Spirulina & Chlorella Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Swanson
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Spirulina & Chlorella 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
Spirulina & Chlorella is a dietary supplement by Swanson with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for general nutrition and energy, antioxidant support, cholesterol and metabolic health.Based on those ingredients, 626 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are certified organic Chlorella powder, Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.
AI summaries are generated from our interaction database for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
This product contains 2 active ingredients: Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina and certified organic Chlorella powder. Both are whole-algae supplements — nutrient-dense foods rather than isolated compounds.
The remaining ingredients are inactive (pullulan, brown rice powder, rice bran extract, and rice concentrate), which serve as capsule material and flow agents.
Does it work?
Not established
For spirulina, the data supports that it's possibly effective for high blood pressure (hypertension). For acne, hay fever, iron deficiency anemia, and arsenic poisoning, the evidence is insufficient to rate.
Chlorella shows possibly effective evidence for pregnancy-related iron deficiency. For brain tumors, fatty liver disease, depression, and fatigue, the evidence is insufficient.
Neither ingredient's effectiveness for other common uses appears in our data.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Both ingredients are generally well tolerated short-term, but a major caution applies to both: product quality and purity vary widely, and contamination with toxins or heavy metals has been documented. The facts note safety data are incomplete for chlorella, and spirulina carries contamination risk.
Common side effects from spirulina include abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, flatulence, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Chlorella may cause allergic reactions, abdominal cramping, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, nausea, photosensitivity, and stool discoloration.
Rare but serious reactions (anaphylaxis) have been reported with both. Three cases of mild gum bleeding and one of mild bruising occurred in spirulina users.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking this product, check with your pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (spirulina may increase bleeding risk), diabetes medications (spirulina may lower blood sugar further), immunosuppressants (spirulina may interfere with them), warfarin specifically (chlorella can reduce its effectiveness), or any drug that makes your skin light-sensitive (chlorella may worsen photosensitization).
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Consider this product if you're interested in algae supplements and have no blood-clotting medications, diabetes drugs, immunosuppressants, or photosensitizing medications, and you're not taking warfarin. If you take any prescription medication or have a history of allergies, check your exact drugs with us first.
Be aware that product quality varies — ask your pharmacist about sourcing and purity testing before you buy.
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 Jan 7, 2019.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about Spirulina & Chlorella, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Swanson |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 087614060781 |
| Net contents | 90 Veggie Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jan 7, 2019 |
| DSLD ID | 184772 |
| Product type | Non-nutrient/non-botanical |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Organic |
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 Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina | 400 mg | -- |
| certified organic Chlorella powder | 400 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Pullulan, organic Brown Rice powder, organic Rice Bran extract, organic Rice concentrate
Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation
Two certified organic superfoods combined as one powerful supplement
Certified Organic by Minnesota Crop Improvement Association (MCIA), St. Paul, MN 55108.
General Statements
Boosts antioxidant activity Supports toxin removal Science-backed Quality Since 1969
Antioxidant Support 400 mg each Green Foods Formula
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested use: As a dietary supplement, take two capsules one to three times per day with food and water.
Brand IP Statement(s)
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina is a trademark of Parry Nutraceuticals, Ltd.
Precautions
Warning: For adults only.
Consult your physician before using this or any product if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use if seal is broken.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Formula
Made with Organic Spirulina & Chlorella
FDA Statement of Identity
Dietary Supplement
General
SWR078 Rev 0 05 03 18
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson 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 Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson
These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size2 Veggie Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container45 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.
Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina
Interacts with327 drugs
Blue-green algae are nutrient-rich aquatic microorganisms (such as spirulina and Klamath Lake algae) taken as a supplement for energy, nutrition, and...
Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina monograph & interactionsCertified organic Chlorella powder
Interacts with337 drugs
Chlorella is a nutrient-rich freshwater green algae taken as a supplement for general wellness, immune support, and 'detox.' Some small studies sugges...
Certified organic Chlorella powder monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Pullulan, Organic Brown Rice powder, Organic Rice Bran extract, Organic Rice concentrate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Swanson's Spirulina & Chlorella contains two algae ingredients, each with documented interactions.
Altogether, these interactions span 620 individual medications.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Spirulina carries a Moderate risk with blood thinners (anticoagulants) and antiplatelet drugs — it may theoretically increase bleeding risk, though one small study suggested this is unlikely in practice. It also interacts Moderately with immunosuppressants (it can stimulate your immune system, which might interfere with drugs that suppress it) and with diabetes medications (spirulina can lower blood sugar, raising the risk of low blood sugar if you're already on diabetes drugs).
Chlorella adds two more Moderate interactions: it may worsen photosensitization if you're taking drugs that make your skin light-sensitive, and it contains vitamin K, which can reduce how well warfarin (a blood thinner) works — at least one case report documents warfarin becoming ineffective after starting chlorella.
Use the medication checker below with your exact prescriptions before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Spirulina & Chlorella?
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 Spirulina & Chlorella interact with 626 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 2 ingredients in Spirulina & Chlorella interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. certified organic Chlorella powder Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina
6-mercaptopurinePurinethol
How 6-mercaptopurine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaImmunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, concurrent use of blue-green algae might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + 6-mercaptopurine interactionAbciximabReoPro
How Abciximab interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Abciximab interactionAbrocitinibCibinqo
How Abrocitinib interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs, Immunosuppressants Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Abrocitinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking blue-green algae with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acarbose interactionAcenocoumarolSintrom
How Acenocoumarol interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acenocoumarol interactionAcepromazineAtravet
How Acepromazine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acepromazine interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PseudoephedrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS Liquid Gels, Children's Tylenol Cold, Codimal, Comtrex, Extra Strength Tylenol Allergy Sinus, Lorsin +3 more
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, PseudoephedrineSinadrin Plus
How Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Dexbrompheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, DiphenhydramineTylenol PM, Tylenol PM Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine interactionAcetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Allergy, Cold Control, Contac Night Allergy Relief
How Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, IbuprofenCombogesic
How Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interactionParry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAnticoagulant/antiplatelet Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen interactionAcetaminophen, Phenylephrine, ChlorpheniramineSuper Cold Tabs
How Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, Chlorpheniramine interactionAcetazolamideAk-Zol, Diamox
How Acetazolamide interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetazolamide interactionAcetohexamideDymelor
How Acetohexamide interacts with Spirulina & Chlorella — through 2 ingredients. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Certified Organic Chlorella PowderPhotosensitizing Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Read the full Certified Organic Chlorella Powder + Acetohexamide interactionParry's Vegetarian Certified Organic SpirulinaAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking blue-green algae with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Read the full Parry's Vegetarian Certified Organic Spirulina + Acetohexamide interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Spirulina & Chlorella 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.
certified organic Chlorella powder
Photosensitizing Drugs
Theoretically, chlorella might have additive effects with photosensitizing drugs.
Chlorella has been reported to cause photosensitization. In five case reports, patients who had ingested chlorella exhibited swelling followed by erythematopurpuric lesions on sun-exposed areas of the body. Theoretically, concomitant use with photosensitizing drugs may exacerbate effects.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theoretically, chlorella might reduce the clinical effects of warfarin.
Chlorella contains significant amounts of vitamin K. There is at least one case report of warfarin therapy becoming sub-therapeutic after initiation of chlorella supplements.
Parry's Vegetarian certified organic Spirulina
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, this is unlikely.
Spirulina blue-green algae have shown antiplatelet and anticoagulant effects in vitro. However, one preliminary study in 24 patients receiving spirulina blue-green algae 2.3 grams daily for 2 weeks showed no effect on platelet activation or measures of clotting time.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, taking blue-green algae with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Human research shows that spirulina blue-green algae can have hypoglycemic effects in patients with diabetes, at least some of whom were using antidiabetes drugs. However, blue-green algae does not seem to improve glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with diabetes. A meta-analysis of animal studies also suggests that spirulina blue-green algae have hypoglycemic effects.
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, concurrent use of blue-green algae might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Blue-green algae have been shown to stimulate the immune system.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Spirulina & Chlorella, from the product label.
Swanson
See all Swanson products- Name
- Swanson Health Products
- City
- Fargo
- State
- ND
- ZipCode
- 58104
- Phone Number
- 1-800-437-4148
- Web Address
- swanson.com
Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson: Common Questions
Does Spirulina & Chlorella by Swanson interact with any medications?
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Where does this information come from?
Can I take this if I'm on warfarin?
Can I take this if I'm on diabetes medication?
Is this safe during pregnancy?
What are the most common side effects?
Does spirulina really lower blood pressure?
Is this product pure and safe from contamination?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
Not sure if Spirulina & Chlorella is safe with your meds?
Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.
Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Spirulina & Chlorella’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Blue-green Algae
Interacts with 327 drugsBlue-green algae are nutrient-rich aquatic microorganisms (such as spirulina and Klamath Lake algae) taken as a supplement for energy, nutrition, and general wellness. Evidence for most heal...
Read the full Blue-green Algae monograph → Herb & supplement monographChlorella
Interacts with 337 drugsChlorella is a nutrient-rich freshwater green algae taken as a supplement for general wellness, immune support, and 'detox.' Some small studies suggest possible benefits for cholesterol, blo...
Read the full Chlorella monograph →Sources & How We Checked
Spirulina & Chlorella'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 35 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.
Blue-green Algae 22 references
- Jensen GS, Ginsberg DJ, Huerta P, et al. Consumption of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae has rapid effects on the circulation and function of immune cells in humans. A novel approach to nutritional mobilization of the immune system. JANA 2000;2:50-6.
- Iwasa M, Yamamoto M, Tanaka Y, et al. Spirulina-associated hepatotoxicity. Am J Gastroenterol 2002;97:3212-13. PubMed
- Hayashi O, Katoh T, Okuwaki Y. Enhancement of antibody production in mice by dietary Spirulina platensis. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 1994;40:431-41.. PubMed
- Vitale S, Miller NR, Mejico LJ, et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial of super blue-green algae in patients with essential blepharospasm or Meige syndrome. Am J Ophthalmol 2004;138:18-32. PubMed
- Mani UV, Desai S, Iyer U. Studies on the long-term effect of spirulina supplementation on serum lipid profile and glycated proteins in NIDDM patients. J Nutraceut 2000;2(3):25-32. DOI
- Chiu HF, Yang SP, Kuo YL, et al. Mechanisms involved in the antiplatelet effect of C-phycocyanin. Br J Nutr 2006;95:435-40. PubMed
- Hsiao G, Chou PH, Shen MY, et al. C-phycocyanin, a very potent and novel platelet aggregation inhibitor from Spirulina platensis. J Agric Food Chem 2005;53:7734-40.
- Katz M, Levine AA, Kol-Degani H, Kav-Venaki L. A compound herbal preparation (CHP) in the treatment of children with ADHD: a randomized controlled trial. J Atten Disord 2010;14:281-91. PubMed
- Madhyastha, H. K., Radha, K. S., Sugiki, M., Omura, S., and Maruyama, M. Purification of c-phycocyanin from Spirulina fusiformis and its effect on the induction of urokinase-type plasminogen activator from calf pulmonary endothelial cells. Phytomedicine PubMed
- Mazokopakis, E. E., Karefilakis, C. M., Tsartsalis, A. N., Milkas, A. N., and Ganotakis, E. S. Acute rhabdomyolysis caused by Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). Phytomedicine. 2008;15(6-7):525-527. PubMed
- Halidou, Doudou M., Degbey, H., Daouda, H., Leveque, A., Donnen, P., Hennart, P., and Dramaix-Wilmet, M. [The effect of spiruline during nutritional rehabilitation: systematic review]. Rev.Epidemiol.Sante Publique 2008;56(6):425-431.
- Konno, T., Umeda, Y., Umeda, M., Kawachi, I., Oyake, M., and Fujita, N. [A case of inflammatory myopathy with widely skin rash following use of supplements containing Spirulina]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2011;51(5):330-333. PubMed
- Le TM, Knulst AC, Röckmann H. Anaphylaxis to Spirulina confirmed by skin prick test with ingredients of Spirulina tablets. Food Chem Toxicol 2014;74:309-10. PubMed
- Rzymski P, Niedzielski P, Kaczmarek N, Jurczak T, Klimaszyk P. The multidisciplinary approach to safety and toxicity assessment of microalgae-based food supplements following clinical cases of poisoning. Harmful Algae 2015;46:34-42. DOI
- Petrus M, Culerrier R, Campistron M, et al. First case report of anaphylaxis to spirulin: identification of phycocyanin as responsible allergen. Allergy 2010;65(7):924-5. PubMed
- Marles RJ, Barrett ML, Barnes J, et al. United States Pharmacopeia safety evaluation of spirulina. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2011;51(7):593-604. PubMed
- Majdoub H, Ben Mansour M, Chaubet F, et al. Anticoagulant activity of a sulfated polysaccharide from the green alga Arthrospira platensis. Biochim Biophys Acta 2009;1790(10):1377-81. PubMed
- Cha BG, Kwak HW, Park AR, et al. Structural characteristics and biological performance of silk fibroin nanofiber containing microalgae spirulina extract. Biopolymers 2014;101(4):307-18. PubMed
- Jensen GS, Drapeau C, Lenninger M, Benson KF. Clinical safety of a high dose of phycocyanin-enriched aqueous extract from Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis: results from a randomized, double-Blind, placebo-controlled study with a focus on anticoagulant ac
- Hamedifard Z, Milajerdi A, Reiner Z, Taghizadeh M, Kolahdooz F, Asemi Z. The effects of spirulina on glycemic control and serum lipoproteins in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized con
- Moradi S, Zobeiri M, Feizi A, Clark CCT, Entezari MH. The effects of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood pressure, sleep quality, mental health, fatigue status and quality of life in patients with ulcerative
- Ghanbari F, Amerizadeh A, Behshood P, Moradi S, Asgary S. Effect of microalgae arthrospira on biomarkers of glycemic control and glucose metabolism: a systematic Review and meta-analysis. Curr Probl Cardiol 2022;47(10):100942. PubMed
Chlorella 13 references
- Peirce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York, NY: William Morrow and Co., 1999.
- Ng TP, Tan WC, Lee YK. Occupational asthma in a pharmacist induced by chlorella, a unicellular algae preparation. Resp Med 1994;88:555-7. PubMed
- Jitsukawa K, Suizu R, Hidano A. Chlorella photosensitization. New phytophotodermatosis. Int J Dermatol 1984;23:263-8. PubMed
- Merchant RE, Carmack CA, Wise CM. Nutritional supplementation with Chlorella pyrenoidosa for patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: a pilot study. Phytother Res 2000;14:167-73.
- Merchant RE, Rice CD, Young HF. Dietary Chlorella pyrenoidosa for patients with malignant glioma: effects on immunocompetence, quality of life, and survival. Phytother Res 1990;4:220-31.
- Halperin SA, Smith B, Nolan C, et al. Safety and immunoenhancing effect of a Chlorella-derived dietary supplement in healthy adults undergoing influenza vaccination: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. CMAJ 2003;169:111-7..
- Ohtake, T., Negishi, K., Okamoto, K., Oka, M., Maesato, K., Moriya, H., and Kobayashi, S. Manganese-induced Parkinsonism in a patient undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Am J Kidney Dis 2005;46(4):749-753. PubMed
- Ng, T. P., Tan, W. C., and Lee, Y. K. Occupational asthma in a pharmacist induced by Chlorella, a unicellular algae preparation. Respir.Med. 1994;88(7):555-557. PubMed
- Ohkawa, S., Yoneda, Y., Ohsumi, Y., and Tabuchi, M. [Warfarin therapy and chlorella]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 1995;35(7):806-807.
- Azocar J, Diaz A. Efficacy and safety of chlorella supplementation in adults with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. World J Gastroenterol 2013;19(7):1085-90. PubMed
- Panahi Y, Badeli R, Karami GR, Badeli Z, Sahebkar A. A randomized controlled trial of 6-week Chlorella vulgaris supplementation in patients with major depressive disorder. Complement Ther Med 2015;23(4):598-602. PubMed
- Nakano S, Takekoshi H, Nakano M. Chlorella pyrenoidosa supplementation reduces the risk of anemia, proteinuria and edema in pregnant women. Plant Foods Hum Nutr 2010;65(1):25-30. PubMed
- Yavasoglu I, Turgutkaya A, Bolaman Z. Chlorella-induced thrombocytopenia. Sao Paulo Med J 2018;136(6):602-3. PubMed
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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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