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question

How do fiber supplements interact with medications and food?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD
Stacy Wiegman, PharmD
Pharmacy
answer

Given the variety of fiber supplements, there are a host of possible interactions. The combination of some diabetes medicines and fiber supplements can lower the effectiveness of the diabetes drugs. This includes glyburide and metformin. You also may need to wait several hours after taking a fiber supplement in order to use these drugs. If you take cholesterol-lowing drugs known as bile acid sequestrants, the use of psyllium or other soluble fibers may make your cholesterol levels go lower (possibly too low). The use of fiber with tricyclic antidepressants may decrease their effectiveness. These drugs include amitriptyline, imipramine (Tofranil), and doxepine (Sinequan). The use of soluble fiber like psyllium may reduce the effectiveness of carbamazepine, digoxin, and lithium. Talk to your doctor about everything that you take before starting on a fiber supplement regimen.

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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.