Can You Take Turmeric With Hydroxyzine?
In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses the safety of combining turmeric with hydroxyzine.
Can I take turmeric (curcumin) and hydroxyzine?
Aug 05, 2023- Turmeric may theoretically slow down how your body breaks down hydroxyzine, which could increase the level of this medication in your system. While this interaction is based on lab and animal studies rather than proven human effects, it could potentially increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Talk to your doctor before taking turmeric with hydroxyzine, as they can assess whether this combination is safe for your specific situation.
Quick Answer
There is a theoretical possibility of an interaction between turmeric and hydroxyzine. Turmeric has been found in some small studies to inhibit the activity of CYP3A4, an enzyme responsible for metabolizing hydroxyzine in the liver. This inhibition could potentially lead to increased levels of hydroxyzine in the body, although there are no specific studies evaluating this interaction.
Detailed Answer
As mentioned, there is a theoretical interaction between turmeric (which contains curcumin) and hydroxyzine based on some small studies, mostly lab and animal studies, that indicate turmeric may inhibit a liver enzyme known as CYP3A4, which is at least partially responsible for breaking down hydroxyzine.
This inhibitory effect of turmeric curcumin on CYP3A4 could potentially impact the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, which includes hydroxyzine. If hydroxyzine is metabolized more slowly due to the inhibition of CYP3A4, its levels in the body may increase, possibly leading to an increased risk of side effects, such as:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry eyes
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Sedation
However, it's worth noting that while in vitro and animal studies can provide valuable initial data, they cannot precisely predict the actual effects of this interaction in humans. Further research, such as human clinical trials, is necessary to fully understand the significance and clinical relevance of this interaction.
Nevertheless, there is a case report in humans I found that documented a patient who experienced elevated levels of the immunosuppressant drug tacrolimus, which is also metabolized by CYP3A4, after consuming high doses of turmeric powder. However, there certainly may have been other factors at play here too. This specific case study is documented on our interaction detail page.
Overall, it is reasonable to assume that there is the potential for turmeric to interact with hydroxyzine, but whether or not this will be to a clinically significant degree is unknown.
Additionally, individual factors such as dosage, medical history, and other medications being taken can influence the likelihood and severity of any potential interaction, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen. They can evaluate the risks, benefits, and overall impact of the potential interaction for your specific situation.
Final Words
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References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- CYP3A4
- A liver enzyme responsible for breaking down many medications, including hydroxyzine, in the body.
- Inhibit
- To slow down or block the activity of something, such as an enzyme's ability to metabolize drugs.
- Metabolism
- The process by which the body breaks down and processes substances like medications.
- Curcumin
- The active compound found in turmeric that is believed to have medicinal properties.
- In vitro
- Studies or tests performed in a laboratory setting outside of a living organism, such as in a test tube or petri dish.
- Immunosuppressant
- A drug that reduces the activity of the immune system, often used in transplant patients.
- Tacrolimus
- An immunosuppressant medication used to prevent organ rejection after transplantation.
- Clinical trials
- Research studies conducted on human subjects to test the safety and effectiveness of medical treatments.
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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