interactions between grapefruit and medications

Clinical drug interaction studies with combined oral contraceptives: Guidance for industry.Classifications for combined hormonal contraceptives.

You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. We link primary sources - including studies, scientific references, and statistics - within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. So, if grapefruit can significantly affect how the body processes hormonal birth control, it may be hard to predict how much. The peak concentration of this drug in the participants’ blood spanned 64–214%, showing a range of responses even when the volunteers all took the same dose. The results of the 1996 study suggest this is true for the metabolism of ethinylestradiol, which is a synthetic form of estrogen present in some types of birth control. Some have more than others, meaning grapefruit can have a bigger or smaller effect on different individuals. However, it is important to note that people have varying amounts of CYP3A4 in their intestines. As a result, a person may have higher amounts of estrogen and progestin in their body. If the enzyme is not working effectively, the body may not be able to properly absorb the contraceptive hormones. The CYP3A4 enzyme can play a significant role in contraceptive metabolism. CYP3A enzymes help the body process estrogens and some progestins, which are the substances that certain forms of birth control use to prevent pregnancy. Icosapent ethyl may work by decreasing the amount of triglycerides and other fats made in the liver.How might grapefruit affect birth control?Ĭertain compounds in grapefruit affect an enzyme in the small intestine known as CYP3A4, which belongs to the CYP3A group. Icosapent ethyl is in a class of medications called antilipemic or lipid-regulating agents. It is also used along with cholesterol-lowering medications (statins) to decrease the risk of a heart attack, a stroke, or other heart problems that require hospitalization in certain adults with high triglyceride levels and heart disease or diabetes with 2 or more other heart disease risk factors. Icosapent ethyl is used together with lifestyle changes (diet, weight loss, exercise) to reduce the amount of triglycerides (a fat-like substance) in the blood. See More Information Regarding Grapefruit Icosapent Ethyl (prescription drug) Overview It is also sometimes used to treat digestive problems, such as diarrhea and indigestion.ĭrug interactions with grapefruit are quite prevalent and if you take prescription medication, you should talk with your doctor or pharmacist first before consuming grapefruit. Grapefruit and grapefruit seed extract is commonly used in dietary supplements for a variety of conditions, such as yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and respiratory infections. Pink and red grapefruits are sweeter and have a more complex flavor. White grapefruits are the most common and have a slightly bitter taste. This color difference is mostly attributed to their respective lycopene content. There are several varieties of grapefruits, including white, pink, and red. They are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients, including vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.

Grapefruit is a tropical citrus fruit known for its tart and tangy flavor.

Interactions between grapefruit and medications