Zhi Shi Ingredients & Drug Interactions
by Herbal Terra
What is this page for?
First and foremost: checking Zhi Shi 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
Zhi Shi is a dietary supplement by Herbal Terra with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for weight loss, athletic performance and energy, digestive upset.Based on those ingredients, 957 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.
Check Your Meds Against Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra
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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra
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
Zhi Shi contains one active ingredient: Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract (bitter orange fruit), a dried herbal extract. The inactive ingredients — alcohol, water, and glycerin — are the carriers and preservatives in this liquid form.
Does it work?
Couldn't assess
The evidence we hold does not establish whether bitter orange is effective for any condition. The available data shows insufficient reliable evidence for hay fever, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, pre-procedure anxiety, and athletic performance.
If you're considering this product for a specific reason, talk with your pharmacist about what the research actually supports.
How safe is it?
Well-documented data
Bitter orange taken by mouth in medicinal amounts carries safety concerns. The most common side effects are high blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), especially when combined with caffeine or other stimulants.
Rare but serious effects noted in case reports include heart attack, stroke, fainting, seizure, and abnormal heart rhythms. The supplement is not recommended during pregnancy; the safety data advises against it.
There isn't enough safety information to recommend it while breastfeeding either — talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
Meds to double-check
Major interaction found
Check the following medication types with your pharmacist before taking this product: MAOIs (Major severity), midazolam (Major severity), QT interval-prolonging drugs, drugs metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP3A4, antidiabetes medications, stimulants, dextromethorphan, and caffeine. This product carries significant cardiovascular risk, especially in combination with stimulants.
The bottom line
Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.
Bitter orange extract can significantly raise blood pressure and heart rate, and it interacts with numerous medications across multiple drug classes. If you take any prescription medications — especially antidepressants, sedatives, heart or diabetes drugs, or anything metabolized by the liver — you need to check them against this product before starting.
Anyone with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or caffeine sensitivity should avoid it. Talk with your pharmacist before use.
Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI
Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 23, 2025.
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 Zhi Shi, straight from the product label.
| Brand | Herbal Terra |
|---|---|
| Barcode (UPC) | 7238360821314 |
| Net contents | 2 Fluid Ounce(s); 60 mL |
| Market status | On market |
| Date entered into DSLD | Feb 23, 2025 |
| DSLD ID | 325558 |
| Product type | Botanical |
| Supplement form | Liquid |
| Dietary claims / uses | All Other, Structure/Function |
| Intended target group(s) | Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten 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 Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.
Supplement Facts
| Ingredient | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry | 983 mg | -- |
Other ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Glycerin
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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions
Shake well before use. Adults take up to 30 drops (1 mL, one full squeeze of the dropper bulb) in 3-4 fl. oz. of juice or water up to 4 times a day.
Precautions
We recommend to seek expert medical advice before taking. May have contraindications and cause adverse reaction.
Consult a physician before giving to children under 18, before using during pregnancy, if nursing, or if you are on any medications.
Consult a physician before giving to children under 18, before using during pregnancy, if nursing, or if you are on any medications. Keep out of the reach of children!
Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredients.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry, dark place.
FDA Disclaimer Statement
This product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Formulation
cGMP Made in compliance with cGMP 21 CFR 111 in an FDA registered and inspected facility.
Sugar free
Expertly extracted 100% natural Premium product
Organic alcohol
No artificial ingredients, color additives, fillers or binders.
Natural Gluten free
Formula
Citrus x aurantium
Organic alcohol
FDA Statement of Identity
Herbal Supplement
Seals/Symbols
Made in USA
General Statements
Organic raw material.
Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.
Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra 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 Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra
This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.
Serving size1 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.
Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry
Interacts with957 drugs
Bitter orange is a citrus fruit whose extracts contain synephrine, a mild stimulant often added to weight-loss and energy supplements. Evidence that i...
Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry monograph & interactionsOther (inactive) ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Glycerin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.
Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra Drug Interactions
HelloPharmacist Interaction Report
Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra is a single-ingredient liquid extract of bitter orange that interacts with a number of medications.
The most serious concern is with MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), a class of older antidepressants. Bitter orange contains compounds — synephrine, tyramine, and octopamine — that can interact with these drugs and theoretically trigger a dangerously high blood pressure spike (hypertensive crisis).
Read the full breakdown — every affected drug type, severity by severity
Bitter orange also carries Major-level interactions with midazolam (a sedative used before procedures), where the extract may raise blood levels of the drug and increase side effects. At the Moderate severity level, it interacts with several drug types: QT interval-prolonging medications (certain heart rhythm or psychiatric drugs), CYP3A4 substrates (a broad enzyme-metabolized group that includes many common drugs), antidiabetes medications, stimulants, dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), and caffeine.
The effects range from increased drug levels and cardiovascular strain to a raised risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Bitter orange itself has stimulant properties and can raise blood pressure and heart rate on its own, especially when combined with caffeine or other stimulants. Altogether, these interactions span 945 individual medications.
Use the medication checker below to verify your exact drugs before starting this product.
Check your own medications below · Editorial policy · How we use AI
Want to check YOUR meds against Zhi Shi?
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 Zhi Shi interact with 957 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.
1 of the 1 ingredient in Zhi Shi interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry
AmphetamineAdensys XR-ODT, Adzenys ER, Dyanavel XR, Mydayis
How Amphetamine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +1 Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Amphetamine interactionIsocarboxazidMarplan
How Isocarboxazid interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Isocarboxazid interactionMidazolamNayzilam, Seizalam, Versed
How Midazolam interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Midazolam (versed) Major
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Midazolam interactionMoclobemideManerix, Moclobemide
How Moclobemide interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Moclobemide interactionOzanimod HydrochlorideZeposia
How Ozanimod Hydrochloride interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois), Qt Interval-prolonging Drugs Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Ozanimod Hydrochloride interactionPhenelzine SulfateNardil
How Phenelzine Sulfate interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Phenelzine Sulfate interactionRasagilineAzilect
How Rasagiline interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Rasagiline interactionSafinamide MesylateXadago
How Safinamide Mesylate interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Safinamide Mesylate interactionSelegilineCarbex, Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar
How Selegiline interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Selegiline interactionTranylcypromineParnate
How Tranylcypromine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryMonoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (maois) Major
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Tranylcypromine interactionAdo-trastuzumab EmtansineKadcyla
How Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Ado-trastuzumab Emtansine interactionAbemaciclibVerzenio
How Abemaciclib interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Abemaciclib interactionAbiraterone
How Abiraterone interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Abiraterone interactionAbiraterone AcetateYonsa, Zytiga
How Abiraterone Acetate interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Abiraterone Acetate interactionAcalabrutinibCalquence
How Acalabrutinib interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acalabrutinib interactionAcarboseGlucobay, Prandase, Precose
How Acarbose interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryAntidiabetes Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acarbose interactionAcetaminophen, Aspirin, CaffeineExcedrin, Excedrin Extra Strength, Excedrin Migraine
How Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryStimulant Drugs, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Brompheniramine, PhenylpropanolamineDimetapp Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryStimulant Drugs Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Brompheniramine, Phenylpropanolamine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, CaffeineEsgic, Esgic Plus, Fiogesic, Fioricet, Repan, Tecnal +1 more
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine interactionAcetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, CodeineEsgic with Codeine, Fioricet w/ Codeine
How Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, PhenylephrineHycomine Compound
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Chlorpheniramine, Hydrocodone, Phenylephrine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + 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 Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCaffeine, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, SalicylamideCodalan No.1, Codalan No.2, Codalan No.3
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Codeine, Salicylamide interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, DihydrocodeineDHC Plus, Panlor DC, Panlor SS
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Stimulant Drugs +2 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Dihydrocodeine interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, IsomethepteneMigralam
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCaffeine, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Isometheptene interactionAcetaminophen, Caffeine, PyrilamineMidol Max Strength Menstrual
How Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryStimulant Drugs, Caffeine +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Caffeine, Pyrilamine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HbrVicks Formula 44M Cough, Cold & Flu Relief
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan Hbr interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, PhenylephrineColrex
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Cytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Codeine, Phenylephrine interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, DextromethorphanCoricidin II Extra Strength Cold and Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 2d6 (cyp2d6) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan interactionAcetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan HydrobromideCoricidin HBP Maximum Strength Flu
How Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interacts with Zhi Shi — through 1 ingredient. Tap an ingredient for the detail:
Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, DryCytochrome P450 3a4 (cyp3a4) Substrates, Dextromethorphan (robitussin Dm, Others) +1 Moderate
Interaction Summary
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Read the full Citrus X Aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry + Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide interactionEach ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects
For each ingredient in Zhi Shi with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.
Citrus x aurantium Fruit Extract, Dry
Midazolam (Versed)
Bitter orange might increase blood levels of midazolam.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice can increase midazolam levels, likely through inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of midazolam-related adverse effects.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)
Theoretically, taking MAOIs with synephrine-containing bitter orange preparations might increase the hypertensive effects of synephrine, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Bitter orange contains tyramine, octopamine, and synephrine, which are MAO substrates.
Antidiabetes Drugs
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Some clinical research shows that drinking a tea containing bitter orange and Indian snakeroot reduces fasting and postprandial glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes who are using antidiabetes drugs. However, it is unclear if these effects are due to bitter orange, Indian snakeroot, or the combination. An animal study also shows that p-synephrine in combination with gliclazide , a sulfonylurea, causes an additional 20% to 44% decrease in glucose levels when compared with gliclazide alone.
Caffeine
Bitter orange might increase blood pressure and heart rate when taken with caffeine.
Small clinical studies show that taking bitter orange in combination with caffeine can increase blood pressure and heart rate in otherwise healthy normotensive adults. Theoretically, this might increase the risk of serious cardiovascular adverse effects.
Colchicine
Bitter orange might affect colchicine levels.
Colchicine is a substrate of P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Bitter orange has been reported to inhibit CYP3A4 and increase levels of CYP3A4 substrates. However, one small clinical study in healthy adults shows that drinking bitter orange juice 240 mL twice daily for 4 days and taking a single dose of colchicine 0.6 mg on the 4th day decreases colchicine peak serum levels by 24%, time to peak serum level by 1 hour, and overall exposure to colchicine by 20%. The clinical significance of this finding is unclear.
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Bitter orange might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Small clinical studies suggest that single or multiple doses of freshly squeezed bitter orange juice 200-240 mL can inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism of drugs, causing increased drug levels and potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects. However, the extent of the effect of bitter orange on CYP3A4-mediated drug interactions is unknown. Some evidence suggests that bitter orange selectively inhibits intestinal CYP3A4, but not hepatic CYP3A4. Its effect on P-glycoprotein, which strongly overlaps with CYP3A4 interactions, is unclear. One small clinical study shows that drinking 8 ounces of freshly squeezed bitter orange juice has no effect on cyclosporine, which seems to be more dependent on hepatic CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein than intestinal CYP3A4.
Dextromethorphan (Robitussin Dm, Others)
Bitter orange might increase blood levels of dextromethorphan.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice increases dextromethorphan levels, likely through cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition. Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk for dextromethorphan-related adverse effects.
Felodipine (Plendil)
Bitter orange might increase blood levels of felodipine.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice increases felodipine levels, likely through cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibition. Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk for felodipine-related adverse effects.
Indinavir (Crixivan)
Bitter orange might increase blood levels of indinavir.
One small clinical study shows that bitter orange juice slightly increases indinavir levels, but this effect is likely to be clinically insignificant. Bitter orange selectively inhibits intestinal cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4); however, the metabolism of indinavir seems to be more dependent on hepatic CYP3A4. The effect of bitter orange on other protease inhibitors has not been studied.
Qt Interval-Prolonging Drugs
Theoretically, bitter orange might have an additive effect when combined with drugs that prolong the QT interval, potentially increasing the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
One case report suggests that taking bitter orange in combination with other stimulants such as caffeine might prolong the QT interval in some patients.
Sildenafil (Viagra)
Bitter orange juice might increase blood levels of sildenafil.
A small clinical study in healthy adult males shows that drinking freshly squeezed bitter orange juice 250 mL daily for 3 days and taking a single dose of sildenafil 50 mg on the 3rd day increases the peak plasma concentration of sildenafil by 18% and the overall exposure to sildenafil by 44%. Theoretically, this may be due to inhibition of cytochrome P450 3A4 by bitter orange.
Stimulant Drugs
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase the risk of hypertension and adverse cardiovascular effects when taken with stimulant drugs.
Bitter orange appears to have stimulant effects.
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates
Theoretically, bitter orange might increase levels of drug metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro research shows that octopamine, a constituent of bitter orange, weakly inhibits CYP2D6 enzymes. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Brand information
Manufacturer and brand details for Zhi Shi, from the product label.
Herbal Terra
See all Herbal Terra products- Name
- Herbal Terra LLC
- Phone Number
- +18083857868
- Web Address
- herbalterra.com
Zhi Shi by Herbal Terra: Common Questions
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Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy
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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.
The Full Monographs Behind Zhi Shi’s Ingredients
Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.
Sources & How We Checked
Zhi Shi'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 47 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.
Bitter Orange 47 references
- Penzak SR, Jann MW, Cold JA, et al. Seville (sour) orange juice: synephrine content and cardiovascular effects in normotensive adults. J Clin Pharmacol 2001;41:1059-63. PubMed
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
- Calapai G, Firenzuoli F, Saitta A, et al. Antiobesity and cardiovascular toxic effects of Citrus aurantium extracts in the rat: A preliminary report. Fitoterapia 1999;70:586-92. DOI
- Keogh AM, Baron DW. Sympathomimetic abuse and coronary artery spasm. Br Med J 1985;291:940.
- Malhotra S, Bailey DG, Paine MF, Watkins PB. Seville orange juice-felodipine interaction: comparison with dilute grapefruit juice and involvement of furocoumarins. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001;69:14-23. PubMed
- Pellati F, Benvenuti S, Melegari M, Firenzuoli F. Determination of adrenergic agonists from extracts and herbal products of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara by LC. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2002;29:1113-9. . PubMed
- Colker CM, Kalman DS, Torina GC, et al. Effects of Citrus aurantium extract, caffeine, and St. John's wort on body fat loss, lipid levels, and mood states in overweight healthy adults. Curr Ther Res 1999;60:145-153. DOI
- Penzak SR, Acosta EP, Turner M, et al. Effect of Seville orange juice and grapefruit juice on indinavir pharmacokinetics. J Clin Pharmacol 2002;42:1165-70. PubMed
- Edwards DJ, Fitzsimmons ME, Schuetz EG, et al. 6',7'-Dihydroxybergamottin in grapefruit juice and Seville orange juice: effects on cyclosporine disposition, enterocyte CYP3A4, and P-glycoprotein. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999;65:237-44. PubMed
- Di Marco MP, Edwards DJ, Wainer IW, Ducharme MP. The effect of grapefruit juice and seville orange juice on the pharmacokinetics of dextromethorphan: the role of gut CYP3A and P-glycoprotein. Life Sci 2002;71:1149-60. PubMed
- Visentin V, Morin N, Fontana E, et al. Dual action of octopamine on glucose transport into adipocytes: inhibition via beta3-adrenoceptor activation and stimulation via oxidation by amine oxidases. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2001;299:96-104.
- Nykamp DL, Fackih MN, Compton AL. Possible association of acute lateral-wall myocardial infarction and bitter orange supplement. Ann Pharmacother 2004;38:812-6. PubMed
- Fugh-Berman A, Myers A. Citrus aurantium, an ingredient of dietary supplements marketed for weight loss: Current status of clinical and basic Research. Exp Biol Med 2004;229:698-704.
- Suzuki O, Matsumoto T, Oya M, Katsumata Y. Oxidation of synephrine by type A and type B monoamine oxidase. Experientia 1979;35:1283-4. PubMed
- Nasir JM, Durning SJ, Ferguson M, et al. Exercise-induced syncope associated with QT prolongation and ephedra-free Xenadrine. Mayo Clin Proc 2004;79:1059-62.. PubMed
- Firenzuoli F, Gori L, Galapai C. Adverse reaction to an adrenergic herbal extract (Citrus aurantium). Phytomedicine 2005;12:247-8. PubMed
- Bouchard NC, Howland MA, Greller HA, et al. Ischemic stroke associated with use of an ephedra-free dietary supplement containing synephrine. Mayo Clin Proc 2005;80:541-5. PubMed
- Haller CA, Benowitz NL, Jacob P 3rd. Hemodynamic effects of ephedra-free weight-loss supplements in humans. Am J Med 2005;118:998-1003.. PubMed
- Bui LT, Nguyen DT, Ambrose PJ. Blood pressure and heart rate effects following a single dose of bitter orange. Ann Pharmacother 2006;40:53-7. PubMed
- Min B, Cios D, Kluger J, White CM. Absence of QTc-interval-prolonging or hemodynamic effects of a single dose of bitter-orange extract in healthy subjects. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25:1719-24. PubMed
- Gange CA, Madias C, Felix-Getzik EM, et al. Variant angina associated with bitter orange in a dietary supplement. Mayo Clin Proc 2006;81:545-8. PubMed
- Jordan S, Murty M, Pilon K. Products containing bitter orange or synephrine: suspected cardiovascular adverse reactions. Canadian Adverse Reaction Newsletter 2004;14:3-4.
- Burke J, Seda G, Allen D, Knee TS. A case of severe exercise-induced rhabdomyolysis associated with a weight loss dietary supplement. Mil Med 2007;172:656-8. PubMed
- Gray, S. and Woolf, A. D. Citrus aurantium used for weight loss by an adolescent with anorexia nervosa. J Adolesc.Health 2005;37(5):414-415. PubMed
- Haller, C. A., Duan, M., Jacob, P., III, and Benowitz, N. Human pharmacology of a performance-enhancing dietary supplement under resting and exercise conditions. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2008;65(6):833-840. PubMed
- Thomas, J. E., Munir, J. A., McIntyre, P. Z., and Ferguson, M. A. STEMI in a 24-year-old man after use of a synephrine-containing dietary supplement: a case report and review of the literature. Tex.Heart Inst.J 2009;36(6):586-590.
- Campbell-Tofte, J. I., Molgaard, P., Josefsen, K., Abdallah, Z., Hansen, S. H., Cornett, C., Mu, H., Richter, E. A., Petersen, H. W., Norregaard, J. C., and Winther, K. Randomized and double-blinded pilot clinical study of the safety and anti-diabetic ef
- Seifert, J. G., Nelson, A., Devonish, J., Burke, E. R., and Stohs, S. J. Effect of acute administration of an herbal preparation on blood pressure and heart rate in humans. Int J Med Sci 2011;8(3):192-197. PubMed
- Stohs, S. J., Preuss, H. G., Keith, S. C., Keith, P. L., Miller, H., and Kaats, G. R. Effects of p-synephrine alone and in combination with selected bioflavonoids on resting metabolism, blood pressure, heart rate and self-reported mood changes. Int J Med
- Wason, S., DiGiacinto, J. L., and Davis, M. W. Effects of grapefruit and Seville orange juices on the pharmacokinetic properties of colchicine in healthy subjects. Clin Ther 2012;34(10):2161-2173. PubMed
- Kaats, G. R., Miller, H., Preuss, H. G., and Stohs, S. J. A 60day double-blind, placebo-controlled safety study involving Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) extract. Food Chem Toxicol. 2013;55:358-362.
- Calapai, G., Firenzuoli, F., Saitta, A., Squadrito, F. R., Arlotta, M., Costantino, G., and Inferrera, G. Antiobesity and cardiovascular toxic effects of Citrus aurantium extracts in the rat: a preliminary report. Fitoterapia 12-1-1999;70(6):586-592. DOI
- Colker, C., Kalman, D., and Torina, G. Effects of Citrus aurantium extract, caffeine, and St. John's Wort on body fat loss, lipid levels, and mood states in overweight healthy adults. Curr Ther Res 1999;60:145-153. DOI
- Shara M, Stohs SJ. Safety evaluation of Bitter orange extract (p-synephrine) in healthy volunteers. J.Amer.Coll.Nutr. 2011;30:358.
- Lynch B. Review of the safety of p-synephrine and caffeine. Intertek-Cantox Report, 2013;1-20.
- Smith TB, Staub BA, Natarajan GM, et al. Acute myocardial infarction associated with dietary supplements containing 1,3-dimethylamylamine and Citrus aurantium. Tex Heart Inst J 2014;41(1):70-2. PubMed
- Shara M, Stohs SJ, Mukattash TL. Cardiovascular safety of oral p-synephrine (bitter orange) in healthy subjects: a randomized placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2016;30(5):842-7.
- Liu Y, Santillo MF. Cytochrome P450 2D6 and 3A4 enzyme inhibition by amine stimulants in dietary supplements. Drug Test Anal. 2016;8(3-4):307-10. PubMed
- Abdelkawy KS, Donia AM, Turner RB, Elbarbry F. Effects of Lemon and Seville Orange Juices on the Pharmacokinetic Properties of Sildenafil in Healthy Subjects. Drugs R D. 2016 Sep;16(3):271-278. PubMed
- Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Salinero JJ, Abían-Vicen J, Areces F, Lara B, Gallo C, et al. Acute consumption of p-synephrine does not enhance performance in sprint athletes.J. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2016;41(1):63-9. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2015-0299.
- Jung YP, Earnest CP, Koozehchian M, et al. Effects of ingesting a pre-workout dietary supplement with and without synephrine for 8 weeks on training adaptations in resistance-trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;3;14:1. doi: 10.1186/s12970-016-0158- PubMed
- Jung YP, Earnest CP, Koozehchian M, et al. Effects of acute ingestion of a pre-workout dietary supplement with and without synephrine on resting energy expenditure, cognitive function and exercise performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:3. doi: 10.118
- Vatsavai LK, Kilari EK. Interaction of p-synephrine on the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetics of gliclazide in animal models. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2017; S0975-9476(16)30487-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2017.04.010.
- Ratamess NA, Bush JA, Stohs SJ, et al. Acute cardiovascular effects of bitter orange extract (p-synephrine) consumed alone and in combination with caffeine in human subjects: A placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Phytother Res. 2018;32(1):94-102.
- Gutiérrez-Hellín J, Ruiz-Moreno C, Del Coso J. Acute p-synephrine ingestion increases whole-body fat oxidation during 1-h of cycling at Fatmax. Eur J Nutr. 2019 Nov 5. PubMed
- Karimzadeh Z, Azizzadeh Forouzi M, Tajadini H, Ahmadinejad M, Roy C, Dehghan M. Effects of lavender and Citrus aurantium on pain of conscious intensive care unit patients: a parallel randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Integr Med 2021:S2095-4964(21)000 PubMed
- Koncz D, Tóth B, Bahar MA, Roza O, Csupor D. The Safety and Efficacy of Citrus aurantium (Bitter Orange) Extracts and p-Synephrine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2022;14(19):4019. 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