Does Grapefruit Juice Interact with Nifedipine?
Grapefruit Juice and Nifedipine have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Grapefruit juice approximately doubles nifedipine AUC and Cmax with no change in half-life. The mechanism involves inhibition of cyp3a4-mediated nifedipine metabolism. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Nifedipine Class
- Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Grapefruit Juice and Nifedipine occurs because inhibition of cyp3a4-mediated nifedipine metabolism. Clinically, this means grapefruit juice approximately doubles nifedipine auc and cmax with no change in half-life. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Grapefruit Juice and your doctor is considering prescribing Nifedipine (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider