ViralEase Ingredients & Drug Interactions
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking ViralEase 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
ViralEase is a dietary supplement by Douglas Laboratories with 3 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for common cold and immune support, antioxidant support, skin health and collagen formation.Based on those ingredients, 326 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Vitamin C, Elderberry. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories
Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories — 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 ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories
Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.
What’s inside
Full disclosure
ViralEase contains 3 active ingredients. Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin that supports immune function and is effective for preventing vitamin C deficiency; it's possibly effective for several other conditions including anemia of chronic disease and exercise-induced respiratory infections.
Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid found in coconut oil. Elderberry is an herbal extract from the ripe fruit of the elder plant.
The product also contains inactive ingredients — cellulose and ascorbyl palmitate — that serve as a capsule base and preservative.
Does it work?
Strong evidence
Vitamin C in this product is established as effective for vitamin C deficiency and possibly effective for anemia of chronic disease, atrial fibrillation, cataracts, and exercise-induced respiratory infections. The effectiveness data we hold for lauric acid and elderberry do not establish that they work — the evidence for both is insufficient to rate their usefulness for conditions like common cold, bronchitis, vaginal yeast infections, and herpes.
That doesn't mean they don't work, just that the data we have isn't strong enough to say either way.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Vitamin C is generally well tolerated at normal doses, but high doses above 2 grams daily can cause abdominal cramps, heartburn, osmotic diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Very high doses may raise kidney stone risk in susceptible people and, in rare cases, cause serious kidney problems.
Properly prepared elderberry from ripe fruit is generally well tolerated; raw or unripe berries and other plant parts contain toxins that cause nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea, weakness, and dizziness. A rare case of autoimmune hepatitis has been reported after long-term elderberry use.
Lauric acid at high dietary amounts raises LDL (bad) cholesterol, though it also raises HDL (good) cholesterol, and nausea may occur with some formulations.
Meds to double-check
Moderate interaction found
Before taking ViralEase, double-check with your pharmacist if you take chemotherapy drugs (alkylating agents or antitumor antibiotics), blood thinners like warfarin, estrogen-based medications including birth control or hormone therapy, the HIV drug indinavir, thyroid medication (levothyroxine), immunosuppressants, or the cancer drug pazopanib. These have documented Moderate interactions with ingredients in this product.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with strong clinical evidence behind its ingredients' uses. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
This product is worth considering if you want vitamin C support, but check your medications first — especially if you take blood thinners, birth control, thyroid medication, immunosuppressants, or are undergoing cancer treatment. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor before starting, particularly if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of kidney stones.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 3 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jun 1, 2012.
This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed
General information
Key facts about ViralEase, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Douglas Laboratories |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 310539012581 |
| Net contents | 90 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Jun 1, 2012 |
| DSLD ID | 9871 |
| Product type | Botanical With Nutrients |
| Supplement form | Capsule |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Dairy Free, Sugar Free |
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.
Supplement Facts
The label details for ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 150 mg | 250% |
| Lauric Acid | 250 mg | -- |
| Elderberry | 130 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Cellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate
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.
FDA Statement of Identity
A Dietary Supplement
Formulation
This product contains NO yeast, wheat gluten, soy protein, milk/dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch, artificial coloring, preservatives or flavoring.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Suggested Usage: Adults take 1-2 capsules 3 times daily as needed or as directed by physician.
Precautions
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Tamper resistant package, do not use if outer seal is missing.
Storage
For optimal storage conditions, store in a cool, dry place. (59(0)-77(0)F/15(0)-25(0)C) (35-65% relative humidity)
General
Formula #80443
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories label
The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.
Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.
View the full label (PDF)The Ingredients in ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories
These are the 3 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 Vegetarian Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container90 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.
Vitamin C
Interacts with207 drugs
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for im...
Vitamin C monograph & interactionsLauric Acid
No knowninteractions
Lauric acid is a medium-to-long-chain saturated fatty acid found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk. It is studied for possible antimicr...
Lauric Acid monograph & interactionsElderberry
Interacts with121 drugs
Elderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu sym...
Elderberry monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose, Ascorbyl Palmitate. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories does interact with a number of medications, primarily through its vitamin C content.
The most serious concern is with chemotherapy drugs called alkylating agents and antitumor antibiotics — vitamin C's antioxidant effects might reduce how well these cancer medications work. If you're undergoing chemotherapy, talk to your oncologist before starting this product.
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Vitamin C in ViralEase can also affect blood thinners like warfarin, estrogen-based medications (including birth control and hormone therapy), and several other drug types. It may reduce warfarin's effectiveness, increase estrogen levels significantly, decrease levels of the HIV medication indinavir, and potentially lower thyroid medication (levothyroxine) absorption.
Elderberry, another ingredient here, theoretically may interfere with immunosuppressant medications and interacts with the cancer drug pazopanib.
We could not check lauric acid for interactions — we hold no interaction data for it. Altogether, these interactions span 322 individual medications.
Use the medication checker on this page to look up your exact drugs before you start.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against ViralEase?
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 ViralEase interact with 326 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
2 of the 3 ingredients in ViralEase interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Vitamin C Elderberry
AcetaminophenChildren's Tylenol, Children's Tylenol Meltaways, Tylenol, Tylenol Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen interactionAcetaminophen, AspirinGemnisyn
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others), Aspirin Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Aspirin interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAspirin, Acetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, ButalbitalAxocet, Bancap, Bucet, Butex Forte, Esgic CF, Orbivan CF +5 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Butalbital interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CodeineBancap w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine PhosphatePhrenilin #3
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Codeine Phosphate interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, CodeineGesic C15, Gesic C30, Gesic C8, Lenoltec 1, Lenoltec 2, Lenoltec 3 +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PhenylpropanolamineMulti Symptom Cold Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, PseudoephedrineChildren's Tylenol Cold Plus Cough, Tylenol Cold Ex Strength
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic GG
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylephrineAlka-Seltzer PLUS, Histex SR, Protid
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, SalicylamideRhinogesic, Rhinogesic JR
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylephrine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineAlumadrine, Conex, Sinadrin Max Strength, Sinulin
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, OpiumHista-Derfule
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Opium interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, PhenyltoloxamineNorel Plus
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine, Phenyltoloxamine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + 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 ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Pseudoephedrine interactionAcetaminophen, ChlorzoxazoneAcetazone Forte, Extra Strength Tylenol Aches & Strains, Parafon Forte
How Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, CodeineAcetazone Forte C8, Parafon Forte C8
How Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, Codeine interacts with ViralEase — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Vitamin CAcetaminophen (tylenol, Others) Minor
Interaction Summary
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
Read the full Vitamin C + Acetaminophen, Chlorzoxazone, Codeine interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in ViralEase 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.
Vitamin C
Alkylating Agents
Theoretically, antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals, such as cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, carmustine, busulfan, and thiotepa. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Aluminum
Vitamin C can increase the amount of aluminum absorbed from aluminum compounds.
Research in animals and humans shows that vitamin C increases aluminum absorption, theoretically by chelating aluminum and keeping it in solution where it is available for absorption. In people with normal renal function, urinary excretion of aluminum will likely increase, making aluminum retention and toxicity unlikely. Patients with renal failure who take aluminum-containing compounds such as phosphate binders should avoid vitamin C supplements in doses above the recommended dietary allowances.
Antitumor Antibiotics
Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of vitamin C might reduce the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like vitamin C during chemotherapy is controversial. There is concern that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs which generate free radicals, such as doxorubicin. In contrast, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that could interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effects, if any, antioxidants such as vitamin C have on chemotherapy.
Estrogens
Vitamin C might increase blood levels of estrogens.
Increases in plasma estrogen levels of up to 55% occur under some circumstances when vitamin C is taken concurrently with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, including topical products. It is suggested that vitamin C prevents oxidation of estrogen in the tissues, regenerates oxidized estrogen, and reduces sulfate conjugation of estrogen in the gut wall. When tissue levels of vitamin C are high, these processes are already maximized and supplemental vitamin C does not have any effect on estrogen levels. Increases in plasma estrogen levels may occur when patients who are deficient in vitamin C take supplements. Monitor these patients for estrogen-related side effects.
Fluphenazine (Prolixin)
Theoretically, vitamin C might decrease levels of fluphenazine.
In one patient there was a clinically significant decrease in fluphenazine levels when vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) was started. The mechanism is not known, and there is no further data to confirm this interaction.
Indinavir (Crixivan)
Vitamin C can modestly reduce indinavir levels.
One pharmacokinetic study shows that taking vitamin C 1 gram orally once daily along with indinavir 800 mg orally three times daily reduces the area under the concentration-time curve of indinavir by 14%. The mechanism of this interaction is unknown, but it is unlikely to be clinically significant in most patients. The effect of higher doses of vitamin C on indinavir levels is unknown.
Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Others)
Vitamin C can increase levothyroxine absorption.
Two clinical studies in adults with poorly controlled hypothyroidism show that swallowing levothyroxine with a glass of water containing vitamin C 500-1000 mg in solution reduces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and increases thyroxine (T4) levels when compared with taking levothyroxine alone. This suggests that vitamin C increases the oral absorption of levothyroxine, possibly due to a reduction in pH.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
High-dose vitamin C might reduce the levels and effectiveness of warfarin.
Vitamin C in high doses may cause diarrhea and possibly reduce warfarin absorption. There are reports of two people who took up to 16 grams daily of vitamin C and had a reduction in prothrombin time. Lower doses of 5-10 grams daily can also reduce warfarin absorption. In many cases, this does not seem to be clinically significant. However, a case of warfarin resistance has been reported for a patient who took vitamin C 500 mg twice daily. Cessation of vitamin C supplementation resulted in a rapid increase in international normalized ratio (INR). Tell patients taking warfarin to avoid taking vitamin C in excessively high doses (greater than 10 grams daily). Lower doses may be safe, but the anticoagulation activity of warfarin should be monitored. Patients who are stabilized on warfarin while taking vitamin C should avoid adjusting vitamin C dosage to prevent the possibility of warfarin resistance.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Others)
High-dose vitamin C might slightly prolong the clearance of acetaminophen.
A small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking high-dose vitamin C (3 grams) 1.5 hours after taking acetaminophen 1 gram slightly increases the apparent half-life of acetaminophen from around 2.3 hours to 3.1 hours. Ascorbic acid competitively inhibits sulfate conjugation of acetaminophen. However, to compensate, elimination of acetaminophen glucuronide and unconjugated acetaminophen increases. This effect is not likely to be clinically significant.
Aspirin
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase aspirin levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction is not clinically significant.
Choline Magnesium Trisalicylate (Trilisate)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase choline magnesium trisalicylate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams daily of vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Niacin
Vitamin C might decrease the beneficial effects of niacin on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.
A combination of niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) effectively raises HDL cholesterol levels in patients with coronary disease and low HDL levels. Clinical research shows that taking a combination of antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium) along with niacin and simvastatin (Zocor) attenuates this rise in HDL, specifically the HDL-2 and apolipoprotein A1 fractions, by more than 50% in patients with coronary disease. It is not known whether this adverse effect is due to a single antioxidant such as vitamin C, or to the combination. It also is not known whether it will occur in other patient populations.
Salsalate (Disalcid)
Acidification of the urine by vitamin C might increase salsalate levels.
It has been suggested that acidification of the urine by vitamin C could increase reabsorption of salicylates by the renal tubules, and increase plasma salicylate levels. However, short-term use of up to 6 grams/day vitamin C does not seem to affect urinary pH or salicylate excretion, suggesting this interaction probably is not clinically significant.
Elderberry
Immunosuppressants
Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.
Elderberry has immunostimulant activity, increasing the production of cytokines, including interleukin and tumor necrosis factor.
Pazopanib (Votrient)
Theoretically, elderberry might interact with pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for ViralEase, from the product label.
Douglas Laboratories
See all Douglas Laboratories products- Name
- Douglas Laboratories
- City
- Pittsburgh
- State
- PA
- ZipCode
- 15205
- Web Address
- www.douglaslabs.com
ViralEase by Douglas Laboratories: Common Questions
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Does ViralEase actually prevent or treat colds?
What is lauric acid and why is it in ViralEase?
Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind ViralEase’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Vitamin C
Interacts with 207 drugsVitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient your body needs but cannot make, so you must get it from food or supplements. It's important for immune function, collagen, and acts as an...
Read the full Vitamin C monograph → Herb & supplement monographLauric Acid
Lauric acid is a medium-to-long-chain saturated fatty acid found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and breast milk. It is studied for possible antimicrobial and skin benefits, but solid human...
Read the full Lauric Acid monograph → Herb & supplement monographElderberry
Interacts with 121 drugsElderberry is a popular herbal supplement, mainly taken to help with colds and flu. Some small studies suggest it may modestly shorten cold or flu symptoms, but the evidence is limited and n...
Read the full Elderberry monograph →Sources & How We Checked
ViralEase'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 65 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.
Vitamin C 51 references
- McEvoy GK, ed. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
- Back DJ, Breckenridge AM, MacIver M, et al. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;282:1516.
- Morris JC, Beeley L, Ballantine N. Interaction of ethinyloestradiol with ascorbic acid in man [letter]. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1981;283:503.
- Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
- Dwyer JH, Merz NB, Shirocre AM, et al. Progression of early atherosclerosis and intake of vitamin C and vitamin E from supplements and food. The Los Angeles Atherosclerosis Study. 41st Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevent
- Levine M, Rumsey SC, Daruwala R, et al. Criteria and recommendations for vitamin C intake. JAMA 1999;281:1415-23. PubMed
- Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
- Segal S, Kaminski S. Drug-nutrient interactions. American Druggist 1996 Jul;42-8.
- Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/books/0309069351/html/.
- Houston JB, Levy G. Drug biotransformation interactions in man VI: Acetaminophen and ascorbic acid. J Pharm Sci 1976;65:1218-21. PubMed
- Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
- Rosenthal G. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1971;215:1671. DOI
- Hume R, Johnstone JM, Weyers E. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;219:1479. DOI
- Smith EC, Skalski RJ, Johnson GC, Rossi GV. Interaction of ascorbic acid and warfarin. JAMA 1972;221:1166. DOI
- Traxer O, Huet B, Poindexter J, et al. Effect of ascorbic acid consumption on urinary stone risk factors. J Urol 2003;170:397-401.. PubMed
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Richart C. Effect of ascorbic acid on gastrointestinal aluminum absorption (letter). Lancet 1991;338:1467.
- Domingo JL, Gomez M, Llobet JM, Corbella J. Influence of some dietary constituents on aluminum absorption and retention in rats. Kidney Int 1991;39:598-601. PubMed
- Partridge NA, Regnier FE, White JL, Hem SL. Influence of dietary constituents on intestinal absorption of aluminum. Kidney Int 1989;35:1413-7. PubMed
- Mc Leod DC, Nahata MC. Inefficacy of ascorbic acid as a urinary acidifier (letter). N Engl J Med 1977;296:1413. DOI
- Hansten PD, Hayton WL. Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration. J Clin Pharmacol 1980;20:326-31. PubMed
- Dysken MW, Cumming RJ, Channon RA, Davis JM. Drug interaction between ascorbic acid and fluphenazine. JAMA 1979;241:2008. DOI
- Vihtamaki T, Parantainen J, Koivisto AM, et al. Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Maturitas 2002;42:129-35. PubMed
- Slain D, Amsden JR, Khakoo RA, et al. Effect of high-dose vitamin C on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of the protease inhibitor indinavir in healthy volunteers. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:165-70. PubMed
- Cheung MC, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Antioxidant supplements block the response of HDL to simvastatin-niacin therapy in patients with coronary artery disease and low HDL. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2001;21:1320-6. PubMed
- Feetam CL, Leach RH, Meynell MJ. Lack of a clinically important interaction between warfarin and ascorbic acid. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1975;31:544-7. PubMed
- Weintraub M, Griner PF. Warfarin and ascorbic acid: lack of evidence for a drug interaction. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 1974;28:53-6. PubMed
- Lee DH, Folsom AR, Harnack L, et al. Does supplemental vitamin C increase cardiovascular disease risk in women with diabetes? Am J Clin Nutr 2004;80:1194-200. PubMed
- Taylor EN, Stampfer MJ, Curhan GC. Dietary factors and the risk of incident kidney stones in men: new insights after 14 years of follow-up. J Am Soc Nephrol 2004;15:3225-32. PubMed
- Ward NC, Hodgson JM, Croft KD, et al. The combination of vitamin C and grape-seed polyphenols increases blood pressure: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Hypertens 2005;23:427-34.. PubMed
- Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
- Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
- Fairweather-Tait S, Hickson K, McGaw B, et al. Orange juice enhances aluminium absorption from antacid preparation. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1994;48(1):71-3.
- Gruenwald, J., Graubaum, H. J., Busch, R., and Bentley, C. Safety and tolerance of ester-C compared with regular ascorbic acid. Adv.Ther. 2006;23(1):171-178.
- Rahimi, R., Nikfar, S., Rezaie, A., and Abdollahi, M. A meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of combined vitamin C and E supplementation in preeclamptic women. Hypertens.Pregnancy. 2009;28(4):417-434. PubMed
- Einerson, B., Nathorn, C., Kitiyakara, C., Sirada, M., and Thamlikitkul, V. The efficacy of ascorbic acid in suboptimal responsive anemic hemodialysis patients receiving erythropoietin: a meta-analysis. J Med.Assoc.Thai. 2011;94 Suppl 1:S134-S146.
- Li, G., Li, L., Yu, C., and Chen, L. Effect of vitamins C and E supplementation on Helicobacter pylori eradication: a meta-analysis. Br.J Nutr 2011;106(11):1632-1637.
- Chen X, Shen L, Gu X, et al. High-dose supplementation with vitamin C--induced pediatric urolithiasis: the first case report in a child and literature review. Urology. 2014;84(4):922-4. PubMed
- Sattar A, Willman JE, Kolluri R. Possible warfarin resistance due to interaction with ascorbic acid: case report and literature review. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2013;70(9):782-6. PubMed
- Yaich S, Chaabouni Y, Charfeddine K, et al. Secondary oxalosis due to excess vitamin C intake: a cause of graft loss in a renal transplant recipient. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2014;25(1):113-6. PubMed
- Jalloh MA, Gregory PJ, Hein D, et al. Dietary supplement interactions with antiretrovirals: a systematic review. Int J STD AIDS. 2017 Jan;28(1):4-15. PubMed
- Rumbold A, Ota E, Nagata C, Shahrook S, Crowther CA. Vitamin C supplementation in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(9):CD004072. PubMed
- Seo MS, Kim JK, Shim JY. High-dose vitamin C promotes regression of multiple pulmonary metastases originating from hepatocellular carcinoma. Yonsei Med J. 2015;56(5):1449-52. PubMed
- Skelin M, Lucijanic T, Amidzic Klaric D, et al. Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review. Clin Ther. 2017 Feb;39(2):378-403. PubMed
- Jiang K, Tang K, Liu H, Xu H, Ye Z, Chen Z. Ascorbic acid supplements and kidney stones incidence among men and women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol J. 2019;16(2):115-120.
- Thomas S, Patel D, Bittel B, et al. Effect of High-Dose Zinc and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation vs Usual Care on Symptom Length and Reduction Among Ambulatory Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The COVID A to Z Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2 PubMed
- Giffen MA, McLemore JL. Hyperoxalosis Secondary to Intravenous Vitamin C Administration as a Non-Allopathic Treatment for Cancer. Acad Forensic Pathol 2019;9(1-2):118-126. PubMed
- Maike A, Sturgill D, Gallan A. Oxalate Nephropathy in a Renal Transplant Recipient After Receiving High Dose Ascorbic Acid. Am J Med Sci 2021. PubMed
- Shen ZY, Chen YR, Wang MC, Chang SS. High-dose vitamin C-induced acute oxalate nephropathy in a renal transplant recipient: a case report and literature review. Asian J Surg 2022. PubMed
- Yanase F, Spano S, Maeda A, et al. Mega-dose sodium ascorbate: a pilot, single-dose, physiological effect, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Crit Care 2023;27(1):371. PubMed
- Sharma Y, Sumanadasa S, Shahi R, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C supplementation in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. Sci Rep 2024;14(1):11846. PubMed
- Pejcic AV, Petrovic NZ, Djordjic MD, Milosavljevic MN. Vitamin C Levels in Pregnant Women and the Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplements in Preventing Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Balkan Med J 2024;41(4):248-260. PubMed
Lauric Acid 8 references
- Brown KE, Leong K, Huang CH, et al. Gelatin/chondroitin 6-sulfate microspheres for the delivery of therapeutic proteins to the joint. Arthritis Rheum 1998;41:2185-95. PubMed
- de Roos N, Schouten E, Katan M. Consumption of a solid fat rich in lauric acid results in a more favorable serum lipid profile in healthy men and women than consumption of a solid fat rich in trans-fatty acids. J Nutr 2001;131;242-5. PubMed
- Temme EH, Mensink RP, Hornstra G. Comparison of the effects of diets enriched in lauric, palmitic, or oleic acids on serum lipids and lipoproteins in healthy women and men. Am J Clin Nutr 1996;63:897-903. PubMed
- Denke MA, Grundy SM. Comparison of effects of lauric acid and palmitic acid on plasma lipids and lipoproteins. Am J Clin Nutr 1992;56:895-8. PubMed
- Tholstrup T, Marckmann P, Vessby B, Sandstrom B. Effect of fats high in individual saturated fatty acids on plasma lipoprotein[a] levels in young healthy men. J Lipid Res 1995;36;1447-52. DOI
- Francois CA, Connor SL, Wander RC, Connor WE. Acute effects of dietary fatty acids on the fatty acids of human milk. Am J Clin Nutr 1998;67:301-8. PubMed
- Tholstrup T, Marckmann P, Jespersen J, Sandstrom B. Fat high in stearic acid favorably affects blood lipids and factor VII coagulant activity in comparison with fats high in palmitic acid or high in myristic and lauric acids. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;59:371-7. PubMed
- McVeay C, Fitzgerald PCE, Ullrich SS, Steinert RE, Horowitz M, Feinle-Bisset C. Effects of intraduodenal administration of lauric acid and L-tryptophan, alone and combined, on gut hormones, pyloric pressures, and energy intake in healthy men. Am J Clin Nu PubMed
Elderberry 6 references
- Barak V, Halperin T, Kalickman I. The effect of Sambucol, a black elderberry-based, natural product, on the production of human cytokines: I. Inflammatory cytokines. Eur Cytokine Netw 2001;12:290-6..
- Elderberry (Sambucus species). The Poison Plant Patch, Novia Scotia Museum, 2007. Available at: http://museum.gov.ns.ca/poison/?section=species&id=117 (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- European elder. Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System. Available at: http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/pp/ppack.jump?p_null=all&p_psn=121&p_type=all&p_sci=comm&p_x=px (Accessed 16 October 2009).
- Raus K, Pleschka S, Klein P, Schoop R, Fisher P. Effect of an echinacea-based hot drink versus oseltamivir in Influenza treatment: a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, multicenter, noninferiority clinical trial. . Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2015;20;77:6 PubMed
- Ramachandran A, Antala D, Pudasainee P, Panginikkod S, Gupta H. A Plausible Association Between the Use of Elderberry and Autoimmune Hepatitis. Cureus 2022;14(4):e24250. PubMed
- Agarwal N, Mangla A. Elderberry interaction with pazopanib in a patient with soft-tissue sarcoma: A case report and literature review. Mol Clin Oncol 2024;20(5):36. PubMed
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC