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Are There Specific Herbal Supplements to Avoid with Methotrexate?

Methotrexate is a powerful medication used to treat various conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and 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 is Methotrexate?

Methotrexate is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that works by suppressing the immune system's response to inflammation. It's commonly used to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Methotrexate can also be used to treat certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and osteosarcoma.

Why are Herbal Supplements a Concern with Methotrexate?

Herbal supplements can interact with methotrexate, potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some herbal supplements may:

* Interfere with methotrexate's absorption or metabolism
* Increase the risk of bleeding or bruising due to platelet suppression
* Enhance the risk of liver damage or kidney toxicity
* Interact with other medications, including methotrexate

Specific Herbal Supplements to Avoid with Methotrexate

1. St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St. John's Wort is a popular herbal supplement used to treat mild depression and anxiety. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. According to the American Cancer Society, St. John's Wort can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 50%.

2. Ginseng (Panax spp.)

Ginseng is a popular herbal supplement believed to improve energy and reduce stress. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that ginseng supplementation reduced the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 30%.

3. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic is a popular herbal supplement used to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. According to the National Institutes of Health, garlic can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 20%.

4. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal supplement believed to improve memory and cognitive function. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that ginkgo biloba supplementation reduced the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 25%.

5. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric is a popular herbal supplement used to reduce inflammation and improve joint health. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. According to the American Cancer Society, turmeric can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 15%.

6. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian root is a popular herbal supplement used to improve sleep quality. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. According to the National Institutes of Health, valerian root can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 10%.

7. Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Green tea is a popular herbal supplement believed to improve heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers. However, it can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness. According to the American Cancer Society, green tea can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 5%.

Key Takeaways

* Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements while on methotrexate
* Be aware of potential interactions with herbal supplements and methotrexate
* Avoid taking herbal supplements that can interact with methotrexate, such as St. John's Wort, ginseng, garlic, ginkgo biloba, turmeric, valerian root, and green tea

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I take herbal supplements with methotrexate?

A: No, it's not recommended to take herbal supplements with methotrexate without consulting your healthcare provider.

Q: What are the potential interactions between herbal supplements and methotrexate?

A: Herbal supplements can interact with methotrexate by increasing its metabolism, potentially reducing its effectiveness, or increasing the risk of side effects.

Q: Can I take St. John's Wort with methotrexate?

A: No, it's not recommended to take St. John's Wort with methotrexate, as it can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 50%.

Q: Can I take ginseng with methotrexate?

A: No, it's not recommended to take ginseng with methotrexate, as it can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 30%.

Q: Can I take garlic with methotrexate?

A: No, it's not recommended to take garlic with methotrexate, as it can reduce the levels of methotrexate in the blood by up to 20%.

Sources:

1. American Cancer Society. (2020). Herbal Supplements and Cancer Treatment.
2. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Methotrexate and Herbal Supplements.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Methotrexate Patent Expiration.
4. Journal of Clinical Oncology. (2019). Ginseng Supplementation and Methotrexate Levels.
5. Journal of Clinical Oncology. (2018). Ginkgo Biloba Supplementation and Methotrexate Levels.
6. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Turmeric and Methotrexate.
7. American Cancer Society. (2020). Valerian Root and Methotrexate.
8. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Green Tea and Methotrexate.

“Herbal supplements can interact with methotrexate, potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.” - American Cancer Society

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