Red Clover Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Alvita
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Red Clover 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
Red Clover is a dietary supplement by Alvita with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for menopause symptoms (hot flashes), high cholesterol, bone health/osteoporosis.Based on those ingredients, 867 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Red Clover. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Red Clover by Alvita
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Red Clover by Alvita — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Red Clover by Alvita
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.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
Alvita Red Clover contains one active ingredient: red clover flower. The product comes as a tea bag for brewing.
Red clover has been traditionally used to support various aspects of health, though the evidence for most uses isn't yet established. The ingredient is prepared as a dried flower for steeping.
Does it work?
Couldn't assess
The evidence we hold doesn't establish effectiveness for red clover for menopausal symptoms, bone health (osteoporosis), joint health (osteoarthritis), or hair loss (androgenic alopecia). For each of these uses, the data shows insufficient reliable evidence to rate whether it works.
If you're considering this tea for any of these reasons, talk with your doctor about whether it's right for your situation.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Red clover is generally well tolerated when taken short-term by healthy adults. The most common side effects reported are muscle aches, nausea, and vaginal spotting.
Because red clover has estrogen-like effects, there's been concern about whether it might raise the risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. A review of eight clinical trials found that increased isoflavone intake may modestly increase breast density in premenopausal (but not postmenopausal) women compared to placebo — though the relevance of this finding to actual cancer risk isn't clear.
Red clover should be avoided during pregnancy because of its estrogen-like activity and lack of safety data. There isn't enough safety information for breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid it then as well.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using this tea if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of estrogen-sensitive conditions.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before you start this tea, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take estrogens (including birth control and hormone therapy) or tamoxifen — red clover's plant estrogens might reduce how well these drugs work. Also flag methotrexate use, medications metabolized by liver enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP3A4 substrates), or blood thinners (anticoagulants) and antiplatelet drugs.
Your pharmacist can search your exact medications against this product using the checker on this page.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Alvita Red Clover tea is generally well tolerated, but it's not one to start without checking your medications first — especially if you take estrogen therapy, tamoxifen, methotrexate, or drugs processed through your liver. The evidence for what it actually does hasn't been established yet.
If you're considering it, talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it's safe alongside everything else you're taking.
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 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
General information
Key facts about Red Clover, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Alvita |
|---|---|
| Net contents | 24 Tea Bag(s); 1.69 Oz(s); 48 Gram(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 16, 2022 |
| DSLD ID | 268655 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Other (e.g. Tea Bag) |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Women (not pregnant or lactating), Organic, Gluten Free |
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 Red Clover by Alvita, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Red Clover | 2 Gram(s) | -- |
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation
Organic
NSF Certified Gluten-Free Naturally caffeine free
Certified Organic by QAI.
Certified Gluten-Free by NSF.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Alvita Since 1922
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Seals/Symbols
NSF Certified Gluten-Free USDA Organic
Quality Assurance International Certified Organic Star-K (Kosher)
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Preparation Place one tea bag in a cup and add 8 oz of boiling water. Cover and steep for 12 minutes. Gently squeeze tea bag and remove. Directions for use: We recommend 3 cups daily. Add sweetener if desired
How to brew Pour 8 oz 1 Temp 212 Degrees F 2 Steep 12 min 3
Formula
Star-K (Kosher)
Red Clover Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) blossoms have a long history of use in Europe and North America. It was listed in the United States National Formulary until 1946. Naturally occurring isoflavones in red clover make it particularly popular with women.
Alvita Red Clover Tea is made using only premium-quality organic red clover blossoms, producing a deep, amber colored tea. Its flavor is reminiscent of dried, sweet grass with a subtle floral finish.
General Statements
The Alvita Story… In 1922, a new era for tea consumption began in America. The herb alfalfa, long known for its beneficial nutrients, was packaged in tea bags and sold to an emerging health food market. This product became known as Alvita and set the standard for future herbal teas. Today, Alvita represents more than forty single-ingredient teas, each one uniquely distinct, just like the individuals who drink them. Alvita chooses only the highest quality organic, wildcrafted, or cultivated botanicals, perfectly prepared to provide you with the best Mother Nature has to offer. Historical and scientific literature is painstakingly studied to ensure that the correct traditional plant and most appropriate servings are used, delivering premium flavor and quality. Herbs are gifts from the earth. Alvita takes its stewardship seriously by offering carefully harvested teas in earth-friendly packaging. Our beautifully illustrated boxes are made using recycled paperboard and our English, pillow style tea bags are oxygen bleached, not chlorine treated. You won’t find a better product, with a cleaner package… anywhere. Alvita… brewed with confidence, steeped in tradition. 100% Recycled Paperboard Recyclable
Precautions
WARNING: Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking any medication or have any medical condition.
Keep out of reach of children.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Red Clover by Alvita label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
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)The Ingredients in Red Clover by Alvita
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Tea Bag(s) Dosage formOther (e.g. Tea Bag) Servings per container24 Amounts shown are per serving.
Red Clover
Interacts with867 drugs
Red clover is a plant rich in isoflavones (plant compounds with weak estrogen-like activity) that is most often used for menopause symptoms like hot f...
Red Clover monograph & interactionsRed Clover by Alvita Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Alvita Red Clover tea contains red clover, which interacts with several medication types.
The most serious concern is with estrogens (birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy) and tamoxifen — red clover's plant-based estrogens (phytoestrogens) might interfere with how these drugs work, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Red clover also has Moderate interactions with methotrexate, a drug used for psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and some cancers. In one case report, a person taking methotrexate developed severe toxicity symptoms after starting red clover supplements.
Additionally, red clover may theoretically affect how your liver processes certain medications — specifically drugs metabolized through CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4 pathways — though a small clinical study found no actual effect at typical doses. These are all Minor interactions in our data.
Red clover also theoretically has anticoagulant effects, but clinical research hasn't confirmed this happens in real patients, so it's rated Minor. Altogether, these interactions span 868 individual medications.
Before starting this tea, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any estrogen therapy, tamoxifen, methotrexate, or medications metabolized by the liver enzyme systems mentioned above — or use the interaction checker on this page with your exact medications.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Red Clover?
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 checkerIngredients driving the most interactions
Individual Drug Interactions
The ingredients in Red Clover interact with 867 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Red Clover interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Red Clover
Etonogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolNuvaRing
How Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Estrogens +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionLevonorgestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolLogynon ED, Microgynon 30, Nordette, Ovranette, Quartette, Trinordiol +1 more
How Levonorgestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Estrogens +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Levonorgestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionMedroxyprogesterone Acetate, Oestrogens, ConjugatedPremique
How Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, Oestrogens, Conjugated interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverEstrogens, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Read the full Red Clover + Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, Oestrogens, Conjugated interactionMethotrexateOtrexup, Rasuvo, Reditrex, Rheumatrex
How Methotrexate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverMethotrexate (trexall, Others) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
Read the full Red Clover + Methotrexate interactionMethotrexate SodiumXatmep
How Methotrexate Sodium interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverMethotrexate (trexall, Others) Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
Read the full Red Clover + Methotrexate Sodium interactionNorelgestromin, Ethinyl EstradiolEvra, Ortho Evra
How Norelgestromin, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverEstrogens, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Read the full Red Clover + Norelgestromin, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionNorethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol, Ferrous FumarateLoMinastrin FE, Minastrin 24 FE
How Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol, Ferrous Fumarate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Estrogens +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Norethindrone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol, Ferrous Fumarate interactionOestrogenOestrogen
How Oestrogen interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Oestrogen interactionPrasterone (prescription Drug)Intrarosa
How Prasterone (prescription Drug) interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Read the full Red Clover + Prasterone (prescription Drug) interactionRelugolix, Estradiol, Norethindrone AcetateMyfembree
How Relugolix, Estradiol, Norethindrone Acetate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Relugolix, Estradiol, Norethindrone Acetate interactionSegesterone Acetate, Ethinyl EstradiolAnnovera
How Segesterone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverEstrogens, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Read the full Red Clover + Segesterone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionTamoxifen CitrateNolvadex, Soltamox
How Tamoxifen Citrate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Tamoxifen Citrate interactionTiboloneLivial
How Tibolone interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverEstrogens Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Read the full Red Clover + Tibolone interactionDrospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol, LevomefolateBeyaz
How Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol, Levomefolate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Estrogens +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Drospirenone, Ethinyl Estradiol, Levomefolate interactionAdo-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Although some laboratory research suggests that red clover may have anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity, clinical research has not shown this effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Abciximab interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates +1 Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
Read the full Red Clover + Abrocitinib interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acalabrutinib interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Although some laboratory research suggests that red clover may have anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity, clinical research has not shown this effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acenocoumarol interactionAcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Anticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +2 Minor
Interaction Summary
Although some laboratory research suggests that red clover may have anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity, clinical research has not shown this effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCaffeine, Cytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates +1 Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, soy might reduce the clearance of caffeine; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with Red Clover — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Red CloverCytochrome P450 1a2 (cyp1a2) Substrates Minor
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Read the full Red Clover + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Red Clover 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.
Red Clover
Estrogens
Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of red clover might interfere with estrogen therapy.
Red clover contains phytoestrogens which might have estrogenic activity in some people. Theoretically, red clover might compete for estrogen receptors and interfere with estrogen-containing drug therapy.
Methotrexate (Trexall, Others)
Theoretically, red clover might increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity.
In a case report, a 52-year-old female receiving weekly methotrexate injections for psoriasis developed symptoms of methotrexate toxicity, including severe vomiting and epigastric pain, after three days of taking red clover 430 mg daily. Toxicity resolved after red clover was discontinued. However, no liver function tests or methotrexate levels were reported.
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
Theoretically, the phytoestrogens in red clover might interfere with tamoxifen.
In vitro and animal research suggests that genistein, a constituent of red clover, might antagonize the antitumor effects of tamoxifen. However, there is some evidence from an animal study that red clover does not reduce the efficacy of tamoxifen. Until more is known, tell patients taking tamoxifen to avoid red clover.
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Although some laboratory research suggests that red clover may have anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity, clinical research has not shown this effect.
In vitro research suggests that genistein in red clover has antiplatelet effects, and historically, red clover was thought to have anticoagulant effects due to its coumarin content. However, some experts state that this is unlikely as most natural coumarins have not been shown to have anticoagulant effects, and their content in red clover is low. Additionally, some clinical research in postmenopausal patients found no effect on coagulation or prothrombin time with the use of red clover flowering tops 378 mg daily for 12 months or red clover isoflavone (Rimostil) 50 mg daily for 2 years.
Caffeine
Theoretically, soy might reduce the clearance of caffeine; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
Red clover contains genistein. Taking genistein 1 gram daily for 14 days seems to inhibit caffeine clearance and metabolism in healthy females. However, this effect does not seem to occur with the lower amounts of genistein found in red clover. A clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of caffeine.
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence shows that red clover inhibits CYP1A2. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of caffeine, a CYP1A2 probe substrate.
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates
Theoretically, red clover might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro evidence suggests that red clover weakly inhibits CYP2C19. This interaction has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence suggests that red clover might inhibit CYP2C9. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of tolbutamide, a CYP2C9 probe substrate.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, red clover might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; however, a small clinical study found no effect.
In vitro evidence shows that red clover might inhibit CYP3A4 isoenzymes. However, a clinical study in healthy postmenopausal individuals shows that taking red clover capsules standardized to contain 60 mg isoflavones twice daily for 14 days does not affect the pharmacokinetics of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 probe substrate.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Red Clover, from the product label.
Alvita
See all Alvita products- Name
- Twinlab Corporation
- City
- American Fork
- State
- UT
- ZipCode
- 84003
- Phone Number
- 1-800-645-5626
Red Clover by Alvita: Common Questions
Does Red Clover by Alvita interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Is it safe to take red clover during pregnancy?
Can I breastfeed while taking red clover?
What side effects might I experience from this tea?
Does red clover actually work for hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms?
Will this tea interfere with my birth control?
Can I take this with blood thinners?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Red Clover is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
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.
The Full Monographs Behind Red Clover’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Red Clover'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.
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD) — The official product label on file for this supplement.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference behind the ingredient interaction data.
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 24 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.
Red Clover 24 references
- Kurzer MS, Xu X. Dietary phytoestrogens. Annu Rev Nutr 1997;17:353-81. PubMed
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
- Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000;7:273-82. PubMed
- This P, De La Rochefordiere A, Clough K, et al. Phytoestrogens after breast cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2001;8:129-34. PubMed
- Tice J, Cummings SR, Ettinger B, et al. Few adverse effects of two red clover extracts rich in phytoestrogens: a multicenter, placebo-controlled trial. Alt Ther 2001;7:S33.
- Ingram DM, Hickling C, West L, et al. A double-blind randomized controlled trial of isoflavones in the treatment of cyclical mastalgia. The Breast 2002;11:170-4. PubMed
- Unger M, Frank A. Simultaneous determination of the inhibitory potency of herbal extracts on the activity of six major cytochrome P450 enzymes using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and automated online extraction. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2004;1 PubMed
- Cheong JL, Bucknall R. Retinal vein thrombosis associated with a herbal phytoestrogen preparation in a susceptible patient. Postgrad Med J 2005;81:266-7.. PubMed
- Geller SE, Shulman LP, van Breemen RB, et al. Safety and efficacy of black cohosh and red clover for the management of vasomotor symptoms: a randomized controlled trial. Menopause 2009;16:1156-66. PubMed
- Hidalgo LA, Chedraui PA, Morocho N, et al. The effect of red clover isoflavones on menopausal symptoms, lipids and vaginal cytology in menopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2005;21(5):257-264. PubMed
- Campbell MJ, Woodside JV, Honour JW, et al. Effect of red clover-derived isoflavone supplementation on insulin-like growth factor, lipid and antioxidant status in healthy female volunteers: a pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr 2004;58(1):173-179. PubMed
- Guerrero JA, Lozano ML, Castillo J, et al. Flavonoids inhibit platelet function through binding to the thromboxane A2 receptor. J Thromb Haemost 2005;3(2):369-376. PubMed
- Kondo K, Suzuki Y, Ikeda Y, Umemura K. Genistein, an isoflavone included in soy, inhibits thrombotic vessel occlusion in the mouse femoral artery and in vitro platelet aggregation. Eur J Pharmacol 2002;455(1):53-57. PubMed
- Polini N, Rauschemberger MB, Mendiberri J, et al. Effect of genistein and raloxifene on vascular dependent platelet aggregation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007;267(1-2):55-62. PubMed
- Wuttke W, Jarry H, Seidlova-Wuttke D. Plant-derived alternative treatments for the aging male: facts and myths. Aging Male 2010;13(2):75-81. PubMed
- Villaseca P. Non-estrogen conventional and phytochemical treatments for vasomotor symptoms: what needs to be known for practice. Climacteric 2012;15(2):115-124. PubMed
- Chen, Y., Xiao, C. Q., He, Y. J., Chen, B. L., Wang, G., Zhou, G., Zhang, W., Tan, Z. R., Cao, S., Wang, L. P., and Zhou, H. H. Genistein alters caffeine exposure in healthy female volunteers. Eur.J Clin.Pharmacol. 2011;67(4):347-353. PubMed
- Friedman, J. A., Taylor, S. A., McDermott, W., and Alikhani, P. Multifocal and recurrent subarachnoid hemorrhage due to an herbal supplement containing natural coumarins. Neurocrit.Care 2007;7(1):76-80. PubMed
- Hooper, L., Madhavan, G., Tice, J. A., Leinster, S. J., and Cassidy, A. Effects of isoflavones on breast density in pre- and post-menopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hum.Reprod.Update. 2010;16(6):745-7 PubMed
- Orr A and Parker R. Red clover causing symptoms suggestive of methotrexate toxicity in a patient on high-dose methotrexate. Menopause Int. 2013;19(3):133-134. PubMed
- Clifton-Bligh PB, et al. Red cover isoflavones enriched with formononetin lower serum LDL cholesterol- a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2015;69(1):134-142.
- Risk assessment for peri- and post-menopausal women taking food supplements containing isolated isoflavones. EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS). 2015. DOI
- Ferraris C, Ballestra B, Listorti C, et al. Red clover and lifestyle changes to contrast menopausal symptoms in premenopausal patients with hormone-sensitive breast cancer receiving tamoxifen. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2020;180(1):157-65. doi: 10.1007/s1054 PubMed
- Chen L, Choi J, Leonard SW, et al. No Clinically Relevant Pharmacokinetic Interactions of a Red Clover Dietary Supplement with Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in Women. J Agric Food Chem. 2020;68(47):13929-13939. PubMed
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.
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