Drug Information
Epinephrine—also called adrenaline—is a synthetic human hormone available as an orally inhaled, nonprescription drug to relieve temporary shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing due to bronchial asthma. Epinephrine is also available as a prescription drug used by injection in emergencies, including acute asthma attacks and severe allergic reactions.
Common brand names:
EpiPen, EpiPen Jr
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
Types of interactions:
Beneficial
Adverse
Check
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
Support Medicine
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Coleus
A test tube study demonstrated that the bronchodilating effects of salbutamol, a drug with similar actions in the lung to epinephrine, were significantly increased by the addition of forskolin, the active component of the herb Coleus forskohlii. The results of this preliminary research suggest that the combination of forskolin and beta-agonists might provide an alternative to raising the doses of the beta-agonist drugs as they lose effectiveness. Until more is known, coleus should not be combined with epinephrine without the supervision of a doctor.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Potential Negative Interaction
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Ephedra is the plant from which the drug ephedrine was originally isolated. Epinephrine and ephedrine have similar effects and side effects. Until 2004, ephedra—also called ma huang—was used in many herbal products, including supplements promoted for weight loss. While interactions between epinephrine and ephedra have not been reported, it seems likely that such interactions could occur. To prevent potential problems, people should not be taking both epinephrine and ephedra/ephedrine-containing products.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
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Epinephrine can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Caffeine, especially in large amounts, can also increase heart rate. When given with phenylpropanolamine, a drug with effects similar to epinephrine, caffeine has been shown to produce an additive increase in blood pressure. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, guaraná (Paullinia cupana), nonprescription drugs, and supplements containing caffeine or guaraná. While no interactions have been reported between epinephrine and caffeine, people using epinephrine can minimize the potential for interactions by limiting or avoiding caffeine.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Explanation Required
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Magnesium
Intravenous administration of epinephrine to human volunteers reduced plasma concentrations of vitamin C. Epinephrine and other “stress hormones” may reduce intracellular concentrations of potassium and magnesium. Although there are no clinical studies in humans, it seems reasonable that individuals using epinephrine should consume a diet high in vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, or should consider supplementing with these nutrients.
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Potassium
Intravenous administration of epinephrine to human volunteers reduced plasma concentrations of vitamin C. Epinephrine and other “stress hormones” may reduce intracellular concentrations of potassium and magnesium. Although there are no clinical studies in humans, it seems reasonable that individuals using epinephrine should consume a diet high in vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, or should consider supplementing with these nutrients.
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Vitamin C
Intravenous administration of epinephrine to human volunteers reduced plasma concentrations of vitamin C. Epinephrine and other “stress hormones” may reduce intracellular concentrations of potassium and magnesium. Although there are no clinical studies in humans, it seems reasonable that individuals using epinephrine should consume a diet high in vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, or should consider supplementing with these nutrients.
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.
