Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Sleep Support Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by GNC Preventive Nutrition

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Sleep Support is a dietary supplement by GNC Preventive Nutrition with 5 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for preventing or treating magnesium deficiency, constipation, muscle cramps.Based on those ingredients, 1,544 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract, Valerian Root Extract, Gamma Aminobutyric Acid. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition

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 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Valerian Root Extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (200 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (120 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.
  • “Griffonia seed extract” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (50.50 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

This product contains 5 active ingredients. Magnesium is included to support muscle and nerve function.

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a compound that supports serotonin, a brain chemical linked to mood and sleep. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation.

Valerian Root Extract, Ashwagandha Leaf Root Extract, and Griffonia seed extract are herbal ingredients traditionally used for sleep support. The product also contains inactive ingredients — gelatin, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, magnesium stearate, and silicon dioxide — which serve as capsule material and binders.

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.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: promote quality sleep and relaxation.
  • We looked for evidence on: Insomnia, Anxiety, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, sleep quality — and 2 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Insomnia.
  • Also on file: 5-htp is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Anxiety, Fibromyalgia, Insomnia.

Evidence for this product's sleep-supporting ingredients is mixed and incomplete in our data. Magnesium is effective for other uses (constipation, certain digestive issues, and supporting normal pregnancy), but we hold no effectiveness rating for sleep specifically.

5-HTP shows possibly effective evidence for depression — a condition that can affect sleep — but insufficient evidence exists for panic disorder or other sleep-related concerns. GABA shows insufficient evidence for anxiety, which can interfere with sleep.

The effectiveness data we hold does not establish how well these ingredients work specifically for sleep support.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Magnesium Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) Valerian Ashwagandha 5-htp

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 3 of the 3 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 3 of 3.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 3 of 3.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Magnesium is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Orally, the most common side effects are diarrhea, nausea, and gastrointestinal upset.

The safety notes advise that magnesium is needed during pregnancy, but supplements should only be used under a doctor's guidance, and that normal dietary amounts are fine while breastfeeding — ask your doctor before using supplements. 5-HTP is generally well tolerated short-term but the facts advise against it in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety information.

Common side effects of 5-HTP include nausea, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and abdominal pain, though these may lessen with continued use. GABA appears well tolerated but long-term safety is not well studied, and the facts recommend caution in pregnancy and avoiding it while breastfeeding.

Valerian Root Extract, Ashwagandha, Griffonia seed extract, Glycowithanolides, and Valerenic Acid — we hold no safety data for these.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Magnesium Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) Valerian Ashwagandha 5-htp

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 3 of the 3 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba), 5-htp, Magnesium.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; heart-rhythm medications; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 802 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, check with a pharmacist or use our tool if you take: Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet) for Parkinson's disease, any muscle relaxants, potassium-sparing diuretics, blood pressure medications (calcium channel blockers or other antihypertensives), diabetes sulfonylureas, quinolone antibiotics, bisphosphonates for bone health, antacids or acid-reducing drugs, any antidepressants or serotonin-boosting drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics, MAOIs, or migraine triptans), or any sedating medications.

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. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This is a multi-ingredient sleep product. If you take Parkinson's medication, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, or any antidepressants or serotonin-affecting drugs, check your exact medications with our tool before starting.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your doctor or pharmacist — some ingredients lack safety data or require medical guidance.

Otherwise, a pharmacist can help you confirm it's right for you.

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

Assessment coverage: 3 of 5 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Sep 25, 2024.

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 Sleep Support, straight from the product label.

Brand GNC Preventive Nutrition
Barcode (UPC) 048107241780
Net contents 60 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Sep 25, 2024
DSLD ID 315311
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
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 Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
048107241780
IngredientAmount% DV
Magnesium105 mg25%
5-Hydroxytryptophan50 mg--
Gamma Aminobutyric Acid100 mg--
Valerian Root Extract200 mg--
Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract120 mg--
Griffonia seed extract50.5 mg--
Glycowithanolides42 mg--
Valerenic Acid4 mg--

Other ingredients: Gelatin, Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, Magnesium Stearate, Silicon Dioxide

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Precautions

Keep out of reach of children.

Warning: Consult your physician prior to using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.

Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

General Statements

For More Information: 1-888-462-2548 GNC.com

60 Capsules/30 Day Supply Learn more

Formula

Promote quality sleep with clinically studied Sleeproot & Shoden

Formulation

Expert formulated Relax Sleep soundly Wake refreshed

No artificial colors, no artificial flavors, gluten free.

Melatonin free

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take two capsules daily 30-60 minutes before bed.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Sleeproot (Valerian Root Extract) is a trademark of OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd. Shoden (Ashwagandha Root and Leaf Extract) is a registered trademark of Arjuna Natural Pvt. Ltd.

See for yourself

Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition

These are the 5 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 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.

Magnesium

Interacts with
295 drugs
105 mg per serving Form: Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium is an essential mineral your body needs for muscles, nerves, blood pressure, and many other functions, and supplements are useful for preven...

Magnesium monograph & interactions

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid

Interacts with
419 drugs
100 mg per serving

GABA is a calming chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) that your body makes on its own, and it is sold as a supplement for stress, anxiety, and sleep...

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid monograph & interactions

Valerian Root Extract

Interacts with
902 drugs
200 mg per serving

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some...

Valerian Root Extract monograph & interactions
  • › Valerenic Acid

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract

Interacts with
1,372 drugs
120 mg per serving Form: Withania somnifera Leaf Extract, Withania somnifera Root Extract

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evid...

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract monograph & interactions
  • › Glycowithanolides

Griffonia seed extract

50.5 mg per serving

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

Interaction report

Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Sleep Support?

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
1,544Drugs
6 Major 1,156 Moderate 382 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Magnesium 295

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

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

Ashwagandha Leaf, Root Extract10 drug types · 1,372 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
There is preliminary clinical evidence suggesting that ashwagandha might lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Animal research suggests that ashwagandha might lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Theoretically, ashwagandha might have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs and increase the risk of hypotension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines.
There is preliminary evidence that ashwagandha might have an additive effect with diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin). This may also occur with other benzodiazepines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Ashwagandha seems to have sedative effects. Theoretically, this may potentiate the effects of barbiturates, other sedatives, and anxiolytics.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha with hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of liver damage.
Ashwagandha has been linked to cases of acute hepatitis, liver failure, hepatic encephalopathy, autoimmune hepatitis, the need for liver transplantation, and death due to liver failure.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Immunosuppressants

Theoretically, taking ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressants.
Ashwagandha has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in humans. Animal research has shown that ashwagandha can attenuate the immunosuppression caused by cyclophosphamide.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Ashwagandha might increase the effects and adverse effects of thyroid hormone.
Concomitant use of ashwagandha with thyroid hormones may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects. Preliminary clinical research and animal studies suggest that ashwagandha boosts thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. In one clinical study, ashwagandha increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels by 41.5% and 19.6%, respectively, and reduced serum TSH levels by 17.4% from baseline in adults with subclinical hypothyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP1A2 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP1A2 enzymes.

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

Theoretically, ashwagandha might decrease the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.
In vitro research shows that ashwagandha extract induces CYP3A4 enzymes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Some animal studies have reported that ashwagandha can enhance serotonergic transmission by altering certain serotonin (5-HT) receptors. However, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha increases the risk of serotonin-related effects, and there have been no published case reports of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs. Nevertheless, due to the lack of extensive studies on the matter and the fact that ashwagandha appears to affect serotonergic pathways, it would be prudent to exercise caution when combining it with drugs that affect serotonin. [References: - Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwaga ndha) on Stress and the Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders Anxiety, Depression, and Insomnia. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2021 Sep 14; 19: 1468–1495. - A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/]

Likelihood Possible Evidence C

Valerian Root Extract6 drug types · 902 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with alcohol.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might have an additive sedative effect when combined with alcohol. Excessive sedation has been reported in an alcohol-abusing individual who took valerian and Gingko biloba. However, the potential interaction between valerian and alcohol has been disputed in other research. Limited evidence suggests that a combination of valerian 160 mg and lemon balm 80 mg (Euvegal) does not cause further deterioration in reaction ability and reaction rate when taken with alcohol as compared to the effects of alcohol alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Alprazolam (Xanax)

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used with alprazolam. Also, valerian in high doses might modestly increase alprazolam levels, though this is not likely to be clinically significant.
Valerian has sedative effects. Theoretically, valerian might cause additive sedation when combined with alprazolam. Also, a small pharmacokinetic study shows that taking valerian extract 1000 mg daily (providing 11 mg valerenic acid) might increase alprazolam levels by about 19%. This might be due to valerian's mild inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Despite being statistically significant, this increase is not likely to be clinically significant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Valerian can have additive sedative effects when used concomitantly with CNS depressant drugs.
Theoretically, concomitant use of valerian and drugs with sedative and anesthetic properties may cause additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Valerian might weakly inhibit glucuronidation and increase concentrations of drugs metabolized by UGT1A1 and UGT2B7.
In vitro research shows that methanolic valerian extract and valerenic acid might competitively inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1) and UGT2B7.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian affects CYP2D6, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian is unlikely to affect the CYP2D6 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days did not affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of debrisoquine, an accepted CYP2D6 probe-substrate.

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

Valerian does not seem to have a clinically relevant effect on levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Although some in vitro evidence suggests that valerian extract might inhibit or induce CYP3A4, clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) studies show that valerian does not have a clinically significant effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme. In one PK study, taking valerian 125 mg three times daily for 28 days did not affect metabolism of midazolam, an accepted CYP3A4 probe-substrate. In another PK study, taking valerian 1000 mg (providing about 11 mg valerenic acid) nightly for 14 days modestly increases levels of alprazolam, a CYP3A4 substrate, suggesting mild inhibition of CYP3A4. However, this mild inhibition is unlikely to be clinically relevant.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Gamma Aminobutyric Acid2 drug types · 419 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, taking GABA with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Some clinical research shows that GABA can decrease blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, GABA might have additive sedative effects when used in conjunction with CNS depressants. However, it is unclear if this concern is clinically relevant.
Endogenous GABA has well-established relaxant effects and GABA(A) receptors have an established physiological role in sleep. However, the effects of GABA supplements are unclear, as it is unknown whether exogenous GABA crosses the blood-brain barrier. Although there have been limited reports of drowsiness or tiredness with GABA supplements, these effects have not been widely reported in clinical studies. Additionally, intravenous GABA 0.1-1 mg/kg has been shown to induce anxiety in a dose-dependent manner.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

5-Hydroxytryptophan3 drug types · 398 drugs

Carbidopa (Lodosyn)

Combining 5-HTP and carbidopa can increase the risk of serotonergic side effects.
Carbidopa is sometimes used with 5-HTP to minimize peripheral 5-HTP metabolism and boost the amount that reaches the brain. However, this combination might also increase the risk of some side effects including hypomania, restlessness, rapid speech, anxiety, insomnia, and aggressiveness. Combining carbidopa and 5-HTP might also increase the risk of scleroderma-like skin changes due to elevated serotonin levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of 5-HTP with medications that cause sedation might have additive effects.
In clinical trials, 5-HTP has been associated with drowsiness and somnolence.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Serotonergic Drugs

Combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might cause additive serotonergic effects.
5-HTP can increase serotonin levels and cause serotonergic effects. Theoretically, combining serotonergic drugs with 5-HTP might increase the risk of serotonergic side effects, including serotonin syndrome and cerebral vasoconstrictive disorders. However, serotonin syndrome with 5-HTP has not yet been reported in humans. Monitor patients for signs of serotonin syndrome and other serotonergic side effects if using 5-HTP with serotonergic drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Magnesium15 drug types · 295 drugs

Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet)

Magnesium can reduce the bioavailability of levodopa/carbidopa.
Clinical research in healthy volunteers shows that taking magnesium oxide 1000 mg with levodopa 100 mg/carbidopa 10 mg reduces the area under the curve (AUC) of levodopa by 35% and of carbidopa by 81%. In vitro and animal research shows that magnesium produces an alkaline environment in the digestive tract, which might lead to degradation and reduced bioavailability of levodopa/carbidopa.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

Concomitant use of aminoglycoside antibiotics and magnesium can increase the risk for neuromuscular weakness.
Both aminoglycosides and magnesium reduce presynaptic acetylcholine release, which can lead to neuromuscular blockade and possible paralysis. This is most likely to occur with high doses of magnesium given intravenously.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antacids

Use of acid reducers may reduce the laxative effect of magnesium oxide.
A retrospective analysis shows that, in the presence of H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), a higher dose of magnesium oxide is needed for a laxative effect. This may also occur with antacids. Under acidic conditions, magnesium oxide is converted to magnesium chloride and then to magnesium bicarbonate, which has an osmotic laxative effect. By reducing acidity, antacids may reduce the conversion of magnesium oxide to the active bicarbonate salt.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Bictegravir/Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (Biktarvy)

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

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Bisphosphonates

Magnesium can decrease absorption of bisphosphonates.
Cations, including magnesium, can decrease bisphosphonate absorption. Advise patients to separate doses of magnesium and these drugs by at least 2 hours.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Calcium Channel Blockers

Magnesium can have additive effects with calcium channel blockers, although evidence is conflicting.
Magnesium inhibits calcium entry into smooth muscle cells and may therefore have additive effects with calcium channel blockers. Severe hypotension and neuromuscular blockades may occur when nifedipine is used with intravenous magnesium, although some contradictory evidence suggests that concurrent use of magnesium with nifedipine does not increase the risk of neuromuscular weakness. High doses of magnesium could theoretically have additive effects with other calcium channel blockers.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Digoxin

Magnesium salts may reduce absorption of digoxin.
Clinical evidence suggests that treatment with oral magnesium hydroxide or magnesium trisilicate reduces absorption of digoxin from the intestines. This may reduce the blood levels of digoxin and decrease its therapeutic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Potassium-sparing diuretics decrease excretion of magnesium, possibly increasing magnesium levels.
Potassium-sparing diuretics also have magnesium-sparing properties, which can counteract the magnesium losses associated with loop and thiazide diuretics. Theoretically, increased magnesium levels could result from concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics and magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Quinolone Antibiotics

Magnesium decreases absorption of quinolones.
Magnesium can form insoluble complexes with quinolones and decrease their absorption. Advise patients to take these drugs at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Skeletal Muscle Relaxants

Parenteral magnesium alters the pharmacokinetics of skeletal muscle relaxants, increasing their effects and accelerating the onset of effect.
Parenteral magnesium shortens the time to onset of skeletal muscle relaxants by about 1 minute and prolongs the duration of action by about 2 minutes. Magnesium potentiates the effects of skeletal muscle relaxants by decreasing calcium-mediated release of acetylcholine from presynaptic nerve terminals, reducing postsynaptic sensitivity to acetylcholine, and having a direct effect on the membrane potential of myocytes. Magnesium also has vasodilatory actions and increases cardiac output, allowing a greater amount of muscle relaxant to reach the motor end plate. A clinical study found that low-dose rocuronium (0.45 mg/kg), when given after administration of magnesium 30 mg/kg over 10 minutes, has an accelerated onset of effect, which matches the onset of effect seen with a full-dose rocuronium regimen (0.6 mg/kg). In another clinical study, onset times for rocuronium doses of 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mg/kg were 86, 76, and 50 seconds, respectively, when given alone, but were reduced to 66, 44, and 38 seconds, respectively, when the doses were given after a 15-minute infusion of magnesium sulfate 60 mg/kg. Giving intraoperative intravenous magnesium sulfate, 50 mg/kg loading dose followed by 15 mg/kg/hour, reduces the onset time of rocuronium, enhances its clinical effects, reduces the dose of intraoperative opiates, and prolongs the spontaneous recovery time. It does not affect the activity of subsequently administered neostigmine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Sulfonylureas

Magnesium increases the systemic absorption of sulfonylureas, increasing their effects and side effects.
Clinical research shows that administration of magnesium hydroxide with glyburide increases glyburide absorption, increases maximal insulin response by 35-fold, and increases the risk of hypoglycemia, when compared with glyburide alone. A similar interaction occurs between magnesium hydroxide and glipizide. The mechanism of this effect appears to be related to the elevation of gastrointestinal pH by magnesium-based antacids, increasing solubility and enhancing absorption of sulfonylureas.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Tetracycline Antibiotics

Magnesium decreases absorption of tetracyclines.
Magnesium can form insoluble complexes with tetracyclines in the gut and decrease their absorption and antibacterial activity. Advise patients to take these drugs 1 hour before or 2 hours after magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, magnesium may have antiplatelet effects, but the evidence is conflicting.
In vitro evidence shows that magnesium sulfate inhibits platelet aggregation, even at low concentrations. Some preliminary clinical evidence shows that infusion of magnesium sulfate increases bleeding time by 48% and reduces platelet activity. However, other clinical research shows that magnesium does not affect platelet aggregation, although inhibition of platelet-dependent thrombosis can occur.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Gabapentin (Neurontin)

Gabapentin absorption can be decreased by magnesium.
Clinical research shows that giving magnesium oxide orally along with gabapentin decreases the maximum plasma concentration of gabapentin by 33%, time to maximum concentration by 36%, and area under the curve by 43%. Advise patients to take gabapentin at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, magnesium supplements.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Sevelamer (Renagel, Renvela)

Sevelamer may increase serum magnesium levels.
In patients on hemodialysis, sevelamer use was associated with a 0.28 mg/dL increase in serum magnesium. The mechanism of this interaction remains unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Sleep Support, from the product label.

GNC Preventive Nutrition

See all GNC Preventive Nutrition products
Name
GNC Holdings, LLC
City
Pittsburgh
State
PA
ZipCode
15222
Phone Number
1-888-462-2548
Web Address
GNC.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition: Common Questions

Does Sleep Support by GNC Preventive Nutrition interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Sleep Support has a known interaction with 1,544 medications, including 6 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Sleep Support contains 5 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take Sleep Support while pregnant?
Magnesium is needed during pregnancy, but use supplements only under your doctor's guidance. 5-HTP and GABA lack enough safety information — the facts advise against them during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this product if you're pregnant.
Can I take this while breastfeeding?
Magnesium at normal dietary amounts is fine, but check with your doctor before using the supplement. 5-HTP and GABA lack enough safety data, so the facts recommend avoiding them while breastfeeding. Ask your pharmacist for personalized guidance.
What are the most common side effects?
From magnesium: diarrhea, nausea, and gastrointestinal upset. From 5-HTP: nausea, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and stomach pain (these may ease with time). From GABA: drowsiness, stomach upset, and nausea. Side effects may be dose-dependent.
Is this product proven to help with sleep?
The facts we hold do not establish an effectiveness rating for sleep support specifically. Magnesium, 5-HTP, and GABA are used in sleep formulas, but the strength of evidence varies — and we don't have sleep-specific data for this product's herbal ingredients.
Why does this product have so many interactions listed?
Magnesium is a mineral that affects how the body absorbs several classes of drugs and vice versa — that accounts for most of the interactions. 5-HTP and GABA add more because they work on brain chemicals that many psychiatric and neurological medications also target. If you take any prescription drugs, it's important to check yours specifically.
Can I take this with my blood pressure medication?
Both magnesium and GABA can lower blood pressure, so combining them with blood pressure drugs could lower it too much. Check your specific medication with our tool on this page — your doctor may need to monitor you or adjust your dose.

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.

Sleep Support label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Sleep Support’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Magnesium

Interacts with 295 drugs

Magnesium is an essential mineral your body needs for muscles, nerves, blood pressure, and many other functions, and supplements are useful for preventing or correcting deficiency. Some othe...

Read the full Magnesium monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba)

Interacts with 419 drugs

GABA is a calming chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) that your body makes on its own, and it is sold as a supplement for stress, anxiety, and sleep. The science behind oral GABA supplemen...

Read the full Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Valerian

Interacts with 902 drugs

Valerian is an herb whose root is widely used as a natural sleep aid and for calming nerves. The evidence is mixed and often weak, so it may help some people sleep but does not work reliably...

Read the full Valerian monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Ashwagandha

Interacts with 1,372 drugs

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb most often taken to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep, and some small studies suggest it may help, though the evidence is still limited. It is generally w...

Read the full Ashwagandha monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

5-htp

Interacts with 398 drugs

5-HTP is a compound your body uses to make serotonin, and people take it as a supplement hoping to improve mood, sleep, and headaches. Some early research is promising, but the overall evide...

Read the full 5-htp monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Sleep Support'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 195 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.

Magnesium 82 references
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  2. Covington TR, et al. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. 11th ed. Washington, DC: American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
  3. Dahle LO, Berg G, Hammar M, et al. The effect of oral magnesium substitution on pregnancy-induced leg cramps. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1995;173:175-80. PubMed
  4. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  5. Peikert A, Wilimzig C, Kohne-Volland R. Prophylaxis of migraine with oral magnesium: results from a prospective, multi-center, placebo-controlled and double-blind randomized study. Cephalalgia 1996;16:257-63. PubMed
  6. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Fluoride. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1999. Available at: http://books.nap.edu/books/0309063507/html/index.html.
  7. Birrer RB, Shallash AJ, Totten V. Hypermagnesemia-induced fatality following epsom salt gargles. J Emerg Med 2002;22:185-8. PubMed
  8. Ryan MP. Diuretics and potassium/magnesium depletion. Directions for treatment. Am J Med 1987;82:38-47.. PubMed
  9. Hollifield JW. Magnesium depletion, diuretics, and arrhythmias. Am J Med 1987;82:30-7.. PubMed
  10. Heidenreich O. Mode of action of conventional and potassium-sparing diuretics--aspects with relevance to Mg-sparing effects. Magnesium 1984;3:248-56..
  11. Pfaffenrath V, Wessely P, Meyer C, et al. Magnesium in the prophylaxis of migraine--a double-blind placebo-controlled study. Cephalalgia 1996;16:436-40.. PubMed
  12. Wang F, Van Den Eeden SK, Ackerson LM, et al. Oral magnesium oxide prophylaxis of frequent migrainous headache in children: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Headache 2003;43:601-10.. PubMed
  13. Sompolinsky D, Samra Z. Influence of magnesium and manganese on some biological and physical properties of tetracycline. J Bacteriol 1972;110:468-76.. PubMed
  14. Jeyabalan A, Caritis SN. Pharmacologic inhibition of preterm labor. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2002;45:99-113. PubMed
  15. Mittendorf R, Dambrosia J, Pryde PG, et al. Association between the use of antenatal magnesium sulfate in preterm labor and adverse health outcomes in infants. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1111-8.. PubMed
  16. Witlin AG, Sibai BM. Magnesium sulfate therapy in preeclampsia and eclampsia. Obstet Gynecol 1998;92:883-9.. DOI
  17. Crowther CA, Hiller JE, Doyle LW. Magnesium sulphate for preventing preterm birth in threatened preterm labour. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2002;4:CD001060. . PubMed
  18. Davey MJ, Teubner D. A randomized controlled trial of magnesium sulfate, in addition to usual care, for rate control in atrial fibrillation. Ann Emerg Med 2005;45:347-53.. PubMed
  19. L'Hommedieu CS, Nicholas D, Armes DA, et al. Potentiation of magnesium sulfate--induced neuromuscular weakness by gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin. J Pediatr 1983;102:629-31..
  20. Dunn CJ, Goa KL. Risedronate: a review of its pharmacological properties and clinical use in resorptive bone disease. Drugs 2001;61:685-712..
  21. Kass L, Weekes J, Carpenter L. Effect of magnesium supplementation on blood pressure: a meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Nutr 2012;66:411-8. PubMed
  22. Koontz SL, Friedman SA, Schwartz ML. Symptomatic hypocalcemia after tocolytic therapy with magnesium sulfate and nifedipine. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2004;190(6):1773-6. PubMed
  23. Snyder SW, Cardwell MS. Neuromuscular blockade with magnesium sulfate and nifedipine. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1989;161(1):35-6. PubMed
  24. Waisman GD, Mayorga LM, Cámera MI, et al. Magnesium plus nifedipine: potentiation of hypotensive effect in preeclampsia? Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1988;159(2):308-9. PubMed
  25. Brown DD, Juhl RP. Decreased bioavailability of digoxin due to antacids and kaolin-pectin. N Engl J Med. 1976;295(19):1034-7. PubMed
  26. Allen MD, Greenblatt DJ, Harmatz JS, et al. Effect of magnesium--aluminum hydroxide and kaolin--pectin on absorption of digoxin from tablets and capsules. J Clin Pharmacol. 1981;21(1):26-30. PubMed
  27. Ravn HB, Vissinger H, Kristensen SD, et al. Magnesium inhibits platelet activity--an in vitro study. Thromb Haemost. 1996;76(1):88-93. DOI
  28. Ravn HB, Kristensen SD, Vissinger H, et al. Magnesium inhibits human platelets. Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis. 1996;7(2):241-4. PubMed
  29. Ravn HB, Vissinger H, Kristensen SD, et al. Magnesium inhibits platelet activity--an infusion study in healthy volunteers. Thromb Haemost. 1996;75(6):939-44. DOI
  30. Neuvonen PJ, Kivistö KT. The effects of magnesium hydroxide on the absorption and efficacy of two glibenclamide preparations. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1991;32(2):215-20. PubMed
  31. Kivistö KT, Neuvonen PJ. Enhancement of absorption and effect of glipizide by magnesium hydroxide. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1991;49(1):39-43. PubMed
  32. Neuvonen PJ, Kivistö KT. Enhancement of drug absorption by antacids. An unrecognised drug interaction. Clin Pharmacokinet. 1994;27(2):120-8. PubMed
  33. Shechter, M., Merz, C. N., Paul-Labrador, M., Meisel, S. R., Rude, R. K., Molloy, M. D., Dwyer, J. H., Shah, P. K., and Kaul, S. Beneficial antithrombotic effects of the association of pharmacological oral magnesium therapy with aspirin in coronary heart
  34. Ganzevoort, J. W., Hoogerwaard, E. M., and van der Post, J. A. [Hypocalcemic delirium due to magnesium sulphate therapy in a pregnant woman with pre-eclampsia]. Ned.Tijdschr.Geneeskd. 8-3-2002;146(31):1453-1456.
  35. Horner, S. M. Efficacy of intravenous magnesium in acute myocardial infarction in reducing arrhythmias and mortality. Meta-analysis of magnesium in acute myocardial infarction. Circulation 1992;86(3):774-779. PubMed
  36. Azria, E., Tsatsaris, V., Goffinet, F., Kayem, G., Mignon, A., and Cabrol, D. [Magnesium sulfate in obstetrics: current data]. J Gynecol.Obstet.Biol.Reprod.(Paris) 2004;33(6 Pt 1):510-517.
  37. Magee, L. A., Miremadi, S., Li, J., Cheng, C., Ensom, M. H., Carleton, B., Cote, A. M., and von Dadelszen, P. Therapy with both magnesium sulfate and nifedipine does not increase the risk of serious magnesium-related maternal side effects in women with p
  38. Henyan, N. N., Gillespie, E. L., White, C. M., Kluger, J., and Coleman, C. I. Impact of intravenous magnesium on post-cardiothoracic surgery atrial fibrillation and length of hospital stay: a meta-analysis. Ann.Thorac.Surg. 2005;80(6):2402-2406. PubMed
  39. Li, J., Zhang, Q., Zhang, M., and Egger, M. Intravenous magnesium for acute myocardial infarction. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2007;(2):CD002755. PubMed
  40. Doyle, L. W., Crowther, C. A., Middleton, P., Marret, S., and Rouse, D. Magnesium sulphate for women at risk of preterm birth for neuroprotection of the fetus. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2009;(1):CD004661. PubMed
  41. Han, S., Crowther, C. A., and Moore, V. Magnesium maintenance therapy for preventing preterm birth after threatened preterm labour. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2010;(7):CD000940. PubMed
  42. Duley, L., Gulmezoglu, A. M., Henderson-Smart, D. J., and Chou, D. Magnesium sulphate and other anticonvulsants for women with pre-eclampsia. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2010;(11):CD000025. PubMed
  43. Conde-Agudelo, A., Romero, R., and Kusanovic, J. P. Nifedipine in the management of preterm labor: a systematic review and metaanalysis. Am J Obstet.Gynecol. 2011;204(2):134-20. PubMed
  44. Wong, G. K., Boet, R., Poon, W. S., Chan, M. T., Gin, T., Ng, S. C., and Zee, B. C. Intravenous magnesium sulphate for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: an updated systemic review and meta-analysis. Crit Care 2011;15(1):R52. PubMed
  45. Magee, L., Sawchuck, D., Synnes, A., and von, Dadelszen P. SOGC Clinical Practice Guideline. Magnesium sulphate for fetal neuroprotection. J Obstet.Gynaecol.Can. 2011;33(5):516-529.
  46. Doyle, L. W. Antenatal magnesium sulfate and neuroprotection. Curr Opin Pediatr 2012;24(2):154-159. PubMed
  47. McDonald, S. D., Lutsiv, O., Dzaja, N., and Duley, L. A systematic review of maternal and infant outcomes following magnesium sulfate for pre-eclampsia/eclampsia in real-world use. Int J Gynaecol.Obstet. 2012;118(2):90-96. PubMed
  48. Gordon, M., Naidoo, K., Akobeng, A. K., and Thomas, A. G. Osmotic and stimulant laxatives for the management of childhood constipation. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;7:CD009118. PubMed
  49. Dodd, J. M., Crowther, C. A., and Middleton, P. Oral betamimetics for maintenance therapy after threatened preterm labour. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2012;12:CD003927. PubMed
  50. Wu, X., Wang, C., Zhu, J., Zhang, C., Zhang, Y., and Gao, Y. Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on magnesium in addition to beta-blocker for prevention of postoperative atrial arrhythmias after coronary artery bypass grafting. BMC.Cardiovasc.D PubMed
  51. Thorp, J. M., Jr., Katz, V. L., Campbell, D., and Cefalo, R. C. Hypersensitivity to magnesium sulfate. Am.J.Obstet.Gynecol. 1989;161(4):889-890. PubMed
  52. Duley L and Gulmezoglu AM. Magnesium sulphate versus lytic cocktail for eclampsia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2000;(3) PubMed
  53. Gibbins KJ, Browning KR, Lopes VV, Anderson BL, Rouse DJ. Evaluation of the clinical use of magnesium sulfate for cerebral palsy prevention. Obstet Gynecol 2013;121(2 Pt 1):235-40. PubMed
  54. Ji D. Oral magnesium sulfate causes perforation during bowel preparation for fiberoptic colonoscopy in patients with colorectal cancer. J Emerg Med 2012;43(4):716-7. PubMed
  55. Yagi T, Naito T, Mino Y, Umemura K, Kawakami J. Impact of concomitant antacid administration on gabapentin plasma exposure and oral bioavailability in healthy adult subjects. Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2012;27(2):248-54. PubMed
  56. Yamasaki M, Funakoshi S, Matsuda S, Imazu T, Takeda Y, Murakami T, Maeda Y. Interaction of magnesium oxide with gastric acid secretion inhibitors in clinical pharmacotherapy. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2014;70(8):921-4. PubMed
  57. Choi ES, Jeong WJ, Ahn SH, Oh AY, Jeon YT, Do SH. Magnesium sulfate accelerates the onset of low-dose rocuronium in patients undergoing laryngeal microsurgery. J Clin Anesth. 2017 Feb;36:102-106. PubMed
  58. Ikee R, Toyoyama T, Endo T, Tsunoda M, Hashimoto N. Impact of sevelamer hydrochloride on serum magnesium concentrations in hemodialysis patients. Magnes Res. 2016 Apr 1;29(4):184-90. PubMed
  59. Miller ES, Sakowicz A, Leger E. Lange E, Yee LM. The association between receipt of intrapartum magnesium and postpartum hemorrhage. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018;218(1 Suppl):S165.
  60. Rodríguez-Rubio L, Solis Garcia Del Pozo J, Nava E, Jordán J. Interaction between magnesium sulfate and neuromuscular blockers during the perioperative period. A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Anesth. 2016;34:524-34. PubMed
  61. Brown RS. Magnesium Sulfate: Another Cause of a Solute Diuresis. Am J Kidney Dis. 2017;69(4):550-551. PubMed
  62. Park H, Qin R, Smith TJ, et al. North Central Cancer Treatment Group N10C2 (Alliance): a double-blind placebo-controlled study of magnesium supplements to reduce menopausal hot flashes. Menopause. 2015;22(6):627-32. PubMed
  63. Sakanoue M, Sanada J, Kanekura T. Skin eruption elicited by magnesium oxide (Maglax). J Dermatol. 2016;43(2):221-2.
  64. Iwamuro M, Saito S, Yoshioka M, et al. A Magnesium Oxide Bezoar. Intern Med. 2018;57(21):3087-3091. PubMed
  65. Vilchez G, Dai J, Kumar K, Mundy D, Kontopoulos E, Sokol RJ. Racial/ethnic disparities in magnesium sulfate neuroprotection: a subgroup analysis of a multicenter randomized controlled trial. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2018;31(17):2304-2311. PubMed
  66. Drug Safety Communication: FDA Recommends Against Prolonged Use of Magnesium Sulfate to Stop Pre-term Labor Due to Bone Changes in Exposed Babies. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), May 30, 2013. https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM353
  67. Committee Opinion: Magnesium Sulfate Use in Obstetrics. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Obstetric Practice Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Number 652, January 2016. https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and-Publi
  68. Kashihara Y, Terao Y, Yoda K, et al. Effects of magnesium oxide on pharmacokinetics of L-dopa/carbidopa and assessment of pharmacodynamic changes by a model-based simulation. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2019;75(3):351-361. PubMed
  69. Shepherd E, Salam RA, Manhas D, et al. Antenatal magnesium sulphate and adverse neonatal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med. 2019;16(12):e1002988. PubMed
  70. Hong JY, Hong JY, Choi YS, et al. Antenatal magnesium sulfate treatment and risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation. Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):12826. PubMed
  71. Schuh S, Sweeney J, Rumantir M, et al. Effect of nebulized magnesium vs placebo added to albuterol on hospitalization among children with refractory acute asthma treated in the emergency department: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2020;324(20):2038-20 PubMed
  72. Almeida CED, Carvalho LR, Andrade CVC, Nascimento PD Jr, Barros GAM, Modolo NSP. Effects of magnesium sulphate on the onset time of rocuronium at different doses: a randomized clinical trial. Braz J Anesthesiol. 2021;71(5):482-8. PubMed
  73. Gochi Valdovinos A, Arriaga-Redondo M, Dejuan Bitriá E, Pérez Rodríguez I, Márquez Isidro E, Blanco Bravo D. Prenatal therapy with magnesium sulphate and intestinal obstruction due to meconium in preterm newborns. An Pediatr (Engl Ed). 2022 Feb;96(2):138- PubMed
  74. Iio K, Kondo E, Shibata E, et al. Long-term tocolysis with magnesium sulfate as a risk factor for low bone mass: a case series. J Med Cases. 2022 Feb;13(2):47-50. PubMed
  75. Eiraku K, Uozumi Y, Hieda M, Maruyama T, Nomura H. A senile case of heart failure associated with hypermagnesemia induced by magnesium-containing laxative agent. Geriatr Gerontol Int. 2022;22(10):897-899.
  76. Enayati A, Gin JH, Sajeev JK, et al. Efficacy of intravenous magnesium for the management of non-post operative atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2023;34(5):1286-1295. PubMed
  77. Su YH, Luo DC, Pang Y. Effects of intraoperative Magnesium sulfate infusion on emergency agitation during general anesthesia in patients undergoing radical mastectomy: a randomized controlled study. BMC Anesthesiol 2023;23(1):326. PubMed
  78. Han J, Park HY, Shin HJ, Chung SH, Do SH. Effects of magnesium sulphate on neostigmine-induced recovery from moderate neuromuscular blockade with rocuronium: a randomized controlled trial. Magnes Res 2023;36(2):31-39. PubMed
  79. Lee AT, Cordova JC, Jamplis RP, Pomicter GR. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome and Eclampsia in the Setting of Magnesium Toxicity: A Case Report. A A Pract 2023;17(11):e01726. PubMed
  80. Darmawan D, Rengganis I, Rumende CM, et al. Effectiveness and Safety of Nebulized Magnesium as Last Line Treatment in Adults with Acute Asthma Attack: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Acta Med Indones 2024;56(1):3-12.
  81. Shepherd ES, Goldsmith S, Doyle LW, et al. Magnesium sulphate for women at risk of preterm birth for neuroprotection of the fetus. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024;5(5):CD004661. PubMed
  82. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Biktarvy Prescribing Information. October 2024. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/210251Orig1s020lbl.pdf. Accessed July 16, 2025.

See these in context on the Magnesium monograph →

5-htp 32 references
  1. Birdsall TC. 5-Hydroxytryptophan: A Clinically-Effective Serotonin Precursor. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:271-80.
  2. Michelson D, Page SW, Casey R, et al. An eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome related disorder associated with exposure to L-5-hydroxytryptophan. J Rheumatol 1994;21:2261-5.
  3. Cangiano C, Ceci F, Cancino A, et al. Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan. Am J Clin Nutr 1992;56:863-7. PubMed
  4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Impurities confirmed in dietary supplement 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan. FDA Talk Paper, August 31, 1998; T98-48.
  5. Sternberg EM, Van Woert MH, Young SN, et al. Development of a scleroderma-like illness during therapy with L-5-hydroxytryptophan and carbidopa. N Engl J Med 1980;303:782-7. PubMed
  6. Poldinger W, Calanchini B, Schwarz W. A functional-dimensional approach to depression: serotonin deficiency as a target syndrome in a comparison of 5-hydroxytryptophan and fluvoxamine. Psychopathology 1991;24:53-81.
  7. Ribeiro CA. L-5-Hydroxytryptophan in the prophylaxis of chronic tension-type headache: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Headache 2000;40:451-6.
  8. U. S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Office of Nutritional Products, Labeling, and Dietary Supplements. Information Paper on L-Tryptophan and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, February 2001.
  9. Singhal AB, Caviness VS, Begleiter AF, et al. Cerebral vasoconstriction and stroke after use of serotonergic drugs. Neurology 2002;58:130-3. PubMed
  10. Johnson KL, Klarskov K, Benson LM, et al. Presence of peak X and related compounds: the reported contaminant in case related 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan associated with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. J Rheumatol 1999;26:2714-7.
  11. Takahashi S, Kondo H, Kato N. Effect of l-5-hydroxytryptophan on brain monoamine metabolism and evaluation of its clinical effect in depressed patients. J Psychiatr Res 1975;12:177-87. PubMed
  12. Iovieno, N., Dalton, E. D., Fava, M., and Mischoulon, D. Second-tier natural antidepressants: review and critique. J Affect.Disord. 2011;130(3):343-357. PubMed
  13. den Boer JA, Westenberg HG. Behavioral, neuroendocrine, and biochemical effects of 5-hydroxytryptophan administration in panic disorder. Psychiatry Res 1990;31:267-78. PubMed
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  18. De Benedittis G, Massei R. Serotonin precursors in chronic primary headache. A double-blind cross-over study with L-5-hydroxytryptophan vs. placebo. J Neurosurg Sci 1985;29:239-48.
  19. Van Woert, M. H., Rosenbaum, D., Howieson, J., and Bowers, M. B., Jr. Long-term therapy of myoclonus and other neurologic disorders with L-5- hydroxytryptophan and carbidopa. N Engl J Med 1-13-1977;296(2):70-75. PubMed
  20. Wyatt, R. J., Vaughan, T., Galanter, M., Kaplan, J., and Green, R. Behavioral changes of chronic schizophrenic patients given L-5- hydroxytryptophan. Science 9-22-1972;177(54):1124-1126. PubMed
  21. Chase, T. N., Ng, L. K., and Watanabe, A. M. Parkinson's disease. Modification by 5-hydroxytryptophan. Neurology 1972;22(5):479-484.
  22. van Hiele LJ. l-5-Hydroxytryptophan in depression: the first substitution therapy in psychiatry? The treatment of 99 out-patients with 'therapy-resistant' depressions. Neuropsychobiology 1980;6:230-40. PubMed
  23. Pranzatelli, M. R., Tate, E., Huang, Y., Haas, R. H., Bodensteiner, J., Ashwal, S., and Franz, D. Neuropharmacology of progressive myoclonus epilepsy: response to 5- hydroxy-L-tryptophan. Epilepsia 1995;36(8):783-791. PubMed
  24. Trouillas P, Serratrice G, Laplane D, et al. Levorotatory form of 5-hydroxytryptophan in Friedreich's ataxia. Results of a double-blind drug-placebo cooperative study. Arch Neurol 1995;52:456-60. PubMed
  25. Bastard, J., Truelle, J. L., and Emile, J. [Effectiveness of 5 hydroxy-tryptophan in Parkinson's disease]. Nouv Presse Med 9-11-1976;5(29):1836-1837.
  26. Auffret, M., Comte, H., and Bene, J. Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome induced by L-5 hydroxytryptophane: about three cases. Fund Clin Pharmacol 2013;Suppl 1(120):poster P2-204.
  27. Wyatt, R. J., Vaughan, T., Kaplan, J., Galanter, M., and Green, R. 5-Hydroxytryptophan and chronic schizophrenia. In: Barchas J and Usdin E. Serotonin and Behavior. New York: Acedemic Press;1973.
  28. Das YT, Bagchi M, Bagchi D, Preuss HG. Safety of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan. Toxicol Lett 2004;150:111-22. PubMed
  29. Pardo JV. Mania following addition of hydroxytryptophan to monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2012;34(1):102.e13-4. PubMed
  30. Michelson D, Page SW, Casey R, et al. An eosinophilia-myaligia syndrome related disorder associated with exposure to l-5-hydroxytryptophan. J Rheumatol 1994;21(12):2261-5.
  31. Yousefzadeh F, Sahebolzamani E, Sadri A, et al. 5-Hydroxytryptophan as adjuvant therapy in treatment of moderate to severe obsessive-compulsive disorder: a double-blind randomized trial with placebo control. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2020;35(5):254-262. PubMed
  32. Maffei ME. 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): Natural Occurrence, Analysis, Biosynthesis, Biotechnology, Physiology and Toxicology. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;22(1):181. PubMed

See these in context on the 5-htp monograph →

Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (gaba) 12 references
  1. Cavagnini F, Invitti C, Pinto M, et al. Effect of acute and repeated administration of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) on growth hormone and prolactin secretion in man. Acta Endocrinol (Copenh) 1980;93:149-54.
  2. Nurnberger JI Jr, Berrettini WH, Simmons-Alling S, et al. Intravenous GABA administration is anxiogenic in man. Psychiatry Res 1986;19:113-7. PubMed
  3. Gershman RN, Vasilenko MA, Iliushina GG, et al. [Gammalon in the rehabilitation in infantile cerebral palsy]. Pediatr.Akus.Ginekol. 1977;(6):26-7.
  4. Loeb C, Benassi E, Bo, GP, et al. Preliminary evaluation of the effect of GABA and phosphatidylserine in epileptic patients. Epilepsy Res. 1987;1:209-12 . PubMed
  5. Inoue K, Shirai T, Ochiai H, et al. Blood-pressure-lowering effect of a novel fermented milk containing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in mild hypertensives. Eur J Clin Nutr 2003;57:490-95.
  6. ELLIOTT, K. A. and JASPER, H. H. Gammaaminobutyric acid. Physiol Rev. 1959;39(2):383-406.
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Ashwagandha 32 references
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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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