Drug interactions
Alteplase + Cinnamon
Severity: Minor
Alteplase and Cinnamon: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which in theory could have anticoagulant effects. The practical effect with food-level amounts is likely small, but large supplemental doses may add to the bleeding risk of a thrombolytic.
What this interaction means in plain words
Alteplase and Cinnamon have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Theoretical additive effect from coumarin content; not well established clinically.
What to do
Ask about high-dose cinnamon supplement use and avoid it around thrombolytic therapy. Monitor for bleeding if it has been taken.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Alteplase
- Alteplase + Defibrotide Contraindicated
- Alteplase + Reteplase Contraindicated
- Alteplase + Tenecteplase Contraindicated
- Acetylsalicylic acid + Alteplase Major
- Alteplase + Apixaban Major
- Alteplase + Argatroban Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Alteplase with Cinnamon?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Alteplase and Cinnamon have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which in theory could have anticoagulant effects. The practical effect with food-level amounts is likely small, but large supplemental doses may add to the bleeding risk of a thrombolytic.
How serious is the interaction between Alteplase and Cinnamon?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Ask about high-dose cinnamon supplement use and avoid it around thrombolytic therapy. Monitor for bleeding if it has been taken.
What other medicines interact with Alteplase?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Alteplase with, for example, Defibrotide, Reteplase, Tenecteplase. The full list is on the Alteplase page.
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