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Possible Interactions with: Copper

Also listed as: Copper

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use copper supplements without first talking to your healthcare provider.

Birth Control Medications and Estrogen following menopause - Birth control medications and estrogen replacement for post-menopausal women can increase blood levels of copper. Therefore, copper supplements are not appropriate and may be cause for concern in individuals taking either of these medications.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) - Copper binds to NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) and appears to enhance their anti-inflammatory activity.

Penicillamine - Penicillamine (a medication used to treat Wilson's disease and rheumatoid arthritis) reduces copper levels that may be the intended use, as in the case of Wilson's disease.

Allopurinol - Test tube studies suggest that allopurinol, a medication used to treat gout, may reduce copper levels.

Cimetidine - Animal studies show that cimetidine, a medication used to treat ulcers and gastric esophageal reflux disease (when acid from the stomach enters the esophagus and causes heartburn and indigestion), may elevate copper levels in the body leading to damage of the liver and other organs.