Drug interactions
Cilostazol + Ginkgo biloba
Severity: Moderate
Cilostazol and Ginkgo biloba: moderate 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
Ginkgo biloba inhibits platelet-activating factor and may add to the antiplatelet effect of cilostazol. Bleeding has been reported with ginkgo, though data on this combination are limited.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cilostazol and Ginkgo biloba can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive antiplatelet effects from PAF antagonism and cilostazol's phosphodiesterase 3 inhibition.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid ginkgo while on cilostazol. Monitor for bruising and bleeding if the combination is used.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Cilostazol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cilostazol with Ginkgo biloba?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Cilostazol and Ginkgo biloba can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Ginkgo biloba inhibits platelet-activating factor and may add to the antiplatelet effect of cilostazol. Bleeding has been reported with ginkgo, though data on this combination are limited.
How serious is the interaction between Cilostazol and Ginkgo biloba?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid ginkgo while on cilostazol. Monitor for bruising and bleeding if the combination is used.
What other medicines interact with Cilostazol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cilostazol with, for example, Abrocitinib, Anagrelide, Betrixaban. The full list is on the Cilostazol page.
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