This is a combination drug containing two ingredients, diphenoxylate and atropine, that is used in the treatment of diarrhoea. Diphenoxylate is in a class of drugs known
as antidiarrhoeals.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, a herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid: Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication since the supplement may decrease the absorption and/or activity
of the medication in the body. |
Tannin-containing herbs* such as green tea, black tea, uva ursi,
black walnut, red raspberry, oak, and witch hazel
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Tannin-containing herbs
Tannins are a group of unrelated chemicals that give plants an astringent taste. Herbs
containing high amounts of tannins, such as green
tea (Camellia sinensis), black tea, uva ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi),
black walnut (Juglans nigra),red
raspberry (Rubus idaeus),oak (Quercus spp.), and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), may
interfere with the absorption of the drug when taken by mouth.1
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Diphenoxylate may enhance the actions of alcohol,2 resulting in increased
drowsiness, dizziness, imbalance, and poor response times. Therefore, people taking
diphenoxylate should avoid alcohol, especially when staying alert is necessary.
References
(To view, roll mouse over heading; to hide, click on heading)
1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions.
Sandy, OR: Eclectic Institute, 1997, 100.
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2923–4.
Copyright © 2006 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
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with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes
only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical
experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not
necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before
making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.
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