Can herbal sleep supplements interact with medications?

Yes. Herbal sleep supplements can interact with medications, especially sedatives, blood thinners and medicines for blood pressure, diabetes or thyroid conditions. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says natural does not mean safe and that some supplements make medicines work differently. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every supplement you take, including teas and ready-to-drink herbal blends.

Examples from NCCIH: valerian should not be taken with alcohol or sedatives. Chamomile may interact with warfarin, a blood thinner, and possibly with sedatives. Ashwagandha may interact with diabetes, blood pressure, immunosuppressant, anticonvulsant, sedative and thyroid hormone medicines. St. John's wort, although not a sleep herb, is a well-known example of a supplement that makes many medicines less effective.

Some supplements may also raise bleeding risk or affect your response to anesthesia, so tell your surgical team about them before any operation.

If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new herbal product.

Source: NCCIH - Using Dietary Supplements Wisely

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Noddie Night is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This page is general information, not medical advice.