Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 10 of 11 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Positive Outlook Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Higher Nature

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

Positive Outlook is a dietary supplement by Higher Nature with 11 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for preventing neural tube birth defects, treating or preventing folate deficiency, supporting pregnancy health.Based on those ingredients, 1,052 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Niacin, 5-HTP, Lemon Balm extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Positive Outlook by Higher Nature

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 11 of its 11 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Positive Outlook contains 11 active ingredients: folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, thiamine (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin B3), glutamine, tyrosine, 5-HTP, pantothenic acid, Tri-Methyl Glycine, and lemon balm extract. Folic acid supports cell division and is proven to correct folate deficiency and prevent neural tube birth defects.

The B vitamins (B1, B3, B5, B6, B12) work together to convert food into energy and support nervous system function. Glutamine and tyrosine are amino acids the body uses to build proteins and neurotransmitters.

5-HTP is a precursor to serotonin, and lemon balm is an herbal extract traditionally used for stress and mood. The product also contains inactive ingredients including the amino acids L-glutamine and L-tyrosine, betaine monohydrate, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, and capsule material.

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: mind health and nervous system function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Anxiety, Attention, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), stress, mood, cognitive function.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lemon Balm is rated "Possibly Effective" for Stress (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Tyrosine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Cognitive function.
  • Also on file: Lemon Balm is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety, Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Cognitive function.

Evidence for folic acid is strong: it's effective for folate deficiency and likely effective for preventing neural tube birth defects and reducing methotrexate toxicity; it's possibly effective for depression and cognitive impairment. Vitamin B6 is effective for sideroblastic anemia and vitamin B6 deficiency, and likely effective for high homocysteine; it's possibly effective for pregnancy-related nausea.

Vitamin B12 is effective for B12 deficiency and is likely effective for cyanide poisoning; it's possibly effective for canker sores and nerve pain. Thiamine is effective for thiamine deficiency and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a serious brain condition; it's possibly effective for menstrual pain but possibly ineffective as a mosquito repellent or for heart failure.

Niacin is likely effective for pellagra and possibly effective for HIV-related cholesterol problems and metabolic syndrome. Glutamine is effective for sickle cell disease and possibly effective for wasting in HIV/AIDS and recovery after surgery.

Tyrosine is effective for phenylketonuria (PKU) and possibly effective for cognitive function and memory. 5-HTP is possibly effective for depression.

Pantothenic acid is effective for pantothenic acid deficiency. Lemon balm is possibly effective for cold sores, stress, and depression.

Evidence for Tri-Methyl Glycine is not on file.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Folic Acid Vitamin B6 Vitamin B12 Thiamine Niacin Glutamine Tyrosine 5-htp

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 10 of the 10 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 10 of 10.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 10 of 10.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Folic acid is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. It's recommended during pregnancy at standard prenatal doses and considered safe while breastfeeding.

However, high doses (15 mg daily or more) can cause confusion, irritability, nausea, and sleep disturbances; there's also a rare risk of seizures or nerve damage, especially if you have undiagnosed vitamin B12 deficiency. Folic acid taken late in pregnancy has been associated with increased childhood asthma risk in population studies, though early pregnancy use has not.

Vitamin B6 is safe at normal amounts from food and standard supplements but can harm nerves at high doses over time; prenatal use for morning sickness should be under doctor guidance. Vitamin B12 is generally very safe with no established upper limit, and is needed and safe at recommended amounts in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Thiamine is very safe at normal amounts; high-dose supplements require doctor supervision. Niacin is safe in dietary amounts but high supplemental doses can cause flushing, liver problems, and other effects; avoid high-dose niacin in pregnancy unless prescribed.

Glutamine is well tolerated but people with kidney or liver disease should use it only under medical supervision, and it should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a doctor recommends it. Tyrosine is generally well tolerated but safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited — avoid supplemental doses unless advised.

5-HTP may help some people but has limited safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it's best avoided unless your doctor advises otherwise. Pantothenic acid is considered safe at typical supplement doses.

Lemon balm is well tolerated for short-term use in healthy adults, but long-term safety at high doses is not well studied; it should be avoided in pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise, and use with caution while breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Folic Acid Vitamin B6 Vitamin B12 Thiamine Niacin Glutamine Tyrosine 5-htp

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

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

Why this rating?
  • 9 of the 10 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Lemon Balm, 5-htp, Glutamine, Niacin, Vitamin B12, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; seizure medications; diabetes medications; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 1,053 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 Positive Outlook, double-check these medication types with your doctor or pharmacist: seizure medications (phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone), blood pressure drugs, blood thinners and antiplatelet agents, diabetes medications, antidepressants and other serotonergic drugs, thyroid hormone replacements, cholesterol-lowering statins, gout treatments, heart rhythm drugs (amiodarone), sleeping pills and sedatives, and metformin for diabetes. The folic acid in this product carries the most serious risk — it can interfere with seizure control.

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. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Positive Outlook is a multivitamin and herbal blend designed to support energy, mood, and cognitive function through B vitamins, amino acids, and herbal extracts. If you take seizure medications, blood pressure pills, diabetes drugs, blood thinners, antidepressants, thyroid hormones, or any other regular prescription medication, check your specific medications against the interaction tool on this page and discuss the product with your own doctor or pharmacist before starting.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of vitamin B12 deficiency, or plan to take high-dose supplements.

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

Assessment coverage: 10 of 11 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Dec 26, 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 Positive Outlook, straight from the product label.

Brand Higher Nature
Barcode (UPC) 5031013104770
Net contents 180 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Dec 26, 2020
DSLD ID 240549
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other
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 Positive Outlook by Higher Nature, 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:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
UPC/BARCODE
5031013104770
IngredientAmount% DV
Folic Acid100 mcg50%
Vitamin B620 mg1429%
Vitamin B1210 mcg400%
Thiamine25 mg2273%
Niacin40 mg NE250%
Glutamine500 mg--
Tyrosine430 mg--
5-HTP90 mg--
Pantothenic Acid90 mg1500%
Tri-Methyl Glycine220 mg--
Lemon Balm extract18 mg--

Other ingredients: L-Glutamine, L-Tyrosine, Betaine Monohydrate, Capsule, Vitamin B5, L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Magnesium Stearate, Lemon Balm extract, Silicon Dioxide, Vitamin B12

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.
Formulation

Free From: Artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives, corn, dairy products, gluten, lactose, salt, soya, starch, wheat, yeast.

Mind health Advanced formula optimal benefit

Vegetarian and vegan

Storage

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

Precautions

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Storage: Not advisable if pregnant, breastfeeding or if taking MAO inhibitor drugs.

Can cause drowsiness in sensitive individuals; do not drive or operate machinery if affected. Long-term intakes of this amount of Vitamin B6 may lead to milk tingling and numbness.

General Statements

This product is not tested on animals.

NRV = Nutrient Reference Value

Formula

With B Vitamins & Amino Acids

Vitamins B1, B3, B6 and B12 support normal function of the nervous system Vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12 and folate support normal psychological function and help reduce tiredness and fatigue Vitamin B6 helps regulate hormonal activity

FDA Statement of Identity

Food Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Take 2 capsules once or twice a day at least 30 minutes before meals. Do not exceed recommended daily intake.

See for yourself

Positive Outlook by Higher Nature label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Positive Outlook by Higher Nature

These are the 11 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Folic Acid

Interacts with
40 drugs
100 mcg per serving

Folic acid is the man-made form of vitamin B9 and is one of the most well-studied supplements, especially for preventing serious birth defects when ta...

Folic Acid monograph & interactions

Vitamin B6

Interacts with
210 drugs
20 mg per serving

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

Vitamin B12

Interacts with
20 drugs
10 mcg per serving

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient your body needs to make red blood cells, keep nerves healthy, and support DNA. Supplements are very h...

Vitamin B12 monograph & interactions

Thiamine

Interacts with
3 drugs
25 mg per serving Form: Vitamin B1

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep your nerves and heart healthy. Most people get eno...

Thiamine monograph & interactions

Niacin

Interacts with
727 drugs
40 mg NE per serving Form: Vitamin B3

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

Glutamine

Interacts with
50 drugs
500 mg per serving

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and is usually made in your muscles. A prescription form is FDA-approved to help reduce sickle c...

Glutamine monograph & interactions

Tyrosine

Interacts with
21 drugs
430 mg per serving

L-tyrosine is an amino acid your body uses to make brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest it may help mental performan...

Tyrosine monograph & interactions

5-HTP

Interacts with
398 drugs
90 mg per serving

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

Pantothenic Acid

No known
interactions
90 mg per serving Form: Vitamin B5

Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5, an essential nutrient your body uses to turn food into energy. True deficiency is very rare because it is found in nea...

Pantothenic Acid monograph & interactions

Tri-Methyl Glycine

220 mg per serving

Lemon Balm extract

Interacts with
264 drugs
18 mg per serving

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold so...

Lemon Balm extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: L-Glutamine, L-Tyrosine, Betaine Monohydrate, Capsule, Vitamin B5, L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Magnesium Stearate, Lemon Balm extract, Silicon Dioxide, Vitamin B12. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Positive Outlook by Higher Nature Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Positive Outlook?

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
1,052Drugs
1,050 Moderate 2 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Niacin 727
5-HTP 398

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Positive Outlook 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.

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

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

Lemon Balm extract2 drug types · 264 drugs

Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of lemon balm might have additive effects with CNS depressant drugs.
Lemon balm seems to have CNS depressant activity in animals and in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, lemon balm might interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
In vitro, constituents of lemon balm extract bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), preventing TSH receptor-binding and leading to the inhibition of TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. In animals, lemon balm extract has been shown to decrease levels of circulating TSH and inhibit thyroid secretion.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

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

Glutamine1 drug type · 50 drugs

Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, glutamine might antagonize the effects of anticonvulsant medications.
Glutamine is metabolized to the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. Glutamate might have antagonistic effects with anticonvulsant drugs. However, this interaction has not yet been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Folic Acid7 drug types · 40 drugs

5-Fluorouracil

Theoretically, high doses of folic acid might increase the toxicity of 5-fluorouracil.
Increases in gastrointestinal side effects of 5-fluorouracil, such as stomatitis and diarrhea, have been described in two clinical studies when leucovorin, a form of folic acid, was administered with 5-fluorouracil.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Capecitabine (Xeloda)

Use of high-dose folic acid might contribute to capecitabine toxicity.
Clinical research suggests that higher serum folate levels are associated with an increased risk for moderate or severe toxicity during capecitabine-based treatment for colorectal cancer. Additionally, in one case report, taking folic acid 15 mg daily might have contributed to increased toxicity, including severe diarrhea, vomiting, edema, hand-foot syndrome, and eventually death, in a patient prescribed capecitabine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Methotrexate (Trexall, Others)

Folic acid might reduce the efficacy of methotrexate as a cancer treatment when given concurrently.
Methotrexate exerts its cytotoxic effects by preventing conversion of folic acid to the active form needed by cells. There is some evidence that folic acid supplements reduce the efficacy of methotrexate in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and theoretically they could reduce its efficacy in the treatment of other cancers. Advise cancer patients to consult their oncologist before using folic acid supplements. In patients treated with long-term, low-dose methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriasis, folic acid supplements can reduce the incidence of side effects, without reducing efficacy.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Folic acid might have antagonistic effects on phenobarbital and increase the risk for seizures.
Folic acid can have direct convulsant activity in some people, reversing the effects of phenobarbital and worsening seizure control. Monitor closely for increased seizure activity.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Folic acid might reduce serum levels of phenytoin in some patients.
Folic acid may be a cofactor in phenytoin metabolism. Folic acid, in doses of 1 mg daily or more, can reduce serum levels of phenytoin in some patients. Increases in seizure frequency have been reported. If folic acid supplements are added to established phenytoin therapy, monitor serum phenytoin levels closely. If phenytoin and folic acid are started at the same time and continued together, adverse changes in phenytoin pharmacokinetics are avoided. Note that phenytoin also reduces serum folate levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Primidone (Mysoline)

Folic acid might have antagonistic effects on primidone and increase the risk for seizures.
Folic acid can have direct convulsant activity in some people, reversing the effects of primidone and worsening seizure control. Monitor closely for increased seizure activity. Note that primidone also reduces serum folate levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Pyrimethamine (Daraprim)

Folic acid might antagonize the effects of pyrimethamine.
Folic acid can antagonize the antiparasitic effects of pyrimethamine against toxoplasmosis and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Folic acid doesn't antagonize the effects of pyrimethamine in the treatment of malaria, because malarial parasites cannot use exogenous folic acid. Use folinic acid as an alternative to folic acid when indicated.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D

Tyrosine2 drug types · 21 drugs

Levodopa

Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
Tyrosine and levodopa compete for absorption in the proximal duodenum by the large neutral amino acid (LNAA) transport system. Advise patients to separate doses of tyrosine and levodopa by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, tyrosine might have additive effects with thyroid hormone medications.
Tyrosine is a precursor to thyroxine and might increase levels of thyroid hormones.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D

Vitamin B121 drug type · 20 drugs

Metformin (Glucophage)

Metformin, a common medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, has been associated with lower vitamin B12 levels in some individuals. Prolonged use of metformin can interfere with the absorption of B12 in the digestive system, potentially leading to a deficiency in this essential vitamin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A

Thiamine1 drug type · 3 drugs

Trimethoprim (Proloprim)

Trimethoprim might increase blood levels of thiamine.
In vitro, animal, and clinical research suggest that trimethoprim inhibits intestinal thiamine transporter ThTR-2, hepatic transporter OCT1, and renal transporters OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2, resulting in paradoxically increased thiamine plasma concentrations.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Positive Outlook, from the product label.

Higher Nature

See all Higher Nature products
Name
Higher Nature Ltd
Street Address
10 Discovery Way
City
Horam TN21 0GE
State
East Sussex
Web Address
highernature.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Positive Outlook by Higher Nature: Common Questions

Does Positive Outlook by Higher Nature interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Positive Outlook has a known interaction with 1,052 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Positive Outlook contains 11 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.
Is it safe to take this while pregnant?
Folic acid and the B vitamins are recommended at standard prenatal doses during pregnancy to help prevent birth defects. However, 5-HTP and lemon balm extract do not have enough safety data — avoid supplemental doses unless your doctor advises it. Always discuss any supplement with your healthcare provider during pregnancy for personalized guidance.
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
Folic acid, the B vitamins, and pantothenic acid are considered safe at recommended doses while breastfeeding. However, 5-HTP and lemon balm have limited safety information, so use caution and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using them while breastfeeding.
What is 5-HTP and what does it do?
5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid that your body converts to serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood and sleep. It's possibly effective for depression, but it can interact with antidepressants and other serotonergic drugs and may cause drowsiness, nausea, or other side effects.
What does lemon balm extract do in this product?
Lemon balm is an herbal extract traditionally used to support stress and mood. It's possibly effective for cold sores, stress, and depression, but it can theoretically add to the effects of sedating medications and interfere with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Can this help with energy and mood?
The B vitamins, tyrosine, and 5-HTP all play roles in energy production and mood regulation, and some have evidence supporting their use for depression and cognitive function. However, the effectiveness varies by ingredient, and results depend on whether you have a deficiency of these nutrients to begin with.
What side effects might I experience?
Most common side effects include gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, abdominal pain), headache, and fatigue. High doses of niacin may cause flushing. At very high doses, B6 can harm nerves, and 5-HTP or high-dose folic acid can cause confusion or other neurological effects. Start at the recommended dose and talk to your pharmacist if side effects persist.

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.

Positive Outlook label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Positive Outlook’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Folic Acid

Interacts with 40 drugs

Folic acid is the man-made form of vitamin B9 and is one of the most well-studied supplements, especially for preventing serious birth defects when taken before and during early pregnancy. I...

Read the full Folic Acid 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

Vitamin B12

Interacts with 20 drugs

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient your body needs to make red blood cells, keep nerves healthy, and support DNA. Supplements are very helpful for people who are deficient — su...

Read the full Vitamin B12 monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Thiamine

Interacts with 3 drugs

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep your nerves and heart healthy. Most people get enough from food, but supplements are clear...

Read the full Thiamine monograph →
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

Glutamine

Interacts with 50 drugs

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body and is usually made in your muscles. A prescription form is FDA-approved to help reduce sickle cell disease complications, but for most...

Read the full Glutamine monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Tyrosine

Interacts with 21 drugs

L-tyrosine is an amino acid your body uses to make brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies suggest it may help mental performance during short-term stress, sleep loss,...

Read the full Tyrosine 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

Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5, an essential nutrient your body uses to turn food into energy. True deficiency is very rare because it is found in nearly all foods, and most people meet thei...

Read the full Pantothenic Acid monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Lemon Balm

Interacts with 264 drugs

Lemon balm is a gentle, lemon-scented mint-family herb traditionally used to ease stress, support sleep, and calm digestion, and topically for cold sores. Early studies are promising but gen...

Read the full Lemon Balm monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Positive Outlook'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 261 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.

Folic Acid 56 references
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  2. Duhra P. Treatment of gastrointestinal symptoms associated with methotrexate therapy for psoriasis. J Am Acad Dermatol 1993;28:466-9. PubMed
  3. Morgan SL, Baggott JE, Vaughn WH, et al. Supplementation with folic acid during methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 1994;121:833-41. PubMed
  4. Froscher W, Maier V, Laage M, et al. Folate deficiency, anticonvulsant drugs, and psychiatric morbidity. Clin Neuropharmacol 1995;18:165-82. PubMed
  5. Lewis DP, Van Dyke DC, Willhite LA, et al. Phenytoin-folic acid interaction. Ann Pharmacother 1995;29:726-35. PubMed
  6. Berg MJ, Stumbo PJ, Chenard CA, et al. Folic acid improves phenytoin pharmacokinetics. J Am Diet Assoc 1995;95:352-6. PubMed
  7. Berg MJ, Fincham RW, Ebert BE, et al. Phenytoin pharmacokinetics: Before and after folic acid administration. Epilepsia 1992;33:712-20. PubMed
  8. Shafer RB, Nuttall FQ. Calcium and folic acid absorption in patients taking anticonvulsant drugs. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1975;41:1125-9. PubMed
  9. Leeb BF, Witzmann G, Ogris E, et al. Folic acid and cyanocobalamin levels in serum and erythrocytes during low-dose methotrexate therapy of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis patients. Clin Exp Rheumatol 1995;13:459-63.
  10. Morgan SL, Baggott JE, Lee JY, Alarcón GS. Folic acid supplementation prevents deficient blood folate levels and hyperhomocysteinemia during longterm, low dose methotrexate therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: implications for cardiovascular disease preventi
  11. Dijkmans BA. Folate supplementation and methotrexate. Br J Rheumatol 1995;34:1172-4. PubMed
  12. Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
  13. Lambie DG, Johnson RH. Drugs and folate metabolism. Drugs 1985;30:145-55. PubMed
  14. Amer College of Rheumatology ad hoc committee on clinical guidelines. Guidelines for monitoring drug therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum 1996;39:723-31. DOI
  15. Suitor CW, Bailey LB. Dietary folate equivalents: interpretation and application. J Am Diet Assoc 2000;100:88-94. PubMed
  16. 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
  17. Sandoval M, Charbonnet RM, Okuhama NN, et al. Cat's claw inhibits TNFalpha production and scavenges free radicals: role in cytoprotection. Free Radic Biol Med 2000;29:71-78.
  18. Antony AC. Megaloblastic Anemias. In: Hoffman R, Benz Jr EJ, Shattil SJ, et al. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone 2000: 451-79.
  19. Reynolds EH. Neurological aspects of folate and vitamin B12 metabolism. Clin Haematol 1976;5:661-96. DOI
  20. Reynolds EH. Folate metabolism and anticonvulsant therapy. Proc R Soc Med 1974;67:68.
  21. Ortiz Z, Shea B, Suarez Almazor M, et al. Folic acid and folinic acid for reducing side effects in patients receiving methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis (Cochrane Review). Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000;2:CD000951. PubMed
  22. Van Delden C, Hirschel B. Folinic acid supplements to pyrimethamine-sulfadiazine for Toxoplasma encephalitis are associated with better outcome (letter). J Infect Dis 1996;173:1294-5. PubMed
  23. Schroder H, Clausen N, Ostergard E, Pressler T. Folic acid supplements in vitamin tablets: a determinant of hematological drug tolerance in maintenance therapy of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Ped Hematol Oncol 1986;3:241-7. PubMed
  24. Lange H, Suryapranata H, De Luca G, et al. Folate therapy and in-stent restenosis after coronary stenting. N Engl J Med 2004;350:2673-81. PubMed
  25. Morris MC, Evans DA, Bienias JL, et al. Dietary folate and vitamin B12 intake and cognitive decline among community-dwelling older persons. Arch Neurol 2005;62:641-5. PubMed
  26. Bonaa KH, Njolstad I, Ueland PM, et al. NORVIT: Homocysteine lowering and cardiovascular events after acute myocardial infarction. N Enlg J Med 2006;354:1578-88. PubMed
  27. Lawson KA, Wright ME, Subar A, et al. Multivitamin use and risk of prostate cancer in the National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study. J Natl Cancer Inst 2007;99:754-64. PubMed
  28. Figueiredo JC, Grau MV, Haile RW, et al. Folic acid and risk of prostate cancer: Results from a randomized clinical trial. J Natl Cancer Inst 2009;101:432-5. PubMed
  29. Clippe C, Freyer G, Milano G, Trillet-Lenoir V. Lethal toxicity of capecitabine due to abusive folic acid prescription. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2003;15:299-300. PubMed
  30. Bedford Laboratories. Leucovorin calcium [package insert]. Bedford, OH. September 2008. Available at: http://www.bedfordlabs.com/BedfordLabsWeb/products/inserts/LCV-P02.pdf.
  31. Ebbing M, Bonaa KH, Nygard O, et al. Cancer incidence and mortality after treatment with folic acid and vitamin B12. JAMA 2009;302:2119-26.
  32. Haberg, S. E., London, S. J., Stigum, H., Nafstad, P., and Nystad, W. Folic acid supplements in pregnancy and early childhood respiratory health. Arch Dis.Child 2009;94(3):180-184. PubMed
  33. Whitrow, M. J., Moore, V. M., Rumbold, A. R., and Davies, M. J. Effect of supplemental folic acid in pregnancy on childhood asthma: a prospective birth cohort study. Am J Epidemiol. 12-15-2009;170(12):1486-1493. PubMed
  34. Collin, S. M., Metcalfe, C., Refsum, H., Lewis, S. J., Zuccolo, L., Smith, G. D., Chen, L., Harris, R., Davis, M., Marsden, G., Johnston, C., Lane, J. A., Ebbing, M., Bonaa, K. H., Nygard, O., Ueland, P. M., Grau, M. V., Baron, J. A., Donovan, J. L., Nea
  35. Baggott, J. E., Oster, R. A., and Tamura, T. Meta-analysis of cancer risk in folic acid supplementation trials. Cancer Epidemiol. 2012;36(1):78-81. PubMed
  36. Fonseca VA, Lavery LA, Thethi TK, et al. Metanx in type 2 diabetes with peripheral neuropathy: A randomized trial. Am J Med 2013;126(2):141-9. PubMed
  37. Hankey GJ, Eikelboom JW, Yi Q, et al. Treatment with B vitamins and incidence of cancer in patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack: Results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Stroke 2012;43(6):1572-7. PubMed
  38. Taneja S, Strand TA, Kumar T, et al. Folic acid and vitamin B-12 supplementation and common infections in 6-30-mo-old children in India: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2013;98(3):731-7. PubMed
  39. van Wijngaarden JP, Swart KM, Enneman AW, et al. Effect of daily vitamin B-12 and folic acid supplementation on fracture incidence in elderly individuals with an elevated plasma homocysteine concentration: B-PROOF, a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin
  40. Qin X, Fan F, Cui Y, Chen F, Chen Y, Cheng X, Li Y, Wang B, Xu X, Xu X, Huo Y, Wang X. Folic acid supplementation with and without vitamin B6 and revascularization risk: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Nutr. 2014;33(4):603-12. PubMed
  41. Crider KS, Cordero AM, Qi YP, Mulinare J, Dowling NF, Berry RJ. Prenatal folic acid and risk of asthma in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013;98(5):1272-81. PubMed
  42. Matsubara S, Imai K, Murayama K, Higashizawa T. Severe liver dysfunction during nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: folic acid supplement as a suggested culprit. J Obstet Gynaecol. 2012;32(7):701-2. PubMed
  43. Qin X, Cui Y, Shen L, Sun N, Zhang Y, Li J, Xu X, Wang B, Xu X, Huo Y, Wang X. Folic acid supplementation and cancer risk: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Cancer. 2013 1;133(5):1033-41. PubMed
  44. Tio M, Andrici J, Cox MR, Eslick GD. Folate intake and the risk of prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 2014;17(3):213-9. PubMed
  45. Tomaszewski JJ, Richman EL, Sadetsky N, O'Keefe DS, Carroll PR, Davies BJ, Chan JM. Impact of folate intake on prostate cancer recurrence following definitive therapy: data from CaPSURE. J Urol. 2014;191(4):971-6. PubMed
  46. Valera-Gran D, García de la Hera M, Navarrete-Muñoz EM, Fernandez-Somoano A, Tardón A, Julvez J, Forns J, Lertxundi N, Ibarluzea JM, Murcia M, Rebagliato M, Vioque J; Infancia y Medio Ambiente (INMA) Project. Folic acid supplements during pregnancy and ch
  47. Van Der Woude DA, De Vries J, Van Wijk EM, Verzijl JM, Pijnenborg JM. A randomized controlled trial examining the addition of folic acid to iron supplementation in the treatment of postpartum anemia. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2014;126(2):101-5. PubMed
  48. Vila-Nova C, Wehby GL, Queirós FC, Chakraborty H, Félix TM, Goco N, Moore J, Gewehr EV, Lins L, Affonso CM, Murray JC. Periconceptional use of folic acid and risk of miscarriage - findings of the Oral Cleft Prevention Program in Brazil. J Perinat Med. 201 PubMed
  49. Vollset SE, Clarke R, Lewington S, Ebbing M, Halsey J, Lonn E, Armitage J, Manson JE, Hankey GJ, Spence JD, Galan P, Bønaa KH, Jamison R, Gaziano JM, Guarino P, Baron JA, Logan RF, Giovannucci EL, den Heijer M, Ueland PM, Bennett D, Collins R, Peto R; B-V
  50. Wehby GL, Félix TM, Goco N, Richieri-Costa A, Chakraborty H, Souza J, Pereira R, Padovani C, Moretti-Ferreira D, Murray JC. High dosage folic acid supplementation, oral cleft recurrence and fetal growth. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2013 4;10(2):590-6 PubMed
  51. Fanidi A, Carreras-Torres R, Larose TL, et al. Is high vitamin B12 status a cause of lung cancer? Int J Cancer. 2019 Sep 15;145(6):1499-1503. PubMed
  52. Liu J, Li Z, Ye R, Liu J, Ren A. Periconceptional folic acid supplementation and risk of parent-reported asthma in children at 4-6 years of age. ERJ Open Res. 2020;6(1):00250-2019. PubMed
  53. Houghton LA, Sherwood KL, Pawlosky R, Ito S, O'Connor DL. [6S]-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate is at least as effective as folic acid in preventing a decline in blood folate concentrations during lactation. Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Apr;83(4):842-50. PubMed
  54. Houghton LA, Yang J, O'Connor DL. Unmetabolized folic acid and total folate concentrations in breast milk are unaffected by low-dose folate supplements. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Jan;89(1):216-20. PubMed
  55. Chan SL, Chan AWH, Mo F, et al. Association Between Serum Folate Level and Toxicity of Capecitabine During Treatment for Colorectal Cancer. Oncologist. 2018 Dec;23(12):1436-1445. PubMed
  56. Sarris J, Ravindran A, Yatham LN, et al. Clinician guidelines for the treatment of psychiatric disorders with nutraceuticals and phytoceuticals: The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety T

See these in context on the Folic Acid monograph →

Vitamin B6 32 references
  1. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Geerling BJ, Dagnelie PC, Badart-Smook A, et al. Diet as a risk factor for the development of ulcerative colitis. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:1008-13. PubMed
  4. South M. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use -- reply. Lancet 1999;354:2083. PubMed
  5. 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
  6. Baxter P, Aicardi J. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use. Lancet 1999;354:2082-3. PubMed
  7. Bendich A, Cohen M. Vitamin B6 safety issues. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990;585:321-30.
  8. Schaumburg H, Kaplan J, Windebank A. Sensory neuropathy from pyridoxine abuse. A new megavitamin syndrome. N Engl J Med 1983;309:445-8. PubMed
  9. Gordon N. Pyridoxine dependency: an update. Dev Med Child Neurol 1997;39:63-5. PubMed
  10. Lewis PJ. Pain in the hand and wrist. Pyridoxine supplements may help patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. BMJ 1995;310:1534. PubMed
  11. Kaufman G. Pyridoxine against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity (letter). Lancet 1984;1:51-2. PubMed
  12. Mulrow JP, Mulrow CD, McKenna WJ. Pyridoxine and amiodarone-induced photosensitivity. Ann Intern Med 1985;103:68-9. PubMed
  13. Kawada A, Kashima A, Shiraishi H, et al. Pyridoxine-induced photosensitivity and hypophosphatasia. Dermatology 2000;201:356-60.. PubMed
  14. Vasile A, Goldberg R, Kornberg B. Pyridoxine toxicity: report of a case. J Am Osteopath Assoc 1984;83:790-1. DOI
  15. Hansson O, Sillanpaa M. Pyridoxine and serum concentration of phenytoin and phenobarbitone. Lancet 1976;1:256. DOI
  16. Jansen T, Romiti R, Kreuter A, Altmeyer P. Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2001;15:484-5..
  17. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
  18. Hatzitolios, A., Iliadis, F., Katsiki, N., and Baltatzi, M. Is the anti-hypertensive effect of dietary supplements via aldehydes reduction evidence based? A systematic review. Clin Exp.Hypertens. 2008;30(7):628-639. PubMed
  19. Vasdev, S., Ford, C. A., Parai, S., Longerich, L., and Gadag, V. Dietary vitamin B6 supplementation attenuates hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Mol.Cell Biochem. 1999;200(1-2):155-162.
  20. de, Vogel S., Dindore, V., van, Engeland M., Goldbohm, R. A., van den Brandt, P. A., and Weijenberg, M. P. Dietary folate, methionine, riboflavin, and vitamin B-6 and risk of sporadic colorectal cancer. J Nutr 2008;138(12):2372-2378. PubMed
  21. Hagen, I., Nesheim, B. I., and Tuntland, T. No effect of vitamin B-6 against premenstrual tension. A controlled clinical study. Acta Obstet.Gynecol.Scand. 1985;64(8):667-670. PubMed
  22. Aybak, M., Sermet, A., Ayyildiz, M. O., and Karakilcik, A. Z. Effect of oral pyridoxine hydrochloride supplementation on arterial blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Arzneimittelforschung. 1995;45(12):1271-1273.
  23. Lal, K. J., Dakshinamurti, K., and Thliveris, J. The effect of vitamin B6 on the systolic blood pressure of rats in various animal models of hypertension. J Hypertens. 1996;14(3):355-363. PubMed
  24. Lauritzen CH, Reuter HD, Repges R, Bohnert K, and Schmidt U. Treatment of premenstrual tension syndrome with Vitex agnus castus. Controlled, double-blind study versus pyridoxine. Phytomed 1997;4(3):183-189. PubMed
  25. Fonseca VA, Lavery LA, Thethi TK, et al. Metanx in type 2 diabetes with peripheral neuropathy: A randomized trial. Am J Med 2013;126(2):141-9. PubMed
  26. Hankey GJ, Eikelboom JW, Yi Q, et al. Treatment with B vitamins and incidence of cancer in patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack: Results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Stroke 2012;43(6):1572-7. PubMed
  27. Hoyer-Kuhn H, Kohbrok S, Volland R, Franklin J, Hero B, Beck BB, Hoppe B. Vitamin B6 in primary hyperoxaluria I: first prospective trial after 40 years of practice. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 Mar;9(3):468-77. PubMed
  28. Mahmoud A, Tabassum S, Al Enazi S, et al. Amelioration of levetiracetam-induced behavioral side effects by pyridoxine. A randomized double blind controlled study. Pediatr Neurol 2021;119:15-21. PubMed
  29. Gupta M, Gallante B, Bamberger JN, et al. Prospective randomized evaluation of idiopathic hyperoxaluria treatments. J Endourol 2021;35(12):1844-1851. PubMed
  30. Li H, Chen M, Liang S, et al. Excessive vitamin B6 during treatment is related to poor prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A U-shaped distribution suggests low dose supplement. Clin Nutr 2021;40(4):2293-2300. PubMed
  31. Tanigawa J, Nabatame S, Tominaga K, et al. High-dose pyridoxine treatment for inherited glycosylphosphatidylinositol deficiency. Brain Dev 2021;43(6):680-687. PubMed
  32. Committee on Practice Bulletins-Obstetrics. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 189: Nausea And Vomiting Of Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30. PubMed

See these in context on the Vitamin B6 monograph →

Vitamin B12 30 references
  1. 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
  2. Hartman TJ, Woodson K, Stolzenberg-Solomon R, et al. Association of the B-vitamins pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (B6), B12, and folate with lung cancer risk in older men. Am J Epidemiol 2001;153:688-94.. DOI
  3. Jansen T, Romiti R, Kreuter A, Altmeyer P. Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2001;15:484-5..
  4. Lange H, Suryapranata H, De Luca G, et al. Folate therapy and in-stent restenosis after coronary stenting. N Engl J Med 2004;350:2673-81. PubMed
  5. Collin, S. M., Metcalfe, C., Refsum, H., Lewis, S. J., Zuccolo, L., Smith, G. D., Chen, L., Harris, R., Davis, M., Marsden, G., Johnston, C., Lane, J. A., Ebbing, M., Bonaa, K. H., Nygard, O., Ueland, P. M., Grau, M. V., Baron, J. A., Donovan, J. L., Nea
  6. Geissbuhler, P., Mermillod, B., and Rapin, C. H. Elevated serum vitamin B12 levels associated with CRP as a predictive factor of mortality in palliative care cancer patients: a prospective study over five years. J.Pain Symptom.Manage. 2000;20(2):93-103. PubMed
  7. Salles, N., Herrmann, F., Sakbani, K., Rapin, C. H., and Sieber, C. High vitamin B12 level: a strong predictor of mortality in elderly inpatients. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2005;53(5):917-918.
  8. Looker, H. C., Fagot-Campagna, A., Gunter, E. W., Pfeiffer, C. M., Sievers, M. L., Bennett, P. H., Nelson, R. G., Hanson, R. L., and Knowler, W. C. Homocysteine and vitamin B(12) concentrations and mortality rates in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Res R
  9. Uhl, W., Nolting, A., Golor, G., Rost, K. L., and Kovar, A. Safety of hydroxocobalamin in healthy volunteers in a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2006;44 Suppl 1:17-28. PubMed
  10. Borron, S. W., Baud, F. J., Barriot, P., Imbert, M., and Bismuth, C. Prospective study of hydroxocobalamin for acute cyanide poisoning in smoke inhalation. Ann Emerg.Med 2007;49(6):794-801, 801. PubMed
  11. Borron, S. W., Baud, F. J., Megarbane, B., and Bismuth, C. Hydroxocobalamin for severe acute cyanide poisoning by ingestion or inhalation. Am J Emerg.Med 2007;25(5):551-558. PubMed
  12. Lewis, J. G. Gout, Steatorrhoea, and Megaloblastic Anaemia. Ann Rheum.Dis 1962;21(3):284-286. PubMed
  13. Tal, S., Shavit, Y., Stern, F., and Malnick, S. Association between vitamin B12 levels and mortality in hospitalized older adults. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2010;58(3):523-526. PubMed
  14. Baztan, J. J., Gavidia, J. J., Gomez-Pavon, J., Esteve, A., and Ruiperez, I. High vitamin B12 levels and in-hospital mortality. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2010;58(11):2237-2238. PubMed
  15. Omboni, E., Checchini, M., and Longoni, F. [Hypopotassemia and megaloblastic anemia. Presentation of a case]. Minerva Med 8-31-1987;78(16):1255-1257.
  16. Aalfs As, Scholvinck LH, Horvath B. Acneiform eruption in a 5-year old due to vitamin B12 supplementation. Eur J Dermatol 2013;23(5):726-7. PubMed
  17. Balta I, Ozuguz P. Vitamin B12-induced acneiform eruption. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2014;33(2):94-5. PubMed
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Thiamine 7 references
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Niacin 66 references
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Glutamine 11 references
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Tyrosine 4 references
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5-htp 32 references
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Pantothenic Acid 11 references
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Lemon Balm 12 references
  1. Wolbling RH, Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine 1994;1:25-31.
  2. Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, et al. Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2003;74:863-6. PubMed
  3. Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT, et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2002;72:953-64. PubMed
  4. Albrecht M, Berger W, Laux P, Schmidt U, et al. Psychopharmaka und Verkehrssicherheit. Der Einfluß von Euvegal&reg; - Dragees forte auf die Fahrtüchtigkeit und Kombinationswirkungen mit Alkohol Z Allg Med 1995;71:1215-25.
  5. Herberg, KW. Nebenwirkungen pflanzlicher Beruhigungsmittel/ Leistung und Befinden nach Einnahme einer Baldrian-Hopfen-Kombination. Z.Allg Med 1996;72:234-240.
  6. Soulimani R, Fleurentin J, Mortier F, et al. Neurotropic action of the hydroalcoholic extract of Melissa officinalis in the mouse. Planta Med. 1991 Apr;57:105-9.
  7. Sourgens H, Winterhoff H, Gumbinger HG, et al. Antihormonal effects of plant extracts. TSH- and prolactin-suppressing properties of Lithospermum officinale and other plants. Planta Med. 1982 Jun;45:78-86. DOI
  8. Auf'mkolk M, Ingbar JC, Amir SM, et al. Inhibition by certain plant extracts of the binding and adenylate cyclase stimulatory effect of bovine thyrotropin in human thyroid membranes. Endocrinology. 1984 Aug;115:527-34. PubMed
  9. Santini F, Vitti P, Ceccarini G, et al. In vitro assay of thyroid disruptors affecting TSH-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. J Endocrinol Invest. 2003 Oct;26:950-5. PubMed
  10. Alijaniha F, et al. Heart palpitation relief with Melissa officinalis leaf extract: double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial of efficacy and safety. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;164:378-384. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2015.02.007. Epub 2015 Feb 11. PubMed
  11. Araj-Khodaei M, Noorbala AA, Yarani R, et al. A double-blind, randomized pilot study for comparison of Melissa officinalis L. and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. with Fluoxetine for the treatment of depression. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2020;20(1):207. PubMed
  12. Kucuk U, Pham M, Raza Raja MH, Saad Shaukat MH, Clark R. Transient complete atrioventricular block associated with herbal supplement use. S D Med 2023;76(7):311-313.

See these in context on the Lemon Balm monograph →

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

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