, Amiri Siavashani M, et al. The influences of chromium supplementation on glycemic control, markers of cardio-metabolic risk, and oxidative stress in infertile polycystic ovary syndrome women candidate for in vitro fertilizati
  53. Alinaghi F, Thyssen JP, Zachariae C, Johansen JD. No immediate effect of regulatory reduction of chromium in leather among adult patients with chromium allergy. Contact Dermatitis 2021;85(5):514-522. PubMed

See these in context on the Chromium monograph →

Marshmallow 5 references
  1. Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
  2. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
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  5. Hage-Sleiman R, Mroueh M, Daher CF. Pharmacological evaluation of aqueous extract of Althaea officinalis flower grown in Lebanon. Pharm Biol 2011;49(3):327-33.

See these in context on the Marshmallow monograph →

Blond Psyllium 28 references
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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

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