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Dietary supplement

Pycnogenol Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Nulogic Nutritionals

Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Pycnogenol is a dietary supplement by Nulogic Nutritionals with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for circulation and vein health, antioxidant support, skin health and aging.Based on those ingredients, 327 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Pycnogenol Pine bark extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals

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

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: Pycnogenol Pine bark extract, a standardized extract from maritime pine bark. The capsule also holds inactive ingredients — maltodextrin, gelatin, cellulose, leucine, and silicon dioxide — which are fillers and binders.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: antioxidant protection and circulation support.
  • We looked for evidence on: Atherosclerosis, Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Raynaud syndrome, Varicose veins — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Maritime Pine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Maritime Pine is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Hyperlipidemia.
  • Also on file: Maritime Pine is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Atherosclerosis, Hypertension, Varicose veins, Raynaud syndrome.

The evidence for Pycnogenol supports it as possibly effective for osteoarthritis and chronic venous insufficiency (the swelling and pain that come from poor blood flow in the legs). For asthma, the data also suggests it may be possibly effective.

However, the research does not support its use for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia) — it's rated possibly ineffective for that.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Maritime Pine

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 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Maritime pine bark extract is generally well tolerated in studies, though long-term safety hasn't been fully established. The most common side effects are stomach upset, dizziness, and vertigo.

Headache and a single case of chest pain have also been reported in trials, though causation wasn't clear. During pregnancy, there isn't enough safety data, so it's best avoided.

The same goes for breastfeeding — the data on it isn't on file, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using it while nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Maritime Pine

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?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Maritime Pine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 327 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you start Pycnogenol, double-check it with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs — there's a Moderate risk of increased bleeding. The same goes for diabetes medications (Moderate risk of low blood sugar) and immunosuppressants (Moderate risk they'll work less well).

Use the search tool on this page to look up your specific drugs.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

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

Pycnogenol is worth considering if you have osteoarthritis, leg swelling from poor circulation, or asthma and want a natural option. If you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or immunosuppressants, you'll need to check with your doctor or pharmacist first — the interactions are documented and real.

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should steer clear without personalized medical advice.

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

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 21, 2019.

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 Pycnogenol, straight from the product label.

Brand Nulogic Nutritionals
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Nov 21, 2019
DSLD ID 207991
Product type Botanical
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 Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
IngredientAmount% DV
Pycnogenol Pine bark extract100 mg--

Other ingredients: Maltodextrin, Gelatin, Cellulose, Leucine, Silicon Dioxide

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.
FDA Statement of Identity

A Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested Usage: As a dietary supplement, take 2 capsules daily with food.

Consumers are cautioned to read all labels and follow all directions. You should always consult with your physician before using this or any such products.

General Statements

Researchers are still exploring the many benefits of Pycnogenol. But what they've found so far is promising, and reason enough to take it every day. Here's just a sampling... Protection against free-radical damage Supports and relaxes blood vessel walls Promotes healthy circulation Protects against oxidative stress Supports the immune system Promotes a healthy inflammatory response Helps reduce symptoms associated with menopause Promotes a smooth and youthful complexion Supports the small capillaries in the eyes Promotes clear thinking and memory retention Helps support the body's reaction to seasonal changes Promotes healthy breathing Supports healthy blood sugar levels Helps support kidney function

Return Policy: Dr. Pescatore's formulas are backed by a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee! If you’re not completely satisfied, we’ll refund you 100% of your money, at any time (less shipping). Simply send us the unused portion of your order and we will issue a prompt and courteous refund, no questions asked.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Pycnogenol is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd. Use of this product may be protected by one or more U.S. patents and other international patents.

Copyright 2000 - 2014 by OmniVista Health LLC

Precautions

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your healthcare practitioner before taking the product.

Keep out of reach of children.

Do not use if seal is broken.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

See for yourself

Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.

Pycnogenol Pine bark extract

Interacts with
327 drugs
100 mg per serving

Maritime pine bark extract (often sold as Pycnogenol) is a plant-based antioxidant most studied for circulation, vein, and skin health. Some research...

Pycnogenol Pine bark extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Maltodextrin, Gelatin, Cellulose, Leucine, Silicon Dioxide. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Pycnogenol?

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
327Drugs
327 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Pycnogenol with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Pycnogenol Pine bark extract3 drug types · 327 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, maritime pine bark extract might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Clinical research suggests that maritime pine bark extract inhibits platelet aggregation. However, the clinical significance of this effect is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, maritime pine bark extract might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used with antidiabetes drugs.
One clinical study shows that maritime pine bark extract decreases blood sugar in patients with diabetes being treated with antidiabetes agents. Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, maritime pine bark extract might decrease the effectiveness of immunosuppressant therapy.
In vitro and animal research suggests that maritime pine bark extract has immunostimulant activity. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Pycnogenol, from the product label.

Nulogic Nutritionals

See all Nulogic Nutritionals products
Name
Nulogic Nutritionals
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals: Common Questions

Does Pycnogenol by Nulogic Nutritionals interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Pycnogenol has a known interaction with 327 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Pycnogenol contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take Pycnogenol if I'm pregnant?
The safety data for pregnancy isn't complete enough to say it's clearly okay. It's best avoided during pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise. Talk it over with your own doctor or pharmacist for guidance tailored to your situation.
Does Pycnogenol work for high cholesterol?
No — the research we have rates it as possibly ineffective for high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia). If that's why you're interested, this may not be the right choice.
What are the most common side effects?
Stomach complaints, dizziness, and vertigo show up most often in studies. Headache has also been reported. Most people tolerate it well, but these are worth knowing about before you start.
Can I take Pycnogenol while breastfeeding?
There isn't enough safety data on file to know either way. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using it while breastfeeding — they can help you weigh the pros and cons for your situation.
What does Pycnogenol do?
It's made from maritime pine bark extract and may help with osteoarthritis pain, swelling in the legs from poor circulation (chronic venous insufficiency), and asthma symptoms. The evidence for these uses is rated as possibly effective.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Pycnogenol is safe with your meds?

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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.

Pycnogenol label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Pycnogenol'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 14 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.

Maritime Pine 14 references
  1. Rice-Evans CA, Packer L, eds. Flavonoids in Health and Disease. Manhattan, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 1998.
  2. Liu FJ, Zhang YX, Lau BH. Pycnogenol enhances immune and haemopoietic functions in senescence-accelerated mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 1998;54:1168-72. PubMed
  3. Putter M, Grotemeyer KH, Wurthwein G, et al. Inhibition of smoking-induced platelet aggregation by aspirin and pycnogenol. Thromb Res 1999;95:155-61. PubMed
  4. Kohama T, Inoue M. Pycnogenol alleviates pain associated with pregnancy. Phytother Res 2006;20:232-4.
  5. Liu X, Zhou HJ, Rohdewald P. French maritime pine bark extract pycnogenol dose-dependently lowers glucose in type 2 diabetic patients (letter). Diabetes Care 2004;27:839. PubMed
  6. Liu X, Wei J, Tan F, et al. Antidiabetic effect of Pycnogenol French maritime pine bark extract in patients with diabetes type II. Life Sci 2004;75:2505-13. PubMed
  7. Wilson D, Evans M, Guthrie N et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study to evaluate the potential of pycnogenol for improving allergic rhinitis symptoms. Phytother Res 2010;24:1115-9.
  8. Araghi-Niknam, M., Hosseini, S., Larson, D., Rohdewald, P., and Watson, R. R. Pine bark extract reduces platelet aggregation. Integr.Med. 3-21-2000;2(2):73-77. PubMed
  9. Trebaticka, J., Kopasova, S., Hradecna, Z., Cinovsky, K., Skodacek, I., Suba, J., Muchova, J., Zitnanova, I., Waczulikova, I., Rohdewald, P., and Durackova, Z. Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol. Eur.Child Adolesc.Psychi PubMed
  10. Suzuki, N., Uebaba, K., Kohama, T., Moniwa, N., Kanayama, N., and Koike, K. French maritime pine bark extract significantly lowers the requirement for analgesic medication in dysmenorrhea: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
  11. Cisar, P., Jany, R., Waczulikova, I., Sumegova, K., Muchova, J., Vojtassak, J., Durackova, Z., Lisy, M., and Rohdewald, P. Effect of pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) on symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Phytother.Res. 2008;22(8):1087-1092.
  12. Enseleit, F., Sudano, I., Periat, D., Winnik, S., Wolfrum, M., Flammer, A. J., Frohlich, G. M., Kaiser, P., Hirt, A., Haile, S. R., Krasniqi, N., Matter, C. M., Uhlenhut, K., Hogger, P., Neidhart, M., Luscher, T. F., Ruschitzka, F., and Noll, G. Effects
  13. Schoonees, A., Visser, J., Musekiwa, A., and Volmink, J. Pycnogenol(R) (extract of French maritime pine bark) for the treatment of chronic disorders. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;4:CD008294.
  14. Wang S, Tan D Zhao Y et al. The effect of pycnogenol on the microcirculation, platelet function and ischemic myocardium in patients with coronary artery diseases. Eur Bull Drug Res 1999;7:19-25.

See these in context on the Maritime Pine monograph →

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

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

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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