| Ingredients | Amount Per Serving (1 Scoop (15.6g)) |
|---|---|
|
Calories
|
5 Calorie(s) |
|
Total Carbohydrate
|
1 Gram(s) |
|
Total Sugars
|
0 Gram(s) |
|
Added Sugars
|
0 Gram(s) |
| 4500 mg | |
| 2500 mg | |
|
(Glycerol, Powder)
(65% Glycerol powder)
|
1500 mg |
| 1500 mg | |
| 1250 mg | |
| 750 mg | |
| 500 mg | |
|
(Sceletium tortuosum)
|
250 mg |
| 175 mg | |
| 175 mg | |
|
(Black Pepper Fruit Extract)
(Standardized to 95% Piperine)
|
5 mg |
|
(Huperzia serrata Leaf Extract)
|
200 mcg |
Natural & Artificial Flavors, Silicon Dioxide (Alt. Name: SiO2), Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium (Alt. Name: Acesulfame K)
| Ingredients | Amount Per Serving (2 Scoops (31.2g)) |
|---|---|
|
Calories
|
10 Calorie(s) |
|
Total Carbohydrate
|
2 Gram(s) |
|
Total Sugars
|
0 Gram(s) |
|
Added Sugars
|
0 Gram(s) |
| 9000 mg | |
| 5000 mg | |
|
(Glycerol, Powder)
(65% Glycerol powder)
|
3000 mg |
| 3000 mg | |
| 2500 mg | |
| 1500 mg | |
| 1000 mg | |
|
(Sceletium tortuosum)
|
500 mg |
| 350 mg | |
| 350 mg | |
|
(Black Pepper Fruit Extract)
(Standardized to 95% Piperine)
|
10 mg |
|
(Huperzia serrata Leaf Extract)
|
400 mcg |
Natural & Artificial Flavors, Silicon Dioxide (Alt. Name: SiO2), Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium (Alt. Name: Acesulfame K)
Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Gorilla Mode Cherry Blackout. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Gorilla Mode Cherry Blackout. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short-term. Agmatine sulfate has been used with apparent safety at doses up to 2.67 grams daily for up to 2 months and 3.56 grams daily for up to 3 weeks (94736,111144).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in doses of up to 6 grams daily (698,10631). However, some patients have used up to 20 grams daily with apparent safety (698). Betaine anhydrous is available as an FDA-approved prescription product (Cystadane) (698), and also as a supplement. The European Food Safety Authority states that betaine anhydrous is safe to use in doses up to 6 mg/kg daily, in addition to usual dietary intake (105548). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of topical betaine anhydrous.
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately in doses up to 150 mg/kg daily (698).
However, some patients have used up to 20 grams daily with apparent safety (698). Prescription betaine anhydrous (Cystadane) is approved by the US FDA for use in infants and children (698).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Black pepper has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when black pepper oil is applied topically. Black pepper oil is nonirritating to the skin and is generally well tolerated (11). ...when black pepper oil is inhaled through the nose or as a vapor through the mouth, short-term. Black pepper oil as a vapor or as an olfactory stimulant has been used with apparent safety in clinical studies for up to 3 days and 30 days, respectively (29159,29160,29161,90502). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of black pepper when used orally in medicinal amounts.
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (11).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Fatal cases of pepper aspiration have been reported in some patients (5619,5620). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of topical pepper oil when used in children.
PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (11).
PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Black pepper might have abortifacient effects (11,19); contraindicated. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of topical pepper when used during pregnancy.
LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (11).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of black pepper when used in medicinal amounts during breast-feeding.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally, parenterally, or rectally and appropriately. Caffeine has Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912,98806). Caffeine is also an FDA-approved product and a component of several over-the-counter and prescription products (4912,11832). According to a review by Health Canada, and a subsequent large meta-analysis conducted in the US, doses of caffeine up to 400 mg daily are not associated with significant adverse cardiovascular, bone, behavioral, or reproductive effects in healthy adults (11733,98806). The US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee states that there is strong and consistent evidence that consumption of caffeine 400 mg daily is not associated with increased risk of major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease or cancer, in healthy adults (98806). This amount of caffeine is similar to the amount of caffeine found in approximately 4 cups of coffee. Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine from caffeine-containing natural ingredients such as coffee or green tea does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally, long-term or in high doses (91063). Chronic use, especially in large amounts, can produce tolerance, habituation, psychological dependence, and other adverse effects (3719). Acute use of high doses, typically above 400 mg daily, has been associated with significant adverse effects such as tachyarrhythmia and sleep disturbances (11832). Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine from caffeine-containing natural ingredients such as coffee or green tea does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
LIKELY UNSAFE ...when used orally in very high doses. The fatal acute oral dose of caffeine is estimated to be 10-14 grams (150-200 mg/kg). Serious toxicity can occur at lower doses depending on variables in caffeine sensitivity such as smoking, age, or prior caffeine use (11832,95700,97454,104573). Caffeine products sold to consumers in highly concentrated or pure formulations are considered to a serious health concern because these products have a risk of being used in very high doses. Concentrated liquid caffeine can contain about 2 grams of caffeine in a half cup. Powdered pure caffeine can contain about 3.2 grams of caffeine in one teaspoon. Powdered pure caffeine can be fatal in adults when used in doses of 2 tablespoons or less. As of 2018, these products are considered by the FDA to be unlawful when sold to consumers in bulk quantities (95700).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally or intravenously and appropriately in neonates under the guidance of a healthcare professional (6371,38340,38344,91084,91087,97452).
...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods and beverages in children and adolescents (4912,11833,36555). Daily intake of caffeine in doses of less than 2.5 mg/kg daily are not associated with significant adverse effects in children and adolescents (11733,98806). Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine from caffeine-containing natural ingredients such as coffee or green tea does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.
Intakes of caffeine should be monitored during pregnancy. Caffeine crosses the human placenta, but is not considered a teratogen (38048,38252,91032). Fetal blood and tissue levels are similar to maternal concentrations (4260). The use of caffeine during pregnancy is controversial; however, moderate consumption has not been associated with clinically important adverse fetal effects (2708,2709,2710,2711,9606,16014,16015,98806,108814). In some studies consuming amounts over 200 mg daily is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage (16014,37960). This increased risk seems to occur in those with genotypes that confer a slow rate of caffeine metabolism (98806). According to a review by Health Canada, and a subsequent large meta-analysis conducted in the US, up to 300 mg daily can be consumed during pregnancy without an increased risk of spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, preterm birth, fetal growth retardation, or congenital malformations (11733,98806). However, observational research in a Norwegian cohort found that caffeine consumption is associated with a 16% increased odds of the baby being born small for gestational age when compared with no consumption (100369,103707). The same Norwegian cohort found that low to moderate caffeine consumption during pregnancy is not associated with changes in neurodevelopment in children up to 8 years of age (103699). Advise patients to keep caffeine consumption below 300 mg daily during pregnancy. This is similar to the amount of caffeine in about 3 cups of coffee or tea.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in amounts over 300 mg daily.
Caffeine crosses the placenta, producing fetal blood concentrations similar to maternal levels (4260,98806). Consumption of caffeine in amounts over 300 mg daily is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage in some studies (16014,98806). Advise patients to keep caffeine consumption below 300 mg daily during pregnancy. This is similar to the amount of caffeine in about 3 cups of coffee or tea. Additionally, high doses of caffeine throughout pregnancy have resulted in symptoms of caffeine withdrawal in newborn infants (9891). High doses of caffeine have also been associated with spontaneous abortion, premature delivery, and low birth weight (2709,2711,91033,91048,95949). In a cohort of mother/infant pairs with a median maternal plasma caffeine level of 168.5 ng/mL (range 29.5-650.5 ng/mL) during pregnancy, birth weights and lengths were lower in the 4th quartile of caffeine intake compared with the 1st. By age 7, heights and weights were lower by 1.5 cm and 1.1 kg respectively. In another cohort of mother/infant pairs with higher maternal pregnancy plasma caffeine levels, median 625.5 ng/mL (range 86.2 to 1994.7 ng/mL), heights at age 8 were 2.2 cm lower, but there was no difference in weights (109846).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.
Caffeine intake should be closely monitored while breast-feeding. During lactation, breast milk concentrations of caffeine are thought to be approximately 50% of serum concentrations and caffeine peaks in breastmilk approximately 1-2 hours after consumption (23590).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Caffeine is excreted slowly in infants and may accumulate. Caffeine can cause sleep disturbances, irritability, and increased bowel activity in breast-fed infants exposed to caffeine (2708,6026).
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Creatine supplementation appears to be safe when used at loading doses of up to 25 grams daily or 0.3 grams/kg daily for up to 14 days in healthy adults (1367,2100,2101,3996,4569,10064,15354,15520,46570,46587)(46673,46688,46719,46753,46801,103278,103279,108336). Creatine supplementation also appears to be safe when used at maintenance doses of 4-5 grams daily for up to 18 months (2101,4578,15353,15354,15520,46587,46673,46690,46753,46838,102164,103278,108336).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, long-term. Creatine supplementation has been safely used at doses of up to 10 grams daily for up to 5 years in some preliminary clinical research (1367,3996). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of creatine when used topically.
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately.
Creatine supplementation appears to be safe when used in appropriate doses in infants and children. Creatine 3-5 grams daily for 2-6 months has been safely used in children 5-18 years of age (6182,46596,46739,46841). Creatine 2 grams daily for 6 months has been safely used in children 2-5 years of age (46841). Additionally, weight-based dosing of creatine 0.1-0.4 grams/kg daily in infants and children or 4.69 grams/m2 in children weighing over 40 kg has been used safely for up to 6 months (46623,46629,46694,46759,104672).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used rectally and appropriately. Glycerol rectal suppositories and enemas are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter use to treat occasional constipation (15,272). ...when used topically and appropriately as a lotion, emulsion, or humectant (15,272,93754,93758,93759,99164).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally, short-term. Glycerol has been used with apparent safety in clinical trials at doses of up to 1.5 grams/kg (2474,2475,99162).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used intravenously. While some research suggests that intravenous glycerol can be safely administered for two consecutive days twice monthly for up to 6 months (106649), in another study, hemolysis was reported in 98% of patients treated with intravenous glycerol for acute ischemic stroke (2482).
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used rectally and appropriately.
Glycerol rectal suppositories and enemas are approved by the US FDA for over-the-counter use to treat occasional constipation in children 2 years of age and older (15,272). ...when used topically and appropriately as an emulsion or humectant in children 1 month of age and older (15,272,93756).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally, short-term.
Glycerol has been used with apparent safety in clinical trials in children 2 months to 16 years of age at doses of 1.5 gram/kg, up to a maximum dose of 25 grams, taken every 6 hours (93762,93763).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Huperzine A 200-800 mcg daily has been used with apparent safety in clinical trials lasting up to 6 months (3171,3561,4626,93478,93479,93480,93481,93482,93483,93485).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term.
Huperzine A has been used with apparent safety in clinical research lasting for 1 month (4626).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. In clinical trials, L-citrulline has been used with apparent safety for up to 2 months at doses of 1.5-6 grams daily (94954,94956,94961,94962,100974). Doses of up to 15 grams have also been used as single doses or within a 24 hour period (16470,16473).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately.
L-citrulline has been used with apparent safety in infants at a dose of 0.17 grams/kg daily (16472). It has also been used in children 6.5-10 years of age at a dose of 7.5 grams daily for 26 weeks (100976). ...when used intravenously and appropriately. An intravenous bolus dose of L-citrulline 150 mg/kg followed by 9 mg/kg/hour for 48 hours has been used safely in children under 6 years of age (16469).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Malic acid has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the United States. Allowed maximum levels of malic acid in foods are as follows: 3.4% for nonalcoholic beverages; 3% for chewing gum; 0.8% for gelatins, puddings, and fillings; 6.9% for hard candy; 2.6% for jams and jellies; 3.5% for processed fruits and fruit juices; 3% for soft candy; and 0.7% for all other food categories (26969,95594).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short-term. Malic acid 1200 mg twice daily has been used with apparent safety for up to 6 months (3262). ...when used topically on oral mucosal surfaces. Specific malic acid combination products (Xeros Dentaid, Dentaid) have been used with apparent safety in spray and lozenge formulations for up to 6 months (92211,92213,95565,104757,104778). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of malic acid when used topically on the skin. Historically, malic acid has been used with apparent safety in cosmetics as a pH adjuster or fragrance ingredient, and at concentrations below 2% when used in shampoo, hair styling products, or sun protection products (26868,95595,111742).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods (26969,95594).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of using malic acid in medicinal amounts during pregnancy or lactation.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used in small amounts for flavoring food (95469).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used ophthalmically. N,N-DMPEA 15% ophthalmic solution has been used with apparent safety for 21 days (95470).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally in medicinal amounts. There is insufficient reliable evidence regarding the safety of oral N,N-DMPEA in humans. However, one case of hemorrhagic stroke associated with the use of a multi-ingredient supplement (Jacked Power, MM Sports) containing N,N-DMPEA has been reported. While further analysis showed that this supplement actually contained beta-methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA) and not N,N-DMPEA, patients should avoid taking products which include N,N-DMPEA on the label due to the overall lack of safety data and potential risk of unlisted ingredients (89219,95472).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information is available; avoid using.
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of sceletium.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Tyrosine has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short-term. Tyrosine has been used safely in doses up to 150 mg/kg daily for up to 3 months (7210,7211,7215). ...when used topically and appropriately (6155).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of tyrosine during pregnancy and lactation when used in medicinal amounts.
Some pharmacokinetic research shows that taking a single dose of tyrosine 2-10 grams orally can modestly increase levels of free tyrosine in breast milk. However, total levels are not affected, and levels remain within the range found in infant formulas. Therefore, it is not clear if the increase in free tyrosine is a concern (91467).
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Gorilla Mode Cherry Blackout. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
Theoretically, agmatine might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
 Details
Animal and in vitro research suggest that agmatine has mild hypoglycemic effects (94734).
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Theoretically, agmatine might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Details
Animal research suggests that agmatine can modestly decrease heart rate and blood pressure (94734).
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of amoxicillin.
Details
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, with amoxicillin increases plasma levels of amoxicillin (29269). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
Details
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to inhibit platelet aggregation (29206). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
Details
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, can reduce blood glucose levels (29225). Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of atorvastatin.
Details
Animal research shows that taking piperine, a constituent of black pepper, 35 mg/kg can increase the maximum serum concentration of atorvastatin three-fold (104188). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of carbamazepine, potentially increasing the effects and side effects of carbamazepine.
Details
One clinical study in patients taking carbamazepine 300 mg or 500 mg twice daily shows that taking a single 20 mg dose of purified piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases carbamazepine levels. Piperine may increase carbamazepine absorption by increasing blood flow to the GI tract, increasing the surface area of the small intestine, or inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) in the gut wall. Absorption was significantly increased by 7-10 mcg/mL/hour. The time to eliminate carbamazepine was also increased by 4-8 hours. Although carbamazepine levels were increased, this did not appear to increase side effects (16833). In vitro research also shows that piperine can increase carbamazepine levels by 11% in a time-dependent manner (103819).
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase the effects and side effects of cyclosporine.
Details
In vitro research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the bioavailability of cyclosporine (29282). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A1.
Details
In vitro research suggests that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, inhibits CYP1A1 (29213). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B1.
Details
In vitro research suggests that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, inhibits CYP2B1 (29332). This has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
Details
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
Details
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase blood levels of lithium due to its diuretic effects. The dose of lithium might need to be reduced.
Details
Black pepper is thought to have diuretic properties (11).
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Black pepper might increase blood levels of nevirapine.
Details
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases the plasma concentration of nevirapine. However, no adverse effects were observed in this study (29209).
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Details
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Theoretically, black pepper might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.
Details
Animal research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, increases pentobarbital-induced sleeping time (29214).
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Black pepper might increase blood levels of phenytoin.
Details
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption, slow elimination, and increase levels of phenytoin (537,14442). Taking a single dose of black pepper 1 gram along with phenytoin seems to double the serum concentration of phenytoin (14375). Consuming a soup with black pepper providing piperine 44 mg/200 mL of soup along with phenytoin also seems to increase phenytoin levels when compared with consuming the same soup without black pepper (14442).
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Black pepper might increase blood levels of propranolol.
Details
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of propranolol (538).
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Black pepper might increase blood levels of rifampin.
Details
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Black pepper might increase blood levels of theophylline.
Details
Clinical research shows that piperine, a constituent of black pepper, seems to increase absorption and slow elimination of theophylline (538).
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Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Details
Some evidence shows that caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine and can reduce the vasodilatory effects of adenosine in humans (38172). However, other research shows that caffeine does not seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine (11771). It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests (11770). However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Alcohol reduces caffeine metabolism. Concomitant use of alcohol can increase caffeine serum concentrations and the risk of caffeine adverse effects (6370).
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Theoretically, caffeine may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Details
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Theoretically, taking caffeine with antidiabetes drugs might interfere with blood glucose control.
Details
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Theoretically, large amounts of caffeine might increase the cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists (15).
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of carbamazepine and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
Animal research suggests that taking caffeine can lower the anticonvulsant effects of carbamazepine and can induce seizures when taken in doses above 400 mg/kg (23559,23561). Human research has shown that taking caffeine 300 mg in three divided doses along with carbamazepine 200 mg reduces the bioavailability of carbamazepine by 32% and prolongs the plasma half-life of carbamazepine 2-fold in healthy individuals (23562).
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Theoretically, cimetidine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cimetidine decreases the rate of caffeine clearance by 31% to 42% (11736).
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Caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of clozapine and acutely exacerbate psychotic symptoms.
Details
Caffeine might increase the effects and toxicity of clozapine. Caffeine doses of 400-1000 mg per day inhibit clozapine metabolism (5051). Clozapine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2). Although researchers speculate that caffeine might inhibit CYP1A2, there is no reliable evidence that caffeine affects CYP1A2. There is also speculation that genetic factors might make some patients more sensitive to an interaction between clozapine and caffeine (13741). In one case report, severe, life-threatening clozapine toxicity and multiorgan system failure occurred in a patient with schizophrenia stabilized on clozapine who consumed caffeine 600 mg daily (108817).
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Theoretically, contraceptive drugs might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
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Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Details
Caffeine inhibits dipyridamole-induced vasodilation (11770,11772). It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests (11770). Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole (Persantine) than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
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Theoretically, disulfiram use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Disulfiram decreases the rate of caffeine clearance (11840).
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Theoretically, using caffeine with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Details
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk for stimulant adverse effects.
Details
Use of ephedrine with caffeine can increase the risk of stimulatory adverse effects. There is evidence that using ephedrine with caffeine might increase the risk of serious life-threatening or debilitating adverse effects such as hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizures, and death (1275,6486,10307).
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Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of ethosuximide and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
Animal research suggests that caffeine 92.4 mg/kg can decrease the anticonvulsant activity of ethosuximide (23560). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of felbamate and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
Animal research suggests that a high dose of caffeine 161.7 mg/kg can decreases the anticonvulsant activity of felbamate (23563). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, fluconazole might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Fluconazole decreases caffeine clearance by approximately 25% (11022).
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Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of flutamide.
Details
In vitro evidence suggests that caffeine can inhibit the metabolism of flutamide (23553). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Fluvoxamine reduces caffeine metabolism (6370).
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Theoretically, abrupt caffeine withdrawal might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
Details
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Theoretically, metformin might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Animal research suggests that metformin can reduce caffeine metabolism (23571). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, methoxsalen might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Methoxsalen reduces caffeine metabolism (23572).
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Theoretically, mexiletine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis.
Details
Caffeine has been shown to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B in laboratory studies (37724,37877,37912,38108). Concomitant intake of large amounts of caffeine with MAOIs might precipitate a hypertensive crisis (15). In a case report, a patient that consumed 10-12 cups of caffeinated coffee and took the MAOI tranylcypromine presented with severe hypertension (91086). Hypertension was resolved after the patient switched to drinking decaffeinated coffee.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypertension.
Details
Concomitant use of caffeine and nicotine has been shown to have additive cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Blood pressure was increased by 10.8/12.4 mmHg when the agents were used concomitantly (36549).
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Theoretically, caffeine might decrease the effects of pentobarbital.
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Caffeine might negate the hypnotic effects of pentobarbital (13742).
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of phenobarbital and increase the risk for convulsions.
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Theoretically, phenothiazines might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, phenylpropanolamine might increase the risk of hypertension, as well as the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of phenytoin and increase the risk for convulsions.
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Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and clinical effects of pioglitazone.
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Animal research suggests that caffeine can modestly increase the maximum concentration, area under the curve, and half-life of pioglitazone, and also reduce its clearance. This increased the antidiabetic effects of pioglitazone (108812). However, the exact mechanism of this interaction is unclear.
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Theoretically, quinolone antibiotics might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of both caffeine and riluzole.
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Caffeine and riluzole are both metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), and concomitant use might reduce the metabolism of one or both agents (11739).
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Theoretically, concomitant use might increase stimulant adverse effects.
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Due to the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects of caffeine, concomitant use with stimulant drugs can increase the risk of adverse effects (11832).
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Theoretically, terbinafine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Terbinafine decreases the clearance of intravenous caffeine by 19% (11740).
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Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
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Large amounts of caffeine might inhibit theophylline metabolism (11741).
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Theoretically, caffeine might increase the levels and adverse effects of tiagabine.
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Animal research suggests that chronic caffeine administration can increase the serum concentrations of tiagabine. However, concomitant use does not seem to reduce the antiepileptic effects of tiagabine (23561).
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Theoretically, ticlopidine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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In vitro evidence suggests that ticlopidine can inhibit caffeine metabolism (23557). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, caffeine might reduce the effects of valproate and increase the risk for convulsions.
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Theoretically, verapamil might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
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Verapamil increases plasma caffeine concentrations by 25% (11741).
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Theoretically, huperzine A might decrease the effects of anticholinergic drugs.
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Theoretically, concurrent use of huperzine A with cholinergic drugs might increase the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Huperzine A can inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and might cause cumulative effects if used with cholinergic drugs (3131).
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Theoretically, concomitant use of L-citrulline with antihypertensive drugs might have additive effects and increase the chance of hypotension.
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Theoretically, concurrent use of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and L-citrulline might result in additive vasodilation.
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L-citrulline is converted to L-arginine, which can increase nitric oxide and cause vasodilation (7822,16460,16461). Theoretically, taking L-arginine with PDE-5 inhibitors might have additive vasodilatory and hypotensive effects. However, in studies evaluating the combined use of L-arginine and sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, hypotension was not reported (105065).
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Theoretically, malic acid might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
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Animal research shows that malic acid isolated from tagetes roots can reduce mean arterial blood pressure (26970).
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In vitro research shows that N,N-DMPEA strongly inhibits cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) (91878). Theoretically, concomitant use with drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 might increase the risk for adverse effects from these drugs.
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Some drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 include amitriptyline (Elavil), clozapine (Clozaril), codeine, desipramine (Norpramin), donepezil (Aricept), fentanyl (Duragesic), flecainide (Tambocor), fluoxetine (Prozac), meperidine (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), olanzapine (Zyprexa), ondansetron (Zofran), tramadol (Ultram), trazodone (Desyrel), and others.
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Sceletium is thought to have sedative properties (17580). Theoretically, combining sceletium with CNS depressants might result in additive sedative effects.
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Theoretically, tyrosine might decrease the effectiveness of levodopa.
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Tyrosine and levodopa compete for absorption in the proximal duodenum by the large neutral amino acid (LNAA) transport system (2719). Advise patients to separate doses of tyrosine and levodopa by at least 2 hours.
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Theoretically, tyrosine might have additive effects with thyroid hormone medications.
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Tyrosine is a precursor to thyroxine and might increase levels of thyroid hormones (7212).
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Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Gorilla Mode Cherry Blackout. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
General
...Orally, agmatine seems to be well tolerated when used in medicinal amounts, short-term.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea.
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, agmatine has been reported to cause diarrhea, dyspepsia, and nausea in two small clinical studies (94736,94742). Mild-to-moderate diarrhea and nausea were reported in 3 out of 24 patients taking agmatine sulfate 3.56 grams daily. These adverse effects appeared within 2-3 days of therapy and resolved upon treatment discontinuation (94736).
General
...Orally, betaine anhydrous is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Body odor, diarrhea, elevated cholesterol levels, GI distress, nausea, vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Cerebral edema.
Cardiovascular ...Betaine anhydrous might have adverse effects on the plasma lipid profile. Some studies have reported a 3% to 4% increase in total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels with betaine anhydrous 6 grams daily (16452,16455,16456,34904). A meta-analysis of 6 studies in adults, some with obesity and/or prediabetes, shows that taking betaine anhydrous 4-6 grams daily for 6-24 weeks is associated with a mean increase in total cholesterol of 4 mg/dL, with no significant change in LDL cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or triglyceride levels (105814). Another meta-analysis of 12 studies, some in healthy adults and others in adults with various disease states, shows that taking betaine anhydrous 1.5-20 grams daily for 2-52 weeks is associated with a mean increase in total cholesterol of 14 mg/dL, and a mean increase in LDL cholesterol of 10 mg/dL, with no change in triglyceride or HDL cholesterol levels (105813).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, betaine anhydrous can cause vomiting, nausea, GI distress, and diarrhea (698,10631,34888,34928,111374).
Neurologic/CNS ...When used orally to treat homocystinuria due to cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency, elevated plasma methionine concentrations can occur following use of betaine anhydrous, which might lead to cerebral edema (698,111374).
Other ...Orally, betaine anhydrous can cause body odor (698,10631).
General
...Orally, black pepper seems to be well tolerated when used in the amounts found in food or when taken as a medicine as a single dose.
Topically and as aromatherapy, black pepper oil seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Burning aftertaste, dyspepsia, and reduced taste perception.
Inhalation: Cough.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, black pepper can cause a burning aftertaste (5619) and dyspepsia (38061). Single and repeated application of piperine, the active constituent in black pepper, to the tongue and oral cavity can decrease taste perception (29267). By intragastric route, black pepper 1.5 grams has been reported to cause gastrointestinal microbleeds (29164). It is not clear if such an effect would occur with oral administration.
Immunologic ...In one case report, a 17-month-old male developed hives, red eyes, facial swelling, and a severe cough following consumption of a sauce containing multiple ingredients. Allergen skin tests were positive to both black pepper and cayenne, which were found in the sauce (93947).
Ocular/Otic ...Topically, ground black pepper can cause redness of the eyes and swelling of the eyelids (5619).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...When inhaled through the nose as an olfactory stimulant, black pepper oil has been reported to cause cough in one clinical trial (29162).
General
...Caffeine in moderate doses is typically well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Anxiety, dependence with chronic use, diarrhea, diuresis, gastric irritation, headache, insomnia, muscular tremors, nausea, and restlessness.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Stroke has been reported rarely.
Cardiovascular
...Caffeine can temporarily increase blood pressure.
Usually, blood pressure increases 30 minutes after ingestion, peaks in 1-2 hours, and remains elevated for over 4 hours (36539,37732,37989,38000,38300).
Although acute administration of caffeine can cause increased blood pressure, regular consumption does not seem to increase either blood pressure or pulse, even in mildly hypertensive patients (1451,1452,2722,38335). However, the form of caffeine may play a role in blood pressure increase after a more sustained caffeine use. In a pooled analysis of clinical trials, coffee intake was not associated with an increase in blood pressure, while ingesting caffeine 410 mg daily for at least 7 days modestly increased blood pressure by an average of 4.16/2.41 mmHg (37657). Another meta-analysis of clinical research shows that taking caffeine increases systolic and diastolic blood pressure by approximately 2 mmHg when compared with control. Preliminary subgroup analyses suggest that caffeine may increase blood pressure more in males or at doses over 400 mg (112738).
When used prior to intensive exercise, caffeine can increase systolic blood pressure by 7-8 mmHg (38308). The blood pressure-raising effects of caffeine are greater during stress (36479,38334) and after caffeine-abstinence of at least 24 hours (38241).
Epidemiological research suggests there is no association of caffeine consumption with incidence of hypertension (38190). Habitual coffee consumption also doesn't seem to be related to hypertension, but habitual consumption of sugared or diet cola is associated with development of hypertension (13739).
Epidemiological research has found that regular caffeine intake of up to 400 mg daily is not associated with increased incidence of atrial fibrillation (38018,38076,91028,91034,97451,97453,103708), atherosclerosis (38033), cardiac ectopy (91127), stroke (37804), ventricular arrhythmia (95948,97453), and cardiovascular disease in general (37805,98806). One clinical trial shows that in adults with diagnosed heart failure, consumption of 500 mg of coffee does not result in an increased risk for arrhythmia during exercise (95950). However, caffeine intake may pose a greater cardiovascular risk to subjects that are not regular users of caffeine. For example, in one population study, caffeinated coffee consumption was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in subjects that don't regularly drink coffee (38102). In a population study in Japanese subjects, caffeine-containing medication use was modestly associated with hemorrhagic stroke in adults that do not consume caffeine regularly (91059).
The most common side effect of caffeine in neonates receiving caffeine for apnea is tachycardia (98807).
Dermatologic ...There are several case reports of urticaria after caffeine ingestion (36546,36448,36475).
Endocrine
...Some evidence shows caffeine is associated with fibrocystic breast disease or breast cancer in females; however, this is controversial since findings are conflicting (8043,108806).
Restricting caffeine in females with fibrocystic breast conditions doesn't seem to affect breast nodularity, swelling, or pain (8996). A population analysis of the Women's Health Initiative observational study has found no association between consumption of caffeine-containing beverages and the incidence of invasive breast cancer in models adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors (108806). Also, a dose-response analysis of 2 low-quality observational studies has found that high consumption of caffeine is not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (108807).
Clinical research in healthy adults shows that an increase consumption of caffeine results in increased insulin resistance (91023).
Gastrointestinal ...Gastrointestinal upset, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fecal incontinence may occur with caffeine intake (36466,37755,37806,37789,37830,38138,38136,38223,95956,95963). Also, caffeine may cause feeding intolerance and gastrointestinal irritation in infants (6023). Perioperative caffeine during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery seems to increase the rate of postoperative nausea and vomiting (97451). Caffeine and coffee consumption have been associated with an increase in the incidence of heartburn (37545,37575,38251,38259,38267) and gastrointestinal esophageal reflux disease (GERD) (38329,37633,37631,37603).
Genitourinary ...Caffeine, a known diuretic, may increase voiding, give a sense of urgency, and irritate the bladder (37874,37961,104580). In men with lower urinary tract symptoms, caffeine intake increased the risk of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (38115). Excessive caffeine consumption may worsen premenstrual syndrome. Consumption of up to 10 cups of caffeinated drinks daily was associated with increased severity of premenstrual syndrome (38177). Finally, population research shows that exposure to caffeine was not associated with an increased risk of endometriosis (91035).
Immunologic ...Caffeine can cause anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals, although true IgE-mediated caffeine allergy seems to be relatively rare (11315).
Musculoskeletal
...Caffeine can induce or exacerbate muscular tremors (38136,37673,38161).
There has also been a report of severe rhabdomyolysis in a healthy 40-year-old patient who consumed an energy drink containing 400 mg of caffeine (4 mg/kg) and then participated in strenuous weightlifting exercise (108818).
Epidemiological evidence regarding the relationship between caffeine use and the risk for osteoporosis is contradictory. Caffeine can release calcium from storage sites and increase its urinary excretion (2669,10202,11317,111489). Females with a genetic variant of the vitamin D receptor appear to be at an increased risk for the detrimental effect of caffeine on bone mass (2669). However, moderate caffeine intake, less than 300 mg daily, does not seem to significantly increase osteoporosis risk in most postmenopausal adults with normal calcium intake (2669,6025,10202,11317). Premature infants treated with intravenous caffeine for apnea of prematurity, have a lower bone mineral content compared with infants who are not treated with caffeine, especially when treatment extends beyond 14 days (111489).
Neurologic/CNS ...Caffeine can cause headaches, anxiety, jitteriness, restlessness, and nervousness (36466,37694,37755,37806,37865,37830,37889,38223,95952). In adolescents, there is an inverse correlation between the consumption of caffeine and various measurements of cognitive function (104579). Insomnia is a frequent adverse effect in children (10755). Caffeine may result in insomnia and sleep disturbances in adults as well (36445,36483,36512,36531,37598,37795,37819,37862,37864,37890)(37968,37971,38091,38242,91022,92952). Additionally, caffeine may exacerbate sleep disturbances in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (10204). Combining ephedra with caffeine can increase the risk of adverse effects. Jitteriness, hypertension, seizures, temporary loss of consciousness, and hospitalization requiring life support has been associated with the combined use of ephedra and caffeine (2729). Finally, epidemiological research suggests that consuming more than 190 mg of caffeine daily is associated with an earlier onset of Huntington disease by 3.6 years (91078).
Ocular/Otic
...In individuals with glaucoma, coffee consumption and caffeine intake has been found to increase intraocular pressure (8540,36464,36465,37670).
The magnitude of this effect seems to depend on individual tolerance to caffeine. Some research in healthy young adults shows that caffeine increases intraocular pressure to a greater degree in low-consumers of caffeine (i.e., 1 cup of coffee or less daily) when compared to high-consumers (i.e., those consuming 2 cups of coffee or more daily) (100371). The peak increase of intraocular pressure seems to occur at about 1.5 hours after caffeine ingestion, and there is no notable effect 4 hours after ingestion (36462,100371).
Oncologic ...Most human studies which have examined caffeine or methylxanthine intake have found that they do not play a role in the development of various cancers, including breast, ovarian, brain, colon, rectal, or bladder cancer (37641,37737,37775,37900,38050,38169,38220,91054,91076,108806).
Psychiatric
...Caffeine may lead to habituation and physical dependence (36355,36453,36512,36599), with amounts as low as 100 mg daily (36355,36453).
An estimated 9% to 30% of caffeine consumers could be considered addicted to caffeine (36355). Higher doses of caffeine have caused nervousness, agitation, anxiety, irritability, delirium, depression, sleep disturbances, impaired attention, manic behavior, psychosis and panic attacks (36505,37717,37818,37839,37857,37982,38004,38017,38028,38072)(38079,38138,38306,38325,38331,38332,97464). Similar symptoms have been reported in a caffeine-naïve individual experiencing fatigue and dehydration after a dose of only 200 mg, with resolution of symptoms occurring within 2 hours (95952).
Withdrawal: The existence or clinical importance of caffeine withdrawal is controversial. Some researchers think that if it exists, it appears to be of little clinical significance (11839). Headache is the most common symptom, due to cerebral vasodilation and increased blood flow (37769,37991,37998). Other researchers suggest symptoms such as tiredness and fatigue, decreased energy, alertness and attentiveness, drowsiness, decreased contentedness, depressed mood, difficulty concentration, irritability, and lack of clear-headedness are typical of caffeine withdrawal (13738). Withdrawal symptoms typically occur 12-24 hours after the last dose of caffeine and peak around 48 hours (37769,36600). Symptoms may persist for 2-9 days. Withdrawal symptoms such as delirium, nausea, vomiting, rhinorrhea, nervousness, restlessness, anxiety, muscle tension, muscle pains, and flushed face have been described. However, these symptoms may be from nonpharmacological factors related to knowledge and expectation of effects. Clinically significant symptoms caused by caffeine withdrawal may be uncommon (2723,11839). In a case report, caffeine consumption of 560 mg daily was associated with increased suicidality (91082).
Renal ...Data on the relationship between caffeine intake and kidney stones are conflicting. Some clinical research shows that caffeine consumption may increase the risk of stone formation (37634,111498), while other research shows a reduced risk with increasing caffeine intakes (111498). A meta-analysis of 7 studies found that overall, there is an inverse relationship, with a 32% decrease in the risk of kidney stones between the lowest and highest daily intakes of caffeine (111498).
Other ...People with voice disorders, singers, and other voice professionals are often advised against the use of caffeine; however, this recommendation has been based on anecdotal evidence. One small exploratory study suggests that caffeine ingestion may adversely affect subjective voice quality, although there appears to be significant intra-individual variability. Further study is necessary to confirm these preliminary findings (2724).
General
...Orally, creatine is generally well-tolerated.
Topically, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Dehydration, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset, muscle cramps, and water retention.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Case reports have raised concerns about interstitial nephritis, renal insufficiency, rhabdomyolysis, and venous thrombosis.
Cardiovascular
...Some research suggests that creatine supplementation can cause edema.
In a randomized controlled trial, 26% of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) receiving creatine 10 grams daily reported edema after 2 months of treatment compared to 9% with placebo. The difference between groups was statistically significant at 2 months but not at month 4 and beyond. Creatine is believed to cause slight water retention, which may have been more apparent in patients who were immobilized due to ALS (46647). While this adverse drug reaction did not lead to worsening cardiac function in these patients, theoretically, creatine-related water retention could worsen congestive heart failure or hypertension.
There is one case report of lone atrial fibrillation in a 30-year-old male vegetarian. He started powdered creatine 20 grams daily for 5 days, followed by 2.5 grams daily for a month. However, he discontinued powdered creatine due to severe cramping and diarrhea, and reinitiated creatine supplementation a month later with an encapsulated formulation. Aside from gelatin in the capsule, creatine was the only ingredient listed in both formulations. During the loading dose phase, the patient developed dyspnea and palpitations and was diagnosed with lone atrial fibrillation in the emergency department. Symptoms resolved with treatment and supplement discontinuation (13187). Theoretically, alterations in electrolyte balance due to dehydration or diarrhea could lead to conduction abnormalities and arrhythmia; however, in this case, the patient had normal electrolyte levels. Contaminants in dietary supplements might also be responsible for adverse reactions; this specific creatine product was not tested for contaminants. It remains unclear whether creatine was associated with this event.
Theoretically, taking creatine nitrate might reduce blood pressure and heart rate due to its nitrate component. However, clinical research shows that creatine nitrate 12 grams daily for 7 days followed by 3 grams daily for 21 days does not lower blood pressure or heart rate acutely or chronically when compared to creatine monohydrate or placebo (95959).
Dermatologic
...In a small clinical trial of older, healthy males, one subject out of the 10 receiving creatine 5 grams four times daily for 10 days followed by 4 grams daily for 20 days reported a skin rash during the study.
The type and severity of rash and whether it resolved after creatine was discontinued were not discussed (4572). Also, skin rash has been reported by patients taking celecoxib and creatine; however, whether this effect was due to creatine or celecoxib is unclear (46706).
Topically, burning, itching, redness, irritation, and perception of changes in skin temperature have been reported (104669).
Endocrine ...Creatine may influence insulin production (11330). In human research, insulin levels increased 120 and 240 minutes after creatine supplementation (46760); however, there was no effect in another trial (46732). In a clinical study, 0.3 grams/kg of creatine daily for one week significantly increased cortisol levels by 29%. However, the levels returned to baseline at week 2 (46615).
Gastrointestinal
...Some small clinical studies have reported diarrhea and vomiting with oral creatine supplementation (4584,11332,46562,46684,46698,46704,104673).
Also, gastrointestinal distress, transient abdominal discomfort, constipation, heartburn, and nausea have been reported by a small number of individuals in randomized, controlled clinical trials (4572,11332,46527,46528,46573,46589,46622,46668,46684,46695), (46704,46771,95964,104668,104669,104673,108316). However, most high-quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase the incidence of gastrointestinal upset (103102,103278,103279).
Undissolved creatine powder may cause gastroenteritis (1368). Additionally, simultaneous intake of creatine and caffeine powder may increase the occurrence of gastrointestinal distress (95964).
Hematologic ...There are two case reports of creatine-related venous thrombosis in otherwise healthy adults. In the first case, an active 18-year-old male who had been taking an unspecified dose of creatine daily for 3 months was diagnosed with venous thrombosis via MRI. The patient reported increased thirst and fluid consumption when taking creatine. In the second case, an active 31-year-old male who had recently taken a 5-hour flight was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. He had been taking an unspecified dose of creatine. After stopping creatine and receiving anticoagulation therapy for 6 months, both patients' thromboses were resolved and did not recur. Researchers speculate that dehydration might be to blame for these adverse events, as dehydration increases the risk of thrombosis. In both cases, thrombophilic conditions were ruled out, and a temporal relationship between creatine consumption and thrombosis was established (90301). However, it remains unclear if creatine was responsible for these thrombotic events.
Hepatic
...Despite two case reports describing hepatic injury in patients taking creatine (46701,90319), meta-analyses and clinical studies specifically evaluating the safety of creatine have not identified an increased risk for hepatic injury (103278,103279).
In addition, population research suggests that there is not an association between creatine intake and liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatic steatosis. However, this study largely included subjects consuming less than 4 grams daily (112208).
One preliminary clinical trial specifically evaluated the effect of creatine loading and maintenance doses on hepatic function indices in healthy adults. No clinically significant changes in hepatic indices were reported in patients taking creatine loading doses of 20 grams daily for 5 days followed by maintenance doses of 3 grams daily for 8 weeks (46521). Another clinical study evaluated the impact of creatine monohydrate and creatine nitrate on liver function enzymes, showing no change in levels within 5 hours after the first dose of 12 grams or after continued consumption of 12 grams daily for 7 days followed by 3 grams daily for 21 days (95959). The patients that experienced hepatic injury in the available case reports were also taking other exercise supplements. Whether the reported adverse hepatic effects were due to creatine or the other supplements patients were taking is unclear. Also, neither of these case reports addressed whether the supplements were tested for contamination (46701,90319).
Musculoskeletal ...Creatine-associated increase in body mass is well documented in randomized, controlled clinical trials and is often as large as 1-2 kg during the five-day loading period of creatine (2101,4569,4589,4591,4600,4605,46504,46561,46815,46827)(46830,46843,95962,103279,112201). This may be considered an unwanted adverse reaction in some individuals and a desired effect of supplementation in others. This weight gain may interfere with mass-dependent activities such as running and swimming (46504,46823). Muscle cramping due to creatine supplementation has been reported in controlled clinical trials and may result from water retention in skeletal muscle (2104,4572,4584,30915,46562,46695,46826,46827,104673). However, most high quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries or muscle cramping (103102). In one case report, rhabdomyolysis in a weight lifter using creatine 25 grams daily over a one-year period has been reported (12820). Another case report describes an adult male who developed acute compartment syndrome of the leg after regular consumption of an unspecified amount of creatine and cocaine (112210).
Neurologic/CNS ...In clinical research, thirst, sleepiness, mild headache, and syncope have been reported for patients taking creatine, although the events were uncommon (46578,46615,46820). More serious adverse events have been reported for patients taking creatine in combination with other ingredients. A case of ischemic stroke has been reported for an athlete who consumed creatine monohydrate 6 grams, caffeine 400-600 mg, ephedra 40-60 mg, and a variety of other supplements daily for 6 weeks (1275). In another case, a 26 year old male reported with a hemorrhagic stroke linked to taking the supplement Jack3d, which contains creatine, DMAA, schizandrol A, caffeine, beta-alanine, and L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate (90318). It is likely that these adverse events were due to other ingredients, such as caffeine, ephedra, and DMAA, which are known to have stimulant and vasoconstrictive properties.
Oncologic ...Population research shows that use of muscle building supplements such as creatine, protein, and androstenedione is associated with an increased odds of testicular germ cell cancer. This risk appears to be more apparent in early users, those using two or more muscle building supplements, and those with long-term use of the supplements. The odds of testicular germ cell cancer may be increased by up to 155% in males taking both creatine and protein supplements (90329). The risk of testicular germ cell cancer from creatine alone is unclear from this study.
Psychiatric ...Anxiety, irritability, depression, aggression, and nervousness have been reported in clinical research for patients taking creatine, although the effects are not common (46518). A case of acute organic psychosis was reported in a 32-year-old soldier in Iraq who was consuming excessive amounts of caffeine coupled with use of creatine (Creatamax, MaxiNutrition) one tablet twice daily for 3 weeks plus a specific stimulant containing bitter orange, guarana seed extract, and St. John's wort extract (Ripped Fuel Ephedra Free, Twinlabs) two tablets three times daily for 2 days prior to admission. The psychosis was considered likely due to caffeine consumption in combination with the stimulant supplement rather than creatine (37982).
Renal
...Isolated cases of renal dysfunction in patients taking creatine have been reported, including a case of interstitial nephritis in a healthy male (184) and a case of renal insufficiency in a football player (46828).
In contrast to these cases, several clinical studies and case reports have shown that creatine does not affect markers of renal function in healthy adults (2120,3996,4573,16535,46735,46749,46758,46779,46813,95959,103279). Doses studied included 5- to 7-day loading regimens of 12 to 21 grams daily (2120,46813), or maintenance doses of 3-10 grams daily for up to 2 years (16535,46712,46758,95959). In two additional studies, creatine supplementation 15.75 grams for 5 days followed by 4.25 grams daily for 20 days with carbohydrate and protein ingestion led to no change of renal stress markers (46844). Other clinical research has shown that ingestion of creatine up to 30 grams daily for 5 years is not associated with an increased incidence of renal dysfunction (103102).
Other case reports involve patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction. For example, in one case, a patient with a history of recurrent renal failure developed relapsing steroid-responsive nephritis syndrome after taking creatine (1368,2118). In another case, a patient with diabetic nephropathy who was taking creatine and metformin developed severe metabolic acidosis and acute renal failure. It is unclear if creatine contributed to this event, as metformin alone is known to cause metabolic acidosis (46738). These case reports have raised concern that individuals with pre-existing renal dysfunction may be at increased risk for renal injury with creatine supplementation. However, no prospective clinical trials have been conducted in this population to clarify this concern.
In addition, two cases of acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia have been reported in 16 year old males that took 1-4 servings of creatine for less than 4 weeks; however, the creatine product contained unlabeled, very high doses of vitamin D, which is the likely cause of these symptoms (109739).
In one survey, 13% of male collegiate athletes taking creatine reported dehydration (4584). The Association of Professional Team Physicians has warned that creatine may cause dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and electrolyte imbalances, and reduce blood volume. Mild transient dehydration resulting in an elevated serum creatinine was also reported in a single person in a clinical trial (104672). However, a study found that creatine supplementation during preseason football training had no effect on fluid or electrolyte status (46845). Additionally, most high quality clinical research shows that creatine does not increase dehydration (103102). A theoretical increase in risk of dehydration due to intracellular fluid shifts has led most creatine manufacturers to caution about adequate hydration with creatine supplementation (4576).
Other
...There have been reports of heat intolerance with oral creatine supplementation (46505).
Increases in formaldehyde production have been reported with creatine use. A-24 year-old man taking supratherapeutic doses of creatine monophosphate in combination with an energy supplement developed malignant hyperthermia after undergoing anesthesia. His symptoms included tachycardia, hypertension, hypercarbia, and hyperthermia. Environmental factors are suspected to have played a role in the development of malignant hyperthermia, so whether this adverse event was due to creatine at all is unclear (46717).
In 1997, three collegiate wrestlers died after engaging in a rapid weight-loss program in order to qualify for competition (93628). Initially creatine supplementation was considered to have contributed to or caused these deaths (12820,93629); however, investigations by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) did not confirm this belief (12820,93630). It appears that only one of the three wrestlers had been using creatine. Instead, the deaths were related to drastic, short-term weight loss in which the wrestlers wore rubber suits, avoided hydration, and performed workouts in rooms with temperatures up to 33 °C (1368,93631).
General
...Orally, rectally, and topically, glycerol seems to be well tolerated.
Intravenously, glycerol may be unsafe.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Bloating, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache.
Topically: Burning, irritation, and pruritus.
Intravenously: Hemolysis in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Dermatologic ...Topically, glycerol has been reported to cause burning, irritation, and pruritus (93754,93756). Rectally, the regular administration of glycerol 50% enemas has been reported to cause generalized urticaria in at least two patients; in both patients, symptoms resolved after discontinuation (110019,110025).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, glycerol can cause bloating, nausea, vomiting, thirst, and diarrhea (15,2475).
Hematologic ...Intravenously, glycerol has been reported to caused hemolysis in people treated for acute ischemic stroke (2480,2482).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, glycerol can cause mild headache and dizziness (15,2475).
General
...Orally, huperzine A seems to be well tolerated.
There is currently a limited amount of information about the tolerability of intramuscular huperzine A.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
All ROAs: Huperzine A can cause dose-dependent cholinergic side effects such as blurred vision, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, sweating, and vomiting.
Cardiovascular ...Orally, huperzine A might cause decreased heart rate (3138,93482). There are two cases reported where consumption of a tea mistakenly brewed from Lycopodium selago, a source of huperzine A, has resulted in significant cholinergic toxicity, including hypertension (13193).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, huperzine A can cause cholinergic side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia (93480,93481,93482,93483). Constipation and thirst have also been reported (93482,93483). In two case reports, consumption of a tea mistakenly brewed from Lycopodium selago, a source of huperzine A, has resulted in significant cholinergic toxicity, including vomiting and diarrhea (13193).
Musculoskeletal ...In two case reports, consumption of a tea mistakenly brewed from Lycopodium selago, a source of huperzine A, has resulted in significant cholinergic toxicity, including leg cramps (13193).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, huperzine A can cause cholinergic side effects such as dizziness (3140,55613,93481,93482) and sweating (93482). Huperzine A can also cause hyperactivity and insomnia (3138,3140,55613,93482). Fainting has also been reported (4624). In two case reports, consumption of a tea mistakenly brewed from Lycopodium selago, a source of huperzine A, has resulted in significant cholinergic toxicity, including sweating and slurred speech (13193).
General
...Orally, L-citrulline seems to be generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal discomfort, heartburn.
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, gastrointestinal intolerance, stomach discomfort, and heartburn have been reported with L-citrulline use (94955,94963,94966).
Genitourinary ...Orally, 2 of 25 patients with pulmonary hypertension reported increased urinary frequency and edema while taking 1 gram of powdered L-citrulline in water daily (94963).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, 2 of 25 patients with pulmonary hypertension reported cough while taking 1 gram of powdered L-citrulline in water daily (94963).
General
...Orally, malic acid seems to be well tolerated.
Topically, malic acid seems to be well tolerated when applied to oral mucosal surfaces. A thorough evaluation of safety outcomes with topical malic acid use on the skin has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Topical: Eye irritation, skin irritation, and skin peeling.
Dermatologic ...Topically, malic acid may cause moderate to strong skin irritation and peeling (26968,95564,95595). In patients first patch tested with malic acid, next instructed to avoid foods containing malic or citric acid, and then challenged with foods containing high amounts of malic and citric acid, skin reactions including immediate hives and delayed contact dermatitis occurred (26968).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, diarrhea and nausea have been reported for patients taking a specific combination product (Super Malic) containing malic acid1200 mg and magnesium 300 mg twice daily. However, it is unclear if the adverse effect is due to malic acid, since it is known that magnesium can have a laxative effect at this dose (3262).
Ocular/Otic ...Topically, malic acid might irritate the eyes, especially in formulations containing 2. 27% or more malic acid (26968,95564,95595).
General ...Ophthalmically, N,N-DMPEA seems to be well tolerated. No adverse effects were reported in one clinical trial evaluating ophthalmic use of N,N-DMPEA for 21 days (95470). It is unknown whether N,N-DMPEA causes adverse effects when taken orally in amounts found in supplements.
General ...There is currently a limited amount of information available about the safety of sceletium. In one clinical study, adverse effects reported with sceletium occurred at a lower rate than with placebo (100645). Adverse effects of a sceletium extract reported in another study were anxiety, headache, hypertension, insomnia, irritability, and nausea (106745). There are anecdotal reports that chewing sceletium can cause headache, loss of appetite, depression, and listlessness (17580). Additionally, anecdotal reports suggest that sceletium can cause euphoric effects when inhaled or taken orally in high doses (100649).
Cardiovascular ...Orally, a sceletium extract has been reported to cause hypertension (106745).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, a sceletium extract has been reported to cause nausea (106745). There are anecdotal reports that chewing sceletium can cause loss of appetite (17580).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, a sceletium extract has been reported to cause anxiety, headache, insomnia, and irritability (106745). There are also anecdotal reports that chewing sceletium can cause headache, depression, and listlessness (17580). Additionally, anecdotal reports suggest that sceletium can cause euphoric effects when inhaled or taken orally in high doses (100649).
General
...Orally, tyrosine seems to be well tolerated.
No serious adverse effects have been documented; however, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Fatigue, headache, heartburn, and nausea.
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, tyrosine can cause nausea and heartburn when taken at a dose of 150 mg/kg (7211). Taking tyrosine 4 grams daily in combination with 5-hydroxytryptophan 800 mg and carbidopa 100 mg can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. These effects can be mitigated by lowering the dosage (918).
Musculoskeletal ...Orally, larger doses of tyrosine (150 mg/kg) can cause arthralgia, but this is uncommon (7211).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, larger doses of tyrosine (150 mg/kg) can cause headache and fatigue (7211). Taking a combination of tyrosine 4 grams, 5-hydroxytryptophan 800 mg, and carbidopa 100 mg can cause drowsiness and agitation. These effects can be mitigated by lowering the dosage (918).
