Black Seed Oil With Amlodipine And Doxazosin

In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses the interaction between black seed oil and two blood pressure medications.

Question

Will black seed oil have negative side effects with amlodipine or doxazosin?

Asked by Ray On Jun 18, 2023

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Jun 20, 2023
Last updated May 04, 2024

Key points

  • Combining black seed oil with amlodipine or doxazosin may increase the risk of low blood pressure due to the blood pressure-lowering effects of black seed oil.
  • Consult with a healthcare provider before taking black seed oil or making changes to medication regimens.

Quick Answer

Many studies suggest that black seed oil supplements can help to lower blood pressure. Therefore, there is a theoretical risk that combining black seed oil with antihypertensive drugs, like amlodipine and doxazosin, could increase the risk of hypotension (blood pressure dropping too low).

In many cases, black seed oil can be added on to help support your treatment goals, but you should only do so under the supervision of your doctor so you can be appropriately monitored.

Detailed Answer

While there is no known direct interaction between black seed oil and amlodipine or doxazosin, it's important to consider that black seed oil may have blood pressure-lowering effects. These blood pressure-lowering effects could be additive to the effects of amlodipine and doxazosin, potentially increasing the risk of hypotension (low blood pressure).

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to assess the effects of Nigella sativa (black seed) on blood pressure. The review included 11 RCTs with a total of 860 hypertensive or normotensive individuals.

The results showed that treatment with N. sativa (black seed) led to significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) compared to placebo or standard treatment groups. On average, SBP decreased from 132.85 to 125.19 mmHg, and DBP decreased from 82.63 to 77.74 mmHg after an average treatment duration of 8.3 weeks in the N. sativa groups. 

Additionally, another study conducted pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics studies in hypertensive rats to assess the simultaneous administration of amlodipine with fenugreek or N. sativa (black seed). The results suggested that the concurrent use of fenugreek or N. sativa with amlodipine improved the pharmacological response of amlodipine without remarkable changes in pharmacokinetic parameters.

Considering these findings, it is prudent to exercise caution when combining black seed oil with amlodipine or doxazosin. While there is no conclusive evidence of significant interactions, the blood pressure-lowering effects of black seed oil may potentially enhance the effects of these medications, leading to a greater risk of hypotension.

It is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before starting black seed oil or making any adjustments to your current medication regimen.

It's certainly not uncommon for individuals to take dietary supplements to help achieve their goals, and in many cases, they can help to reach those goals. They are not without risks though, so be sure you talk to your doctor first.

We have detailed documentation of the interactions I've discussed here on our website in our herbal interaction section:

Final Words

Thanks for reaching out!

References

  • A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of supplementation with Nigella sativa (black seed) on blood pressure, PubMed
  • Effect of Nigella sativa and Fenugreek on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Amlodipine in Hypertensive Rats, PubMed

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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