Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 9 of 11 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Prosta-Strong RED Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Irwin Naturals

Softgel Capsule Category: Botanical With Nutrients
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Prosta-Strong RED is a dietary supplement by Irwin Naturals with 11 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for exercise performance, muscle soreness and fatigue, blood flow and circulation.Based on those ingredients, 1,223 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are BioPerine, Ginger Rhizome Extract, Beet Root Juice, Powder. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals

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

Partial disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Partial

Most active ingredients list an amount, but at least one is hidden in a blend or missing.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 8 of its 10 active ingredients.
  • “BioPerine Complex” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (6 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Saw Palmetto fruit extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (320 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Pygeum Bark Extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (100 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Prosta-Strong RED contains 10 active ingredients. L-citrulline is an amino acid that your body converts to arginine, which supports blood flow and blood vessel function.

Zinc supports immune health and prostate function. Ginger rhizome extract and beet root juice powder provide anti-inflammatory compounds.

BioPerine (black pepper extract) enhances absorption of other nutrients. Beta-sitosterol and pumpkin seed oil are plant-derived compounds often used to support prostate and urinary tract health.

The product also includes saw palmetto fruit extract, phytosterols, and fatty acids. The softgel capsule is filled with medium-chain triglyceride oil and bound with inactive ingredients including gelatin, glycerin, beeswax, and silicon dioxide.

Does it work?

Strong 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
Strong

Clinical evidence supports at least one of this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: prostate health and blood flow support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), Cardiovascular disease (CVD), urinary flow, male genitourinary health, erectile function.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Beta-sitosterol is rated "Likely Effective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Pumpkin is rated "Possibly Effective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
  • Also on file: Beta-sitosterol is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).

L-citrulline is possibly effective for athletic performance but shows insufficient evidence for heart health or diabetes. Zinc is effective for zinc deficiency and possibly effective for acne and diabetes.

Ginger is possibly effective for pregnancy-related nausea and osteoarthritis but possibly ineffective for muscle soreness. Black pepper's effectiveness for most conditions is not yet reliably established.

Beet is possibly effective for athletic performance and muscle soreness. Beta-sitosterol is likely effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) and possibly effective for heart health.

Pumpkin seed oil is possibly effective for prostate enlargement. Overall, the prostate-specific ingredients — beta-sitosterol and pumpkin seed oil — have the strongest evidence base for their intended use in this product.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient L-citrulline Zinc Ginger Black Pepper Beet Saw Palmetto Beta-sitosterol Pumpkin

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

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

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 7 of the 7 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 7 of 7.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 7 of 7.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Most of these ingredients are generally well tolerated in the doses used in supplements. L-citrulline commonly causes mild gastrointestinal discomfort or heartburn.

Zinc at high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a metallic taste; the product should not exceed the 40 mg daily upper limit for adults. Ginger may cause heartburn, diarrhea, or a burning sensation in the mouth at higher doses.

Black pepper is safe in food amounts and as a single supplement dose but has limited long-term safety data. Beet may turn your stool or urine red, which is harmless.

Beta-sitosterol can cause gas, diarrhea, or constipation. Pumpkin seed oil is generally safe but may cause mild stomach discomfort.

During pregnancy, L-citrulline and beta-sitosterol lack sufficient safety data and should be avoided; ginger is possibly safe for morning sickness but check with your doctor first. During breastfeeding, similar caution applies — L-citrulline, beta-sitosterol, and beet lack adequate safety data.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you during pregnancy or while nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient L-citrulline Zinc Ginger Black Pepper Beet Saw Palmetto Beta-sitosterol Pumpkin

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?
  • 6 of the 7 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Beet, Black Pepper, Pumpkin, Ginger, Zinc, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications; lithium.
  • For scale: 1,217 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.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining Prosta-Strong RED with blood pressure medications or erectile dysfunction drugs (L-citrulline), antibiotics including quinolones, tetracyclines, and cephalexin (zinc), blood thinners like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs (ginger), diabetes medications (ginger), seizure medications (black pepper), heart medications like propranolol or atorvastatin (black pepper), and lithium (pumpkin seed oil). Additionally, if you take medications metabolized by your liver's CYP3A4 or CYP1A2 enzymes, ginger and beet may theoretically affect their levels — your pharmacist can review this with you.

No interactions are documented for beta-sitosterol; we could not check medium-chain triglyceride oil, phytosterols, or fatty acids because data is not on file for them.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Prosta-Strong RED combines ingredients with some evidence for prostate and urinary health, particularly beta-sitosterol and pumpkin seed oil. It's worth considering if you're looking for a multi-ingredient prostate support supplement and don't take medications that interact with its active ingredients.

Anyone taking blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, antibiotics, diabetes medications, seizure medications, or lithium should check each of their exact drugs against the interaction tool on this page before starting. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before adding this supplement to your routine, especially if you take prescription medications or have any chronic health conditions.

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

Assessment coverage: 7 of 10 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jul 18, 2023.

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 Prosta-Strong RED, straight from the product label.

Brand Irwin Naturals
Barcode (UPC) 710363585327
Net contents 80 Liquid Soft-Gel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 18, 2023
DSLD ID 292133
Product type Botanical With Nutrients
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Women (not pregnant or lactating)
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 Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals, 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 Liquid Softgel(s), 4 Liquid Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Liquid Softgel(s), 4 Liquid Softgel(s)
Servings per container
20
UPC/BARCODE
710363585327
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories40 Calorie(s)--
L-Citrulline1500 mg--
Total Fat2.5 Gram(s)3%
Saturated Fat1 Gram(s)6%
Protein4 Gram(s)--
Zinc15 mg136%
BioPerine Complex6 mg--
Medium Chain Triglyceride Oil900 mg--
Ginger Rhizome Extract0 NP--
BioPerine0 NP--
Beet Root Juice, Powder100 mg--
Saw Palmetto fruit extract320 mg--
Phytosterols13 mg--
Beta-Sitosterol60 mg--
Pumpkin Seed Oil1000 mg--
Fatty Acids272 mg--
Pygeum Bark Extract100 mg--

Other ingredients: Gelatin, Water, Purified, Glycerin, Annatto, Beeswax, Soy Lecithin, Silicon Dioxide, Titanium Dioxide, Maltodextrin

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.
Formula

Prosta-Strong Red is designed for men who are looking for a natural way to support prostate health as well as blood flow.

Prostate Support: This formula features Saw Palmetto extract, which supports the male genitourinary system, prostate health and promotes healthy urinary flow in men as they age. Beta Sitosterol and Pumpkin seed oil supply natural fatty acids and plant sterols that deliver beneficial nutritional support to the prostate gland. Blood flow support: Nitric oxide is a naturally occurring compound in the body that plays a key role in cardiovascular and sexual health. When nitric oxide is present in healthy males in sufficient amounts, erections occur during the normal course of intimacy. This unique formula features L-citrulline, an amino acid that is readily converted to L-Arginine within the body, which can then be converted to Nitric Oxide.

Prosta-Strong RED with nitric oxide booster Powerful 2-in-1 formula to support prostate health and blood flow.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Prosta-Strong Red can be taken daily for ongoing maintenance of prostate support and healthy blood flow, or as needed for a more immediate response prior to sexual activity.

Directions: (Adult) For daily maintenance, take two (2) Liquid Soft-Gels twice daily, with meals and a full glass of water (8 oz.). For a more immediate response prior to intimacy, take 4 (four) liquid Soft-Gels one hour before activity. Do not take more than four (4) Liquid Soft-Gels in one day.

Formulation

What makes us different: Liquid soft-gels - The nutrients in these easy-to-swallow liquid soft-gels are released fast. Other forms of delivery can contain binders and fillers that may cause stomach upset and offer no nutritional value. Advanced liquid soft-gels provide an optimum delivery system.

Quality Assurance - Irwin Naturals is committed to providing the highest quality products for your health. We employ compliance testing to ensure purity and potency. Patented BioPerine - Our special BioPerine Complex enhances the bioavailability, absorption and potency of many nutrients.

No preservatives added.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Seals/Symbols

Pass Quality Tested Guaranteed

General Statements

Global Responsibility - Over the years we have donated to organizations that support the environment and the health of our children.

Questions: Contact Consumer Affairs 1-800-297-3273 Weekdays 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PST) 100+ Highly specialized products: www.IrwinNaturals.com

Full Disclosure Ingredient Panel

Brand IP Statement(s)

Patented BioPerine - Our special BioPerine Complex enhances the bioavailability, absorption and potency of many nutrients.

BioPerine is a registered trademark of Sabinsa Corporation.

Precautions

Usage warnings: Do not use if safety seal is broken.

Usage warnings: Do not use if safety seal is broken. This product contains ingredients that may affect blood pressure, heart conditions and/or blood sugar.

Check with your doctor before using this product and engaging in activity if you are using medication, including anti-coagulants (blood thinners), or have any medical conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, or hormone-sensitive conditions. Individuals with low blood pressure should not take this product. Do not use if you may become pregnant, are pregnant or nursing.

Do not exceed recommended daily intake. Not intended for persons under 18.

Not intended for persons under 18. Keep out of reach of children.

Contains: Soy, Tree nuts (coconut, palm kernel)

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

See for yourself

Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals

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

Serving size2 Liquid Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule 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.

L-Citrulline

Interacts with
178 drugs
1500 mg per serving

L-citrulline is an amino acid that the body turns into L-arginine to help make nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and may improve blood flow. I...

L-Citrulline monograph & interactions

Protein

4 Gram(s) per serving

Zinc

Interacts with
67 drugs
15 mg per serving Form: Zinc Citrate

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

Zinc monograph & interactions

BioPerine Complex

6 mg per serving

Medium Chain Triglyceride Oil

900 mg per serving

Beet Root Juice, Powder

Interacts with
861 drugs
100 mg per serving

Beet, especially beetroot juice, is a nitrate-rich food that may modestly lower blood pressure and slightly improve exercise performance in some peopl...

Beet Root Juice, Powder monograph & interactions

Saw Palmetto fruit extract

Interacts with
174 drugs
320 mg per serving

Saw palmetto is a plant extract most often used for urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate (BPH). The best research suggests it works no bett...

Saw Palmetto fruit extract monograph & interactions
  • › Fatty Acids

Beta-Sitosterol

No known
interactions
60 mg per serving

Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol that may modestly lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol and may help ease urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate. Eviden...

Beta-Sitosterol monograph & interactions

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Interacts with
1 drug
1000 mg per serving

Pumpkin is a nutritious squash, and its seeds and seed oil are the parts most often used as supplements, mainly for urinary and prostate symptoms. The...

Pumpkin Seed Oil monograph & interactions

Pygeum Bark Extract

No known
interactions
100 mg per serving

Pygeum is an extract from the bark of the African cherry tree that is most often used to ease urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate. Some st...

Pygeum Bark Extract monograph & interactions
  • › Phytosterols

Other (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Water, Purified, Glycerin, Annatto, Beeswax, Soy Lecithin, Silicon Dioxide, Titanium Dioxide, Maltodextrin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Prosta-Strong RED?

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
1,223Drugs
1,139 Moderate 84 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

BioPerine 1,019

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Prosta-Strong RED 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.

BioPerine17 drug types · 1,019 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit platelet aggregation. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, can reduce blood glucose levels. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of atorvastatin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, 35 mg/kg can increase the maximum serum concentration of atorvastatin three-fold. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of cyclosporine.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the bioavailability of cyclosporine. This has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research suggests that some constituents of black pepper inhibit CYP2D6. This has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and pharmacokinetic simulation data suggest that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, as well as the pepper fruit seem to inhibit CYP3A4. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of lithium due to its diuretic effects. The dose of lithium might need to be reduced.
Black pepper is thought to have diuretic properties.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Nevirapine (Viramune)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of nevirapine.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the plasma concentration of nevirapine. However, no adverse effects were observed in this study.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit P-glycoprotein.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases pentobarbital-induced sleeping time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of phenytoin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption, slow elimination, and increase levels of phenytoin. Taking a single dose of black pepper 1 gram along with phenytoin seems to double the serum concentration of phenytoin. Consuming a soup with black pepper providing piperine 44 mg/200 mL of soup along with phenytoin also seems to increase phenytoin levels when compared with consuming the same soup without black pepper.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Propranolol (Inderal)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of propranolol.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of propranolol.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Rifampin (Rifadin)

Black pepper might increase blood levels of rifampin.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and serum levels of rifampin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Theophylline

Black pepper might increase blood levels of theophylline.
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of theophylline.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of amoxicillin.
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, with amoxicillin increases plasma levels of amoxicillin. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and side effects of carbamazepine.
One clinical study in patients taking carbamazepine 300 mg or 500 mg twice daily shows that taking a single 20 mg dose of purified piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases carbamazepine levels. Piperine may increase carbamazepine absorption by increasing blood flow to the GI tract, increasing the surface area of the small intestine, or inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the gut wall. Absorption was significantly increased by 7-10 mcg/mL/hour. The time to eliminate carbamazepine was also increased by 4-8 hours. Although carbamazepine levels were increased, this did not appear to increase side effects. In vitro research also shows that piperine can increase carbamazepine levels by 11% in a time-dependent manner.

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

Theoretically, black pepper might decrease levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research suggests that black pepper induces CYP1A2. This has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Ginger Rhizome Extract14 drug types · 1,007 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, research is conflicting.
Laboratory research suggests that ginger inhibits thromboxane synthetase and decreases platelet aggregation. However, this has not been demonstrated unequivocally in humans, with mixed results from clinical trials. Theoretically, excessive amounts of ginger might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ginger with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Animal and human research suggests that ginger might increase insulin levels and/or decrease blood glucose levels.

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

Ginger might increase or decrease the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research and some case reports suggest that ginger inhibits CYP3A4 activity. Three case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are CYP3A4 substrates (imatinib, dabrafenib, and crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration.
Conversely, other in vitro research suggests that ginger induces CYP3A4 activity, leading to reduced levels of CYP3A4 substrates. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Losartan (Cozaar)

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of losartan and the risk of hypotension.
In animal research, ginger increased the levels and hypotensive effects of a single dose of losartan. It is not clear if ginger alters the concentration or effects of losartan when taken continuously. Additionally, this interaction has not been shown in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Nifedipine (Procardia)

Ginger may have antiplatelet effects and increase the risk of bleeding if used with nifedipine.
Clinical research shows that combined treatment with ginger 1 gram plus nifedipine 10 mg significantly inhibits platelet aggregation when compared to nifedipine or ginger alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Ginger might increase the absorption and blood levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates.
In vitro research and case reports suggest that ginger inhibits drug efflux by P-gp, potentially increasing absorption and serum levels of P-gp substrates. Two case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking ginger and cancer medications that are P-gp substrates (trametinib, crizotinib). However, the causality of this interaction is unclear due to the presence of multiple interacting drugs and routes of administration.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenprocoumon (Marcoumar, Others)

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with phenprocoumon.
Phenprocoumon, a warfarin-related anticoagulant, might increase the international normalized ratio (INR) when taken with ginger. There is one case report of a 76-year-old woman with a stable INR on phenprocoumon that increased to greater than 10 when she began consuming dried ginger and ginger tea.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Ginger might increase the risk of bleeding with warfarin.
Laboratory research suggests that ginger might inhibit thromboxane synthetase and decrease platelet aggregation. In one case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with phenprocoumon, which has similar pharmacological effects as warfarin. In another case report, ginger increased the INR when taken with a combination of warfarin, hydrochlorothiazide, and acetaminophen. A longitudinal analysis suggests that taking ginger increases the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin for at least 4 months. However, research in healthy people suggests that ginger has no effect on INR, or the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of warfarin. Until more is known, monitor INRs closely in patients taking large amounts of ginger.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Calcium Channel Blockers

Theoretically, taking ginger with calcium channel blockers might increase the risk of hypotension.
Some animal and in vitro research suggests that ginger has hypotensive and calcium channel-blocking effects. Another animal study shows that concomitant administration of ginger and the calcium channel blocker amlodipine leads to greater reductions in blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Theoretically, when taken prior to cyclosporine, ginger might decrease cyclosporine levels.
In an animal model, ginger juice taken 2 hours prior to cyclosporine administration reduced the maximum concentration and area under the curve of cyclosporine by 51% and 40%, respectively. This effect was not observed when ginger juice and cyclosporine were administered at the same time.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP1A2 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2B6 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2B6 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

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

Theoretically, ginger might increase the levels of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ginger inhibits CYP2C9 activity. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Metronidazole (Flagyl)

Theoretically, ginger might increase levels of metronidazole.
In an animal model, ginger increased the absorption and plasma half-life of metronidazole. In addition, the elimination rate and clearance of metronidazole was significantly reduced.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Beet Root Juice, Powder3 drug types · 861 drugs

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, beet might increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that betanin, the major pigment in beet, competitively inhibits CYP3A4 in a dose-dependent manner similarly to strong CYP3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Beet and beetroot contain nitrates, which can cause vasodilation, potentially leading to lower blood pressure. However, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition using concentrated beetroot juice found no significant impact on blood pressure or heart rate in different age groups. Other small clinical studies suggest that while beet consumption might transiently lower blood pressure due to vessel dilation, there's no consistent evidence of a lasting effect. Overall, the theoretical risk of reduced blood pressure due to beet's nitrate content exists, but studies generally indicate a low and temporary impact rather than a sustained decrease.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, beet might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research suggests that beet induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

L-Citrulline2 drug types · 178 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-citrulline with antihypertensive drugs might have additive effects and increase the chance of hypotension.
L-citrulline is converted to L-arginine, which can increase nitric oxide and cause vasodilation. However, a meta-analysis of 5 small clinical studies suggests that taking L-citrulline 3-6 grams daily for 1-8 weeks does not lower blood pressure when compared with control.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors

Theoretically, concurrent use of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and L-citrulline might result in additive vasodilation.
L-citrulline is converted to L-arginine, which can increase nitric oxide and cause vasodilation. Theoretically, taking L-arginine with PDE-5 inhibitors might have additive vasodilatory and hypotensive effects. However, in studies evaluating the combined use of L-arginine and sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, hypotension was not reported.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Saw Palmetto fruit extract3 drug types · 174 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Saw palmetto might increase the risk of bleeding with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Saw palmetto is reported to prolong bleeding time. Theoretically, it might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Saw palmetto might reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive drugs.
Saw palmetto might have antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, it might interfere with contraceptive drugs taken concomitantly.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Saw palmetto might reduce the effectiveness of estrogens.
Saw palmetto might have antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, it might interfere with estrogens taken concomitantly.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Zinc10 drug types · 67 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cephalexin (Keflex)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Integrase Inhibitors

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Ritonavir (Norvir)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Amiloride (Midamor)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Atazanavir (Reyataz)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B

Pumpkin Seed Oil1 drug type · 1 drug

Lithium

Pumpkin might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Pumpkin is thought to have diuretic properties. Theoretically, this might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Prosta-Strong RED, from the product label.

Irwin Naturals

See all Irwin Naturals products
Name
Irwin Naturals
Street Address
5310 Beethoven Street
City
Los Angeles
State
CA
ZipCode
90066
Phone Number
1-800-297-3273
Web Address
www.IrwinNaturals.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals: Common Questions

Does Prosta-Strong RED by Irwin Naturals interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Prosta-Strong RED has a known interaction with 1,223 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Prosta-Strong RED 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.
Will this product thin my blood?
Ginger in this product may increase bleeding risk if you already take blood thinners like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin or clopidogrel. It's not a blood thinner on its own, but ginger can have antiplatelet effects. Talk with your doctor before using this product if you take any blood-thinning medications.
Can I take this with antibiotics?
Zinc in this product can reduce how well certain antibiotics work — especially quinolones, tetracyclines, and cephalexin — by preventing their absorption. If you're prescribed one of these antibiotics, space your doses at least 2 to 6 hours apart from this supplement, or ask your pharmacist for the best timing.
Is this safe during pregnancy?
L-citrulline and beta-sitosterol lack enough safety data in pregnancy and should be avoided. Ginger is possibly safe for pregnancy-related nausea, but talk with your doctor first. Overall, the safety data for this product during pregnancy is not well established — discuss it with your healthcare provider before taking it.
What's L-citrulline supposed to do?
L-citrulline is an amino acid your body converts to arginine, which widens blood vessels and improves blood flow. It's possibly effective for athletic performance, though evidence for prostate or heart health is insufficient. It may lower blood pressure in some people, which is why it can interact with blood pressure medications.
Can this help my enlarged prostate?
Beta-sitosterol and pumpkin seed oil, both in this product, are likely or possibly effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate). However, this product contains multiple ingredients, and individual results vary — talk with your doctor about whether it's right for your specific situation.
What's the most common side effect?
Mild gastrointestinal discomfort — heartburn, gas, diarrhea, or nausea — is the most frequent side effect across these ingredients. Most people tolerate the product well when taken as directed, but if your stomach is sensitive, take it with food and start with a smaller dose to assess tolerance.

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.

Prosta-Strong RED label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Prosta-Strong RED’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

L-citrulline

Interacts with 178 drugs

L-citrulline is an amino acid that the body turns into L-arginine to help make nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and may improve blood flow. It is popular for exercise performance an...

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

Zinc

Interacts with 67 drugs

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

Read the full Zinc monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Ginger

Interacts with 1,007 drugs

Ginger is a widely used culinary spice with a long history in traditional medicine, and it has the strongest evidence for helping with nausea and vomiting, including from motion sickness, pr...

Read the full Ginger monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Black Pepper

Interacts with 1,019 drugs

Black pepper is a common kitchen spice that is generally safe in the amounts used in food. Its extract, piperine, is mostly added to supplements to help the body absorb other ingredients (li...

Read the full Black Pepper monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Beet

Interacts with 861 drugs

Beet, especially beetroot juice, is a nitrate-rich food that may modestly lower blood pressure and slightly improve exercise performance in some people. It is generally safe as a food, but s...

Read the full Beet monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Saw Palmetto

Interacts with 174 drugs

Saw palmetto is a plant extract most often used for urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate (BPH). The best research suggests it works no better than a placebo for most men, though i...

Read the full Saw Palmetto monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Beta-sitosterol

Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol that may modestly lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol and may help ease urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate. Evidence is moderate for these uses and weaker...

Read the full Beta-sitosterol monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Pumpkin

Interacts with 1 drug

Pumpkin is a nutritious squash, and its seeds and seed oil are the parts most often used as supplements, mainly for urinary and prostate symptoms. The evidence for these uses is limited and...

Read the full Pumpkin monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Pygeum

Pygeum is an extract from the bark of the African cherry tree that is most often used to ease urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate. Some studies suggest modest benefit for these s...

Read the full Pygeum monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Prosta-Strong RED'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 240 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

L-citrulline 8 references
  1. Cheng JW, Balwin SN. L-arginine in the management of cardiovascular diseases. Ann Pharmacother 2001;35:755-64. PubMed
  2. Schwedhelm E, Maas R, Freese R, et al. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of oral L-citrulline and L-arginine: impact on nitric oxide metabolism. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2008;65:51-9. PubMed
  3. Romero MJ, Platt DH, Caldwell RB, Caldwell RW. Therapeutic use of citrulline in cardiovascular disease. Cardiovasc Drug Rev 2006;24:275-90. PubMed
  4. Balderas-Munoz K, Castillo-Martínez L, Orea-Tejeda A, et al. Improvement of ventricular function in systolic heart failure patients with oral L-citrulline supplementation. Cardiol J 2012;19:612-7. PubMed
  5. Sharif Kashani B, Tahmaseb Pour P, Malekmohammad M, et al. Oral l-citrulline malate in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and Eisenmenger Syndrome: a clinical trial. J Cardiol 2014;64:231-5. PubMed
  6. Pérez-Guisado J, Jakeman PM. Citrulline malate enhances athletic anaerobic performance and relieves muscle soreness. J Strength Cond Res 2010;24:1215-22. PubMed
  7. Mirenayat MS, Moradi S, Mohammadi H, Rouhani MH. Effect of L-citrulline supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Curr Hypertens Rep. 2018;20(11):98. PubMed
  8. Xu Z, Liu C, Liu S, Zhou Z. Comparison of efficacy and safety of daily oral L-arginine and PDE5Is alone or combination in treating erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Andrologia. 2021:e14007. PubMed

See these in context on the L-citrulline monograph →

Zinc 88 references
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  3. Smith DS, Helzner EC, Nuttall CE Jr, et al. Failure of zinc gluconate in treatment of acute upper respiratory tract infections. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1989;33:646-8. PubMed
  4. Blondeau JM. Expanded activity and utility of the new fluoroquinolones: a review. Clin Ther 1999;21:3-40. PubMed
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Ginger 64 references
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Black Pepper 29 references
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Beet 14 references
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Saw Palmetto 22 references
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Pumpkin 5 references
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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