Bergamot With Methotrexate Interaction Question
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not there is an interaction between bergamot and methotrexate.
What do I need to know about taking citrus bergamot if I am already using methotrexate?
Nov 06, 2025- There is no known interaction between bergamot and methotrexate in current databases or research.
- If you take diabetes medications, bergamot may potentially lower blood sugar further, so monitoring is important.
- Bergamot can increase skin sensitivity to sun, so extra sun protection is needed especially if taking other sun-sensitizing medications.
Answer
Hello and thanks for reaching out!
Our database does not show any known interaction between methotrexate and bergamot (Bergamot - Methotrexate Interaction Details | HelloPharmacist). Our AI tool, which is trained on the same data, also does not show any interaction (Chat with Pharmacist AI | HelloPharmacist).
Currently, our data only shows possible interactions between bergamot and two general types of medications:
- Blood Sugar–Lowering Medicines (Antidiabetic Drugs)
Some animal studies suggest bergamot might slightly lower blood sugar. Because of this, taking it along with diabetes medications could, in theory, make blood sugar drop too low. While this hasn’t been confirmed in humans, it’s something to be mindful of if you use drugs that already lower blood glucose.
- Sun-Sensitizing Medicines (Photosensitizing Drugs)
Bergamot naturally contains bergapten, a compound known to make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Using bergamot with other drugs or supplements that cause sun sensitivity may increase the chance of sunburn or skin irritation, so extra sun protection is advised.
There’s very little direct research on bergamot and methotrexate together, and no published studies have tested this combination. As always, I recommend using caution and discussing any new supplement with your doctor so they can monitor your therapy safely.
Thanks!
References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Methotrexate
- A medication commonly used to treat cancer, autoimmune diseases, and certain inflammatory conditions by affecting how cells grow and divide.
- Bergamot
- A citrus fruit extract often used as a dietary supplement, known for its potential health benefits.
- Interaction
- A reaction that occurs when two substances affect each other's effectiveness or safety when taken together.
- Antidiabetic drugs
- Medications used to lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Blood glucose
- The amount of sugar circulating in your bloodstream.
- Photosensitizing drugs
- Medications that make your skin more sensitive and reactive to sunlight.
- Bergapten
- A natural compound found in bergamot that increases the skin's sensitivity to sun exposure.
- Supplement
- A product taken by mouth containing a vitamin, mineral, herb, or other dietary ingredient intended to supplement the diet.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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