Does reishi interact with medications?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Reishi mushroom causes serious drug interactions that require attention to detail. Its products alter drug metabolism and physiological effects, which can create dangerous situations. Always inform healthcare professionals that reishi is being taken, especially if prescriptions are used for chronic conditions.
Blood Thinners
- Potentiates warfarin and heparin effects
- Increases international normalized ratio dangerously
- Raises hemorrhage risk during surgeries
- Discontinue 2 weeks pre-procedure
Diabetes Medications
- Amplifies insulin and sulfonylureas
- Causes severe hypoglycemia episodes
- Requires frequent glucose monitoring
- Adjust doses under medical supervision
Immunosuppressants
- Reduces cyclosporine effectiveness
- Risks organ rejection post-transplant
- Interferes with autoimmune treatments
- Absolute contraindication
Blood Pressure Drugs
- Potentiates ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers
- Causes excessive hypotension
- Monitor for dizziness and falls
- Dose reduction often necessary
Mechanisms involved in interactions are liver enzymes. Reishi interacts with cytochrome P450, potentially altering drug metabolism. It can also affect platelet activity and insulin sensitivity. These biological mechanisms can create unpredictable responses when used with pharmaceutical products. So caution should be observed.
Implement safety protocols before considering reishi. Complete a thorough list of supplements. Discuss timing with pharmacist; staggered dosing may reduce risks. Never self-prescribe reishi while taking prescriptions without professional assistance in monitoring your bodily responses closely.
Read the full article: 10 Powerful Benefits of Reishi Mushroom
