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Possible Interactions with: Skullcap

Also listed as: Mad-dog Skullcap; Scullcap; Scutellaria lateriflora; Skullcap		 Table of Contents > Herb Interactions > Possible Interactions with: Skullcap

Interactions

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use either American skullcap or Chinese skullcap without first talking to your health care provider.

Sedatives -- Both American skullcap and Chinese skullcap can increase the effect of drugs that have a sedating effect, including:

  • Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
  • Barbiturates
  • Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
  • Drugs to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
  • Alcohol

The same is true of herbs with a sedating effect, such as valerian, kava, and catnip.

Drugs for Diabetes -- Chinese skullcap can lower blood sugar, and could make the effects of drugs taken for diabetes stronger, leading to the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Drug Interactions

Review Date: 6/20/2007
Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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