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Dietary supplement

Optimal Sleep Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Seeking Health

Optimal Sleep label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Botanical With Nutrients
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 Optimal Sleep 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

Optimal Sleep is a dietary supplement by Seeking Health with 7 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for high cholesterol, vitamin b3 deficiency (pellagra), heart health support.Based on those ingredients, 1,617 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha extract, Niacin, 5-HTP. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health

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

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health

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

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 7 of its 7 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Optimal Sleep contains 7 active ingredients. Niacin (vitamin B3) supports energy metabolism and was historically used for pellagra prevention.

5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin and may influence mood and sleep. Zinc supports immune function and wound healing.

Vitamin B6 plays a role in brain development and nervous system function. Ashwagandha extract is an herbal adaptogen traditionally used for stress and relaxation.

Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid found in cell membranes, studied for cognitive support. Magnesium is a mineral cofactor in hundreds of enzymes and is commonly used to support sleep and relaxation.

The product also contains inactive ingredients—HPMC, microcrystalline cellulose, ascorbyl palmitate, silica, and medium-chain triglyceride oil—which serve as capsule material, binder, and stabilizers.

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: support for sleep quality.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Insomnia, Sleep onset latency.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Ashwagandha is rated "Possibly Effective" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Insomnia.
  • Also on file: 5-htp is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety, Insomnia.

Evidence for sleep support is mixed across the ingredients. Ashwagandha is possibly effective for insomnia and may help with anxiety and stress, both of which can affect sleep quality.

Magnesium is effective for constipation and dyspepsia, which may indirectly support sleep comfort. Niacin is likely effective for pellagra but only possibly effective for dyslipidemia related to HIV/AIDS.

5-HTP is possibly effective for depression but has insufficient evidence for panic disorder and other conditions. Zinc is effective for zinc deficiency but only possibly effective for acne and diabetes-related issues.

Vitamin B6 is effective for sideroblastic anemia and B6 deficiency but only possibly effective for pregnancy-related nausea. Phosphatidylserine is possibly effective for age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer disease but has insufficient evidence for ADHD and general cognitive function.

The product's overall sleep-promoting effects have not been established in the data we hold.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Niacin 5-htp Zinc Vitamin B6 Ashwagandha Phosphatidylserine Magnesium

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 7 of the 7 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 7 of 7.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 7 of 7.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Most ingredients are generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Niacin commonly causes flushing (up to 70% of users) and gastrointestinal upset; high supplemental doses can cause liver problems.

5-HTP is well tolerated short-term but can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and gastrointestinal complaints, with severity dose-dependent. Zinc is well tolerated below 40 mg daily but high doses may deplete copper over time.

Vitamin B6 is safe below 100 mg daily; high doses can cause nerve damage (sensory neuropathy). Ashwagandha is well tolerated short-term in healthy adults, though rare cases of liver problems have been reported.

Phosphatidylserine is generally well tolerated but may cause insomnia at higher doses (600 mg) and gastrointestinal upset. Magnesium commonly causes diarrhea and gastrointestinal irritation at higher doses.

Regarding pregnancy and breastfeeding: niacin is likely safe at normal prenatal amounts but high-dose supplements should be avoided. 5-HTP should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

Zinc is likely safe in pregnancy at recommended levels but possibly unsafe at high doses; safe while breastfeeding. Vitamin B6 is likely safe during pregnancy at recommended levels but possibly unsafe at high doses; safe while breastfeeding.

Ashwagandha is likely unsafe in pregnancy (traditionally associated with miscarriage risk) and safety data for breastfeeding are insufficient, so avoidance is recommended. Phosphatidylserine lacks sufficient safety data for both pregnancy and breastfeeding, so avoidance is recommended.

Magnesium is likely safe in pregnancy and possibly safe while breastfeeding when used as directed. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Niacin 5-htp Zinc Vitamin B6 Ashwagandha Phosphatidylserine Magnesium

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?
  • 7 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — 5-htp, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Ashwagandha, Zinc, among others.
  • 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; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 1,618 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 Optimal Sleep, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take levodopa/carbidopa (Parkinson's medication)—magnesium significantly reduces its levels. Also flag blood pressure–lowering drugs (niacin and ashwagandha may add to their effect), blood thinners or clotting medications (niacin carries theoretical additive risk), antidiabetes drugs (niacin and ashwagandha may increase low-blood-sugar risk), antidepressants and serotonergic drugs (5-HTP adds serotonin effects), sedating medications (5-HTP and ashwagandha increase drowsiness), antibiotics including quinolones, tetracyclines, and cephalexin (zinc binds them; separation by hours is needed), statins (niacin may increase muscle-damage risk), and HIV medications including ritonavir and integrase inhibitors (zinc reduces their levels).

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.

Optimal Sleep may appeal to people seeking support for sleep quality through herbal adaptogens and mineral supplementation, particularly those interested in ashwagandha and magnesium. However, you should be cautious if you take blood pressure medications, blood thinners, diabetes drugs, antidepressants, sedatives, antibiotics, or any medication for Parkinson's disease—this product carries documented interactions with multiple drug types.

Before starting this product, check your complete medication list with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take levodopa/carbidopa (a major interaction), antidiabetic drugs, or serotonergic medications.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 7 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 25, 2020.

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 Optimal Sleep, straight from the product label.

Brand Seeking Health
Barcode (UPC) 798295549136
Net contents 90 Vegetarian Capsules
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 25, 2020
DSLD ID 211056
Product type Botanical With Nutrients
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health, 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:
3 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
798295549136
IngredientAmount% DV
Niacin16.66 mg, 50 mg104%, 313%
5-HTP16.66 mg, 50 mg--
Zinc5 mg, 15 mg45%, 136%
Vitamin B68.33 mg, 25 mg490%, 1471%
Ashwagandha extract83.33 mg, 250 mg--
Phosphatidylserine16.66 mg, 50 mg--
Magnesium66.66 mg, 200 mg16%, 48%

Other ingredients: HPMC, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silica, Medium-Chain Triglyceride Oil

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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Use: Take 3 capsules away from food 30 minutes prior to bedtime or as directed by your healthcare professional. California residents should not exceed 1 capsule daily.

Precautions

Children and pregnant or lactating women should consult their healthcare professional prior to use.

Children and pregnant or lactating women should consult their healthcare professional prior to use.

Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

Storage: Keep closed in a cool, dry place out of reach by children.

Storage

Storage: Keep closed in a cool, dry place out of reach by children.

Formulation

Does Not Contain: Milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, artificial colors, or artificial flavors.

General Statements

Optimal Sleep Meets or Exceeds cGMP Quality Standards.

Physician Formulated

Servings Per Container: 30 (California Residents: 90)

This package is completely recyclable

Seals/Symbols

Albion Minerals

Brand IP Statement(s)

Albion, TRAACS, and the Albion Gold Medallion design are registered trademarks of Albion Laboratories, Inc. Malate covered by U.S. Patent 6,706,904. Sharp-PS GREEN is a registered trademark of Enzymotec Ltd.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

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

See for yourself

Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health label

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

Optimal Sleep 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 Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health

These are the 7 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 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.

Niacin

Interacts with
727 drugs
16.66 mg per serving

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescr...

Niacin monograph & interactions

5-HTP

Interacts with
398 drugs
16.66 mg per serving Form: Griffonia simplicifolia

5-HTP is a compound your body uses to make serotonin, and people take it as a supplement hoping to improve mood, sleep, and headaches. Some early rese...

5-HTP monograph & interactions

Zinc

Interacts with
67 drugs
5 mg per serving Form: Zinc Bisglycinate Chelate

Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but suppleme...

Zinc monograph & interactions

Vitamin B6

Interacts with
210 drugs
8.33 mg per serving Form: Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is b...

Vitamin B6 monograph & interactions

Ashwagandha extract

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
83.33 mg per serving Form: Withanolides

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evid...

Ashwagandha extract monograph & interactions

Phosphatidylserine

Interacts with
219 drugs
16.66 mg per serving

Phosphatidylserine is a natural fat-like compound found in cell membranes, especially in the brain, and it is sold mainly to support memory and thinki...

Phosphatidylserine monograph & interactions

Magnesium

Interacts with
295 drugs
66.66 mg per serving Form: DiMagnesium Malate

Magnesium is an essential mineral your body needs for muscles, nerves, blood pressure, and many other functions, and supplements are useful for preven...

Magnesium monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: HPMC, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silica, Medium-Chain Triglyceride Oil. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Optimal Sleep?

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
1,617Drugs
6 Major 1,333 Moderate 278 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Ashwagandha extract 1,372
Niacin 727
5-HTP 398
Magnesium 295
Phosphatidylserine 219

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Optimal Sleep interact with 1,617 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

7 of the 7 ingredients in Optimal Sleep interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Ashwagandha extract Niacin 5-HTP Magnesium Phosphatidylserine Vitamin B6 Zinc

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Optimal Sleep 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.

Ashwagandha extract10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
There is preliminary clinical evidence suggesting that ashwagandha might lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research suggests that ashwagandha might lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines.
There is preliminary evidence that ashwagandha might have an additive effect with diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin). This may also occur with other benzodiazepines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Ashwagandha seems to have sedative effects. Theoretically, this may potentiate the effects of barbiturates, other sedatives, and anxiolytics.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, autoimmune hepatitis, the need for liver transplantation, and death due to liver failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in humans. Animal research has shown that ashwagandha can attenuate the immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Ashwagandha might increase the effects and adverse effects of thyroid hormone.
Concomitant use of ashwagandha with thyroid hormones may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects. Preliminary clinical research and animal studies suggest that ashwagandha boosts thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. In one clinical study, ashwagandha increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels by 41.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and reduced serum TSH levels by 17.4% from baseline in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism.

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

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

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

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors. However, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha increases the risk of serotonin-related effects, and there have been no published case reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Nevertheless, due to the lack of extensive studies on the matter and the fact that ashwagandha appears to affect serotonergic pathways, it would be prudent to exercise caution when combining it with drugs that affect serotonin. [References: - Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwaga ndha) on Stress and the Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021 Sep 14; 19: 1468–1495. - A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/]

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
Ashwagandha extract full monograph & interactions

Niacin15 drug types · 727 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Concomitant use of alcohol and niacin might increase the risk of flushing and hepatotoxicity.
Alcohol can exacerbate the flushing and pruritus associated with niacin. Large doses of niacin might also exacerbate liver dysfunction associated with chronic alcohol use. A case report describes delirium and lactic acidosis in a patient taking niacin 3 grams daily who ingested 1 liter of wine. Advise patients to avoid large amounts of alcohol while taking niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as allopurinol.
Large doses of niacin can reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially resulting in hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as allopurinol might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may have additive effects when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Several cases of clotting factor synthesis deficiency and coagulopathy have been reported in patients taking sustained-release niacin. Also, thrombocytopenia has been reported in patients treated with niacin or niacin plus lovastatin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Niacin can increase blood glucose levels and may diminish the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Niacin impairs glucose tolerance in a dose-dependent manner, probably by causing or aggravating insulin resistance and increasing hepatic production of glucose. In diabetes patients, niacin 4.5 grams daily for 5 weeks can increase plasma glucose by an average of 16% and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by 21%. However, lower doses of 1.5 grams daily or less appear to have minimal effects on blood glucose. In some patients, glucose levels increase when niacin is started, but then return to baseline when a stable dose is reached. Up to 35% of patients with diabetes may need adjustments in hypoglycemic therapy when niacin is added.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may increase the risk of hypotension when used with antihypertensive drugs.
The vasodilating effects of niacin can cause hypotension. Furthermore, some clinical evidence suggests that a one-hour infusion of niacin can reduce systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure in hypertensive patients. This effect is not observed in normotensive patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Bile Acid Sequestrants

Bile acid sequestrants can bind niacin and decrease absorption. Separate administration by 4-6 hours to avoid an interaction.
In vitro studies show that colestipol (Colestid) binds about 98% of available niacin and cholestyramine (Questran) binds 10% to 30%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Gemfibrozil (Lopid)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil might increase the risk of myopathy in some patients.
A case of myopathy from concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil has been reported. Niacin alone has also been associated with cases of myopathy. Using gemfibrozil with niacin might further increase the risk of developing myopathy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Niacin has been associated with cases of liver toxicity, especially when used in pharmacologic doses. Sustained-release niacin preparations appear to be associated with a higher risk of hepatotoxicity than immediate-release niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and statins might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis in some patients.
Some case reports have raised concerns that niacin might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when combined with statins. However, a significantly increased risk of myopathy has not been demonstrated in clinical trials, including those using an FDA-approved combination of lovastatin and niacin (Advicor).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Probenecid (Benemid)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as probenecid.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as probenecid might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Sulfinpyrazone (Anturane)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of thyroid hormones.
Clinical research and case reports suggests that taking niacin can reduce serum levels of thyroxine-binding globulin by up to 25% and moderately reduce levels of thyroxine (T4). Patients taking thyroid hormone for hypothyroidism might need dose adjustments when using niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Transdermal Nicotine (Nicoderm)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and transdermal nicotine might increase the risk of flushing and dizziness.
Niacin and nicotine can both cause flushing and dizziness.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

There is limited evidence that niacin may increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
In a case report, a patient on warfarin developed an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) of 3.9 after taking niacin for two weeks. The patient's INR was previously stable, ranging between 2 and 3 in recent months, and no other medication changes were identified. The elevated INR returned to therapeutic range within 4 days following the discontinuation of niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Aspirin

Large doses of aspirin might alter the clearance of niacin.
Aspirin is often used with niacin to reduce niacin-induced flushing. Doses of 80-975 mg aspirin have been used, but 325 mg appears to be optimal. Aspirin also seems to reduce the clearance of niacin by competing for glycine conjugation. Taking aspirin 1 gram seems to reduce niacin clearance by 45%. This is probably a dose-related effect and not clinically significant with the more common aspirin dose of 325 mg.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B
Niacin full monograph & interactions

5-HTP3 drug types · 398 drugs

Carbidopa (Lodosyn)

Combining 5-HTP and carbidopa can increase the risk of serotonergic side effects.
Carbidopa is sometimes used with 5-HTP to minimize peripheral 5-HTP metabolism and boost the amount that reaches the brain. However, this combination might also increase the risk of some side effects including hypomania, restlessness, rapid speech, anxiety, insomnia, and aggressiveness. Combining carbidopa and 5-HTP might also increase the risk of scleroderma-like skin changes due to elevated serotonin levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of 5-HTP with medications that cause sedation might have additive effects.
In clinical trials, 5-HTP has been associated with drowsiness and somnolence.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might cause additive serotonergic effects.
5-HTP can increase serotonin levels and cause serotonergic effects. Theoretically, combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome and cerebral vasoconstrictive disorders. However, serotonin syndrome with 5-HTP has not yet been reported in humans. Monitor patients for signs of serotonin syndrome and other serotonergic side effects if using 5-HTP with serotonergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
5-HTP full monograph & interactions

Magnesium15 drug types · 295 drugs

Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet)

Magnesium can reduce the bioavailability of levodopa/carbidopa.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that taking magnesium oxide 1000 mg with levodopa 100 mg/carbidopa 10 mg reduces the area under the curve (AUC) of levodopa by 35% and of carbidopa by 81%. In vitro and animal research shows that magnesium produces an alkaline environment in the digestive tract, which might lead to degradation and reduced bioavailability of levodopa/carbidopa.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

Concomitant use of aminoglycoside antibiotics and magnesium can increase the risk for neuromuscular weakness.
Both aminoglycosides and magnesium reduce presynaptic acetylcholine release, which can lead to neuromuscular blockade and possible paralysis. This is most likely to occur with high doses of magnesium given intravenously.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antacids

Use of acid reducers may reduce the laxative effect of magnesium oxide.
A retrospective analysis shows that, in the presence of H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a higher dose of magnesium oxide is needed for a laxative effect. This may also occur with antacids. Under acidic conditions, magnesium oxide is converted to magnesium chloride and then to magnesium bicarbonate, which has an osmotic laxative effect. By reducing acidity, antacids may reduce the conversion of magnesium oxide to the active bicarbonate salt.

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

Magnesium might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after magnesium containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

Magnesium can decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.
Cations, including magnesium, can decrease bisphosphonate absorption. Advise patients to separate doses of magnesium and these drugs by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Calcium Channel Blockers

Magnesium can have additive effects with calcium channel blockers, although evidence is conflicting.
Magnesium inhibits calcium entry into smooth muscle cells and may therefore have additive effects with calcium channel blockers. Severe hypotension and neuromuscular blockades may occur when nifedipine is used with intravenous magnesium, although some contradictory evidence suggests that concurrent use of magnesium with nifedipine does not increase the risk of neuromuscular weakness. High doses of magnesium could theoretically have additive effects with other calcium channel blockers.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin

Magnesium salts may reduce absorption of digoxin.
Clinical evidence suggests that treatment with oral magnesium hydroxide or magnesium trisilicate reduces absorption of digoxin from the intestines. This may reduce the blood levels of digoxin and decrease its therapeutic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Potassium-sparing diuretics decrease excretion of magnesium, possibly increasing magnesium levels.
Potassium-sparing diuretics also have magnesium-sparing properties, which can counteract the magnesium losses associated with loop and thiazide diuretics. Theoretically, increased magnesium levels could result from concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics and magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Magnesium decreases absorption of quinolones.
Magnesium can form insoluble complexes with quinolones and decrease their absorption. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants

Parenteral magnesium alters the pharmacokinetics of skeletal muscle relaxants, increasing their effects and accelerating the onset of effect.
Parenteral magnesium shortens the time to onset of skeletal muscle relaxants by about 1 minute and prolongs the duration of action by about 2 minutes. Magnesium potentiates the effects of skeletal muscle relaxants by decreasing calcium-mediated release of acetylcholine from presynaptic nerve terminals, reducing postsynaptic sensitivity to acetylcholine, and having a direct effect on the membrane potential of myocytes. Magnesium also has vasodilatory actions and increases cardiac output, allowing a greater amount of muscle relaxant to reach the motor end plate. A clinical study found that low-dose rocuronium (0.45 mg/kg), when given after administration of magnesium 30 mg/kg over 10 minutes, has an accelerated onset of effect, which matches the onset of effect seen with a full-dose rocuronium regimen (0.6 mg/kg). In another clinical study, onset times for rocuronium doses of 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mg/kg were 86, 76, and 50 seconds, respectively, when given alone, but were reduced to 66, 44, and 38 seconds, respectively, when the doses were given after a 15-minute infusion of magnesium sulfate 60 mg/kg. Giving intraoperative intravenous magnesium sulfate, 50 mg/kg loading dose followed by 15 mg/kg/hour, reduces the onset time of rocuronium, enhances its clinical effects, reduces the dose of intraoperative opiates, and prolongs the spontaneous recovery time. It does not affect the activity of subsequently administered neostigmine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Sulfonylureas

Magnesium increases the systemic absorption of sulfonylureas, increasing their effects and side effects.
Clinical research shows that administration of magnesium hydroxide with glyburide increases glyburide absorption, increases maximal insulin response by 35-fold, and increases the risk of hypoglycemia, when compared with glyburide alone. A similar interaction occurs between magnesium hydroxide and glipizide. The mechanism of this effect appears to be related to the elevation of gastrointestinal pH by magnesium-based antacids, increasing solubility and enhancing absorption of sulfonylureas.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Magnesium decreases absorption of tetracyclines.
Magnesium can form insoluble complexes with tetracyclines in the gut and decrease their absorption and antibacterial activity. Advise patients to take these drugs 1 hour before or 2 hours after magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, magnesium may have antiplatelet effects, but the evidence is conflicting.
In vitro evidence shows that magnesium sulfate inhibits platelet aggregation, even at low concentrations. Some preliminary clinical evidence shows that infusion of magnesium sulfate increases bleeding time by 48% and reduces platelet activity. However, other clinical research shows that magnesium does not affect platelet aggregation, although inhibition of platelet-dependent thrombosis can occur.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Gabapentin (Neurontin)

Gabapentin absorption can be decreased by magnesium.
Clinical research shows that giving magnesium oxide orally along with gabapentin decreases the maximum plasma concentration of gabapentin by 33%, time to maximum concentration by 36%, and area under the curve by 43%. Advise patients to take gabapentin at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Sevelamer (Renagel, Renvela)

Sevelamer may increase serum magnesium levels.
In patients on hemodialysis, sevelamer use was associated with a 0.28 mg/dL increase in serum magnesium. The mechanism of this interaction remains unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Magnesium full monograph & interactions

Phosphatidylserine2 drug types · 219 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, phosphatidylserine might decrease the effectiveness anticholinergic drugs.
Phosphatidylserine is thought to increase acetylcholine levels, which could theoretically interfere with the activity of anticholinergic agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, phosphatidylserine might have additive effects with cholinergic drugs.
Phosphatidylserine is thought to increase acetylcholine levels, which could theoretically lead to additive cholinergic effects when used with cholinergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phosphatidylserine full monograph & interactions

Vitamin B65 drug types · 210 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Theoretically, vitamin B6 might increase the photosensitivity caused by amiodarone.
Despite initial case reports suggesting that pyridoxine may have a protective effect against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity, preliminary clinical research suggests that pyridoxine may actually exacerbate this adverse effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, vitamin B6 may have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs.
Research in hypertensive rats shows that vitamin B6 can decrease systolic blood pressure. Similarly, clinical research in patients with hypertension shows that taking high doses of vitamin B6 may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, possibly by reducing plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenobarbital.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenobarbital, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenobarbital to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenytoin, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenytoin to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

Vitamin B6 may increase the metabolism of levodopa when taken alone, but not when taken in conjunction with carbidopa.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) enhances the metabolism of levodopa, reducing its clinical effects. However, this interaction does not occur when carbidopa is used concurrently with levodopa (Sinemet). Therefore, it is not likely to be a problem in most people.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Vitamin B6 full monograph & interactions

Zinc10 drug types · 67 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

Theoretically, zinc might decrease levels of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide by reducing its absorption.
Advise patients that bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide should be taken at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after zinc containing products.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cephalexin (Keflex)

Zinc might decrease cephalexin levels by chelating with cephalexin in the gut and preventing its absorption.
A pharmacokinetic study shows that zinc sulfate 250 mg taken concomitantly with cephalexin 500 mg decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 31% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 27%. Also, taking zinc sulfate 3 hours before cephalexin decreases peak levels of cephalexin by 11% and reduces the exposure to cephalexin by 18%. By decreasing cephalexin levels, zinc might increase the risk of treatment failure. This effect does not occur when zinc is taken 3 hours after the cephalexin dose. To avoid an interaction, advise patients take zinc sulfate 3 hours after taking cephalexin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

Theoretically, zinc might interfere with the therapeutic effects of cisplatin.
Animal research suggests that zinc stimulates tumor cell production of the protein metallothionein, which binds and inactivates cisplatin. It is not known whether zinc supplements or high dietary zinc intake can cause clinically significant interference with cisplatin therapy. Cisplatin might also increase zinc excretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Integrase Inhibitors

Theoretically, taking zinc along with integrase inhibitors might decrease the levels and clinical effects of these drugs.
Zinc is a divalent cation. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that other divalent cations such as calcium and iron can decrease blood levels of the integrase inhibitor dolutegravir through chelation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

Zinc might reduce the levels and clinical effects of penicillamine.
By forming an insoluble complex with penicillamine, zinc interferes with penicillamine absorption and activity. Zinc supplements reduce the efficacy of low-dose penicillamine (0.5-1 gram/day), but do not seem to affect higher doses (1-2.75 gram/day), provided dosing times are separated. Advise patients to take zinc and penicillamine at least 2 hours apart.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

Zinc can decrease the levels and clinical effects of quinolones antibiotics.
Quinolones form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing absorption of both the quinolone and zinc if taken at the same time. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Ritonavir (Norvir)

Zinc modestly reduces levels of ritonavir.
Clinical research shows that zinc might reduce serum ritonavir levels by chelating with ritonavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. In patients with HIV, ritonavir is taken with atazanavir to prevent the metabolism and increase the effects of atazanavir. A pharmacokinetic study shows that, in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg as a single dose or as multiple daily doses for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of ritonavir by about 16%. However, atazanavir levels still remains high enough to prevent HIV virus replication. Therefore, the decrease in ritonavir levels is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Zinc might reduce levels of tetracycline antibiotics.
Tetracyclines form complexes with zinc in the gastrointestinal tract, which can reduce absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc when taken at the same time. Taking zinc sulfate 200 mg with tetracycline reduces absorption of the antibiotic by 30% to 40%. Demeclocycline and minocycline cause a similar interaction. However, doxycycline does not seem to interact significantly with zinc. Advise patients to take tetracyclines at least 2 hours before, or 4-6 hours after, zinc supplements to avoid any interactions.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Amiloride (Midamor)

Amiloride can modestly reduce zinc excretion and increase zinc levels.
Clinical research shows that amiloride can reduce urinary zinc excretion, especially at doses of 10 mg per day or more. This zinc-sparing effect can help to counteract zinc losses caused by thiazide diuretics, but it is unlikely to cause zinc toxicity at usual amiloride doses. The other potassium-sparing diuretics, spironolactone (Aldactone) and triamterene (Dyrenium), do not seem to have a zinc-sparing effect.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Atazanavir (Reyataz)

Zinc modestly reduces levels of atazanavir, although this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
Clinical research shows that zinc might decrease serum atazanavir levels by chelating with atazanavir in the gut and preventing its absorption. Although a single dose of zinc sulfate (Solvazinc tablets) 125 mg orally does not affect atazanavir concentrations in patients being treated with atazanavir/ritonavir, co-administration of zinc sulfate 125 mg daily for 2 weeks reduces plasma levels of atazanavir by about 22% in these patients. However, despite this decrease, atazanavir levels still remain at high enough concentrations for the prevention of HIV virus replication.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Zinc full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Optimal Sleep, from the product label.

Seeking Health

See all Seeking Health products
Name
Seeking Health
Street Address
3140 Mercer Ave
City
Bellingham
State
WA
ZipCode
98225
Phone Number
(800) 547-9812
Web Address
www.seekinghealth.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health: Common Questions

Does Optimal Sleep by Seeking Health interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Optimal Sleep has a known interaction with 1,617 medications, including 6 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Optimal Sleep contains 7 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.
Will this help me sleep?
Ashwagandha in the product is possibly effective for insomnia and may help reduce stress and anxiety that interfere with sleep. Magnesium is commonly used for sleep support and relaxation. However, we don't have established evidence that this specific product improves sleep quality overall.
What does niacin do in this formula?
Niacin, also called vitamin B3, is a B vitamin that supports energy metabolism and nervous system function. At the doses typically found in sleep supplements, it's much lower than the amounts used to treat cholesterol or niacin deficiency.
Can I take this with my antidepressant?
5-HTP in this product increases serotonin levels, which can add to the effects of antidepressants and risk serotonin-related side effects. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before combining them—you may need to adjust doses or monitor more closely.
Is this safe if I'm pregnant?
Safety varies by ingredient. Ashwagandha should be avoided in pregnancy due to traditional concerns about miscarriage. 5-HTP should also be avoided. Zinc, niacin, and magnesium at recommended dietary levels are generally considered safe, but the high doses in supplements warrant a conversation with your doctor before taking any sleep product during pregnancy.
Will this interact with my blood pressure medication?
Yes, potentially. Both niacin and ashwagandha can theoretically lower blood pressure, so taken alongside blood pressure–lowering drugs they may increase the risk of blood pressure dropping too low. Have your doctor or pharmacist review this product before you start.
Can I take this if I'm on an antibiotic?
Zinc in this product binds to several antibiotics—including quinolones, tetracyclines, and cephalexin—and reduces their absorption. If you're taking one of these antibiotics, separate this supplement by at least 2 hours before or 4–6 hours after the antibiotic dose. Ask your pharmacist to confirm which antibiotics you're on.

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.

Optimal Sleep label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Optimal Sleep’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Niacin

Interacts with 727 drugs

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescription-strength niacin has been used to...

Read the full Niacin monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

5-htp

Interacts with 398 drugs

5-HTP is a compound your body uses to make serotonin, and people take it as a supplement hoping to improve mood, sleep, and headaches. Some early research is promising, but the overall evide...

Read the full 5-htp monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Zinc

Interacts with 67 drugs

Zinc is an essential mineral that your body needs for immune function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Most people get enough from food, but supplements can help correct or prevent a defici...

Read the full Zinc monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin B6

Interacts with 210 drugs

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is best known for helping with pregnancy-rel...

Read the full Vitamin B6 monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Phosphatidylserine

Interacts with 219 drugs

Phosphatidylserine is a natural fat-like compound found in cell membranes, especially in the brain, and it is sold mainly to support memory and thinking. Some research suggests possible bene...

Read the full Phosphatidylserine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Magnesium

Interacts with 295 drugs

Magnesium is an essential mineral your body needs for muscles, nerves, blood pressure, and many other functions, and supplements are useful for preventing or correcting deficiency. Some othe...

Read the full Magnesium monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Optimal Sleep'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 341 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.

Niacin 66 references
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  4. Guyton JR, Blazing MA, Hagar J, et al. Extended-release niacin vs gemfibrozil for the treatment of low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Niaspan-Gemfibrozil Study Group. Arch Intern Med 2000;160:1177-84. PubMed
  5. Gibbons LW, Gonzalez V, Gordon N, Grundy S. The prevalence of side effects with regular and sustained-release nicotinic acid. Am J Med 1995;99:378-85. PubMed
  6. Whelan AM, Price SO, Fowler SF, Hainer BL. The effect of aspirin on niacin-induced cutaneous reactions. J Fam Pract 1992;34:165-8.
  7. Jungnickel PW, Maloley PA, Vander Tuin EL, et al. Effect of two aspirin pretreatment regimens on niacin-induced cutaneous reactions. J Gen Intern Med 1997;12:591-6. PubMed
  8. Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, Morgan JM, et al. Efficacy and safety of an extended-release niacin (Niaspan): a long-term study. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:74-81;disc. 85U-6U. PubMed
  9. Gray DR, Morgan T, Chretien SD, Kashyap ML. Efficacy and safety of controlled-release niacin in dyslipoproteinemic veterans. Ann Intern Med 1994;121:252-8. PubMed
  10. McKenney JM, Proctor JD, Harris S, Chinchili VM. A comparison of the efficacy and toxic effects of sustained- vs immediate-release niacin in hypercholesterolemic patients. JAMA 1994;271:672-7. DOI
  11. Knopp RH, Alagona P, Davidson M, et al. Equivalent efficacy of a time-release form of niacin (Niaspan) given once-a-night versus plain niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. Metabolism 1998;47:1097-104. PubMed
  12. Knopp RH. Clinical profiles of plain versus sustained-release niacin (Niaspan) and the physiologic rationale for nighttime dosing. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:24U-28U;discussion 39U-41U. PubMed
  13. Garg A, Grundy SM. Nicotinic acid as therapy for dyslipidemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. JAMA 1990;264:723-6. DOI
  14. Leighton RF, Gordon NF, Small GS, et al. Dental and gingival pain as side effects of niacin therapy. Chest 1998;114:1472-4. PubMed
  15. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP Therapeutic Position Statement on the safe use of niacin in the management of dyslipidemias. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997;54:2815-9. DOI
  16. Vega GL, Grundy SM. Lipoprotein responses to treatment with lovastatin, gemfibrozil, and nicotinic acid in normolipidemic patients with hypoalphalipoproteinemia. Arch Intern Med 1994;154:73-82. DOI
  17. Guyton JR, Goldberg AC, Kreisberg RA, et al. Effectiveness of once-nightly dosing of extended-release niacin alone and in combination for hypercholesterolemia. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:737-43.
  18. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  19. Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
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  21. Rader JI, Calvert RJ, Hathcock JN. Hepatic toxicity of unmodified and time-release preparations of niacin. Am J Med 1992;92:77-81. PubMed
  22. Kahn SE, Beard JC, Schwartz MW, et al. Increased B-cell secretory capacity as mechanism for islet adaptation to nicotinic acid-induced insulin resistance. Diabetes 1989;38:562-8.
  23. Schwartz ML. Severe reversible hyperglycemia as a consequence of niacin therapy. Arch Int Med 1993;153:2050-2. DOI
  24. Raising HDL and Niacin Use. Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter 2004;20(5):200504.
  25. McKenney J. New perspectives on the use of niacin in the treatment of lipid disorders. Arch Intern Med 2004;164:697-705. PubMed
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  27. Ito MK. Advances in the understanding and management of dyslipidemia: using niacin-based therapies. Am J Health-Syst Pharm 2003;60(suppl 2):s15-21. PubMed
  28. Schwab RA, Bachhuber BH. Delirium and lactic acidosis caused by ethanol and niacin coingestion. Am J Emerg Med 1991;9:363-5. PubMed
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  32. Dearing BD, Lavie CJ, Lohmann TP, Genton E. Niacin-induced clotting factor synthesis deficiency with coagulopathy. Arch Intern Med. 1992;152(4):861-3. DOI
  33. O'Brien T, Silverberg JD, Nguyen TT. Nicotinic acid-induced toxicity associated with cytopenia and decreased levels of thyroxine-binding globulin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67(5):465-8. PubMed
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  35. Garnett WR. Interactions with hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1995;52(15):1639-45. PubMed
  36. Litin SC, Anderson CF. Nicotinic acid-associated myopathy: a report of three cases. Am J Med. 1989;86(4):481-3. PubMed
  37. Dunn RT, Ford MA, Rindone JP, Kwiecinski FA. Low-Dose Aspirin and Ibuprofen Reduce the Cutaneous Reactions Following Niacin Administration. Am J Ther. 1995;2(7):478-480. PubMed
  38. Cashin-Hemphill L, Spencer CA, Nicoloff JT, et al. Alterations in serum thyroid hormonal indices with colestipol-niacin therapy. Ann Intern Med. 1987;107(3):324-9. PubMed
  39. Drinka PJ. Alterations in thyroid and hepatic function tests associated with preparations of sustained-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67(12):1206. PubMed
  40. Shakir KM, Kroll S, Aprill BS, Drake AJ 3rd, Eisold JF. Nicotinic acid decreases serum thyroid hormone levels while maintaining a euthyroid state. Mayo Clin Proc. 1995;70(6):556-8. PubMed
  41. Etchason JA, Miller TD, Squires RW, et al. Niacin-induced hepatitis: a potential side effect with low-dose time-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1991;66(1):23-8. PubMed
  42. Henkin Y, Johnson KC, Segrest JP. Rechallenge with crystalline niacin after drug-induced hepatitis from sustained-release niacin. JAMA. 1990;264(2):241-3. DOI
  43. Henkin Y, Oberman A, Hurst DC, Segrest JP. Niacin revisited: clinical observations on an important but underutilized drug. Am J Med. 1991;91(3):239-46. PubMed
  44. Brown BG, Bardsley J, Poulin D, et al. Moderate dose, three-drug therapy with niacin, lovastatin, and colestipol to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dl in patients with hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol. 1997;80(2)
  45. Goldberg A, Alagona P Jr, Capuzzi DM, et al. Multiple-dose efficacy and safety of an extended-release form of niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. Am J Cardiol. 2000;85(9):1100-5. PubMed
  46. Aronov DM, Keenan JM, Akhmedzhanov NM, et al. Clinical trial of wax-matrix sustained-release niacin in a Russian population with hypercholesterolemia. Arch Fam Med. 1996;5(10):567-75. PubMed
  47. Morgan JM, Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, et al. Treatment Effect of Niaspan, a Controlled-release Niacin, in Patients With Hypercholesterolemia: A Placebo-controlled Trial. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther. 1996;1(3):195-202. PubMed
  48. Andersson RG, Aberg G, Brattsand R, Ericsson E, Lundholm L. Studies on the mechanism of flush induced by nicotinic acid. Acta Pharmacol Toxicol (Copenh). 1977 Jul;41(1):1-10. PubMed
  49. Brown WV. Niacin for lipid disorders. Indications, effectiveness, and safety. Postgrad Med. 1995 Aug;98(2):185-9, 192-3. PubMed
  50. O'REILLY PO, CALLBECK MJ, HOFFER A. Sustained-release nicotinic acid (nicospan); effect on (1) cholesterol levels and (2) leukocytes. Can Med Assoc J. 1959;80(5):359-62.
  51. Gharavi AG, Diamond JA, Smith DA, Phillips RA. Niacin-induced myopathy. Am J Cardiol. 1994;74(8):841-2. PubMed
  52. Litin SC, Anderson CF. Nicotinic acid-associated myopathy: a report of three cases. Am J Med. 1989;86(4):481-3. PubMed
  53. Fraunfelder FW, Fraunfelder FT, Illingworth DR. Adverse ocular effects associated with niacin therapy. Br J Ophthalmol 1995;79:54-56. PubMed
  54. Ali EH, McJunkin B, Jubelirer S, Hood W. Niacin induced coagulopathy as a manifestation of occult liver injury. W V Med J. 2013 Jan-Feb;109(1):12-4
  55. Aramwit P, Srisawadwong R, Supasyndh O. Effectiveness and safety of extended-release nicotinic acid for reducing serum phosphorus in hemodialysis patients. J Nephrol. 2012 May-Jun;25(3):354-62. PubMed
  56. Bassan M. A case for immediate-release niacin. Heart Lung. 2012 Jan-Feb;41(1):95-8. PubMed
  57. Davidson MH, Rooney M, Pollock E, Drucker J, Choy Y. Effect of colesevelam and niacin on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and glycemic control in subjects with dyslipidemia and impaired fasting glucose. J Clin Lipidol. 2013 Sep-Oct;7(5):423-32. PubMed
  58. Guyton JR, Fazio S, Adewale AJ, Jensen E, Tomassini JE, Shah A, Tershakovec AM. Effect of extended-release niacin on new-onset diabetes among hyperlipidemic patients treated with ezetimibe/simvastatin in a randomized controlled trial. Diabetes Care. 2012 PubMed
  59. Loebl T, Raskin S. A novel case report: acute manic psychotic episode after treatment with niacin. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2013 Fall;25(4):E14. PubMed
  60. Teo KK, Goldstein LB, Chaitman BR, Grant S, Weintraub WS, Anderson DC, Sila CA, Cruz-Flores S, Padley RJ, Kostuk WJ, Boden WE; AIM-HIGH Investigators. Extended-release niacin therapy and risk of ischemic stroke in patients with cardiovascular disease: the
  61. Goldie C, Taylor AJ, Nguyen P, McCoy C, Zhao XQ, Preiss D. Niacin therapy and the risk of new-onset diabetes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Heart. 2016 Feb;102(3):198-203.
  62. Schandelmaier S, Briel M, Saccilotto R, Olu KK, Arpagaus A, Hemkens LG, Nordmann AJ. Niacin for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Jun 14;6:CD009744. PubMed
  63. Jenkins DJA, Spence JD, Giovannucci EL, et al. Supplemental vitamins and minerals for CVD prevention and treatment. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018;71(22):2570-84. PubMed
  64. Song S, Lee CJ, Oh J, Park S, Kang SM, Lee SH. Effect of Niacin on Carotid Atherosclerosis in Patients at Low-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Goal but High Lipoprotein (a) Level: a 2-Year Follow-Up Study. J Lipid Atheroscler. 2019;8(1):58-66. PubMed
  65. Kimura H, Umemori Y, Yuki D. Anaphylactic shock-like symptoms due to niacin overdose: A case report. J Dermatol 2022;49(8):e287-e288. PubMed
  66. Nawaz N, Mistretta T, Karime C, Lewis J, Wolf E. Cholestatic Drug-Induced Liver Injury in a Patient Taking High-Dose Niacin for Hyperlipidemia. J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep 2024;12:23247096231224349. PubMed

See these in context on the Niacin monograph →

5-htp 32 references
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