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

Vitality Geroprotector Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Thrivous

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

Vitality Geroprotector is a dietary supplement by Thrivous with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for heart health, statin-related muscle aches, migraine prevention.Based on those ingredients, 1,298 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Berberine Hydrochloride, Milk Thistle fruit extract, Coenzyme Q10. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous

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 4 of its 4 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Vitality Geroprotector contains 4 active ingredients. Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant compound your cells make naturally and use for energy production.

Berberine hydrochloride is an alkaloid extracted from plants and may support metabolic health. Milk thistle fruit extract contains silymarin, a group of compounds traditionally used for liver function.

Blueberry fruit extract provides polyphenols and other plant compounds. The product also includes cellulose, an inactive filler.

Does it work?

Strong evidence
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
Strong

Clinical evidence supports at least one of this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: supports healthy blood sugar and cellular function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Aging, Diabetes, Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes), Dyslipidemia, Hyperlipidemia, Hypertriglyceridemia — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Coenzyme Q10 is rated "Likely Effective" for Coenzyme Q10 deficiency (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Milk Thistle is rated "Possibly Effective" for Diabetes.
  • Also on file: Coenzyme Q10 is rated "Possibly Effective" for Congestive heart failure (CHF).

Coenzyme Q10 is likely effective for CoQ10 deficiency and possibly effective for fibromyalgia, migraine headache, congestive heart failure, and diabetic neuropathy. Berberine is possibly effective for high cholesterol, polycystic ovary syndrome, H. pylori infection, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Milk thistle extract is possibly effective for type 2 diabetes; for other uses like liver disease, allergies, and mushroom poisoning, the evidence isn't established in our data. Blueberry extract shows possibly ineffective for high blood pressure; for cognitive decline, anxiety, athletic performance, cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease, the evidence isn't established in our data.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Coenzyme Q10 Berberine Milk Thistle Blueberry

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 4 of the 4 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 4 of 4.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 4 of 4.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Coenzyme Q10 is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal—appetite loss, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting—occurring in less than 1% of users.

Headache, dizziness, and insomnia have been reported; skin itching and rash are rare. There isn't enough safety data during pregnancy, so the data advises against it unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Safety during breastfeeding hasn't been well studied. Berberine is generally well tolerated short-term but is not safe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding—it may cross the placenta and pass into breast milk, with links to harm in newborns.

Common side effects are gastrointestinal: belly pain and bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It may also cause dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and headache.

Intravenous berberine (not in this product) has caused rare heart rhythm problems. Milk thistle is generally well tolerated.

Mild gastrointestinal side effects like bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and gas don't typically exceed placebo rates. Headache, dizziness, and sleep problems have been reported; allergic reactions including anaphylaxis are rare.

It should be avoided during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. Safety during breastfeeding hasn't been well studied.

Blueberry extract is generally well tolerated. Freeze-dried blueberries may cause constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting; in one trial, 26% of users taking 50 grams daily dropped out in the first week due to stomach complaints.

Blueberries as food are considered likely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but the safety of high-dose concentrated extracts during breastfeeding isn't known.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Coenzyme Q10 Berberine Milk Thistle Blueberry

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?
  • 4 of the 4 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Milk Thistle, Coenzyme Q10, Blueberry, Berberine.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; immunosuppressants / transplant drugs; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,299 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, double-check if you're on cyclosporine (Major interaction with berberine). Then check for Moderate interactions: blood thinners like warfarin, blood pressure drugs, diabetes medications, CNS depressants, chemotherapy drugs, and any medications metabolized by liver enzymes (CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP3A4 substrates, or glucuronidated drugs).

Specific drugs to ask about include sirolimus, ledipasvir, sofosbuvir, and morphine. Minor interactions exist with flurbiprofen and buspirone.

Use the medication checker on this page to be sure.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with clinical evidence supporting its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product may be worth considering if you're interested in antioxidant and metabolic support and have no major health conditions or medications. However, if you take any prescription drugs—especially cyclosporine, blood thinners, blood pressure medications, diabetes drugs, or medications metabolized by your liver—you need to check with your pharmacist first.

Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding should talk with their doctor before starting, and berberine specifically must be avoided during both.

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

Assessment coverage: 4 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Aug 23, 2019.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Vitality Geroprotector, straight from the product label.

Brand Thrivous
Barcode (UPC) 866033000246
Net contents 120 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Aug 23, 2019
DSLD ID 206256
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous, 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:
4 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
4 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
866033000246
IngredientAmount% DV
Coenzyme Q10100 mg--
Berberine Hydrochloride500 mg--
Milk Thistle fruit extract100 mg--
Blueberry fruit extract1400 mg--

Other ingredients: Cellulose

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

Warning: Consult a physician before and during use of all dietary supplements.

Storage: Keep cool and dry, away from children.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Use: Take 4 capsules up to 4 times daily with meals, for a total of 4 to 16 capsules daily.

Storage

Storage: Keep cool and dry, away from children.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

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

General Statements

Supports healthy blood sugar, and cellular and DNA function during normal aging

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

See for yourself

Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size4 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.

Coenzyme Q10

Interacts with
198 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: Ubiquinone

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance your body makes naturally that helps cells produce energy and acts as an antioxidant. It is generally well tolerated...

Coenzyme Q10 monograph & interactions

Berberine Hydrochloride

Interacts with
1,160 drugs
500 mg per serving

Berberine is a yellow plant compound that has shown promise for lowering blood sugar and cholesterol in some studies, but the quality of research vari...

Berberine Hydrochloride monograph & interactions

Milk Thistle fruit extract

Interacts with
954 drugs
100 mg per serving Form: Silymarin

Milk thistle is a popular herbal supplement most often used for liver health, and its main active component is a group of compounds called silymarin....

Milk Thistle fruit extract monograph & interactions

Blueberry fruit extract

Interacts with
88 drugs
1400 mg per serving Form: Anthocyanin

Blueberries are a nutritious fruit rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, and eating them as part of a balanced diet is healthy and safe for most p...

Blueberry fruit extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Cellulose. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Vitality Geroprotector?

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
1,298Drugs
1 Major 1,217 Moderate 80 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Vitality Geroprotector 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.

Berberine Hydrochloride15 drug types · 1,160 drugs

Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)

Berberine can increase serum levels of cyclosporine.
Berberine can reduce metabolism and increase serum levels of cyclosporine. Berberine might inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which metabolizes cyclosporine.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, berberine might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro and in vivo research suggest that berberine can inhibit platelet aggregation. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects when used with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs and increase the risk of bleeding.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, berberine may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Clinical research shows that berberine may lower blood glucose levels. Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, berberine might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that berberine can have hypotensive effects. Also, a clinical study suggests that taking berberine in combination with amlodipine can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure when compared with amlodipine alone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, berberine might increase the sedative effects of CNS depressants.
Animal research suggests that berberine may have sedative effects. Theoretically, use of berberine along with CNS depressants might produce additive therapeutic and adverse effects.

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

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit CYP2C9. Theoretically, taking berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

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

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical evidence show that berberine can inhibit CYP2D6. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

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

Theoretically, berberine might increase serum levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research and preliminary clinical research show that berberine moderately inhibits CYP3A4. Theoretically, use of berberine with drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 might increase drug levels and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)

Theoretically, berberine may increase serum levels of dextromethorphan.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) activity and reduce the metabolism of dextromethorphan. This may increase the effects and side effects of dextromethorphan.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Losartan (Cozaar)

Berberine might reduce the therapeutic effects of losartan by decreasing its conversion to its active form.
Preliminary clinical research suggests that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) activity and reduce metabolism of losartan.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Metformin (Glucophage)

Theoretically, berberine might increase the therapeutic and adverse effects of metformin.
In vitro and animal studies show that berberine can increase the systemic exposure and half-life of metformin, potentially increasing metformin's effects and side effects. This interaction seems to be most apparent when berberine is administered 2 hours prior to metformin. Taking berberine and metformin at the same time does not appear to increase systemic exposure to metformin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Midazolam (Versed)

Berberine can reduce metabolism of midazolam, which might increase the risk of severe adverse effects.
Preliminary clinical research shows that berberine can inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity and reduce metabolism of midazolam.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Pentobarbital (Nembutal)

Berberine might increase the sedative effect of pentobarbital.
Evidence from animal research shows that berberine can prolong pentobarbital-induced sleeping time. Theoretically, combining berberine and pentobarbital might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tacrolimus (Prograf)

Berberine has been associated with increased blood levels of tacrolimus.
In a 16-year-old patient with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome who was being treated with tacrolimus 6.5 mg twice daily, intake of berberine 200 mg three times daily increased the blood concentration of tacrolimus from 8 to 22 ng/mL. Following a reduction of the tacrolimus dose to 3 mg daily, blood levels of tacrolimus decreased to 12 ng/mL.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Acetazolamide

Laboratory studies and initial clinical findings suggest that berberine has the potential to increase acetazolamide concentrations in the body. More research is needed to confirm this interaction.

Likelihood Possible Evidence C

Milk Thistle fruit extract17 drug types · 954 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking milk thistle with antidiabetes drugs may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Clinical research shows that milk thistle extract, alone or along with tree turmeric extract, can lower blood glucose levels and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients with type 2 diabetes, including those already taking antidiabetes drugs. Additionally, animal research shows that milk thistle extract increases the metformin maximum plasma concentration and area under the curve and decreases the renal clearance of metformin, due to inhibition of the multi-drug and toxin extrusion protein 1 (MATE1) renal tubular transport protein.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates

Theoretically, milk thistle might inhibit CYP2B6.
An in vitro study shows that silybin, a constituent of milk thistle, binds to and noncompetitively inhibits CYP2B6. Additionally, silybin might downregulate the expression of CYP2B6 by decreasing mRNA and protein levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Glucuronidated Drugs

Theoretically, milk thistle might affect the clearance of drugs that undergo glucuronidation.
Laboratory research shows that milk thistle constituents inhibit uridine diphosphoglucuronosyl transferase (UGT), the major phase 2 enzyme that is responsible for glucuronidation. Theoretically, this could decrease the clearance and increase levels of glucuronidated drugs. Other laboratory research suggests that a milk thistle extract of silymarin might inhibit beta-glucuronidase, although the significance of this effect is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Ledipasvir

Theoretically, milk thistle might increase the levels and clinical effects of ledipasvir.
Animal research in rats shows that milk thistle increases the area under the curve (AUC) for ledipasvir and slows its elimination.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Morphine

Theoretically, concomitant use of milk thistle with morphine might affect serum levels of morphine and either increase or decrease its effects.
Animal research shows that milk thistle reduces serum levels of morphine by up to 66%. In contrast, laboratory research shows that milk thistle constituents inhibit uridine diphosphoglucuronosyl transferase (UGT), the major phase 2 enzyme that is responsible for glucuronidation. Theoretically, this could decrease the clearance and increase morphine levels. The effect of taking milk thistle on morphine metabolism in humans is not known.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Raloxifene (Evista)

Theoretically, milk thistle might decrease the clearance and increase levels of raloxifene.
Laboratory research suggests that the milk thistle constituents silibinin and silymarin inhibit the glucuronidation of raloxifene in the intestines.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sirolimus (Rapamune)

Milk thistle might decrease the clearance of sirolimus.
Pharmacokinetic research shows that a milk thistle extract of silymarin decreases the apparent clearance of sirolimus in hepatically impaired renal transplant patients. It is unclear if this interaction occurs in patients without hepatic impairment.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Sofosbuvir (Solvaldi)

Theoretically, milk thistle might decrease the levels and clinical effects of sofosbuvir.
Animal research in rats shows that milk thistle reduces the metabolism of sofosbuvir, as well as the hepatic uptake of its active metabolite.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Theoretically, the milk thistle constituent silibinin might increase tamoxifen levels and interfere with its conversion to an active metabolite.
Animal research suggests that the milk thistle constituent silibinin might increase plasma levels of tamoxifen and alter its conversion to an active metabolite. The mechanism appears to involve inhibition of pre-systemic metabolism of tamoxifen by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 and CYP3A4, and inhibition of P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux of tamoxifen into the intestine for excretion. Whether this interaction occurs in humans is not known.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, milk thistle might increase the effects of warfarin.
In one case report, a man stabilized on warfarin experienced an increase in INR from 2.64 to 4.12 after taking a combination product containing milk thistle 200 mg daily, as well as dandelion, wild yam, niacinamide, and vitamin B12. Levels returned to normal after stopping the supplement. Although a direct correlation between milk thistle and the change in INR cannot be confirmed, some in vitro research suggests that milk thistle might inhibit cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), an enzyme involved in the metabolism of various drugs, including warfarin.

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

It is unclear if milk thistle inhibits CYP2C9; research is conflicting.
In vitro research suggests that milk thistle might inhibit CYP2C9. Additionally, 3 case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking milk thistle and cancer medications that are CYP2C9 substrates, including imatinib and capecitabine. However, contradictory clinical research shows that milk thistle extract does not inhibit CYP2C9 or significantly affect levels of the CYP2C9 substrate tolbutamide. Differences in results could be due to differences in dosages or formulations utilized.

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

It is unclear if milk thistle inhibits CYP3A4; research is conflicting.
While laboratory research shows conflicting results, pharmacokinetic research shows that taking milk thistle extract 420-1350 mg daily does not significantly affect the metabolism of the CYP3A4 substrates irinotecan, midazolam, or indinavir. However, 8 case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking milk thistle and cancer medications that are CYP3A4 substrates, including gefitinib, sorafenib, doxorubicin, and vincristine.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, milk thistle might interfere with estrogen therapy through competition for estrogen receptors.
Animal research suggests that a milk thistle extract of silymarin binds to estrogen receptor beta.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Theoretically, milk thistle might interfere with statin therapy by decreasing the activity of organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATB1B1) and inhibiting breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP).
Preliminary evidence suggests that a milk thistle extract of silymarin can decrease the activity of the OATP1B1, which transports HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors into the liver to their site of action, and animal research shows this increases the maximum plasma concentration of pitavastatin and pravastatin. The silibinin component also inhibits BCRP, which transports statins from the liver into the bile for excretion. However, in a preliminary study in healthy males, silymarin 140 mg three times daily had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of a single 10 mg dose of rosuvastatin.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Indinavir (Crixivan)

Theoretically, milk thistle may induce cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes and increase the metabolism of indinavir; however, results are conflicting.
One pharmacokinetic study shows that taking milk thistle (Standardized Milk Thistle, General Nutrition Corp.) 175 mg three times daily in combination with multiple doses of indinavir 800 mg every 8 hours decreases the mean trough levels of indinavir by 25%. However, results from the same pharmacokinetic study show that milk thistle does not affect the overall exposure to indinavir. Furthermore, two other pharmacokinetic studies show that taking specific milk thistle extract (Legalon, Rottapharm Madaus; Thisilyn, Nature's Way) 160-450 mg every 8 hours in combination with multiple doses of indinavir 800 mg every 8 hours does not reduce levels of indinavir.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide Substrates (Oatp)

Milk thistle may inhibit one form of OATP, OATP-B1, which could reduce the bioavailability and clinical effects of OATP-B1 substrates.
In vitro research shows that milk thistle inhibits OATP-B1. Two case reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describe increased toxicity in patients taking milk thistle and cancer medications that are OATP substrates, including sorafenib and methotrexate. OATPs are expressed in the small intestine and liver and are responsible for the uptake of drugs and other compounds into the body. Inhibition of OATP may reduce the bioavailability of oral drugs that are substrates of OATP.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, milk thistle might increase the absorption of P-glycoprotein substrates. However, this effect does not seem to be clinically significant.
In vitro research shows that milk thistle can inhibit P-glycoprotein activity and 1 case report from the World Health Organization (WHO) adverse drug reaction database describes increased abdominal pain in a patient taking milk thistle and the cancer medication vincristine, a P-glycoprotein substrate, though this patient was also taking methotrexate. However, a small pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers shows that taking milk thistle (Enzymatic Therapy Inc.) 900 mg, standardized to 80% silymarin, in 3 divided doses daily for 14 days does not affect absorption of digoxin, a P-glycoprotein substrate.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B

Coenzyme Q103 drug types · 198 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Coenzyme Q10 has antioxidant effects. Theoretically, this may reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals.
Theoretically, antioxidants such as coenzyme Q10 might protect tumor cells from chemotherapeutic agents that work by inducing oxidative stress, such as alkylating agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide) and radiation therapy. The clinical importance of this interaction is unknown.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Coenzyme Q10 is chemically similar to menaquinone and might have vitamin K-like procoagulant effects, which could decrease the effects of warfarin.
Concomitant use of coenzyme Q10 and warfarin might reduce the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. Four cases of decreased warfarin efficacy thought to be due to coenzyme Q10 have been reported. However, there is some preliminary clinical research that suggests coenzyme Q10 might not significantly decrease the effects of warfarin in patients who have a stable INR.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, coenzyme Q10 might have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Some clinical research shows that coenzyme Q10 can significantly lower blood pressure, although other studies have shown conflicting results.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Blueberry fruit extract3 drug types · 88 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, blueberries or blueberry leaf extracts might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Animal and in vitro research suggests that blueberry and/or blueberry leaf extracts can lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D
Buspirone (Buspar)

Theoretically, blueberry juice might increase blood levels of buspirone.
In vitro research shows that blueberry juice can inhibit the metabolism of buspirone, possibly by inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) enzymes. However, pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that drinking 300 mL of blueberry juice 30 minutes before taking buspirone hydrochloride 10 mg does not significantly affect the concentration or clearance of buspirone.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
Flurbiprofen (Ansaid, Others)

Theoretically, blueberry juice might increase blood levels of flurbiprofen.
In vitro research shows that blueberry juice can inhibit the metabolism of flurbiprofen, possibly by inhibiting cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) enzymes. However, pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that drinking 300 mL of blueberry juice 30 minutes before taking flurbiprofen 100 mg does not significantly affect the concentration or clearance of flurbiprofen.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Vitality Geroprotector, from the product label.

Thrivous

See all Thrivous products
Name
Thrivous
Street Address
PO Box 4078 #73216
City
SLC
State
UT
ZipCode
84110
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous: Common Questions

Does Vitality Geroprotector by Thrivous interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Vitality Geroprotector has a known interaction with 1,298 medications, including 1 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Vitality Geroprotector contains 4 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 this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Berberine must be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding—it may harm a developing baby or pass into breast milk. For coenzyme Q10 and milk thistle, there isn't enough safety data, so the data advises against use in pregnancy unless your doctor says otherwise. Breastfeeding safety for both isn't well studied. Blueberries as food are considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but high-dose extracts are less clear. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about your specific situation.
What's the most common side effect?
Gastrointestinal complaints are the most common—belly pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation across the ingredients. With freeze-dried blueberries especially, stomach issues can be significant enough that some people stop taking them. These are usually mild, but if they're bothersome, talk with your pharmacist about timing or dose.
Does this product actually work?
Coenzyme Q10 has solid evidence for CoQ10 deficiency and possibly helps with migraine, heart failure, and nerve pain. Berberine shows promise for cholesterol, PCOS, and blood sugar. Milk thistle is possibly effective for diabetes. Blueberry extract's evidence for the conditions it targets isn't established in our data. Results vary by person and condition—your pharmacist can help set realistic expectations.
What is berberine and why is it in here?
Berberine is an alkaloid, a plant compound extracted from several species. It's included because it may help support healthy blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. However, it's the ingredient with the most medication interactions in this product, so it's the one your pharmacist will want to check first if you're on other drugs.
Why does coenzyme Q10 interact with warfarin?
Coenzyme Q10 is chemically similar to vitamin K, which helps blood clot. It might reduce warfarin's ability to thin your blood, making the blood thinner less effective and raising clot risk. Your doctor may need to adjust your warfarin dose if you add CoQ10, which is why it's important to tell them first.
Can I take this with my blood pressure medication?
Several ingredients in this product may lower blood pressure—coenzyme Q10, berberine, and blueberry extract all have that potential. If you're already on blood pressure drugs, taking this product might lower your pressure more than intended, which could make you dizzy or weak. Talk with your pharmacist or doctor before adding it.

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

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Vitality Geroprotector label
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Vitality Geroprotector'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 157 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.

Coenzyme Q10 40 references
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  8. Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2000;57:1221-7. DOI
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  10. Baggio E, Gandini R, Plauncher AC, et al. Italian multicenter study on the safety and efficacy of coenzyme Q10 as adjunctive therapy in heart failure. CoQ10 Drug Surveillance Investigators. Mol Aspects Med 1994;15 Suppl:S287-94. PubMed
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  12. The Huntington Study Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 and remacemide in Huntington's disease. Neurology 2001;57:397-404.
  13. Hodgson JM, Watts GF, Playford DA, et al. Coenzyme Q10 improves blood pressure and glycaemic control: a controlled trial in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Eur J Clin Nutr 2002;56:1137-42. PubMed
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  18. Berman M, Erman A, Ben-Gal T, et al. Coenzyme Q10 in patients with end-stage heart failure awaiting cardiac transplantation: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Clin Cardiol 2004;27:295–9. PubMed
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  24. Stamelou, M., Reuss, A., Pilatus, U., Magerkurth, J., Niklowitz, P., Eggert, K. M., Krisp, A., Menke, T., Schade-Brittinger, C., Oertel, W. H., and Hoglinger, G. U. Short-term effects of coenzyme Q10 in progressive supranuclear palsy: a randomized, place DOI
  25. Keogh A, Fenton S, Leslie C, et al. Randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q, therapy in class II and III systolic heart failure. Heart Lung Circ. 2003;12:135-41.
  26. Gane, E. J., Weilert, F., Orr, D. W., Keogh, G. F., Gibson, M., Lockhart, M. M., Frampton, C. M., Taylor, K. M., Smith, R. A., and Murphy, M. P. The mitochondria-targeted anti-oxidant mitoquinone decreases liver damage in a phase II study of hepatitis C
  27. Lynch, D. R., Perlman, S. L., and Meier, T. A phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of idebenone in friedreich ataxia. Arch Neurol. 2010;67(8):941-947. PubMed
  28. Young, J. M., Florkowski, C. M., Molyneux, S. L., McEwan, R. G., Frampton, C. M., Nicholls, M. G., Scott, R. S., and George, P. M. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of coenzyme Q10 therapy in hypertensive patients with the me
  29. Ishiyama, T., Morita, Y., Toyama, S., Yamagami, T., and Tsukamoto, N. A clinical study of the effect of coenzyme Q on congestive heart failure. Jpn.Heart J 1976;17(1):32-42. PubMed
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  31. Malm, C., Svensson, M., Sjoberg, B., Ekblom, B., and Sjodin, B. Supplementation with ubiquinone-10 causes cellular damage during intense exercise. Acta Physiol Scand. 1996;157(4):511-512. PubMed
  32. Singh, R. B., Wander, G. S., Rastogi, A., Shukla, P. K., Mittal, A., Sharma, J. P., Mehrotra, S. K., Kapoor, R., and Chopra, R. K. Randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Cardiovasc. PubMed
  33. Digiesi V, Cantini F, and Brodbeck B. Effect of coenzyme Q10 on essential arterial hypertension. Current Therapeutic Research 1990;47(5):841-845.
  34. Parkinson Study Group QE3 Investigators, Beal MF, Oakes D, et al. A randomized clinical trial of high-dosage coenzyme Q10 in early Parkinson disease: no evidence of benefit. JAMA Neurol. 2014;71(5):543-52.
  35. Alehagen U, Johansson P, Bjornstedt M, et al. Cardiovascular mortality and N-terminal-proBNP reduced after combined selenium and coenzyme Q10 supplementation: A 5-year prospective randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial among elderly Swedish citi
  36. Ho MJ, Li EC, Wright JM. Blood pressure lowering efficacy of coenzyme Q10 for primary hypertension. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Mar 3;3:CD007435. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD007435.pub3. PubMed
  37. Tabrizi R, Akbari M, Sharifi N, Lankarani KB, Moosazadeh M, Kolahdooz F, et al. The effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on blood pressures among patients with metabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed
  38. Tsai IC, Hsu CW, Chang CH, Tseng PT, Chang KV. Effectiveness of coenzyme Q10 supplementation for reducing fatigue: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Pharmacol 2022;13:883251. PubMed
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See these in context on the Coenzyme Q10 monograph →

Berberine 41 references
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  21. Guo, Y., Chen, Y., Tan, Z. R., Klaassen, C. D., and Zhou, H. H. Repeated administration of berberine inhibits cytochromes P450 in humans. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2012;68(2):213-217. PubMed
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  23. Marazzi, G., Cacciotti, L., Pelliccia, F., Iaia, L., Volterrani, M., Caminiti, G., Sposato, B., Massaro, R., Grieco, F., and Rosano, G. Long-term effects of nutraceuticals (berberine, red yeast rice, policosanol) in elderly hypercholesterolemic patients. PubMed
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See these in context on the Berberine monograph →

Milk Thistle 69 references
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Blueberry 7 references
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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