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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).

Alternative Names:

Mad-dog Skullcap; Scullcap; Scutellaria lateriflora; Skullcap

  • Reviewed last on: 6/20/2007
  • 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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