Sildenafil is a drug used to treat erectile
dysfunction (ED), commonly known as impotence, in men.
In one study, ingestion of 250 ml (approximately one cup) of grapefruit juice one hour
before and together with sildenafil increased the total amount of sildenafil absorbed by 23%,
but tended to delay the absorption of the drug.1 The authors of this study
recommended that sildenafil and grapefruit juice not be taken together.
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: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results. |
Grapefruit juice
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
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.
References
(To view, roll mouse over heading; to hide, click on heading)
1. Jetter A, Kinzig-Schippers M, Walchner-Bonjean M, et al. Effects of
grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of sildenafil. Clin Pharmacol Ther
2002;71:21–9.
Copyright © 2006 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
www.healthnotes.com
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disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on
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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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