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Drug Interactions

Some have the notion that all herbs and foods are safe to combine with medications because they are natural. However, everything you put in your mouth has the potential to interact since it travels the digestive system in similar ways to medications. Some drugs can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, and certain herbs and foods can speed up or slow down the action of a medication.

Interaction symptoms can include headaches, flu-like symptoms, increased anxiety, insomnia, nausea and some can be life threatening.

The team at Point of Return specialize in this field and know that an interaction can create unnecessary discomfort or pose a danger. Our program outlines herb, food and over-the-counter medications that may interact with Antidepressants, Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills.*

 

UNDERSTANDING POSSIBLE INTERACTIONS

Whether you are withdrawing from medications or not, it is critical to understand how many items can affect your prescriptions or deplete the body. Below is just a sampling of items such as Passionflower, St. John’s Wort, 5-HTP, Caffeine, Barley Grass, Ginseng, Chinese Herbs and others. For a complete list of items to avoid, please review both the Point of Return workbook (not sold separately but included in the program) and the Pocket Interaction Guide, which is sold separately.

Some items such as artificial sweeteners should be avoided when possible, whereas some herbs should be gradually tapered versus an abrupt discontinuation. 

Always consult with your medical professional to determine if any potential interaction item needs to be tapered. And always work with your medical practitioner before implementing any health regimen.

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VITAMINS & HERBS

While vitamins are generally safe, they are regularly consumed without appreciating that some have the potential to interact with medications. Herbs are plant-derived drugs, and while many may be beneficial, they can also pose a risk when combined with various prescription pills.*

5HTP 
CBD

CALCIUM 
CHINESE HERBS

GINSENG
 
GINGER
 
INOSITOL 
KAVA
 
MILK THISTLE
 
NAC
 
PASSION FLOWER
 
PHENIBUT
 
ST. JOHN'S WORT
 
TURMERIC
 
VALERIAN

5HTP
Combining 5-HTP with Antidepressants may cause an unsafe rise in Serotonin and lead to Serotonin Syndrome, a dangerous condition characterized by mental changes, hot flashes, rapidly fluctuating blood pressure and heart rate, and possibly coma. *

CBD (Cannabidiol) 

CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-addictive cannabis compound with therapeutic attributes, but CBD-drug interactions can be very problematic.

Cannabis, like all herbs, are polypharmaceutical substances, meaning they have the potential to interact with medications, other herbs and over-the-counter items. The interactions can range from an increase in uncomfortable symptoms to life-threatening. It's critical to understand the effects CBD has on medications so you can make an informed decision.

Our liver has specialized enzymes called Cytochrome P450 that have the function of breaking down drugs into smaller items called metabolites. In this small form our cells can better absorb the drug and then eliminate them properly. Cytochrome P450 is responsible for the breakdown of 90% of the drugs on the market today (over-the-counter and prescription). This includes Benzodiazepines, Sleeping Pills, Antidepressants, Muscle Relaxers, Painkillers, blood pressure medications, etc. Adding CBD to your medication regimen means there is a high probability that CBD will alter how your drugs are both metabolized and then eliminated. Toxicity can occur because the ability to release the drug metabolites are hindered by CBD.

The metabolization of medications, herbs, CBD and over-the-counter can also vary. Many people are Poor Metabolizers, meaning they have less than normal Cytochrome P450 enzymes and therefore breakdown medications very slowly. Interactions for Poor Metabolizers can be extremely troublesome and dangerous.

The rule of thumb is that while taking any medications it may be best to avoid any item that travels Cytochrome P450, including CBD and work closely with your physician before implementing or coming off.

According the the Department of Health, CBD is known to interfere with the Cytochrome P450 enzymes, the group of enzymes in the liver that process medications, thereby negatively impacting how the medications are processed. There is no way to know what amount is safe to avoid a serious interaction since currently no regulations on CBD.

The nutraceuticals utilized at Point of Return do not travel Cytochrome P450 and therefore will not interact with any medications yet can provide the needed relief many are seeking.*

CALCIUM

Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills significantly inhibit the transport of calcium into the nerve cells in the brain, heart and throughout the body. The alteration of the calcium balance is what contributes to anxiety, fear, panic and muscle cramping, since Calcium modulates the effects on the GABA receptors. The GABA receptors are excited by Calcium supplements and even low dosage Calcium vitamins (not naturally occurring calcium in food items) can over-stimulate the brain neurons and increase anxiety, insomnia and fear.*

CHINESE HERBS

Chinese herbs can interact with many medications and either interfere or exaggerate their effects, which can lead to increased sedation and when combined with benzodiazepines, causing an unsafe lowering of blood pressure and suppression of the lungs. Some research indicates that many Chinese Herbs can interact with any medication that utilizes the P450 liver enzymes, which includes antidepressants, sleeping pills and benzodiazepines. *

GINSENG

Ginseng can increase blood pressure, making it dangerous for anyone trying to control his or her blood pressure. Ginseng may over-stimulate the nervous system, resulting in insomnia. Therefore consuming caffeine with ginseng increases the risk of over-stimulation and gastrointestinal upset. Long-term use of ginseng may cause menstrual abnormalities and breast tenderness in some women. Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.*

GINGER

Ginger is used as a common spice but also can significantly alter the blood levels of many benzodiazepines and other medications. Ginger can interfere with how many benzodiazepines are processed, reducing the blood level of the drug significantly. This can leave the individual feeling withdrawal symptoms although a standard dosage of the drug was ingested.*

INOSITOL

Inositol is a naturally occurring element of glucose, though it is considered to be a member of the B vitamin family (B8). Serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have a similar therapeutic profile to Inositol – they both inhibit serotonin reuptake in the synaptic cleft. Inositol has an antidepressant effect and may involve the Serotonin receptors by enhancing or speeding up the response to SSRIs. The side effects are similar to SSRIs.*

KAVA

Investigative studies suggest that Kava has addictive effects when combined with benzodiazepines, since it acts on the same GABA binding sites of the central nervous system. This can cause excess sedation, a lowering of blood pressure, physical depression, suppression of the lungs and cognitive impairment.*

MILK THISTLE

Milk thistle may interfere with many medications and increase them to dangerous levels because the same liver enzymes break down the herb. Milk thistle should not be combined with allergy medications, drugs for high cholesterol, anti-anxiety agents (alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam, Temazepam), antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners), anti-seizure medications, anti-psychotics, antidepressants, hormones and others.*

N-ACETYL CYSTEINE (NAC)

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an altered form of the amino acid cysteine, and assists the body in synthesizing Glutathione. The side effects reported include nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision and abdominal pain. NAC increases zinc excretion, so supplementing with additional zinc and copper is recommended. Vitamin C must also be taken with NAC to prevent the cysteine from converting to cystine, which can form kidney or bladder stones. NAC is moderately effective at raising Glutathione levels, but dosing is limited due to the toxic side effects.*

PASSIONFLOWER

Passionflower works by increasing levels of gamma-aminbutric acid (GABA) in the brain. Combining it with benzodiazepines, sleeping pills or antidepressants can cause excess sedation, physical depression including a suppression of respiration, an unsafe lowering of blood pressure, visual disturbances, pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the arteries that supply the lungs), reduced plasma proteins and impaired cognitive function. Passionflower also may increase the amount of time blood needs to clot, so it could make the effects of blood-thinning medications stronger and increase the risk of bleeding. It is essential to gradually taper off passionflower rather than abruptly discontinue the herb, or the levels of other medications can change drastically.*

PHENIBUT
Phenibut is a derivative of neurotransmitter GABA and chemically breaks down to beta-phenyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid.   Phenibut can be addictive, cause withdrawal symptoms and tolerance in similar ways to a benzodiazepine. Symptoms of Phenibut withdrawal include insomnia, anxiety, sweaty hands and reduced appetite.

In addition, Phenibut interacts with many medications including Benzodiazepines, MAO Inhibitors, Antidepressants, Stimulants and Sleeping Pills.  Many supplements have Phenibut as an ingredient so please review labels carefully.*  read more...

ST. JOHN'S WORT

Mixing St. John’s Wort with Antidepressants can cause an overload of Serotonin, since the herb contains active principals that are comparable to medications for depression. But St. John’s Wort also affects other neurotransmitters increasing the amounts of dopamine, norepinephrine, l-glutamate and GABA. This makes it dangerous to combine with sleeping pills, benzodiazepines, amphetamines, asthma inhalants, decongestants, diet pills, narcotics, immunosuppressant drugs, and the amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine. Avoid the following substances when using St.-John's-wort: Amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine; amphetamines; asthma inhalants; beer, coffee, wine; chocolate, fava beans, salami, smoked or pickled foods, and yogurt; cold or hay fever medicines; diet pills; narcotics; nasal decongestants. They all contain chemicals that react adversely to hypericin, causing high blood pressure and nausea. It is essential to gradually taper off St. John’s Wort rather than abruptly discontinue the herb, or the levels of other medications can change drastically.*

TURMERIC

Turmeric is a spice made from grinding Curcumin roots and belongs to the ginger family. known to interact with at least 73 medications including many antidepressants, blood pressure medication, and drugs that travel the CYP3A4, CYP1A2, CYP2A6 and intestinal P-Glycoprotein pathways.  Turmeric is contraindicated with most antidepressants due to the risk of Serotonin Syndrome. There is a long list of medications altered significantly by Turmeric and starting or stopping Turmeric should be discussed by a qualified professional.*

VALERIAN

Because Valerian has the possibility of affecting the GABA receptors in much the same way as benzodiazepines, it is recommended to not combine with Alprazolam, Diazepam, Lorazepam, Clonazepam, Temazepam or Sleeping Pills. Valerian has been reported to cause excitability, headaches, stomach upset, uneasiness, unsteadiness, vertigo, low body temperature, and with chronic use, insomnia. A hangover effect has been reported with high doses and withdrawals may occur if you stop using Valerian suddenly. Symptoms could include cardiac complications, delirium and gastrointestinal discomfort.*

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FOODS & BEVERAGES

The risk of a drug interaction isn't limited to herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications. Certain foods can interact with various prescription pills.*

ALCOHOL 
BARLEY GRASS
 
BROCCOLI
 
CAFFEINE
 
CHARBROILED FOODS
 
CHAMOMILE
 
DIET DRINKS
 
GRAPEFRUIT 
KIWI

ALCOHOL

Alcohol is a drug that interacts with almost every medication, especially central nervous system agents and other drugs that affect the brain and nervous system. Alcohol interacts with most antidepressants, benzodiazepines and sleeping pills. The combination can cause fatigue, dizziness, slow reactions by increasing the concentration of medications. A small amount of beer, wine, or liquor can also increase the risk of stomach bleeding or liver damage when mixed with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and medications used to treat pain and fever. These include aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol, Excedrin).*

BARLEY GRASS

The fiber in barley may decrease the absorption of medications and prevent their full effects. Hordenine, a chemical in the root of developing barley, may stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase the heart rate and promote wakefulness.*

BROCCOLI

Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower) like charbroiled foods can accelerate the processing of some Antidepressants and leave less amounts to enter the bloodstream. This can make an individual feel as if a reduction in medication occurred without ever changing the dose.*

CAFFEINE

Caffeine increases anxiety and reduces the effectiveness of benzodiazepines. Caffeine is present in coffee, black tea, green tea, chocolate, some soft drinks and many over-the-counter medications. Caffeine is a stimulant and its effects can last up to 20 hours in the body. Some people will have disturbed sleep patterns even when their last cup of coffee was in the morning. So the sensible option is to avoid caffeine completely if taking a benzodiazepine, struggling with anxiety or insomnia.*

CHARBROILED FOODS

Grilled foods can present a concern for anyone taking asthma medications containing theophyllines. The chemical compounds formed when food is grilled prevent the medication from working effectively, increasing the possibility of an unmanageable asthma attack. But charbroiled foods also alter the metabolization of some Antidepressants and can therefore change the amount of medication in the bloodstream.*

CHAMOMILE

Chamomile is a member of the daisy family, and may intensify the effects of central nervous system medications such as benzodiazepines, narcotics, sleeping pills and antidepressants. This can cause excess sedation, a lowering of blood pressure, depression, suppression of the lungs and cognitive impairment. Chamomile can also increase the effects of anticoagulant medications (Warfarin, Coumadin, Aspirin), and its natural tannin content can interfere with iron absorption.*

DIET DRINKS

Diet Beverages contain artificial sweeteners including Aspartame, Splenda and Saccharin, which are all excitotoxins to the central nervous system. This can increase anxiety, panic, depression, insomnia, headaches and gastrointestinal issues. Ironically, it is well documented that excitotoxins can actually cause weight gain.*

GRAPEFRUIT

Grapefruit affects more than 50 prescription medications since it inhibits an enzyme in the intestines that normally breaks down certain drugs, allowing more of a medication to enter the blood stream. The interaction symptoms can appear up to 3 days after eating or drinking grapefruit. This means you cannot drink grapefruit juice in the morning and take your medications late in the day. Grapefruit should be avoided with all Antidepressants, Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills.*

KIWI

Kiwi has a naturally high serotonin concentration and can have a synergistic effect when combined with SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). This can produce levels of Serotonin that are too high, resulting is agitation, confusion, headache seating and nausea. Kiwi may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinning medications including aspirin, warfarin, heparin, anti-platelet drugs and non-steroidal drugs such as ibuprofen, Aleve or Naproxen.*

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ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS & FLAVORINGS

Many foods are laced with excitotoxins (toxins that affect the central nervous system) in the form of additives that cause brain cells to swell and die. Excitotoxins are included in beverages, artificial sweeteners and sauces. These compounds are often disguised as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, yeast extract, soy protein isolate, textured protein, and even natural seasoning and spices can be 12 to 40 percent MSG. Eliminating excitotoxins may be essential to help protect the brain, eyes, hypothalamus and the central nervous system. Even artificial sweeteners, sold as diet items, have actually been associated with weight gain.*

ASPARTAME 
SACCHARIN 
SUCRALOSE
 
MSG
 

ASPARTAME

(NutraSweet, Equal)

Aspartame is an excitotoxin that was approved in 1981 and is 180 times sweeter than sugar. It can be found today in more than 7,000 commonly consumed foods, beverages and medications.

All of Aspartame’s components are toxic to humans. Aspartame is 50% Phenylalanine, and 10% Methanol. Phenylalanine is an amino acid used by the brain. But anyone suffering from the genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot metabolize phenylalanine, and excess amounts can lead to a decrease of serotonin levels, and could cause emotional disorders and depression.

Menthanol is also known as wood alcohol. Methanol breaks down in the body to produce formic acid and the deadly neurotoxin, formaldehyde, a known carcinogen that causes retinal damage and birth defects, interferes with DNA replication, and has been shown to cause a form of skin cancer in animals.  Even low-level formaldehyde exposure can cause symptoms that include headaches, fatigue, chest tightness, dizziness, nausea, poor concentration and seizures.*

Aspartic acid is a neurotransmitter produced in the body to assist in the transfer of information from neuron to neuron. Consumption of aspartame can create an excess of synthetic aspartic acid that damages neurons by continuous over-stimulation. Another byproduct of metabolized aspartame is diketopiperazine (DKP). DKP has been associated with brain tumors and has been found to form in beverages that contain aspartame when stored above 86 degrees F. The most common side effects of aspartame are headaches/migraines, nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, sleep problems, vision problems, depression, asthma and anxiety attacks. In the European Union, Aspartame is banned for use in any children’s products.*

SACCHARIN (Sweet-and-Low, Sugar Twin)

Saccharin was the first of the artificial sweeteners and is 300 times sweeter than sugar. It was discovered in 1879 by a chemist researching coal tar derivatives in the laboratory at Johns Hopkins University. He synthesized the reaction of anthranillic acid with nitrous acid, sulfur dioxide, chlorine and ammonia. Saccharin is absorbed rapidly in the digestive tract, cannot be metabolized, and therefore has been linked to concerns of bladder cancer. According to Andrew Laumbach, Ph.D., consumer safety officer in FDA's Office of Premarket Approval, "We know for certain that it (Saccharin) causes cancer in animals."  Canada banned the use of saccharin, but it is allowed in the United States with a warning label stating saccharin may be a carcinogen. The common side effects may include nausea, headaches, diarrhea, eczema, hives, itching, wheezing and excessive urination to name a few.*

SUCRALOSE (Splenda)

Sucralose is marketed as the sweetener Splenda and is about 600 times sweeter than sugar. Splenda is chlorinated sugar, or chlorocarbon. Some chlorinated molecules serve as the basis for pesticides (such as DDT), and store in the fatty tissues of the body. Although the manufacturer claims it passes through the body unabsorbed, the FDA’s “Final Rule” report stated the human body absorbs 11-27%. However, the Japanese Food Sanitation Council found that as much as 40% is absorbed.  Sucralose was found to concentrate in the liver, kidney and gastrointestinal tract. Side effects may include skin rashes / flushing, agitation, panic attacks, dizziness, numbness, diarrhea, muscle aches, headaches, intestinal cramping, bladder issues, stomach pain, chest pains, acne, bleeding, hair loss, heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure and many others.*

MSG (Monosodium Glutamate or Sodium Glutamate)

MSG or Monosodium Glutamate is also known as Protein Hydrolysate, Natural Flavor or Accent, and is used to enhance the taste of foods. MSG is addictive and can cause migraine headaches, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, short-term memory and cognitive impairment. MSG is an excitotoxin that causes more rapid cell death. MSG promotes a dangerous toxic reaction in many people and it is estimated that 30% of people get dizzy and disoriented after ingesting it. Research has also linked MSG to obesity since it damages the body’s ability to control weight. MSG is also known as Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Accent, Aginomoto, Natural Meat Tenderizer, as many others.  The list of side effects is extensive and includes cardiac variations (arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, angina, extreme rise or drop in blood pressure), swelling, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, stomach cramps, depression, mood swings, rage, migraine headaches, dizziness, mental confusion, anxiety, panic attacks, hyperactivity, behavioral changes, lethargy, insomnia, blurred vision and hives.*

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OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS

Whenever an over-the-counter item is taken with a prescription medication, there is a chance that there will be an interaction between them. The interaction may increase or decrease the effectiveness and/or the side effects and might also result in a new side effect that is not generally seen with the medications individually. The likelihood of drug interactions increases as the number of combinations increases. Most drug interactions are due to altered absorption in the intestine and can change the blood flow to the intestines, metabolism of the drug by the intestine, increased movement in the intestines resulting in diarrhea or constipation, alterations in the acidity of the stomach and a change in the bacteria of the gut region. The liver and kidney are where most drugs are eliminated and therefore are important sites of drug interactions. Drug interactions can be complex and unpredictable, so minimizing the risk may be essential.  Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist when combining with any prescriptions.*

ANTIHISTAMINES 
NASAL DECONGESTANTS
  
STOMACH RELIEVERS

ANTIHISTAMINES

(Benadryl, Dimetapp, NyQuil, Alka-Seltzer Night-Time Cold, Thera Flu, ect.)

Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are drugs that temporarily relieve a runny nose, or reduce sneezing, itching of the nose or throat, and itchy watery eyes. However, antihistamines increase the effect of benzodiazepines and sleeping pills and can cause cognitive deficits, dangerous drops in blood pressure, suppression of the lungs and extreme sedation. Antihistamines also may alter the metabolism of many SSRIs, increasing blood levels of the Antidepressant and increasing their side effects.  Combining antihistamines with hypertension medication may cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.*

NASAL DECOGESTANTS (Afrin, Neosynephrine, Sudafed, ect.)

Most nasal decongestant sprays can cause increased adrenaline and norepinephrine, which can worsen anxiety and depression. Use of decongestants for longer than 3-5 days can damage the nasal tissue and lead to chronic congestion. Nasal decongestants may decrease the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications, and the most common side effects are stomach upset, trouble sleeping, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, nervousness, fast heartbeat, loss of appetite and shaking.*

PAIN RELIEVERS (Acetaminophen - Tylenol, Excedrin, ect. / Ibuprofen - Motrin, Advil, ect.)

Painkillers such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are called analgesics, which numb pain. Both can have a profound effect on other medications, the absorption of nutrients and therefore to our general health.

Acetaminophen, also known as Paracetamol, is widely used in over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer derived from coal tar and has been shown to reduce glutathione production (the body’s master antioxidant). Acetaminophen is metabolized primarily in the kidneys with a lesser amount traveling through the liver, where a toxic by-product called N-acetyl-p-benzoquioneimine (NAPQI) is produced in response to the acetaminophen, and is extremely harmful to the liver. The side effects of acetaminophen include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, sweating, irritability, abdominal pain (particularly near the liver), yellow eyes or skin, liver or kidney failure, heart problems and seizures.

Ibuprofen reduces melatonin levels and may affect sleep if taken at bedtime. Other drugs that interfere with melatonin production are Valium, Xanax, diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, alcohol and caffeine. Ibuprofen may also exacerbate anxiety and depression by causing a disruption in the hormone system that participates in the contraction and relaxation of the muscles, blood vessels and modulates inflammation. Side effects include rash, riming of the ears, headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, bruising, tingling, numbness, nervousness, depression and insomnia.*

STOMACH RELIEVERS (Maalox, Tums, Tagamet, Prilosec OTC, Pepcid, Zantac, ect.)

Over-the-Counter medications that reduce the production of stomach acid can upset the natural balance of healthy bacteria required for good health, and allow unhealthy bacteria to proliferate.

Proton-pump inhibitors block stomach acid production AND increase the risk of a common infectious form of diarrhea. Taking a heartburn medication (Nexium, Losec) significantly increase the risk of diarrhea from the Clostridium difficile bacteria. Frequently prescribed anti-heartburn drugs called H2 antagonists (Zantac, Prevacid) double the risk of the bacterial diarrhea. PPIs and H2 antagonists reduce gastric acid, allowing for bacteria to multiply in the digestive system. While antibiotics formerly blamed for outbreaks of the illness have declined in use, the acid-blocking drugs have become steadily more popular to treat ulcers and conditions such as gastric reflux disease.

Additionally, stomach medications can slow the absorption of benzodiazepines and sleeping pills and lead to increased anxiety and insomnia. Antacids taken with antibiotics, heart and blood pressure or thyroid medications can decrease their absorption up to 90 percent, and may pose a concern with certain antidepressants. Antacids also bind to nutrients and prevent proper absorption. All of these usually should be tapered and consult your doctor for details.*

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References:

Drug-drug interactions as a result of co-administering Δ9-THC and CBD with other psychotropic agents.

CBD-Drug Interactions: The Role of Cytochrome P450

Interactions between cannabidiol and commonly used antiepileptic drugs.

Excitotoxins in foods

Relief of fibromyalgia symptoms following discontinuation of dietary excitotoxins.

Is aspartame safe?

Does Aspartame Cause Cancer?

Increasing brain tumor rates: is there a link to aspartame?

The Lethal Science of Splenda

What is MSG? Is it bad for you?

Interactions Between Nonprescription Products and Psychotropic Medications

Drixoral Decongestant Nasal Spray

Paracetamol depletes glutathione

Understanding Acetaminophen Poisoning

Common painkiller linked to increased risk of major heart problems

Does taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase my risk of heart attack or stroke?

NSAIDS

Interaction of drugs and Chinese herbs

An Assessment of Milk Thistle Pharmacokinetics and Drug Interactions

St. Johns Wort

St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum): drug interactions and clinical outcomes

Use of serotonergic antidepressants and St John's wort in older Australians

Sleep duration and caffeine consumption in a French middle-aged working population

Grapefruit juice–drug interactions

Headaches and Food

What Food Cause Headaches

Lack of correlation between in vitro and in vivo studies on the effects of tangeretin and tangerine juice on midazolam hydroxylation

Effect of Fruit/Vegetable-Drug Interactions on CYP450, OATP and p-Glycoprotein

10 Unexpected Side Effects Of Kiwi Fruit

Tomato Biological Name Lycopersicon Esculentum

Nerologic Effects of Caffeine

Interaction of caffeine with benzodiazepines: behavioral effects in mice.

Diet Soda Bad for you

3 Reasons You Should Kick Your Diet Soda Habit

Possible Interactions with Chamomile

Chamomile

Consumption of Charcoal Broiled Meat as an Experimental Tool for Dicerning CYP1A2-Mediated Drug Metabolism in Vivo

Effects of a Chargrilled Meat Diet on Expression of CYP3A,CYP1A, and P-Glycoprotein Levels in Healthy Volunteers

Antidepressant-like effects of young green barley leaf (Hordeum vulgare L.) in the mouse forced swimming test

Cruciferous Vegetables Drug Nutrient interactions

Possible Interactions With Passionflower

In vitro activity of commercial valerian root extracts against human cytochrome P450 3A4.

Effect of three herbal extracts on cytochrome P450 and possibility of interaction with drugs

Kava

Cytochrome P450 IIIA1 (P450p) requires cytochrome b5 and phospholipid with unsaturated fatty acids.

The Peri-operative implications of herbal medications

An overview of the evidence and mechanisms of herb-drug Interactions

Drugs that Deplete Melatonin

Influence of beta-blockers on melatonin release.

Common Drug Classes, Drug-Nutrient Depletions, & Drug-Nutrient Interactions

N-acetyl Cysteine

N-Acetyl Cysteine: A Warning Shot

Benzodiazepines and calcium channel function

Micromolar-affinity benzodiazepine receptors regulate voltage-sensitive calcium channels in nerve terminal preparations.

Chronic benzodiazepine administration potentiates high voltage-activated calcium currents in hippocampal CA1 neurons

Antacids revisited: a review of their clinical pharmacology and recommended therapeutic use

Antacids


Drug-Disease Interaction: Effect of Inflammation and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs on Cytochrome P450 Metabolites of Arachidonic Acid.

Role of cytochrome P450 in drug interactions

The risks of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors: a critical review

Proton pump inhibitors: Review of reported risks and controversies

The health risks of saccharin revisited

Saccharin

Effect of health foods on cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism

Curcumin, Piperine, and Capsaicin: A Comparative Study of Spice-Mediated Inhibition of Human Cytochrome P450 Isozyme Activities

What Is Phenibut? How Does Addiction Start?

Dissociative intoxication and prolonged withdrawal associated with phenibut: a case report

Risks and Benefits of Commonly used Herbal Medicines in México

Interactions of Herbs with Cytochrome P450

Pungent ginger components modulates human cytochrome P450 enzymes in vitro

Effects of an aqueous-ethanolic extract of ginger on cytochrome P450 enzyme-mediated drug metabolism.

Effects of ginseng components on c-DNA-expressed cytochrome P450 enzyme catalytic activity

Influence of Panax ginseng on cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) activity in healthy participants.

Activation of brain serotonergic system by repeated intracerebral administration of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) decreases the expression and activity of liver cytochrome P450.

INTERACTIONS OF TRICYCLIC ANTIDEPRESSANTS AND 5-HYDROXYINDOLEALKYLAMINE PRECURSORS ON SPINAL MONOSYNAPTIC REFLEX TRANSMISSION

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)

Disclaimer:

*While great care has been taken in organizing and presenting the material throughout this website, please note that it is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as Medical Advice. 

*Always consult with your healthcare professional before starting or stopping any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking or stopping any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have any health problem.

*You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, before reducing any medication or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Never abruptly stop anything, but rather speak to your healthcare practitioner and pharmacist. You should consult with your medical professional to determine if any interaction item needs to be tapered. More...