Schisandra Max-V Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Schisandra Max-V 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
Schisandra Max-V is a dietary supplement by Douglas Laboratories with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for fatigue and low energy, stress and adaptogen support, liver health.Based on those ingredients, 803 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Schisandra Herbal Extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories
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
Schisandra Max-V contains two active ingredients: Schisandra Herbal Extract and Schisandra, delivered in a capsule form. The product also includes inactive ingredients — cellulose, silica, and vegetable stearate — which are fillers and binders that help make the capsule.
Schisandra is a traditional herb used in Asian medicine. The research we have on it focuses mainly on how it affects the enzymes and proteins your body uses to process medications, which is why the interaction picture is important to understand before you take it.
Does it work?
Couldn't assess
The evidence on schisandra's effectiveness for the conditions listed — asthma, athletic performance, cough, diabetes, diarrhea, and hepatitis — is not established in the data we hold. For each of these uses, the rating is insufficient reliable evidence to evaluate how well it works.
If you're considering this product for a specific health reason, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what the current research actually supports.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Schisandra is generally well tolerated in the short term in healthy adults, but high-quality safety data are limited. The most common side effects from oral use are decreased appetite, heartburn, stomach upset, and urticaria (a rash-like reaction).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are areas of concern. Traditional sources suggest schisandra may stimulate the uterus, so it's best avoided during pregnancy — the safety data rate it as possibly unsafe.
There isn't enough reliable safety information to recommend it while breastfeeding, so it should be avoided then too. If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking Schisandra Max-V, double-check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take immunosuppressants (especially tacrolimus, where the interaction is well documented), sedatives like midazolam, antifungals like voriconazole, blood thinners such as warfarin, or any drugs that rely on the cytochrome P450 system (CYP3A4, CYP2C19, or CYP2C9) or P-glycoprotein to be cleared from your body. These are moderate-severity interactions that can change how well your medications work or cause them to build up to unsafe levels.
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.
Schisandra Max-V is generally well tolerated in the short term, but it has moderate interactions with a large number of medications — especially drugs that are immunosuppressants, sedatives, antifungals, and blood thinners. If you take any prescription medication, you need to check it against the medication interaction tool on this page before starting.
Avoid this product if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk with your own doctor or pharmacist about whether it's right for you and your medications.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 1, 2012.
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 Schisandra Max-V, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Douglas Laboratories |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 310539005477 |
| Net contents | 60 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 1, 2012 |
| DSLD ID | 9751 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years) |
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 Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Schisandra Herbal Extract | 100 mg | -- |
| Schisandra | 100 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Cellulose, Silica, Vegetable Stearate
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.
General Statements
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis [Turcz.] Baill.) has small red berries, with the “five flavors” (sweet, sour, pungent, bitter and salty) of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Schisandra contains lignins (schisandrins and gomisin A), B-bisabolene and vitamins. This extract is standardized at 9% R-schisandrin.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Usage: As a dietary supplement, adults take 1 capsule 1 to 2 times daily between meals, or as advised by your healthcare professional. If digestive irritation occurs, take with meals.
Precautions
Stop use and consult your healthcare professional if allergic reactions occur.
Note: If pregnant or nursing, consult your healthcare professional before using this product.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Tamper resistant package, do not use if outer seal is missing.
Storage
For optimal storage conditions, store in a cool, dry place. (59(0)-77(0)F/15(0)-25(0)C) (35-65% relative humidity)
General
Formula #77369
FDA Statement of Identity
Standardized Herbal Extract
Formula
Standardized Herbal Extract 9% R-Schisandrin
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories 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 Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container60 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.
Schisandra Herbal Extract
Interacts with803 drugs
Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicine berry used as an adaptogen for stress, fatigue, and liver support. Human evidence is limited and most cla...
Schisandra Herbal Extract monograph & interactionsSchisandra
Interacts with803 drugs
Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicine berry used as an adaptogen for stress, fatigue, and liver support. Human evidence is limited and most cla...
Schisandra monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Silica, Vegetable Stearate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories does interact with a range of medications, primarily through its schisandra content.
The most serious documented interaction is with tacrolimus (an immunosuppressant), where schisandra can significantly increase tacrolimus blood levels by 183% to 268%, raising the risk of side effects and toxicity.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Schisandra affects how your body metabolizes several drug classes. It can increase levels of drugs broken down by the cytochrome P450 enzyme 3A4 (CYP3A4), including some cancer medications, sedatives like midazolam, and transplant drugs.
It also theoretically increases levels of drugs using the CYP2C19 pathway, such as voriconazole (an antifungal). Additionally, schisandra may reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin by speeding up their breakdown.
A separate concern is with drugs that rely on a protein called P-glycoprotein to move through your body — schisandra may cause these to build up to higher levels.
Schisandra can also theoretically decrease how well CYP2C9 substrates work, though this hasn't been seen in humans yet. Altogether, these interactions span 804 individual medications.
Because many common drugs fall into these categories, it's essential to check your exact medications with the tool on this page before starting.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Schisandra Max-V?
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 Schisandra Max-V interact with 803 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 2 ingredients in Schisandra Max-V interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Schisandra Herbal Extract
DasatinibPhyrago, Sprycel
How Dasatinib interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dasatinib interactionDeflazacortEmflaza
How Deflazacort interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Deflazacort interactionDelavirdine MesylateRescriptor
How Delavirdine Mesylate interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Delavirdine Mesylate interactionDemeclocyclineDeclomycin
How Demeclocycline interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraP-glycoprotein Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Demeclocycline interactionDesipramineDesipramine, Norpramin, Pertofrane
How Desipramine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Desipramine interactionDesogestrelCerazette
How Desogestrel interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Desogestrel interactionDesogestrel, Ethinyl EstradiolDesogen, Marvelon, Marvelon 21, Marvelon 28, Mircette, Ortho-Cept +2 more
How Desogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraP-glycoprotein Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Desogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol interactionDexamethasoneDecadron, Dexone, Dextenza, Dexycu, Hemady, Hexadrol +1 more
How Dexamethasone interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraP-glycoprotein Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Dexamethasone interactionDexchlorpheniraminePolaramine, Polaramine Repetabs
How Dexchlorpheniramine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dexchlorpheniramine interactionDexlansoprazoleDexilant Solutab
How Dexlansoprazole interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Dexlansoprazole interactionDextromethorphanBenylin Adult, Benylin Pediatric, Hold, Neo Citran Thin Strips Cough, Theraflu Thin Strips Long Acting Cough
How Dextromethorphan interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan interactionDextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44 Cough Relief
How Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionDextromethorphan Hbr, GuaifenesinPediatric Vicks Formula 44e Cough & Chest Congesti, Vicks Formula 44E Cough & Chest Congestion Relief
How Dextromethorphan Hbr, Guaifenesin interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan Hbr, Guaifenesin interactionDextromethorphan Hbr, Phenylephrine HclVicks Formula 44D Cough & Head Congestion Relief
How Dextromethorphan Hbr, Phenylephrine Hcl interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan Hbr, Phenylephrine Hcl interactionDextromethorphan, GuaifenesinAmibid DM, Aquatab DM, Benylin Expectorant, Bidex DM, Fenesin DM, GFN 500 DTMH 30 +17 more
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin interactionDextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, PhenylephrineAlbatussin Sr, Giltuss
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine interactionDextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, PhenylpropanolamineProfen LA
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Phenylpropanolamine interactionDextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, PseudoephedrineMaxifed DM, Med Rx DM, Medent DM, Panmist DM, Profen Forte DM, Profen II DM +4 more
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Pseudoephedrine interactionDextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, PseudophedrineAnatuss DM, Organidin NR
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Pseudophedrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Pseudophedrine interactionDextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, PsuedoephedrineAquatab C
How Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Psuedoephedrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, Psuedoephedrine interactionDextromethorphan, Methscopolamine, PhenylephrineDA Chewable
How Dextromethorphan, Methscopolamine, Phenylephrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Methscopolamine, Phenylephrine interactionDextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineSudafed Cold/Flu
How Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionDextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine, TriprolidineActifed DM
How Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine, Triprolidine interactionDiazepamDiastat AcuDial, Valium, Valium injection, Valtoco
How Diazepam interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 2c19 (cyp2c19) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Diazepam interactionDiclofenacZorvolex
How Diclofenac interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Diclofenac interactionDiclofenac PotassiumCambia, Cataflam, Cataflam IR, Voltaren Rapide, Voltarol Rapid
How Diclofenac Potassium interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Diclofenac Potassium interactionDiclofenac SodiumAcoflam, Acoflam 75 SR, Acoflam Retard, Defenac, Defenac Retard, Defenac SR +40 more
How Diclofenac Sodium interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Diclofenac Sodium interactionDiclofenac Sodium, MisoprostolArthrotec 50, Arthrotec 75
How Diclofenac Sodium, Misoprostol interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Diclofenac Sodium, Misoprostol interactionDiclofenac EpolamineFlector, Licart
How Diclofenac Epolamine interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 2c9 (cyp2c9) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
Read the full Schisandra + Diclofenac Epolamine interactionDienogestVisanne
How Dienogest interacts with Schisandra Max-V — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
SchisandraCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Schisandra + Dienogest interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Schisandra Max-V 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.
Schisandra Herbal Extract
Cyclophosphamide
Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of cyclophosphamide.
In vitro research shows that schisandra increases the concentration of cyclophosphamide, likely through inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4. After multiple doses of the schisandra constituents schisandrin A and schisantherin A, the maximum concentration of cyclophosphamide was increased by 7% and 75%, respectively, while the overall exposure to cyclophosphamide was increased by 29% and 301%, respectively.
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of cyclosporine.
A small observational study in children with aplastic anemia found that taking schisandra with cyclosporine increased cyclosporine trough levels by 93% without increasing the risk of adverse events. However, the dose of cyclosporine was reduced in 9% of children to maintain appropriate cyclosporine blood concentrations.
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates
Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C19 substrates.
In vitro research shows that schisandra inhibits CYP2C19, and animal research shows that schisandra increases the concentration of voriconazole, a CYP2C19 substrate. Theoretically, schisandra may also inhibit the metabolism of other CYP2C19 substrates. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.
In vitro and animal research suggests that schisandra induces CYP2C9 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Most clinical and laboratory research shows that schisandra, administered either as a single dose or up to twice daily for 14 days, inhibits CYP3A4 and increases the concentration of CYP3A4 substrates such as cyclophosphamide, midazolam, tacrolimus, and talinolol. Although one in vitro and animal study shows that schisandra may induce CYP3A4 metabolism, this effect appears to be overpowered by schisandra's CYP3A4 inhibitory activity and has not been reported in humans.
Midazolam (Versed)
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of midazolam.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy adults shows that taking schisandra extract (Hezheng Pharmaceutical Co.) containing deoxyschizandrin 33.75 mg twice daily for 8 days and a single dose of midazolam 15 mg on day 8 increases the overall exposure to midazolam by about 119%, increases the peak plasma level of midazolam by 86%, and decreases midazolam clearance by about 52%. This effect has been attributed to inhibition of CYP3A4 by schisandra.
P-Glycoprotein Substrates
Schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.
In vitro research shows that schisandra extracts and constituents such as schisandrin B inhibit P-glycoprotein mediated efflux in intestinal cells and in P-glycoprotein over-expressing cell lines. Additionally, a small clinical study shows that schisandra increases the peak concentration and overall exposure to talinolol, a P-glycoprotein probe substrate. Theoretically, schisandra might inhibit the efflux of other P-glycoprotein substrates.
Sirolimus (Rapamune)
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of sirolimus.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking 3 capsules of schisandra (Hezheng Pharmaceutical Company) containing a total of 33.75 mg deoxyschizandrin twice daily for 13 days and then taking a single dose of sirolimus 2 mg increases the overall exposure and peak level of sirolimus by two-fold. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 by schisandra, as well as possible inhibition of the P-glycoprotein drug transporter.
Tacrolimus (Prograf)
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of tacrolimus.
Clinical research in healthy children and adults, transplant patients, and patients with nephrotic syndrome and various rheumatic immunologic disorders shows that taking schisandra with tacrolimus increases tacrolimus peak levels by 183% to 268%, prolongs or delays time to peak tacrolimus concentrations, increases overall exposure to tacrolimus by 126% to 343%, and decreases tacrolimus clearance by 19% to 73%. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of P-glycoprotein drug transporter and CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 by schisandra. Some clinical and observational studies suggest that schisandra increases tacrolimus levels similarly in both expressors and non-expressors of CYP3A5, while other studies suggest it does so to a greater degree in CYP3A5 expressors than non-expressors. Animal research suggests that the greatest increase in tacrolimus levels occurs when schisandra is taken either concomitantly or up to 2 hours before tacrolimus, and clinical and observational research in humans suggests that schisandra may increase whole blood levels of tacrolimus and decrease clearance of tacrolimus in a dose-dependent manner.
Talinolol
Schisandra can increase the levels and clinical effects of talinolol.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking schisandra extract 300 mg twice daily for 14 days with a single dose of talinolol 100 mg on day 14 increases the peak talinolol level by 51% and the overall exposure to talinolol by 47%. This effect is thought to be due to the possible inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 and P-glycoprotein by schisandra.
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Voriconazole (Vfend)
Theoretically, schisandra might increase the levels and clinical effects of voriconazole.
Animal research shows that oral schisandra given daily for 1 or 14 days increases levels of intravenously administered voriconazole, a cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 substrate. This effect is thought to be due to inhibition of CYP2C19 by schisandra. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, schisandra might decrease the levels and clinical effects of warfarin.
Animal research suggests that oral schisandra extract, given daily for 6 days, reduces levels of intravenously administered warfarin. This effect might be due to the induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 metabolism by schisandra. However, this interaction has not been reported in humans.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Schisandra Max-V, from the product label.
Douglas Laboratories
See all Douglas Laboratories products- Name
- Douglas Laboratories
- Street Address
- 600 Boyce Road
- City
- Pittsburgh
- State
- PA
- ZipCode
- 15205
- Phone Number
- 1.800.245.4440
- Web Address
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Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories: Common Questions
Does Schisandra Max-V by Douglas Laboratories interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
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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.
The Full Monographs Behind Schisandra Max-V’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Schisandra Max-V'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 26 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.
Schisandra 26 references
- Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
- Iwata H, Tezuka Y, Kadota S, et al. Identification and characterization of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors in Schisandra fruit extract. Drug Metab Dispos 2004;32:1351-8. PubMed
- Mu Y, Zhang J, Zhang S, et al. Traditional Chinese medicines Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis Baill) and Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch) activate pregnane X receptor and increase warfarin clearance in rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2006;316:1369-77. PubMed
- Xin HW, Wu XC, Li Q, et al. Effects of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2007;64:469-75.
- Qin XL, Bi HC, Wang XD, et al. Mechanistic understanding of the different effects of Wuhzi Tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) on the absorption and first-pass intestinal and hepatic metabolism of tacrolimus (FK506). Int J Pharm 2010;389:114-21.
- Makino, T., Mizuno, F., and Mizukami, H. Does a kampo medicine containing schisandra fruit affect pharmacokinetics of nifedipine like grapefruit juice? Biol.Pharm.Bull. 2006;29(10):2065-2069. PubMed
- Fan L, Mao XQ, Tao GY, Wang G, Jiang F, Chen Y, Li Q, Zhang W, Lei HP, Hu DL, Huang YF, Wang D, Zhou HH. Effect of Schisandra chinensis extract and Ginkgo biloba extract on the pharmacokinetics of talinolol in healthy volunteers. Xenobiotica. 2009 Mar;39(
- Jiang W, Wang X, Xu X, Kong L. Effect of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the concentration of tacrolimus in the blood of liver transplant patients. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2010 Mar;48(3):224-9. PubMed
- Xin HW, Wu XC, Li Q, Yu AR, Xiong L. Effects of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the pharmacokinetics of midazolam in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2009 May;67(5):541-6.
- Li J, Chen S, Qin X, et at. Wuzhi Tablet (<i>Schisandra sphenanthera</i> Extract) is a Promising Tacrolimus-Sparing Agent for Renal Transplant Recipients Who are CYP3A5 Expressers: a Two-Phase Prospective Study. Drug Metab Dispos. 2017;45(11):1114-1119.
- Qin XL, Li JL, Wang SH, Chen X, Huang M, Bi HC. Co-administration of Wuzhi tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) alters tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in a dose- and time-dependent manner in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2020;263:113233. PubMed
- Yuan F, Liang X, Chen X, Qin X, Tan C, Wang L. CYP2C19 is involved in the effect of Wuzhi tablet (Schisandra sphenanthera extract) and its constituents on the pharmacokinetics of intravenous voriconazole. Pharmazie. 2020;75(11):559-564. DOI
- Zhang Z, Lu X, Dong L, Ma J, Fan X. Clinical observation on the effect of Wuzhi soft capsule on FK506 concentration in membranous nephropathy patients. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019;98(48):e18150. PubMed
- Yoo HH, Lee M, Lee MW, Lim SY, Shin J, Kim DH. Effects of Schisandra lignans on P-glycoprotein-mediated drug efflux in human intestinal Caco-2. Planta Med. 2007;73(5):444-50.
- Qiangrong P, Wang T, Lu Q, Hu X. Schisandrin B--a novel inhibitor of P-glycoprotein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2005;335(2):406-11. PubMed
- Chen L, Ji N, Zhang M, Chen W. The influence of Wuzhi capsule on the pharmacokinetics of cyclophosphamide. Recent Pat Anticancer Drug Discov 2021. PubMed
- Cheng X, Ma J, Xu X, Zhang L, Wang X, Wu R. Effect of Wuzhi capsules on cyclosporine A concentration in children with aplastic anemia immunotherapy: a single-center observational study. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022:1-5. PubMed
- Cheng F, Li Q, Wang J, Zeng F, Zhang Y. Effects and safety evaluation of Wuzhi capsules combined with tacrolimus for the treatment of kidney transplantation recipients. J Clin Pharm Ther 2021;46(6):1636-49. PubMed
- Teng F, Wang W, Zhang W, et al. Effect of hepar-protecting Wuzhi capsule on pharmacokinetics and dose-effect character of tacrolimus in healthy volunteers. Biopharm Drug Dispos 2022.
- Kou K, Sun X, Li M, et al. Beneficial effects of Wuzhi capsule on tacrolimus blood concentrations in liver transplant patients with different donor-recipient CYP3A5 genotypes. J Clin Pharm Ther 2022;47(2):200-10. PubMed
- Peng Y, Jiang F, Zhou R, et al. Clinical evaluation of the efficacy and safety of co-administration of Wuzhi capsule and tacrolimus in adult Chinese patients with myasthenia gravis. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021;17:2281-9. PubMed
- Chen P, Dai R, She Y, et al. Prediction of tacrolimus and Wuzhi tablet pharmacokinetic interaction magnitude in renal transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2022;36(12):e14807. PubMed
- Qu J, Bian R, Liu B, et al. The pharmacokinetic study of tacrolimus and Wuzhi capsule in Chinese liver transplant patients. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:956166. PubMed
- Zhou Y, Huang X, Liu L, et al. Effect of Wuzhi preparations on tacrolimus in CYP3A5 expressers during the early period after transplantation: A real-life experience from heart transplant recipients. Transpl Immunol 2023;76:101748. PubMed
- Huang Q, Lin X, Wang Y, et al. Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in pediatric nephrotic syndrome: A combination of population pharmacokinetic modelling and machine learning approaches to improve individual prediction. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:942129. PubMed
- Wang CB, Zhang YJ, Zhao MM, Zhao LM. Population pharmacokinetic analyses of tacrolimus in non-transplant patients: a systematic review. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2023;79(7):897-913. 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.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC