Drug interactions
Tacrolimus + Turmeric
Severity: Moderate
Tacrolimus and Turmeric: 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
Curcumin in turmeric may inhibit CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and could increase tacrolimus concentrations. Reports are limited, but tacrolimus toxicity is a concern given its narrow therapeutic index.
What this interaction means in plain words
Tacrolimus and Turmeric 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
Possible inhibition of intestinal and hepatic CYP3A4 and P-gp by curcuminoids.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid concentrated turmeric or curcumin supplements. If used, check tacrolimus trough levels and renal function after any change in intake.
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 Tacrolimus
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cidofovir + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cyclosporin + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Tacrolimus with Turmeric?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Tacrolimus and Turmeric 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. Curcumin in turmeric may inhibit CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and could increase tacrolimus concentrations. Reports are limited, but tacrolimus toxicity is a concern given its narrow therapeutic index.
How serious is the interaction between Tacrolimus and Turmeric?
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 concentrated turmeric or curcumin supplements. If used, check tacrolimus trough levels and renal function after any change in intake.
What other medicines interact with Tacrolimus?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tacrolimus with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Cidofovir. The full list is on the Tacrolimus page.
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