Advertisement
question

Why should I avoid eating grapefruit if I am on blood pressure medication?

RealAge
RealAge
answer

A beta blocker with a grapefruit juice chaser may nix the effectiveness of the blood pressure medication, thanks to the chemical behind the fruit's tart taste. Another chemical in that fruit may actually boost the effects of other blood pressure drugs. Either way, you're not getting what you need, so keep grapefruit and blood pressure meds away from each other.

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
answer
If you're on blood pressure medication, you should avoid eating grapefruit. The reason why is that grapefruit is very acidic and breaks down certain medications much faster. For some people, this causes them to absorb too much of the medicine and for others, not enough. Blood pressure medications that are affected by grapefruit juice include calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine.

Continue Learning about High Blood Pressure Treatment

How treating high blood pressure protects your heart
How treating high blood pressure protects your heart
In the United States, studies suggest that nearly half of adults treated for high blood pressure (hypertension) do not follow the treatment plans reco...
Read More
What type of doctor should I see for high blood pressure?
Diagnosing high blood pressure is usually done during your annual visit to your primary care doctor....
More Answers
Why isn't my beta blocker enough to treat my blood pressure?
Why isn't my beta blocker enough to treat my blood pressure? Beta blockers are not great medications...
More Answers
Which physicians specialize in controlling high blood pressure?
Learn more about which physicians specialize in controlling high blood pressure from our experts.
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.