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Digoxin + St. Johns Wort

MAJOR — Use With Caution

DANGEROUS — St. Johns Wort makes digoxin less effective

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

St. Johns Wort reduces digoxin levels by up to 35%, which can cause your heart condition to worsen.

How it works (mechanism)

St. Johns Wort induces P-glycoprotein (intestinal efflux transporter), reducing digoxin absorption by 25-35%. Can cause subtherapeutic digoxin levels.

Practical advice

Do not take St. Johns Wort while on digoxin. If stopping St. Johns Wort, digoxin levels will rise — inform your doctor.

Timing

Take Digoxin as prescribed. St. Johns Wort can typically be taken with a meal at a different time. As a general rule, space botanicals 1-2 hours from prescription medications. St. John's Wort is the most interaction-prone botanical — it affects dozens of drugs via CYP enzyme induction. Always inform your prescriber about herbal supplements.

Risk factors

Concurrent use of other P-gp inducers, borderline digoxin levels

Symptoms to watch for

Worsening heart failure symptoms (edema, shortness of breath), rapid/irregular heart rate, fatigue

What to tell your doctor

Always inform cardiologist about herbal supplements. Stopping SJW requires digoxin level monitoring.

Safer alternatives

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Digoxin and St. Johns Wort together?

St. Johns Wort reduces digoxin levels by up to 35%, which can cause your heart condition to worsen.

When should I take Digoxin vs St. Johns Wort?

Take Digoxin as prescribed. St. Johns Wort can typically be taken with a meal at a different time. As a general rule, space botanicals 1-2 hours from prescription medications. St. John's Wort is the most interaction-prone botanical — it affects dozens of drugs via CYP enzyme induction. Always inform your prescriber about herbal supplements.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Digoxin and St. Johns Wort?

Worsening heart failure symptoms (edema, shortness of breath), rapid/irregular heart rate, fatigue

Are there safer alternatives to combining Digoxin with St. Johns Wort?

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Digoxin and St. Johns Wort?

Always inform cardiologist about herbal supplements. Stopping SJW requires digoxin level monitoring.

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