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Methotrexate and Herbal Supplements: What You Need to Know
Methotrexate is a powerful medication used to treat a range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer. While it can be an effective treatment, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with herbal supplements. In this article, we'll explore the specific herbal supplements to avoid when taking methotrexate.
What are Herbal Supplements?
Before we dive into the specifics, let's define what herbal supplements are. Herbal supplements are products that contain plant extracts or other botanicals, often marketed as natural remedies for various health concerns. While they may seem harmless, many herbal supplements can interact with medications like methotrexate, leading to adverse effects.
Why are Herbal Supplements a Concern with Methotrexate?
Methotrexate is a potent medication that can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. When taken with herbal supplements, the risk of these side effects increases. Herbal supplements can also reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate or increase its toxicity.
Specific Herbal Supplements to Avoid with Methotrexate
1. St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is a popular herbal supplement used to treat mild depression and anxiety. However, it can interact with methotrexate, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of side effects. According to the American Cancer Society, St. John's Wort can decrease the levels of methotrexate in the blood, making it less effective in treating cancer.
“St. John's Wort can decrease the levels of methotrexate in the blood, making it less effective in treating cancer.”
- American Cancer Society
2. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is an herbal supplement marketed as a memory and cognitive booster. However, it can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of bleeding and gastrointestinal side effects. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that ginkgo biloba may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with methotrexate.
3. Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement used to boost the immune system and prevent infections. However, it can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of liver damage and other side effects. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) warns that echinacea may increase the risk of liver damage when taken with methotrexate.
4. Valerian Root
Valerian root is an herbal supplement used as a natural sedative. However, it can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of drowsiness and dizziness. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) warns that valerian root may increase the risk of drowsiness when taken with methotrexate.
5. Turmeric/Curcumin
Turmeric and curcumin are herbal supplements used to reduce inflammation and pain. However, they can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and liver damage. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) warns that turmeric and curcumin may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects when taken with methotrexate.
What to Do if You're Taking Methotrexate and Herbal Supplements
If you're taking methotrexate and herbal supplements, it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the potential interactions. They can help you:
* Identify which herbal supplements are safe to take with methotrexate
* Monitor your blood levels of methotrexate to ensure it's effective and safe
* Adjust your dosage or switch to alternative treatments if necessary
Conclusion
Methotrexate is a powerful medication that requires careful management. Herbal supplements can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of side effects and reducing its effectiveness. By avoiding specific herbal supplements and talking to your doctor or pharmacist, you can ensure safe and effective treatment with methotrexate.
Key Takeaways
* Herbal supplements can interact with methotrexate, increasing the risk of side effects and reducing its effectiveness
* Avoid taking St. John's Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, Echinacea, Valerian Root, and Turmeric/Curcumin with methotrexate
* Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions and monitor your blood levels of methotrexate
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take any herbal supplements with methotrexate?
A: No, it's essential to avoid taking certain herbal supplements with methotrexate. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine which supplements are safe to take.
Q: How do I know if my herbal supplement is interacting with methotrexate?
A: Monitor your blood levels of methotrexate and report any side effects to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you identify potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Q: Can I stop taking my herbal supplement if I'm taking methotrexate?
A: Yes, it's recommended to stop taking herbal supplements that may interact with methotrexate. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best course of action.
Q: Are there any herbal supplements that are safe to take with methotrexate?
A: While there are no herbal supplements that are completely safe to take with methotrexate, some may be safer than others. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist to determine which supplements are safe to take.
Q: How do I find reliable information about herbal supplements and methotrexate?
A: Consult with your doctor or pharmacist, and check reputable sources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Sources
1. American Cancer Society. (2020). St. John's Wort and Cancer Treatment.
2. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Ginkgo Biloba.
3. European Medicines Agency. (2020). Echinacea.
4. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Valerian Root.
5. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2020). Turmeric/Curcumin.
6. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Methotrexate Patent Expiration.