What medications can interact with Rhodiola supplements?

Rhodiola may lower blood sugar levels. Caution is advised when using drugs that may also lower blood sugar. Patients taking drugs for diabetes by mouth or injection should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Rhodiola may alter blood pressure. Caution is advised in patients taking drugs that alter blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors.

Rhodiola may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver's "cytochrome P450" enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may be increased in the blood, and may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. Patients using any medications should check the package insert, and speak with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, about possible interactions.

Rhodiola may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

Use cautiously in patients using CNS depressants, as rhodiola may cause sedation or drowsiness. Use caution if driving or operating heavy machinery.

Rhodiola may interact with acetaminophen, acetazolamide, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, anti-anxiety agents, antibiotics, anticancer agents, antidepressants (including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)), anti-inflammatory agents, antivirals, catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors, CNS stimulants, drugs that affect blood lipid levels, drugs that affect the heart and vascular system, estrogens, exercise performance-enhancers, heart rate-regulating drugs, agents that affect the immune system, nicotine, opiates, P-glycoprotein-regulated agents, pentobarbital, sedatives, theophylline, or weight loss agents.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.