Grapefruit Juice Drug Interactions

Grapefruit juice and fresh grapefruit have vitamin C and potassium and can be part of a healthy diet.  However, according to Dr. Huang of the Food and Drug Administration, they can interfere with the action of both some prescription and nonprescription drugs.  For example, cholesterol lowering statins (Zocor, Lipitor and Prevachol) have warnings to not have grapefruit while taking them.  Some blood pressure lowering drugs (Nifediac and Afeditab), organ transplant rejection drugs (Sandimmune and Neoral), anti-anxiety drugs (buspar), anti-arrhythmia drugs (Cordarone and Nexterone) and some antihistamines (Allegra) are also affected.  While some medications carry labels regarding grapefruit, you may ask your pharmacist about your particular prescription.  The medication guide included will also provide the necessary information.  If you must avoid grapefruit, read labels of fruit juices to see if it is included.  Seville oranges and tangelos affect the same enzyme as grapefruit juice and are also to be avoided.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309