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Echinacea × Antiarrhythmics

CRITICAL INTERACTION

⚠️ Mechanism

Echinacea is a weak inhibitor of CYP2C9, which decreases metabolism of CYP2C9 substrates, potentially increasing their plasma concentrations and risk of adverse effects.

📋 Effect

Increased plasma levels of amiodarone (antiarrhythmics), potentially leading to toxicity or enhanced adverse effects.

💊 Management

Monitor for increased adverse effects of amiodarone. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consider alternative supplement or consult healthcare provider.

Plain Language Summary

This combination is dangerous because it can cause medication levels to rise to unsafe levels. Echinacea may prevent your body from breaking down certain heart medications, which can lead to a buildup of the drug and an increased risk of serious side effects.

Source

Flockhart CYP450 Table (drug-interactions.medicine.iu.edu)

Supporting Research

Echinacea Supplementation Does Not Impact Aerobic Capacity and Erythropoiesis in Athletes: A Meta-Analysis PMID:38999738 DOI:10.3390/nu16131991 2024
Herbal Medicine in Children With Respiratory Tract Infection: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis PMID:28610802 DOI:10.1016/j.acap.2017.06.006 2018
Herbal Medicine for Cough: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis PMID:26840418 DOI:10.1159/000442111 2015
Rabbit dietary supplementation with pale purple coneflower. 1. Effects on the reproductive performance and immune parameters of does PMID:26763800 DOI:10.1017/S1751731115002979 2016
Efficacy of Functional Foods, Beverages, and Supplements Claiming to Alleviate Air Travel Symptoms: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis PMID:33809656 DOI:10.3390/nu13030961 2021
Interaction of herbal products with prescribed medications: A systematic review and meta-analysis PMID:30660822 DOI:10.1016/j.phrs.2019.01.028 2019
Echinacea for treating the common cold: a randomized trial PMID:21173411 DOI:10.7326/0003-4819-153-12-201012210-00003 2010
Efficacy of vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infection. A meta-analysis in children PMID:30465062 DOI:10.1007/s00228-018-2601-7 2019
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Medical Disclaimer: This interaction record is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Drug-supplement interactions can be dangerous. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining any supplement with prescription medications. Do not stop or change any medication without professional guidance.