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Dietary supplement

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Swanson

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

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for fatigue and low energy, stress and coping (adaptogen), mental performance and focus.Based on those ingredients, 1,271 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Rhodiola. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg 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

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: rhodiola (also called Rhodiola rosea), at 400 mg per capsule. Rhodiola is a plant root traditionally used as an adaptogen — a term for herbs believed to help the body handle stress.

The capsule itself is made with gelatin, rice flour, silica, and calcium palmitate — these are inactive ingredients that hold the herb together and make the capsule.

Does it work?

Not established
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
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Rhodiola's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Fights physical and mental effects of stress.
  • We looked for evidence on: Stress, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Depression, Fatigue, Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Stress resilience — and 2 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Rhodiola is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Rhodiola is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), Depression, Fatigue, Stress.

The evidence for rhodiola isn't established in the data we hold. Studies have looked at it for altitude sickness, anxiety, heart rhythm problems, athletic performance, and even bladder cancer, but our records show insufficient reliable evidence to rate it for any of these uses.

If you're thinking about taking it for a specific reason, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what the research actually shows for that particular use.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Rhodiola

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.

Rhodiola is generally well tolerated for short-term use, but we don't have good long-term safety data, so if you're planning to take it for weeks or months, that's worth discussing with your healthcare provider. The most common side effects are dizziness and changes in saliva production — some people report dry mouth, others excessive saliva.

There isn't enough safety data to recommend rhodiola during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Rhodiola

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 — Rhodiola.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,272 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 with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood pressure medications (antihypertensives), particularly losartan (Cozaar). Also clear it if you use diabetes drugs, immunosuppressants, or any medication processed by your liver's CYP2C9, CYP1A2, or CYP3A4 pathways — your pharmacist can tell you if yours falls into those categories.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Rhodiola may be worth considering if you want to explore an adaptogenic herb, but it's not a simple add-on — it interacts with blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, immunosuppressants, and several enzyme systems that process other medications. If you take any prescription drugs, especially for blood pressure or blood sugar, check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting it.

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 May 28, 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 Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Swanson
Barcode (UPC) 087614110042
Net contents 100 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD May 28, 2019
DSLD ID 202896
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 Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg 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 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
UPC/BARCODE
087614110042
IngredientAmount% DV
Rhodiola400 mg--

Other ingredients: Gelatin, Rice Flour, Silica, Calcium Palmitate

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

Fights the physical and mental effects of stress Supports a healthy, natural response to daily stress Science-Backed Quality Since 1969

Stress support 400 mg per capsule

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

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

Precautions

Warning: For adults only.

Do not take this product if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult your physician before using this or any product if you are taking medication or have a medical condition.

Keep out of reach of children.

Do not use if seal is broken.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

General

SW1004 Rev 1 10 05 18

See for yourself

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg by Swanson label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg by Swanson

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

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Amounts shown are per serving.

Rhodiola

Interacts with
1,271 drugs
400 mg per serving

Rhodiola is an herb traditionally used to fight fatigue and help the body cope with stress. Some small studies suggest it may modestly reduce fatigue...

Rhodiola monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin, Rice Flour, Silica, Calcium Palmitate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg by Swanson Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
1,271Drugs
624 Moderate 647 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Rhodiola 1,271

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg 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.

Rhodiola10 drug types · 1,271 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In vitro and animal research shows that rhodiola extract can decrease blood glucose due to alpha-glucosidase activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking rhodiola with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
In vitro and animal research shows that rhodiola extract inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and might lower blood pressure.

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

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP2C9. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. Also, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days reduces the metabolism of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, by 21% after 4 hours.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, rhodiola use might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
In vitro and animal research show that rhodiola has immunostimulatory effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Losartan (Cozaar)

Rhodiola might increase the levels and adverse effects of losartan.
A clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days reduces the metabolism of losartan, a CYP2C9 substrate, by 21% after 4 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits P-glycoprotein. Theoretically, using rhodiola with P-glycoprotein substrates might increase drug levels and potentially increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidepressant Drugs

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with antidepressants.
A review of adverse event reports in Poland identified cases of tachyarrhythmias, myalgia, arthralgia, gum pain, restless leg syndrome, swallowing disorders, and changes in consciousness when rhodiola was taken in combination with paroxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, sertraline, trazodone, and/or duloxetine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with CNS depressants.
A review of adverse event reports in Poland identified cases of excessive sedation, myoclonus, hypotension, and hallucinations when rhodiola was taken with haloperidol, diazepam, or alprazolam.

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

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP1A2. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. However, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days does not inhibit the metabolism of caffeine, a CYP1A2 substrate.

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

Theoretically, rhodiola might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that rhodiola inhibits CYP3A4. This effect is highly variable and appears to be dependent on the rhodiola product studied. However, a clinical study in healthy young males found that taking rhodiola extract 290 mg daily for 14 days does not inhibit the metabolism of midazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg, 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

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg by Swanson: Common Questions

Does Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg by Swanson interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg has a known interaction with 1,271 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg 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.
What's rhodiola supposed to do?
Rhodiola is a plant root used traditionally as an adaptogen — something believed to help your body handle stress. It's been studied for things like altitude sickness, anxiety, and athletic performance, but our data shows the evidence isn't strong enough yet to confidently rate it for any of those.
Will it make me dizzy?
Dizziness is the most common side effect people report when taking rhodiola. You might also notice changes in your saliva — either a dry mouth or more saliva than usual. These effects are usually mild, but if dizziness bothers you, mention it to your pharmacist.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There isn't enough safety data on rhodiola during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The safety data advises against it in both situations. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether it's right for you right now.
How long is it safe to take?
Rhodiola seems well tolerated for short-term use. We don't have good data on what happens if you take it long-term, so if you're planning to use it for weeks or months, check in with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Does it really not interact with anything?
It does interact with several medication types — most importantly blood pressure drugs and diabetes medications. It also affects how your liver processes other drugs. Use the medication checker on this page to see if yours are affected, and talk with your pharmacist before starting.

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

Not sure if Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg 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.

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg’s Ingredients

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

Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Rhodiola Rosea Root 400 mg'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 13 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.

Rhodiola 13 references
  1. Kim SH, Hyun SH, Choung SY. Antioxidative effects of Cinnamomi cassiae and Rhodiola rosea extracts in liver of diabetic mice. Biofactors 2006;26:209-19.
  2. Kwon YI, Jang HD, Shetty K. Evaluation of Rhodiola crenulata and Rhodiola rosea for management of type II diabetes and hypertension. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2006;15:425-32.
  3. Bystritsky A, Kerwin L, Feusner JD. A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). J Altern Complement Med 2008;14:175-80.
  4. Shevtsov VA, Zholus BI, Shervarly VI, et al. A randomized trial of two different doses of a SHR-5 Rhodiola rosea extract versus placebo and control of capacity for mental work. Phytomedicine 2003;10:95-105. PubMed
  5. Apostolidis E, Kwon YI, Shetty K. Potential of cranberry-based herbal synergies for diabetes and hypertension management. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2006;15:433-41.
  6. Hellum BH, Tosse A, Hoybakk K, et al. Potent in vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein by Rhodiola rosea. Planta Med 2010;76:331-8.
  7. Skopriska-Rozewska E, Wojcik R, Siwicki AK, et al. The effect of Rhodiola quadrifida extracts on cellular immunity in mice and rats. Pol J Vet Sci 2008;11:105-11.
  8. Mishra KP, Chanda S, Shukla K, Ganju L. Adjuvant effect of aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricate rhizome on the immune responses to tetanus toxoid and ovalbumin in rats. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2010;32:141-6.
  9. Li HX, Sze SC, Tong Y, Ng TB. Production of Th1- and Th2-dependent cytokines induced by the Chinese medicine herb, Rhodiola algida, on human peripheral blood monocytes. J Ethnopharmacol 2009;123:257-66. PubMed
  10. Mishra KP, Ganju L, Chanda S, et al. Aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricate rhizome stimulates Toll-like receptor 4, granzyme-B and Th1 cytokines in vitro. Immunobiology 2009;214:27-31.
  11. Thu OK, Nilsen OG, Hellum B. In vitro inhibition of cytochrome P-450 activities and quantification of constituents in a selection of commercial Rhodiola rosea products. Pharm Bio. 2016 Dec;54(12):3249-3256.
  12. Thu OK, Spigset O, Nilsen OG, Hellum B. Effect of commercial Rhodiola rosea on CYP enzyme activity in humans. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2016 Mar;72(3):295-300. PubMed
  13. Woron J, Siwek M. Unwanted effects of psychotropic drug interactions with medicinal products and diet supplements containing plant extracts. Psychiatr Pol 2018;52(6):983-96. PubMed

See these in context on the Rhodiola 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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