Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 10 of 12 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Prostate Essentials Plus Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Swanson

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

First and foremost: checking Prostate Essentials Plus against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Prostate Essentials Plus is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 12 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for heart health, prostate health, antioxidant support.Based on those ingredients, 570 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Selenium, Saw Palmetto Berry Extract, Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

Pharmacist-reviewed data Checks every ingredient Answer in seconds
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 11, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 12 of its 12 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Prostate Essentials Plus contains 12 active ingredients. The main ones are lycopene (a carotenoid from tomatoes), zinc, glycine (an amino acid), pumpkin, saw palmetto berry extract, Korean ginseng, selenium, stinging nettles concentrate, pygeum africanum bark extract, beta-sitosterol (a plant sterol), L-alanine, and L-glutamic acid.

The product also contains inactive ingredients — hypromellose, sodium-copper chlorophyllin, gelatin, sucrose, modified cornstarch, ascorbyl palmitate, mixed tocopherols, silica, rice bran, and L-leucine — which serve as fillers, binders, and capsule material.

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 urinary tract function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Urinary frequency, Hormonal balance, Prostate function.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Pygeum is rated "Likely Effective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Beta-sitosterol is rated "Likely Effective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
  • Also on file: Pumpkin is rated "Possibly Effective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Evidence varies widely by ingredient and claimed use. Lycopene is rated possibly effective for prostate cancer but possibly ineffective for bladder cancer and diabetes.

Zinc is effective for zinc deficiency and likely effective for Wilson disease, with possible benefits for acne and age-related macular degeneration. Saw palmetto is possibly effective for transurethral resection of the prostate but possibly ineffective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Stinging nettles is possibly effective for diabetes. Pygeum is likely effective for BPH.

Beta-sitosterol is likely effective for BPH and possibly effective for familial hypercholesterolemia and coronary heart disease. For several ingredients — glycine, pumpkin, selenium, and Korean ginseng — the evidence we hold is insufficient to rate their effectiveness for the conditions this product may target.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Lycopene Zinc Glycine Pumpkin Alpha-alanine Saw Palmetto Selenium Stinging Nettle

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 9 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.

Most ingredients are generally well tolerated at typical doses. Common side effects from lycopene include gastrointestinal complaints like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal distension.

Zinc can cause nausea, diarrhea, metallic taste, and abdominal cramps, especially at higher doses; the tolerable upper limit is 40 mg daily for adults. High-dose zinc raises theoretical concern for copper deficiency over time.

Glycine is generally well tolerated but long-term safety data are limited; mild sedation has been reported rarely. Pumpkin, selenium, and stinging nettles are generally well tolerated in typical amounts, though excess selenium is toxic.

Selenium can cause gastric discomfort, headache, and rash at high doses. Saw palmetto is usually mild and reversible in side effects — nausea, diarrhea, headache, and fatigue — but rare cases of heart rhythm problems have been reported.

Beta-sitosterol can cause constipation, diarrhea, gas, indigestion, and nausea; it may worsen acne when taken alone or with saw palmetto. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety differ by ingredient: lycopene supplements should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical approval.

Saw palmetto is likely unsafe in pregnancy and should be avoided while breastfeeding due to insufficient data. Stinging nettles and pumpkin lack sufficient pregnancy safety data and should be avoided unless a doctor advises otherwise.

Glycine, selenium, pygeum, and beta-sitosterol have insufficient safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding — talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Lycopene Zinc Glycine Pumpkin Alpha-alanine Saw Palmetto Selenium Stinging Nettle

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?
  • 7 of the 10 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Lycopene, Stinging Nettle, Pumpkin, Saw Palmetto, 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: 570 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check any blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs you take (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) — lycopene, saw palmetto, and selenium all carry Moderate risks of increased bleeding. If you're on quinolone, tetracycline, or other antibiotics, or if you take zinc-sensitive HIV or cancer medications, space them several hours away from this product.

Antidiabetes drugs, diuretics, lithium, immunosuppressants, barbiturates, clozapine, or contraceptive drugs also warrant a check. Ask your pharmacist to review your full medication list.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

This is a multi-ingredient prostate support formula with evidence backing some components for specific uses like BPH. However, if you take blood thinners, antibiotics, HIV medications, antidiabetes drugs, lithium, or certain psychiatric medications, check each of your drugs with the tool below before starting.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk with your pharmacist first — several ingredients lack established safety data for these situations.

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

Assessment coverage: 10 of 12 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 16, 2022.

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 Prostate Essentials Plus, straight from the product label.

Brand Swanson
Barcode (UPC) 087614070919
Net contents 180 Vegetarian Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jun 16, 2022
DSLD ID 266953
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Veggie Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Veggie Capsule(s)
Servings per container
180
UPC/BARCODE
087614070919
IngredientAmount% DV
Lycopene2.5 mg--
Zinc15 mg136%
Glycine25 mg--
Pumpkin40 mg--
L-Alanine25 mg--
L-Glutamic Acid25 mg--
Saw Palmetto Berry Extract90 mg--
Korean Ginseng50 mg--
Selenium50 mcg91%
Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate120 mg--
Pygeum africanum bark extract50 mg--
Beta-Sitosterol20 mg--

Other ingredients: Hypromellose, Sodium-Copper Chlorophyllin, Gelatin, Sucrose, Modified Cornstarch, Ascorbyl Palmitate, mixed Tocopherols, Silica, Rice Bran, L-Leucine, Zinc

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.
General Statements

swanson.com or call 1-800-437-4148

Science-Backed Quality Since 1969

Formulation

Promotes healthy urinary tract flow and frequency Helps maintain hormonal balance Provides nutrients that support prostate health

Prostate Health

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: As a dietary supplement, take one veggie capsule two times per day with water.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Selenium SeLECT is a registered trademark of Sabinsa Corp.

Precautions

Warning: For adults only.

Consult your healthcare provider before using this or any product if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Keep out of reach of children.

Contains sulfur/sulfites.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

Formula

Features Selenium SeLECT

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

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

See for yourself

Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson label

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

Prostate Essentials Plus label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson

These are the 12 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Veggie Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container180 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.

Lycopene

Interacts with
122 drugs
2.5 mg per serving

Lycopene is a red plant pigment and antioxidant found mainly in tomatoes and other red fruits. Eating lycopene-rich foods is linked with possible hear...

Lycopene monograph & interactions

Zinc

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

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

Glycine

Interacts with
1 drug
25 mg per serving

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid your body makes on its own and that also appears in protein-rich foods. It is most studied for improving sleep q...

Glycine monograph & interactions

Pumpkin

Interacts with
1 drug
40 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 monograph & interactions

L-Alanine

No known
interactions
25 mg per serving

Alpha-alanine (usually called alanine) is a non-essential amino acid your body can make on its own and that you also get from protein foods. Most peop...

L-Alanine monograph & interactions

L-Glutamic Acid

25 mg per serving

Saw Palmetto Berry Extract

Interacts with
174 drugs
90 mg per serving Form: Fatty Acids

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 Berry Extract monograph & interactions

Korean Ginseng

50 mg per serving

Selenium

Interacts with
321 drugs
50 mcg per serving Form: L-Selenomethionine

Selenium is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for thyroid function, antioxidant defense, and immune health. Most people who...

Selenium monograph & interactions

Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate

Interacts with
164 drugs
120 mg per serving

Stinging nettle is a common plant used as food and in traditional medicine, most often for prostate symptoms, allergies, and joint pain. The evidence...

Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate monograph & interactions

Pygeum africanum bark extract

No known
interactions
50 mg per serving Form: Phytosterols

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 africanum bark extract monograph & interactions

Beta-Sitosterol

No known
interactions
20 mg per serving Form: Glycine max, Plant Sterols

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

Other (inactive) ingredients: Hypromellose, Sodium-Copper Chlorophyllin, Gelatin, Sucrose, Modified Cornstarch, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Mixed Tocopherols, Silica, Rice Bran, L-Leucine, Zinc. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Prostate Essentials Plus?

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
570Drugs
564 Moderate 6 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Selenium 321
Saw Palmetto Berry Extract 174
Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate 164
Lycopene 122
Zinc 67

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Prostate Essentials Plus interact with 570 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

7 of the 12 ingredients in Prostate Essentials Plus interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Selenium Saw Palmetto Berry Extract Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate Lycopene Zinc Glycine Pumpkin

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Prostate Essentials Plus 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.

Selenium6 drug types · 321 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Selenium may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Clinical research suggests that taking selenium 10 mcg/kg/day can increase bleeding times by increasing prostacyclin production, which inhibits platelet activity. Other clinical research suggests that taking selenium 75 mcg daily, in combination with ascorbic acid 600 mg, alpha-tocopherol 300 mg, and beta-carotene 27 mg, reduces platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Barbiturates

Theoretically, selenium might prolong the sedating effects of barbiturates.
Laboratory research suggests that selenium can inhibit the hepatic metabolism of barbiturates. Selenium seems to prolong the sedative effect of pentobarbital in animal models.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, selenium supplementation may reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressant therapy.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical evidence suggests that selenium may stimulate the immune system.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, selenium might interfere with warfarin activity.
Animal research suggests that selenium can increase warfarin activity. Selenium might interact with warfarin by displacing it from albumin binding sites, reducing its metabolism in the liver, or by decreasing production of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Selenium can also prolong bleeding times in humans by increasing prostacyclin production, which inhibits platelet activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Contraceptive drugs might increase levels of selenium, although the clinical significance of this effect is unclear.
Some research suggests that oral contraceptives increase serum selenium levels in women taking oral contraceptives; however, other research shows no change in selenium levels. It is suggested that an increase could be due to increased carrier proteins, indicating a redistribution of selenium rather than a change in total body selenium.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Niacin

Selenium might reduce the beneficial effects of niacin on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.
A combination of niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels in patients with coronary disease and low HDL levels. Clinical research shows that taking a combination of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium) along with niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) attenuates this rise in HDL, specifically the HDL-2 and apolipoprotein A1 fractions, by more than 50% in patients with coronary disease. It is not known whether this adverse effect is due to a single antioxidant such as selenium, or to the combination. It also is not known whether it will occur in other patient populations.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Selenium full monograph & interactions

Saw Palmetto Berry 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
Saw Palmetto Berry Extract full monograph & interactions

Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate4 drug types · 164 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, stinging nettle might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that stinging nettle might decrease blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, combining stinging nettle with diuretic drugs may have additive effects.
Animal research suggests that the above ground parts and roots of stinging nettle may have a diuretic effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lithium

Theoretically, stinging nettle might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Animal research suggests that stinging nettle has diuretic and natriuretic properties, which could alter the excretion of lithium. The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

There is some concern that stinging nettle might decrease the effects of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.
Stinging nettle contains a significant amount of vitamin K. When taken in large quantities, this might interfere with the activity of warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Stinging Nettles 4:1 concentrate full monograph & interactions

Lycopene1 drug type · 122 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, taking lycopene with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.
In vitro research shows that lycopene has antiplatelet effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Lycopene full monograph & interactions

Zinc10 drug types · 67 drugs

Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Cephalexin (Keflex)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cisplatin (Platinol-Aq)

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Integrase Inhibitors

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

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Quinolone Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Ritonavir (Norvir)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Amiloride (Midamor)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Atazanavir (Reyataz)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Zinc full monograph & interactions

Glycine1 drug type · 1 drug

Clozapine (Clozaril)

Theoretically, glycine might decrease the effectiveness of clozapine.
One small clinical study in patients with schizophrenia shows that adding glycine to clozapine therapy worsens symptoms of schizophrenia when compared with clozapine alone. The mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Glycine full monograph & interactions

Pumpkin1 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
Pumpkin full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Prostate Essentials Plus, from the product label.

Swanson

See all Swanson products
Name
Swanson Health Products
City
Fargo
State
ND
ZipCode
58104
Phone Number
1-800-437-4148
Web Address
swanson.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson: Common Questions

Does Prostate Essentials Plus by Swanson interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Prostate Essentials Plus has a known interaction with 570 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Prostate Essentials Plus contains 12 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.
Does this product really help with prostate health?
Some ingredients have research backing for prostate-related issues. Saw palmetto is possibly effective for one specific prostate procedure (TURP) but possibly ineffective for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Pygeum and beta-sitosterol are likely effective for BPH. Other ingredients in the formula have less established evidence or insufficient data in our records, so results vary by person and ingredient.
Is it safe to take if I'm on antibiotics?
Not without spacing. Zinc in this product can significantly reduce how well your body absorbs quinolone, tetracycline, and cephalexin antibiotics. Take your antibiotic at least 2–4 hours before or 4–6 hours after this supplement. Check with your pharmacist about the specific antibiotic and timing.
What if I take a blood thinner like warfarin?
This product contains ingredients that may increase bleeding risk — lycopene, saw palmetto, selenium, and stinging nettles all theoretically raise this concern. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting; they may want to monitor you more closely or adjust your plan.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Several ingredients lack sufficient safety data for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Saw palmetto is likely unsafe in pregnancy. Lycopene supplements should be avoided unless your doctor approves. For the others — glycine, pumpkin, selenium, pygeum, and beta-sitosterol — there isn't enough data to say either way. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
What side effects might I notice?
Gastrointestinal effects are most common — nausea, diarrhea, gas, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Zinc may cause a metallic taste. Rare serious side effects have been reported with some ingredients, especially at high doses or with long-term use. If you experience unusual symptoms, stop and talk to your pharmacist.
Why does this have so many ingredients?
The formula targets different aspects of prostate and urinary health using traditional and researched botanical and mineral ingredients. Each is intended to work on a different mechanism, though evidence strength varies. Some ingredients have decent research backing (pygeum, beta-sitosterol) while others have limited data in our records.

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.

Prostate Essentials Plus label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Prostate Essentials Plus’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Lycopene

Interacts with 122 drugs

Lycopene is a red plant pigment and antioxidant found mainly in tomatoes and other red fruits. Eating lycopene-rich foods is linked with possible heart and prostate benefits, but evidence fr...

Read the full Lycopene 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

Glycine

Interacts with 1 drug

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid your body makes on its own and that also appears in protein-rich foods. It is most studied for improving sleep quality, where early research is promisin...

Read the full Glycine 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

Alpha-alanine

Alpha-alanine (usually called alanine) is a non-essential amino acid your body can make on its own and that you also get from protein foods. Most people do not need a supplement, and strong...

Read the full Alpha-alanine 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

Selenium

Interacts with 321 drugs

Selenium is an essential trace mineral your body needs in small amounts for thyroid function, antioxidant defense, and immune health. Most people who eat a varied diet get enough, and supple...

Read the full Selenium monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Stinging Nettle

Interacts with 164 drugs

Stinging nettle is a common plant used as food and in traditional medicine, most often for prostate symptoms, allergies, and joint pain. The evidence is mixed and mostly preliminary, so it i...

Read the full Stinging Nettle 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 → 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 →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Prostate Essentials Plus'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 201 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.

Lycopene 10 references
  1. Sharma, J. B., Kumar, A., Kumar, A., Malhotra, M., Arora, R., Prasad, S., and Batra, S. Effect of lycopene on pre-eclampsia and intra-uterine growth retardation in primigravidas. Int J Gynaecol.Obstet. 2003;81(3):257-262. PubMed
  2. Hsiao, G., Wang, Y., Tzu, N. H., Fong, T. H., Shen, M. Y., Lin, K. H., Chou, D. S., and Sheu, J. R. Inhibitory effects of lycopene on in vitro platelet activation and in vivo prevention of thrombus formation. J Lab Clin Med 2005;146(4):216-226. PubMed
  3. Clark, P. E., Hall, M. C., Borden, L. S., Jr., Miller, A. A., Hu, J. J., Lee, W. R., Stindt, D., D'Agostino, R., Jr., Lovato, J., Harmon, M., and Torti, F. M. Phase I-II prospective dose-escalating trial of lycopene in patients with biochemical relapse o
  4. O'Kennedy, N., Crosbie, L., Whelan, S., Luther, V., Horgan, G., Broom, J. I., Webb, D. J., and Duttaroy, A. K. Effects of tomato extract on platelet function: a double-blinded crossover study in healthy humans. Am.J.Clin.Nutr. 2006;84(3):561-569. PubMed
  5. Jatoi, A., Burch, P., Hillman, D., Vanyo, J. M., Dakhil, S., Nikcevich, D., Rowland, K., Morton, R., Flynn, P. J., Young, C., and Tan, W. A tomato-based, lycopene-containing intervention for androgen-independent prostate cancer: results of a Phase II stu
  6. Schwenke, C., Ubrig, B., Thurmann, P., Eggersmann, C., and Roth, S. Lycopene for advanced hormone refractory prostate cancer: a prospective, open phase II pilot study. J.Urol. 2009;181(3):1098-1103. PubMed
  7. Banerjee, S., Jeyaseelan, S., and Guleria, R. Trial of lycopene to prevent pre-eclampsia in healthy primigravidas: results show some adverse effects. J.Obstet.Gynaecol.Res. 2009;35(3):477-482. PubMed
  8. Haseen, F., Cantwell, M. M., O'Sullivan, J. M., and Murray, L. J. Is there a benefit from lycopene supplementation in men with prostate cancer? A systematic review. Prostate Cancer Prostatic.Dis. 2009;12(4):325-332. PubMed
  9. Ilic, D., Forbes, K. M., and Hassed, C. Lycopene for the prevention of prostate cancer. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2011;(11):CD008007. PubMed
  10. Sawardekar SB, Patel TC, Uchil D. Comparative evaluation of antiplatelet effect of lycopene with aspirin and the effect of their combination on platelet aggregation: an in vitro study. Indian J Pharmacol 2016;48:26-31. PubMed

See these in context on the Lycopene monograph →

Zinc 88 references
  1. Barceloux DG. Zinc. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 1999;37:279-92.
  2. Eby GA, Davis DR, Halcomb WW. Reduction in duration of common colds by zinc gluconate lozenges in a double-blind study. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1984;25:20-4. DOI
  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
  5. Reyes AJ, Olhaberry JV, Leary WP, et al. Urinary zinc excretion, diuretics, zinc deficiency and some side-effects of diuretics. S Afr Med J 1983;64:936-41.
  6. Kugelmas M. Preliminary observation: oral zinc sulfate replacement is effective in treating muscle cramps in cirrhotic patients. J Am Coll Nutr 2000;19:13-5. PubMed
  7. Hebel SK, ed. Drug Facts and Comparisons. 52nd ed. St. Louis: Facts and Comparisons, 1998.
  8. Chan S, Gerson B, Subramaniam S. The role of copper, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc in nutrition and health. Clin Lab Med 1998;18:673-85. DOI
  9. Brewer GJ, Yuzbasiyan-Gurkan V, Johnson V, et al. Treatment of Wilson's disease with zinc: XI. Interaction with other anticopper agents. J Am Coll Nutr 1993;12:26-30. PubMed
  10. Fosmire GJ. Zinc toxicity. Am J Clin Nutr 1990;51:225-7.
  11. Lomaestro BM, Bailie GR. Absorption interactions with fluoroquinolones. 1995 update. Drug Saf 1995;12:314-33. PubMed
  12. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  13. Seelig MS. Auto-immune complications of D-penicillamine - A possible result of zinc and magnesium depletion and of pyridoxine inactivation. J Am Coll Nutr 1982;1:207-14. PubMed
  14. Neuvonen PJ. Interactions with the absorption of tetracyclines. Drugs 1976;11:45-54.. PubMed
  15. Hirt M, Nobel S, Barron E. Zinc nasal gel for the treatment of common cold symptoms: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ear Nose Throat J 2000;79:778-82.. DOI
  16. Simkin PA. Oral zinc sulphate in rheumatoid arthritis. Lancet 1976;2:539-42. PubMed
  17. Wray D. A double-blind trial of systemic zinc sulfate in recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 1982;53:469-72. PubMed
  18. Douglas RM, Miles HB, Moore BW, et al. Failure of effervescent zinc acetate lozenges to alter the course of upper respiratory tract infections in Australian adults. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1987;31:1263-5. PubMed
  19. Lagiou P, Wuu J, Trichopoulou A, et al. Diet and benign prostatic hyperplasia: a study in Greece. Urology 1999;54:284-90. PubMed
  20. Ewing CI, Gibbs AC, Ashcroft C, David TJ. Failure of oral zinc supplementation in atopic eczema. Eur J Clin Nutr 1991;45:507-10.
  21. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2002.
  22. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss. AREDS report no. 8. Arch Oph
  23. Greenberg JE, Lynn M, Kirsner RS, et al. Mucocutaneous pigmented macule as a result of zinc deposition. J Cutan Pathol 2002;29:613-5. PubMed
  24. Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Altern Ther Health Med 2001;7:49-56.
  25. Turner RB. Ineffectiveness of intranasal zinc gluconate for prevention of experimental rhinovirus colds. Clin Infect Dis 2001;33:1865-70. PubMed
  26. Belongia EA, Berg R, Liu K. A randomized trial of zinc nasal spray for the treatment of upper respiratory illness in adults. Am J Med 2001;111:103-8. PubMed
  27. Mossad SB. Effect of zincum gluconicum nasal gel on the duration and symptom severity of the common cold in otherwise healthy adults. QJM 2003;96:35-43. DOI
  28. Leitzmann MF, Stampfer MJ, Wu K, et al. Zinc supplement use and risk of prostate cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003;95:1004-7.. PubMed
  29. Jafek BW, Linschoten M, Murrow BW. Zicam Induced Anosmia. American Rhinologic Society 49th Annual Fall Scientific Meeting abstract. Orlando, Florida. September 20, 2003. http://app.american-rhinologic.org/programs/2003ARSFallProgram071503.pdf (Accessed 24
  30. Uebayashi H, Hatanaka T, Kanemura F, Tonosaki K. Acute anosmia in the mouse: behavioral discrimination among the four basic taste substances. Physiol Behav 2001;72:291-6.. PubMed
  31. Barrett S. Zicam Marketers Sued. United States District Court Western District of Michigan Southern Division, Filed October 14, 2003, Case No. 4:03CV0146.
  32. Bilici M, Yildirim F, Kandil S, et al. Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of zinc sulfate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2004;28:181-90.. PubMed
  33. Polk RE, Healy DP, Sahai J, et al. Effect of ferrous sulfate and multivitamins with zinc on absorption of ciprofloxacin in normal volunteers. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1989;33:1841-4. PubMed
  34. Mery C, Delrieu F, Ghozlan R, et al. Controlled trial of D-penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis. Dose effect and the role of zinc. Scand J Rheumatol 1976;5:241-7. PubMed
  35. Penttila O, Hurme H, Neuvonen PJ. Effect of zinc sulfate on the absorption of tetracycline and doxycycline in man. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1975;9:131-4.
  36. Kondo Y, Yamagata K, Satoh M, et al. Optimal administration schedule of cisplatin for bladder tumor with minimal induction of metallothionein. J Urol 2003;170:2467-70. PubMed
  37. Doz F, Berens ME, Deschepper CF, et al. Experimental basis for increasing the therapeutic index of cis-diamminedicarboxylatocyclobutaneplatinum(II) in brain tumor therapy by a high-zinc diet. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 1992;29:219-26.
  38. Wester PO. Urinary zinc excretion during treatment with different diuretics. Acta Med Scand 1980;208:209-12. PubMed
  39. Golik A, Modai D, Weissgarten J, et al. Hydrochlorothiazide-amiloride causes excessive urinary zinc excretion. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1987;42:42-4. PubMed
  40. Leary WP, Reyes AJ, Van der Byl K. Urinary magnesium and zinc excretion after two different single doses of amiloride in healthy adults. Curr Ther Res 1983;34:205-16.
  41. McBride K, Slotnick B, Margolis FL. Does intranasal application of zinc sulfate produce anosmia in the mouse? An olfactometric and anatomical study. Chem Senses 2003;28:659-70. PubMed
  42. Burd GD. Morphological study of the effects of intranasal zinc sulfate irrigation on the mouse olfactory epithelium and olfactory bulb. Microsc Res Tech 1993;24:195-213. PubMed
  43. Ducray A, Bondier JR, Michel G, et al. Recovery following peripheral destruction of olfactory neurons in young and adult mice. Eur J Neurosci 2002;15:1907-17. PubMed
  44. Mayer AD, Rosenblatt JS. Peripheral olfactory deafferentation of the primary olfactory system in rats using ZnSO4 nasal spray with special reference to maternal behavior. Physiol Behav 1993;53:587-92. PubMed
  45. DeCook CA, Hirsch AR. Anosmia due to inhalational zinc: a case report (abstract). Chem Senses 2000;25:659.
  46. Tisdall FF, Brown A, Defries RD. Persistent anosmia following zinc sulfate nasal spraying. JPed 1938;18:60-2. DOI
  47. 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
  48. Public Health Advisory. Loss of sense of smell with intranasal cold remedies containing zinc. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, June 16, 2009. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PublicHealthAdvisories/ucm166059.htm (Accessed 16 June 2009)
  49. Dooren JC. FDA warns against use of Zicam. The Wall Street Journal, June 16, 2009. Available at: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124516778692319231.html#mod=djemHL?mg=com-wsj (Accessed 16 June 2009).
  50. Alexander TH, Davidson TM. Intranasal zinc and anosmia: the zinc-induced anosmia syndrome. Laryngoscope 2006;116:217-20.
  51. Health Canada / GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare. Association of long-term, excessive use of zinc-containing Poli-Grip products with myeloneuropathy and blood dyscrasias. February 18, 2010. Available at: http://hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/alt_formats/pdf/medef
  52. GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Advisory. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) warns about a potential health risk associated with long-term, excessive use of GSK's zinc-containing denture adhesives Super Polygrip Original, Ultra Fresh and Extra Care. February 18, 2010. Availa
  53. Science M, Johnstone J, Roth DE, et al. Zinc for the treatment of the common cold: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. CMAJ 2012;184:E551-61. PubMed
  54. Castilla-Higuero, L., Romero-Gomez, M., Suarez, E., and Castro, M. Acute hepatitis after starting zinc therapy in a patient with presymptomatic Wilson's disease. Hepatology 2000;32(4 Pt 1):877. PubMed
  55. Sharquie, K. E., Najim, R. A., Farjou, I. B., and Al Timimi, D. J. Oral zinc sulphate in the treatment of acute cutaneous leishmaniasis. Clin.Exp.Dermatol. 2001;26(1):21-26. PubMed
  56. Dreno, B., Moyse, D., Alirezai, M., Amblard, P., Auffret, N., Beylot, C., Bodokh, I., Chivot, M., Daniel, F., Humbert, P., Meynadier, J., and Poli, F. Multicenter randomized comparative double-blind controlled clinical trial of the safety and efficacy of
  57. Moore, R. Bleeding gastric erosion after oral zinc sulphate. Br.Med J 3-25-1978;1(6115):754. PubMed
  58. Jafek, B. W., Linschoten, M. R., and Murrow, B. W. Anosmia after intranasal zinc gluconate use. Am J Rhinol. 2004;18(3):137-141. DOI
  59. Simonart, T. and de, Maertelaer, V. Systemic treatments for cutaneous warts: a systematic review. J Dermatolog.Treat. 2012;23(1):72-77. PubMed
  60. Cochran, R. J., Tucker, S. B., and Flannigan, S. A. Topical zinc therapy for acne vulgaris. Int.J Dermatol. 1985;24(3):188-190. DOI
  61. Morgan, A. A. Bleeding gastric erosion after oral zinc sulphate. Br.Med.J. 5-13-1978;1(6122):1283-1284. PubMed
  62. Murphy, J. V. Intoxication following ingestion of elemental zinc. JAMA 6-22-1970;212(12):2119-2120.
  63. Lang, C. J., Rabas-Kolominsky, P., Engelhardt, A., Kobras, G., and Konig, H. J. Fatal deterioration of Wilson's disease after institution of oral zinc therapy. Arch Neurol. 1993;50(10):1007-1008. PubMed
  64. Fjellner, B. Drug-induced lupus erythematosus aggravated by oral zinc therapy. Acta Derm.Venereol. 1979;59(4):368-370. DOI
  65. Varas Lorenzo, M. J. Zinc acexamate and ranitidine in the short- and mid-term management of gastroduodenal ulcers. Curr Ther Res 21986;39:19-29.
  66. Bosch, F. and Jimenez, E. Post-marketing surveillance of zinc acexamate in peptic ulcer treatment. Clin Trials J 1990;27:301-312.
  67. DeCook, C. A. and Hirsch, A. R. Anosmia due to inhalational zinc: a case report (abstract). Chem Senses 2000;25:659.
  68. Crown LA, May JA. Zinc toxicity: denture adhesives, bone marrow failure and polyneuropathy. Tenn Med. 2012 Feb;105(2):39-40, 42.
  69. Dadamio J, Van Tournout M, Teughels W, Dekeyser C, Coucke W, Quirynen M. Efficacy of different mouthrinse formulations in reducing oral malodour: a randomized clinical trial. J Clin Periodontol. 2013 May;40(5):505-13. PubMed
  70. Moyle G, Else L, Jackson A, Back D, Yapa MH, Seymour N, Ringner-Nackter L, Karolia Z, Gazzard B, Boffito M. Coadministration of atazanavir-ritonavir and zinc sulfate: impact on hyperbilirubinemia and pharmacokinetics. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2013 Aug PubMed
  71. Zittel S, Ufer F, Gerloff C, Münchau A, Rosenkranz M. Severe myelopathy after denture cream use--is copper deficiency or excess zinc the cause? Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2014 Jun;121:17-8. PubMed
  72. Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
  73. Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents in HIV-1-Infected Adults and Adolescents: Drug Interactions between Integrase Inhibitors and Other Drugs. AIDSinfo. July 14, 2016. Available at: https://aidsinfo.nih.gov/guidelines/html/1/adult-and-adolescen
  74. Ding Y, Jia YY, Li F, et al. The effect of staggered administration of zinc sulfate on the pharmacokinetics of oral cephalexin. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2012 Mar;73(3):422-7. PubMed
  75. Fallah R, Sabbaghzadegan S, Karbasi SA, Binesh F. Efficacy of zinc sulfate supplement on febrile seizure recurrence prevention in children with normal serum zinc level: A randomised clinical trial. Nutrition. 2015;31(11-12):1358-61. PubMed
  76. Lazzerini M, Wanzira H. Oral zinc for treating diarrhoea in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;12:CD005436. PubMed
  77. Mahmoud AM, Al-Alem U, Dabbous F, et al. Zinc intake and risk of prostate cancer: Case-control study and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2016;11(11):e0165956. PubMed
  78. Nagraj SK, George RP, Shetty N, Levenson D, Ferraiolo DM, Shrestha A. Interventions for managing taste disturbances. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Dec 20;12(12):CD010470. PubMed
  79. Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, Marsch AF. Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dermatol Ther. 2020:e14252. PubMed
  80. Janyajirawong R, Vilaichone RK, Sethasine S. Efficacy of zinc supplement in minimal hepatic encephalopathy: A prospective, randomized controlled study (Zinc-MHE Trial). Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2021;22(9):2879-2887. PubMed
  81. Nakano M, Nakamura Y, Miyazaki A, Takahashi J. Zinc pharmacotherapy for elderly osteoporotic patients with zinc deficiency in a clinical setting. Nutrients 2021;13(6):1814. PubMed
  82. Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, et al. An open-label study comparing oral zinc to lymecycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 2021;14(5):56-58.
  83. Hunter J, Arentz S, Goldenberg J, et al. Zinc for the prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections in adults: a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open. 2021;11(11):e047474. PubMed
  84. Yamazaki K, Kageyama H, Fujiyama T, Ito T, Urano S, Honda T. A case of systemic contact dermatitis due to zinc supplements. Int J Dermatol 2022. PubMed
  85. Magham K, Han J, Eilbert W, Bunney EB. Severe copper deficiency anemia caused by zinc supplement use. Am J Emerg Med 2023;72:222. PubMed
  86. Sivakumar RR, Chinnaiah Govindareddy D, Sahoo J, Bobby Z, Chinnakali P. Effect of daily zinc supplementation for 12 weeks on serum thyroid auto-antibody levels in children and adolescents with autoimmune thyroiditis - a randomized controlled trial. J Pedi PubMed
  87. AlDhasee O, AlMalki H, AlKharashi N, AlJeraisy N, Al Deeb M. Acute zinc sulfate overdose: clinical presentation and management. BMJ Case Rep 2025;18(1):e263899. PubMed
  88. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Biktarvy Prescribing Information. October 2024. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/210251Orig1s020lbl.pdf. Accessed July 16, 2025.

See these in context on the Zinc monograph →

Glycine 5 references
  1. Heresco-Levy U, Javitt DC, Ermilov M, et al. Efficacy of high-dose glycine in the treatment of enduring negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Arch Gen Psychiatry 1999;56:29-36.. PubMed
  2. Potkin SG, Jin Y, Bunney BG, Costa J, Gulasekaram B. Effect of clozapine and adjunctive high-dose glycine in treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Am J Psychiatry 1999;156:145-7.. PubMed
  3. Gusev EI, Skvortsova VI, Dambinova SA, et al. Neuroprotective effects of glycine for therapy of acute ischaemic stroke. Cerebrovasc Dis 2000;10:49-60. PubMed
  4. Inagawa K, Kawai N, Ono K, Sukegawa E, Tsubuku S, Takahashi M. Assessment of acute adverse effects of glycine ingestion at a high dose in human volunteers. Seikatsu Eisei. 2006; 50:27-32.
  5. Woods SW, Walsh BC, Hawkins KA, Miller TJ, Saksa JR, D'Souza DC, Pearlson GD, Javitt DC, McGlashan TH, Krystal JH. Glycine treatment of the risk syndrome for psychosis: report of two pilot studies. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2013 Aug;23(8):931-40. PubMed

See these in context on the Glycine monograph →

Pumpkin 5 references
  1. Marks L, Partin AW, Epstein JI, et al. Effects of a saw palmetto herbal blend in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol 2000;163:1451-6. DOI
  2. Cho YH, Lee SY, Jeong DW, et al. Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2014;2014:549721. PubMed
  3. Vahlensieck W, Theurer C, Pfitzer E, Patz B, Banik N, Engelmann U. Effects of pumpkin seed in men with lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia in the one-year, randomized, placebo-controlled GRANU study. Urol Int 2015;94(3):286-95 PubMed
  4. Assouly P. Hair loss associated with cucurbit poisoning. JAMA Dermatol. 2018 May 1;154(5):617-618. PubMed
  5. Gawryjolek J, Ludwig H, Zbikowska-Götz M, Bartuzi Z, Krogulska A. Anaphylaxis after consumption of pumpkin seeds in a 2-y-old child tolerant to its pulp: A case study. Nutrition 2021;89:111272. PubMed

See these in context on the Pumpkin monograph →

Alpha-alanine 2 references
  1. Amino acids — MedlinePlus (NIH) Source
  2. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know — NIH Office of Dietary Supplements Source

See these in context on the Alpha-alanine monograph →

Saw Palmetto 22 references
  1. Wilt TJ, Ishani A, Stark G, et al. Saw palmetto extracts for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review. JAMA 1998;280:1604-9. PubMed
  2. Carraro JC, Raynaud JP, Koch G, et al. Comparison of phytotherapy (Permixon) with finasteride in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia: a randomized international study of 1,098 patients. Prostate 1996;29:231-40. DOI
  3. Di Silverio F, D'Eramo G, Lubrano C, et al. Evidence that Serenoa repens extract displays an antiestrogenic activity in prostatic tissue of benign prostatic hypertrophy patients. Eur Urol 1992;21:309-14. PubMed
  4. Stepanov VN, Siniakova LA, Sarrazin B, Raynaud JP. Efficacy and tolerability of the lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa repens (Permixon) in benign prostatic hyperplasia: a double-blind comparison of two dosage regimens. Adv Ther 1999;16:231-41.
  5. Cheema P, El-Mefty O, Jazieh AR. Intraoperative haemorrhage associated with the use of extract of Saw Palmetto herb: a case report and review of literature. J Intern Med 2001;250:167-9. PubMed
  6. Jibrin I, Erinle A, Saidi A, Aliyu ZY. Saw palmetto-induced pancreatitis. South Med J 2006;99:611-2. PubMed
  7. Prager N, Bickett K, French N, Marcovici G. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived inhibitors of 5-alpha-reductase in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. J Altern Complement Med 2002
  8. Avins AL, Bent S, Staccone S, et al. A detailed safety assessment of a saw palmetto extract. Complement Ther Med 2008;16:147-54. PubMed
  9. Morgia, G., Mucciardi, G., Gali, A., Madonia, M., Marchese, F., Di, Benedetto A., Romano, G., Bonvissuto, G., Castelli, T., Macchione, L., and Magno, C. Treatment of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome category IIIA with Serenoa repens plus
  10. Aliaev, IuG, Vinarov, A. Z., Lokshin, K. L., and Spivak, L. G. [Efficiency and safety of prostamol-Uno in patients with chronic abacterial prostatitis]. Urologiia. 2006;(1):47-50.
  11. Agbabiaka, T. B., Pittler, M. H., Wider, B., and Ernst, E. Serenoa repens (saw palmetto): a systematic review of adverse events. Drug Saf 2009;32(8):637-647. PubMed
  12. Wargo, K. A., Allman, E., and Ibrahim, F. A possible case of saw palmetto-induced pancreatitis. South.Med.J. 2010;103(7):683-685. PubMed
  13. Lapi, F., Gallo, E., Giocaliere, E., Vietri, M., Baronti, R., Pieraccini, G., Tafi, A., Menniti-Ippolito, F., Mugelli, A., Firenzuoli, F., and Vannacci, A. Acute liver damage due to Serenoa repens: a case report. Br.J.Clin.Pharmacol. 2010;69(5):558-560.
  14. Mantovani, F. Serenoa repens in benign prostatic hypertrophy: analysis of 2 Italian studies. Minerva Urol.Nefrol. 2010;62(4):335-340.
  15. Hanaka, M., Yoshii, C., Yatera, K., Ito, C., Chojin, Y., Nagata, S., Yamasaki, K., Nishida, C., Kawanami, T., Kawanami, Y., Ishimoto, H., and Mukae, H. [A case of rhabdomyolysis caused by saw palmetto of healthy foods]. J.UOEH. 6-1-2012;34(2):193-199. PubMed
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Stinging Nettle 23 references
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Beta-sitosterol 7 references
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