🟡

Ginseng × Chemotherapy

MODERATE INTERACTION

⚠️ Mechanism

Ginseng is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, which decreases metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates, potentially increasing their plasma concentrations and risk of adverse effects.

📋 Effect

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

💊 Management

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

Plain Language Summary

This combination may be unsafe because it can cause chemotherapy levels to rise in your body. Ginseng can slow down how your body breaks down the drug, which may increase the risk of experiencing more severe side effects.

Source

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

Supporting Research

Treatments of Sexual Dysfunction in Opioid Substitution Therapy Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis PMID:33967614 DOI:10.7150/ijms.57641 2021
Compound salvia pellet, a traditional Chinese medicine, for the treatment of chronic stable angina pectoris compared with nitrates: a meta-analysis PMID:16369479 2006
Efficacy of Ginseng Supplements on Fatigue and Physical Performance: a Meta-analysis PMID:27822924 DOI:10.3346/jkms.2016.31.12.1879 2016
Dose-response and temporal ergogenic effects of ginseng supplementation in athletes and active participants: A systematic review and meta-analysis PMID:36604650 DOI:10.1080/02640414.2022.2162753 2022
Clinical efficacy and safety of Panax notoginseng saponins in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with blood hypercoagulability: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials PMID:38216446 DOI:10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155244 2024
[Dan'e-fukang soft extract for dysmenorrhea: a meta-analysis] PMID:25187464 2014
Efficacy of ginseng supplements on disease-related fatigue: A systematic review and meta-analysis PMID:35776997 DOI:10.1097/MD.0000000000029767 2022
The efficacy of ginseng supplementation on plasma lipid concentration in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis PMID:31987252 DOI:10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102239 2020
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.