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

Para-Gard Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Integrative Therapeutics

Para-Gard label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Para-Gard 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

Para-Gard is a dietary supplement by Integrative Therapeutics with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart health.Based on those ingredients, 1,371 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract, Berberine Sulfate, Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics

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

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics

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 Sep 3, 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 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Para-Gard contains five active ingredients. Garlic bulb extract is included for its potential effects on blood pressure, cholesterol, and liver health.

Berberine sulfate is added for its possible benefits in blood sugar and cholesterol management. Gentian root extract and goldenseal root extract are traditional digestive herbs with limited modern evidence for their effectiveness.

Sweet wormwood aerial parts extract is included for its possible role in managing allergic symptoms. The product also contains inactive ingredients: cellulose, a plant-derived capsule, calcium laurate, and silica.

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: intestinal support botanicals.
  • We looked for evidence on: Diarrhea, Gastritis, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Helicobacter pylori, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Oropharyngeal candidiasis — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Berberine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Helicobacter pylori (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Garlic is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Helicobacter pylori.
  • Also on file: Garlic is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Diarrhea, Oropharyngeal candidiasis, Gastritis.

The evidence for this product's ingredients is mixed. Garlic is possibly effective for periodontitis (gum disease), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis.

Berberine is possibly effective for high cholesterol, polycystic ovary syndrome, H. pylori infection, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Sweet wormwood is possibly effective for allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

Gentian and goldenseal lack sufficient reliable evidence to establish whether they work for their traditional uses in this product.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Garlic Berberine Gentian Goldenseal Sweet Annie

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

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

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 5 of the 5 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 5 of 5.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 5 of 5.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Garlic is generally well tolerated orally; the most common side effects are abdominal pain, body odor, flatulence, bad breath, and nausea. Rare serious concerns include increased bleeding risk.

Berberine is generally well tolerated short-term but commonly causes digestive side effects like abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue.

Gentian and goldenseal are generally tolerated in small amounts but have limited safety data at higher doses and can upset the stomach. Sweet wormwood is generally well tolerated orally; nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects, though rare cases of liver injury have been reported.

Regarding pregnancy and breastfeeding: Garlic is rated likely safe during pregnancy and likely safe during breastfeeding, though some traditional cautions apply. Berberine is rated likely unsafe during both pregnancy and breastfeeding—it may cross the placenta, has been linked to newborn harm, and passes into breast milk.

Goldenseal is rated likely unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its berberine content. Gentian and sweet wormwood lack sufficient safety data and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Garlic Berberine Gentian Goldenseal Sweet Annie

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?
  • 5 of the 5 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Garlic, Gentian, Sweet Annie, Goldenseal, Berberine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications.
  • For scale: 1,372 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 you take Para-Gard, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you're on cyclosporine (Major severity interaction with berberine—it can raise cyclosporine levels dangerously). At Moderate severity, watch for blood pressure medications, blood thinners, diabetes medications, sedating drugs, and any medications metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, or CYP2B6 enzymes.

If you're on a liver-toxic drug, mention that too. Use the search tool on this page to check your specific medications.

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.

Para-Gard is designed for digestive and liver support using traditional herbal ingredients, though evidence is strongest for garlic and berberine for blood sugar and cardiovascular health. It carries significant medication interaction potential—particularly with blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, diabetes medications, and drugs metabolized by key liver enzymes—and is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Check your exact medications with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, especially if you take cyclosporine, blood thinners, diabetes drugs, or sedating medications.

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

Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 23, 2021.

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 Para-Gard, straight from the product label.

Brand Integrative Therapeutics
Barcode (UPC) 871791001817
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jun 23, 2021
DSLD ID 251179
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating), Gluten Free, Dairy Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics, 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
20
UPC/BARCODE
871791001817
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories5 Calorie(s)--
Total Carbohydrates2 Gram(s)1%
Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract150 mg--
Berberine Sulfate450 mg--
Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract225 mg--
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract150 mg--
Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract150 mg--

Other ingredients: Cellulose, plant-derived Capsule, Calcium Laurate, Silica

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.
Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

Do not use if seal under child-resistant cap is broken or missing.

Contains sulfites.

Warning: Do not use if you are pregnant, nursing, have stomach or duodenal ulcers, stomach irritation or inflammation, a bleeding disorder, taking blood thinning medication, or if you are within a week of surgery. If you have diabetes or are taking prescription drugs, consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Keep tightly closed. Store at room temperature. Avoid excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Formulation

Vegan

Intestinal support botanicals

Contains no wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Seals/Symbols

Quality Global Sourcing Bottled & Tested in the USA

Brand IP Statement(s)

Copyright 2021 Distributed by Integrative Therapeutics, LLC

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Recommendation: Adults take 1-3 capsules daily or as recommended by a healthcare professional.

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

See for yourself

Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics label

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

Para-Gard 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 Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics

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

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container20 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.

Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract

Interacts with
989 drugs
150 mg per serving

Garlic is a common food and supplement that may modestly help with blood pressure and cholesterol, though the evidence is mixed and effects are usuall...

Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract monograph & interactions

Berberine Sulfate

Interacts with
1,160 drugs
450 mg per serving

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

Berberine Sulfate monograph & interactions

Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract

Interacts with
172 drugs
225 mg per serving

Gentian is a very bitter root traditionally used to stimulate appetite and ease mild digestive complaints, often as part of "bitters" before meals. Th...

Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract monograph & interactions

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract

Interacts with
1,237 drugs
150 mg per serving Form: total Alkaloids

Goldenseal is a popular North American herb that contains berberine, a compound studied for antimicrobial effects. However, strong human evidence for...

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract monograph & interactions

Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract

Interacts with
889 drugs
150 mg per serving

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

Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Plant-derived Capsule, Calcium Laurate, Silica. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Para-Gard?

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
1,371Drugs
1 Major 1,369 Moderate 1 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract 1,237
Berberine Sulfate 1,160
Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract 989
Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract 889
Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract 172

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Para-Gard interact with 1,371 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

5 of the 5 ingredients in Para-Gard interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract Berberine Sulfate Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Para-Gard 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.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract16 drug types · 1,237 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Goldenseal contains berberine. In vitro and animal research shows that berberine can inhibit platelet aggregation. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Goldenseal contains berberine. Clinical research shows that berberine can lower blood glucose levels. However, this effect has not been reported with goldenseal.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Goldenseal contains berberine. Animal research shows that berberine can have hypotensive effects. Also, an analysis of clinical research shows that taking berberine in combination with amlodipine can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone. However, this effect has not been reported with goldenseal.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Goldenseal contains berberine. Animal research shows that berberine can have sedative effects. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro research shows that goldenseal root extract can modestly inhibit CYP2C9. This effect may be due to its alkaloid constituents, hydrastine and berberine. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Goldenseal might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Clinical and in vitro research shows that goldenseal can significantly inhibit CYP2D6 enzymes, potentially increasing levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
In vitro research shows that goldenseal root extract can inhibit the activity of CYP2E1. However, this effect has not been reported in humans.

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

Goldenseal might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Most clinical and in vitro research shows that goldenseal inhibits CYP3A4 enzyme activity and increases serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates, such as midazolam. However, in one small clinical study, goldenseal did not affect the levels of indinavir, a CYP3A4 substrate, in healthy volunteers. This is likely due to the fact that indinavir has a high oral bioavailability, making it an inadequate probe for CYP3A4 interactions and/or that it is primarily metabolized by hepatic CYP3A, while goldenseal has more potential to inhibit intestinal CYP3A enzyme activity. Both goldenseal extract and its isolated constituents berberine and hydrastine inhibit CYP3A, with hydrastine possibly having more inhibitory potential than berberine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Goldenseal contains berberine. A small clinical study shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) activity and reduce the metabolism of dextromethorphan.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Goldenseal might increase serum levels of digoxin, although this effect is unlikely to be clinically significant.
Clinical research shows that goldenseal modestly increases digoxin peak levels by about 14% in healthy volunteers. However, goldenseal does not seem to affect other pharmacokinetic parameters such as area under the curve (AUC). This suggests that goldenseal does not cause a clinically significant interaction with digoxin. Digoxin is a P-glycoprotein substrate. Some evidence suggests that goldenseal constituents might affect P-glycoprotein; however, it is unclear whether these constituents inhibit or induce P-glycoprotein.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Losartan (Cozaar)

Theoretically, goldenseal might decrease the conversion of losartan to its active form.
Goldenseal contains berberine. A small clinical study shows that berberine inhibits cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) activity and reduces the metabolism of losartan. However, this effect has not been reported with goldenseal.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, goldenseal might reduce blood levels of metformin.
In vitro research shows that goldenseal extract decreases the bioavailability of metformin, likely by interfering with transport, intestinal permeability, or other processes involved in metformin absorption. It is unclear which, if any, of metformin's transporters are inhibited by goldenseal. Goldenseal does not appear to alter the clearance or half-life of metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase or decrease serum levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates.
There is conflicting evidence about the effect of goldenseal on P-gp. In vitro research suggests that berberine, a constituent of goldenseal, modestly inhibits P-gp efflux. Other evidence suggests that berberine induces P-gp. In healthy volunteers, goldenseal modestly increases peak levels of the P-gp substrate digoxin by about 14%. However, it does not seem to affect other pharmacokinetic parameters such as area under the curve (AUC). This suggests that goldenseal is not a potent inhibitor of P-gp-mediated drug efflux. Until more is known, goldenseal should be used cautiously with P-gp substrates.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Animal research shows that berberine, a constituent of goldenseal, can prolong pentobarbital-induced sleeping time. However, this effect has not been reported with goldenseal.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Theoretically, goldenseal might increase serum levels of tacrolimus.
Goldenseal contains berberine. In a 16-year-old patient with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who was being treated with tacrolimus 6.5 mg twice daily, intake of berberine 200 mg three times daily increased the blood concentration of tacrolimus from 8 to 22 ng/mL. Following a reduction of tacrolimus dosing to 3 mg daily, blood levels of tacrolimus decreased to 12 ng/mL.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)

Theoretically, goldenseal might reduce the therapeutic effects of oseltamivir by decreasing its conversion to its active form.
In vitro evidence suggests that goldenseal reduces the formation of the active compound from the prodrug oseltamivir. The mechanism of action and clinical relevance is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) root extract full monograph & interactions

Berberine Sulfate15 drug types · 1,160 drugs

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Losartan (Cozaar)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Metformin (Glucophage)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Acetazolamide

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence C
Berberine Sulfate full monograph & interactions

Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract12 drug types · 989 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Garlic may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Raw garlic and a variety of garlic extracts have antiplatelet activity and can increase prothrombin time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking garlic with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research suggests that garlic and garlic extract lower blood glucose levels in healthy and diabetic individuals.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking garlic with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
In human research, both garlic and garlic extracts have blood pressure-lowering effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Atazanavir (Reyataz)

Theoretically, garlic might decrease levels and effects of atazanavir.
In a case report, a patient consuming six stir-fried garlic cloves three times weekly developed suboptimal atazanavir levels and increases in HIV viral load. While the exact cause of this interaction is unclear, there is speculation that garlic might decrease the intestinal absorption of atazanavir or increase its metabolism by inducing cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Until more is known, advise patients not to consume large amounts of garlic while taking atazanavir.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Garlic might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
Clinical research suggests garlic oil can inhibit the activity of CYP2E1 by 39%. Use garlic oil cautiously in patients taking drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

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

Theoretically, garlic products containing allicin might induce intestinal CYP3A4 and inhibit hepatic CYP3A4. This may increase or decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Some human research suggests that garlic may induce INTESTINAL CYP3A4, reducing levels of drugs metabolized by this enzyme. This is primarily based on a study showing that taking a specific allicin-containing garlic product (GarliPure Maximum Allicin Formula, Natrol Inc.) twice daily for 3 days reduces saquinavir levels by approximately 50%. It is speculated that the allicin constituent induced CYP3A4 in the gut mucosa. Another study shows that giving docetaxel intravenously, bypassing the CYP3A4 enzymes in the gut mucosa, along with the same specific garlic product for 12 consecutive days, does not affect docetaxel levels. Conversely, there is concern that garlic may inhibit HEPATIC CYP3A4. In a single case report, increased tacrolimus levels and liver injury occurred in a liver transplant patient after taking a specific garlic supplement (Garlicin Cardio, Nature's Way) at up to three times the manufacturer recommended dose for 7 days. Several other studies have evaluated the impact of other garlic formulations on CYP3A4 substrates and have found no effect. Most of the products in these studies provided little or no allicin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Isoniazid

Theoretically, garlic might decrease levels of isoniazid.
Animal research suggests that an aqueous extract of garlic reduces isoniazid levels by about 65%. Garlic reduced the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC), but not the half-life, of isoniazid. This suggests that garlic extract might inhibit isoniazid absorption across the intestinal mucosa; however, the exact mechanism of this potential interaction is not known.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Protease Inhibitors (Pis)

Theoretically, garlic products containing allicin might decrease levels of PIs.
Protease inhibitors are metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) isoenzymes. There is concern that garlic products containing allicin might induce intestinal CYP3A4, reducing plasma levels of protease inhibitors. This is primarily based on a study showing that taking a specific garlic product (GarliPure Maximum Allicin Formula, Natrol Inc.) twice daily for 3 days reduces levels of saquinavir, a PI, by approximately 50%. It is speculated that the allicin constituent induce CYP3A4 in the gut mucosa. Several studies have evaluated the impact of other garlic formulations on CYP3A4 substrates and have found no effect. Most of the products in these studies provided little or no allicin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Saquinavir (Fortovase, Invirase)

Theoretically, garlic containing allicin might decrease levels of saquinavir.
Saquinavir is a substrate of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) isoenzymes. There is concern that garlic products containing allicin might induce intestinal CYP3A4 and cause subtherapeutic levels of saquinavir. This is primarily based on a pharmacokinetic study showing that taking a specific garlic product (GarliPure Maximum Allicin Formula, Natrol Inc.) twice daily for 3 days reduces saquinavir levels by approximately 50%. It is speculated that the allicin constituent induces CYP3A4 in the gut mucosa. Several pharmacokinetic studies have evaluated the impact of other garlic formulations on CYP3A4 substrates and have found no effect. Most of the products in these studies provided little or no allicin. Until more is known about this potential interaction, use garlic containing allicin cautiously in patients taking saquinavir.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Sofosbuvir (Sovaldi)

Theoretically, taking garlic with sofosbuvir might decrease its effectiveness.
Animal research in rats shows that giving aged garlic extract 120 mg/kg orally daily for 14 days decreases the area under the concentration time curve (AUC) after a single sofosbuvir dose of 40 mg/kg by 36%, increases the clearance by 63%, and decreases the plasma concentrations at 1 and 8 hours by 35% and 58%, respectively. This interaction is hypothesized to be due to induction of intestinal P-glycoprotein expression by garlic.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Theoretically, garlic might increase levels of tacrolimus.
In one case report, a liver transplant patient taking tacrolimus experienced increased tacrolimus levels and liver injury after taking a specific garlic supplement (Garlicin Cardio, Nature's Way) at up to three times the manufacturer recommended dose for 7 days. It is speculated that garlic inhibited hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which increased plasma levels of tacrolimus.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, garlic might increase the risk of bleeding with warfarin.
Raw garlic and a variety of garlic extracts have antiplatelet activity and can increase prothrombin time. In addition, there is a report of two patients who experienced an increase in a previously stabilized international normalized ratio (INR) with concomitant garlic and warfarin use. However, this report has been subsequently debated due to limited clinical information. Other clinical studies have not identified an effect of garlic on INR, warfarin pharmacokinetics, or bleeding risk. More evidence is needed to determine the safety of using garlic with warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb extract full monograph & interactions

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

Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

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

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

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua) aerial parts extract full monograph & interactions

Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract1 drug type · 172 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking gentian with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
In vitro research shows that gentian can cause vasodilation and lower blood pressure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Gentian (Gentiana lutea) root extract full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Para-Gard, from the product label.

Integrative Therapeutics

See all Integrative Therapeutics products
Name
Integrative Therapeutics, LLC
City
Green Bay
State
WI
ZipCode
54311
Phone Number
800.931.1709
Web Address
integrativepro.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics: Common Questions

Does Para-Gard by Integrative Therapeutics interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Para-Gard has a known interaction with 1,371 medications, including 1 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Para-Gard contains 5 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take Para-Gard if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No—not safely with this formula. Berberine and goldenseal are rated likely unsafe in both pregnancy and breastfeeding; they may harm the developing baby or pass into breast milk. Gentian and sweet wormwood also lack enough safety data. Garlic is the only ingredient rated safe, but because this product combines several unsafe ingredients, you should avoid it. Talk with your doctor before using any supplement during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
What are the most common side effects of Para-Gard?
The most common side effects come from garlic and berberine—both can cause stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, and abdominal pain. Garlic may also cause bad breath and body odor. Berberine may additionally cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue. Gentian and sweet wormwood commonly cause nausea and vomiting.
Does Para-Gard actually work?
The evidence varies by ingredient. Garlic and berberine have the strongest support and are possibly effective for blood sugar control, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Sweet wormwood is possibly effective for hay fever. Gentian and goldenseal lack solid modern evidence for their traditional uses. Overall, the product is strongest for metabolic and cardiovascular support, though results depend on individual response and dose.
Can I take this with blood pressure or blood thinner medications?
You should not without talking to your doctor first. Multiple ingredients—garlic, berberine, gentian, and goldenseal—can lower blood pressure further or increase bleeding risk. The combination could cause serious problems. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding Para-Gard to any blood pressure or anticoagulant drug.
What's berberine sulfate, and why is it in this product?
Berberine is an alkaloid from plants like goldenseal and barberry, included here for its possible benefits on blood sugar and cholesterol. It's possibly effective for diabetes and high cholesterol, but it has many drug interactions and causes digestive side effects. It's also unsafe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Will Para-Gard interact with my cyclosporine?
Yes—this is a serious Major severity interaction. The berberine in Para-Gard can raise cyclosporine levels in your blood by blocking how your body breaks it down, potentially causing harm. Do not combine them without explicit approval and monitoring from your doctor.

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.

Para-Gard label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Para-Gard’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Garlic

Interacts with 989 drugs

Garlic is a common food and supplement that may modestly help with blood pressure and cholesterol, though the evidence is mixed and effects are usually small. It is generally safe in food am...

Read the full Garlic monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Berberine

Interacts with 1,160 drugs

Berberine is a yellow plant compound that has shown promise for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol in some studies, but the quality of research varies and it is not a replacement for presc...

Read the full Berberine monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Gentian

Interacts with 172 drugs

Gentian is a very bitter root traditionally used to stimulate appetite and ease mild digestive complaints, often as part of "bitters" before meals. The evidence is mostly traditional and pre...

Read the full Gentian monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Goldenseal

Interacts with 1,237 drugs

Goldenseal is a popular North American herb that contains berberine, a compound studied for antimicrobial effects. However, strong human evidence for its many traditional uses is largely lac...

Read the full Goldenseal monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Sweet Annie

Interacts with 889 drugs

Sweet Annie (Artemisia annua) is the source of artemisinin, a compound used in prescription antimalarial drugs. While the purified drug is well studied for malaria, the herb itself as a supp...

Read the full Sweet Annie monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Para-Gard'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 245 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.

Garlic 154 references
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Berberine 41 references
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Gentian 5 references
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Goldenseal 34 references
  1. Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993;63:201-8. PubMed
  2. Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
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  8. Zhang Y, Li X, Zou D, et al. Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008;93:2559-65. PubMed
  9. Chatterjee P, Franklin MR. Human cytochrome p450 inhibition and metabolic-intermediate complex formation by goldenseal extract and its methylenedioxyphenyl components. Drug Metab Dispos 2003;31:1391-7. PubMed
  10. Choudhry, V. P., Sabir, M., and Bhide, V. N. Berberine in giardiasis. Indian Pediatr. 1972;9(3):143-146.
  11. Shanbhag, S. M., Kulkarni, H. J., and Gaitonde, B. B. Pharmacological actions of berberine on the central nervous system. Jpn.J Pharmacol 1970;20(4):482-487. PubMed
  12. Wu, J. F. and Liu, T. P. [Effects of berberine on platelet aggregation and plasma levels of TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha in rats with reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion]. Yao Xue.Xue.Bao. 1995;30(2):98-102.
  13. Peng, W. H., Hsieh, M. T., and Wu, C. R. Effect of long-term administration of berberine on scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats. Jpn J Pharmacol 1997;74(3):261-266. DOI
  14. Sharda DC. Berberine in the treatment of diarrhoea of infancy and childhood. J Indian M A 1970;54(1):22-24.
  15. Sabir M and Bhide NK. Study of some pharmacological actions of berberine. Ind J Physiol & Pharmac 1971;15(3):111-132.
  16. Tripathi YB and Shukla SD. Berberis artistata inhibits PAF induced aggregation of rabbit platelets. Phytotherapy Research 1996;10:628-630.
  17. Zhang, Y., Li, X., Zou, D., Liu, W., Yang, J., Zhu, N., Huo, L., Wang, M., Hong, J., Wu, P., Ren, G., and Ning, G. Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. J Clin Endocrinol.Metab 2008;93(7):2559-2565. PubMed
  18. Yin, J., Xing, H., and Ye, J. Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism 2008;57(5):712-717. PubMed
  19. Zhang, H., Wei, J., Xue, R., Wu, J. D., Zhao, W., Wang, Z. Z., Wang, S. K., Zhou, Z. X., Song, D. Q., Wang, Y. M., Pan, H. N., Kong, W. J., and Jiang, J. D. Berberine lowers blood glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients through increasing insulin re
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  21. Wei, W., Zhao, H., Wang, A., Sui, M., Liang, K., Deng, H., Ma, Y., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., and Guan, Y. A clinical study on the short-term effect of berberine in comparison to metformin on the metabolic characteristics of women with polycystic ovary syndro
  22. Meng, S., Wang, L. S., Huang, Z. Q., Zhou, Q., Sun, Y. G., Cao, J. T., Li, Y. G., and Wang, C. Q. Berberine ameliorates inflammation in patients with acute coronary syndrome following percutaneous coronary intervention. Clin Exp.Pharmacol Physiol 2012;39 PubMed
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Sweet Annie 11 references
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  8. Kane NF, Kiani BH, Desrosiers MR, Towler MJ, Weathers PJ. Artemisia extracts differ from artemisinin effects on human hepatic CYP450s 2B6 and 3A4 in vitro. J Ethnopharmacol 2022. DOI
  9. Feng Y, Cao Y, Liu Y, et al. Clinical efficacy and safety of coseasonal initiation of Artemisia annua sublingual immunotherapy on patients with Artemisia-induced rhinoconjunctivitis. Am J Otolaryngol 2023;44(5):103942. PubMed
  10. Yang J, Wang W, Shen Z, et al. Efficacy and safety of Artemisia annua sublingual immunotherapy in patients with seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis over two pollen seasons. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2023;280(11):4939-4947. PubMed
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See these in context on the Sweet Annie monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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