Hi I would like to try the herb Rhodiola for stress.
But I am on Olanzapine. Is there any possible interactions ?
I read that Rhodiola increases serotonin levels and Olanzapine is an serotonin antagonist.
I’d like to have your opinion.
Thanks you
Edward
Rhodiola is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth, short-term. Twice daily doses of rhodiola extract have been used safely for 6-10 weeks. The safety of long-term use is not known. Rhodiola might cause dizziness, dry mouth, or excessive saliva production.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding : There isn’t enough reliable information about the safety of taking Rhodiola if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
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Autoimmune diseases : Rhodiola might simulate the immune system. In theory, it might worsen autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and others.
Diabetes : Rhodiola might reduce blood sugar levels. In theory, rhodiola might increase the risk of blood sugar levels becoming too low, especially in patients taking insulin or other diabetes medications.
Low blood pressure : Rhodiola might lower blood pressure. In theory, rhodiola might cause blood pressure to become too low, especially in people who already have low blood pressure.
If you try it only try a low dose first. Honestly though it will probably make your stress worse.
Ed, you have to ask this question to your pdoc. Yes, even supplements have to be approved.
A little research showed me that there are dangerous interactions between Rhodiola and Olanzapine.
Who knows? The safety margin in using these two agents should be investigated and confirmed by either the pharmacist dispensing the olanzapine or the physician prescribing the same medication - or even the person recommending the rhodiola. It’s really beyond the scope of this network to give specific information on this type of a question due to liability concerns.
Olanzapine has a complex metabolic pathway, including the liver isoenzyme CYP2D6. Rhodiola rosea is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, a different enzyme system. There are no reports of specific interactions between olanzapine and rhodiola, but rhodiola has been linked to increased heart rate in patients also taking Lexapro (metabolized by CYP 3A4 and 2C19). I suggest caution because of incomplete data. Best to you.
ha I still have some left over I would give you if I could. I was taking it as a mood lifter. it worked for like 3 days and then I stopped taking it after I didn’t notice anything. it was being hyped by the medicine hunter chris killham so I bought it…I don’t really fall for supplements anymore, although I do take nettle root. that’s it. I just try to eat healthy and get some exercise and that makes me feel a little better with more energy. anyways good luck and be careful.