Prescription drugs have revolutionized the treatment of diseases and made life better for patients worldwide. These medications are prescribed by doctors and approved by regulatory bodies.

However, some of these drugs interact with herbs and other supplements, leading to unintended consequences. This article aims to highlight the herbs that can lead to adverse side effects when taken alongside prescription drugs.

Why You Need to Be Careful When Combining Prescription Drugs and Herbs

Combining prescription drugs and herbs can lead to dangerous interactions that can be life-threatening. Many herbs contain active compounds that may interfere with the effectiveness of prescription drugs, leading to adverse side effects.

For instance, some herbs may increase or decrease the potency of certain drugs, leading to under or over-treatment of the condition. Additionally, some herbs interact with prescription drugs to produce toxins that can damage organs such as the liver and kidneys.

The Common Herbs That Can Cause Harmful Interactions with Prescription Drugs

While many herbs have medicinal properties and are safe for use, some can cause dangerous interactions with prescription drugs. Below are some of the common herbs that you should avoid when taking prescription medication.

1. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is an herb that has antidepressant properties. The herb is safe when taken alone, but when combined with prescription drugs such as antidepressants, antivirals, and birth control pills, it can cause dangerous interactions. St.

John’s Wort can decrease the effectiveness of these medications, leading to under-treatment of the disease.

2. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is an herb that improves memory and circulation. The herb is widely used by patients with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other cognitive disorders.

However, combining Ginkgo Biloba with blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin can lead to harmful interactions. The herb may increase bleeding, reduce the effectiveness of the medication, or cause blood clots to form.

3. Echinacea

Echinacea is an herb that boosts the immune system and helps fight infections.

The herb is safe when taken alone, but when combined with immunosuppressive medications such as steroids and cyclosporine, it can weaken the effect of the drugs, leading to under-treatment of the disease. Echinacea can also interfere with the antifungal drug Ketoconazole, leading to reduced effectiveness.

4. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a fruit that is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. However, when combined with certain medications such as statins, HIV medications, and blood pressure medications, it can lead to dangerous interactions.

The fruit contains compounds that inhibit the metabolism of these drugs, leading to increased potency and toxicity. Patients should avoid drinking grapefruit juice when taking prescription medications.

5. Licorice

Licorice is an herb that soothes the stomach and aids digestion. However, when combined with diuretic medications such as Furosemide, it can lead to harmful interactions.

The herb contains compounds that increase the potassium excretion in the body, leading to electrolyte imbalances and arrhythmias.

6. Kava

Kava is a herb that has a relaxing effect and is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. When combined with alcohol or medications such as benzodiazepines, it can lead to dangerous interactions.

The herb enhances the effects of these drugs, leading to sedation, respiratory depression, and coma. Patients should avoid using kava when taking prescription drugs.

7. Ginger

Ginger is an herb that is widely used to treat nausea, vomiting, and digestive disorders. However, when combined with blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin, it can lead to harmful interactions.

The herb contains compounds that increase bleeding and reduce the effectiveness of the medication, leading to over-treatment of the disease.

8. Garlic

Garlic is an herb that is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. However, when combined with blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, it can lead to dangerous interactions.

The herb contains compounds that increase bleeding and can cause internal bleeding when combined with blood-thinning medications.

9. Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto is an herb that is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that causes enlargement of the prostate gland. However, when combined with blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin, it can lead to harmful interactions.

The herb contains compounds that increase bleeding and can cause internal bleeding when combined with these medications.

10. Valerian

Valerian is an herb that has a sedative effect and is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, when combined with alcohol or other sedative medications such as benzodiazepines, it can lead to harmful interactions.

The herb enhances the effects of these drugs, leading to sedation, respiratory depression, and coma.

Conclusion

Prescription drugs and herbs can have beneficial effects on the human body, but caution should be exercised when combining the two.

Patients should always inform their doctors and pharmacists about any herbs or supplements that they are taking to avoid dangerous interactions. Additionally, patients should read labels and instructions carefully to ensure that they are taking medications as prescribed. By following these precautions, patients can avoid the adverse side effects associated with drug interactions.