Carrie asked
I take the herbal supplement ginkgo biloba every day. Can I take Benadryl with it?
Answer
Simultaneous use of ginkgo biloba and Benadryl is considered safe. No known drug interactions exist between the two medications.
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
Benadryl has the active ingredient diphenhydramine. It is an antihistamine medication that functions by competing with histamine for binding sites on cells throughout the body. Diphenhydramine will block histamine from binding to the H1 receptor on intestinal, respiratory, and blood vessel cells. This allows for constriction of blood vessels and prevents the release of inflammatory substances that are known to cause symptoms of allergic reaction.
Diphenhydramine provides relief of symptoms such as itching, redness, and inflammation by competing with histamine. Additionally, diphenhydramine can cause significant drowsiness and sedation. Diphenhydramine should be avoid in elderly patients greater than the age of 65. You should not take diphenhydramine while driving until you know how this medication affects you.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is a commonly used herbal supplement. The medicinally active components of ginkgo biloba are thought to be the terpene lactones and ginkgo flavones glycosides.
Ginkgo biloba has numerous mechanisms of action including changing neurotransmission in the brain and altering the secretion of naturally produced corticosteroids. Ginkgo may also cause vasodilation and exert other vascular effects.
Ginkgo is generally well tolerated but there is an increased risk of bleeding when taking ginkgo with other medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is important to notify your clinician if you are taking ginkgo biloba as it has potentially dangerous drug interactions and may significantly increase the risk of bleeding.
Summary
- There are no documented interaction between Benadryl and ginkgo biloba.
