Interactions
Astragalus can have a negative interaction with several different drug classes.
- Antivirals: According to theory, astragalus may alter the efficacy of antiviral drugs like acyclovir and amantadine.
- Blood pressure medication: Astragalus can reduce blood pressure when used with blood pressure medicines. If taken along with drugs for high blood pressure, it can result in dangerously low blood pressure.
- Diuretics and drugs affected by diuretics: Your body’s ability to digest some medications may be impacted by astragalus’ potential diuretic effects. Other diuretics may also interact with it.
- Cancer therapies: Astragalus lowers estrogen in mice, which means that it may lessen the efficacy of several cancer therapies that target estrogen [11] levels.
- Immunomodulators: Astragalus has immune effects. Drugs that suppress or enhance the immune system may be affected by it.
Other herbs and supplements that have effects comparable to those of the aforementioned medications may also interact with astragalus.
In order to understand what is in a supplement and at what quantities, make sure you thoroughly study the ingredient list and nutrition information panel. Always go over this information with your doctor and ask about any possible interactions with supplements, foods, or prescriptions.