Drug Information
Dipyridamole prevents platelet clumping and is used with warfarin (Coumadin®) to prevent blood clots from forming after heart valve replacement. It may be used alone or combined with aspirin to prevent strokes.
Common brand names:
Persantine
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
Types of interactions:
Beneficial
Adverse
Check
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
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Iron
Some studies suggest the taking of too much iron by individuals who are not iron deficient can result in tissue damage that may contribute to heart disease. Test tube studies have shown dipyridamole blocks platelet clumping caused by iron, which might reduce the damage caused by this mineral. Controlled human studies are needed to test this possibility.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Support Medicine
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Garlic
A test tube study has shown ajoene, a compound found in garlic that prevents platelet clumping, enhances the beneficial action of dipyridamole on human platelets. Controlled research is needed to determine whether taking garlic supplements together with dipyridamole might enhance the effectiveness of either compound taken alone.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Potential Negative Interaction
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Dan shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), a Chinese herb, was associated with increased warfarin activity in two cases. Although warfarin acts differently from ticlopidine, both affect parameters of bleeding. Until more is known, people taking ticlopidine should use dan shen only under close medical supervision. Sage (Salvia officinalis), a plant relative of dan shen found in the West, has not been not associated with interactions involving warfarin.
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Eleuthero
Ginseng (Panax ginseng) was associated with a decrease in warfarin activity in a case study. This report suggests that ginseng may affect parameters of bleeding. Therefore, people taking ticlopidine should consult with a physician knowledgeable about botanical medicines before taking Asian ginseng or eleuthero/Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus).
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Reishi
As it may increase bleeding time, reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is not recommended for those taking anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications.
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Taking dipyridamole can cause a reduction in the amount of oxygen delivered to the heart, resulting in a rare side effect known as angina pectoris. Because dipyridamole has this effect, it has sometimes been used in heart stress tests. One person who consumed coffee prior to the test failed to experience the expected reduction in blood flow caused by dipyridamole. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether consumption of beverages containing caffeine might reduce the likelihood of developing angina from the drug.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Explanation Required
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Bromelain
In theory, bromelain might enhance the action of anticoagulants. This theoretical concern has not been substantiated by human research, however.
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Ginger
Ginger has been shown to reduce platelet stickiness in test tubes. Although there appear to be no reports of interactions with platelet inhibiting drugs, people should talk with a healthcare professional if they are taking a platelet inhibitor and wish to use ginger.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
