This is a combination drug containing two ingredients, diphenoxylate and atropine, that is used in the treatment of diarrhea. Diphenoxylate is in a class of drugs known
as antidiarrheals.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid:Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication since the supplement may decrease the absorption and/or activity
of the medication in the body.
Tannin-containing herbs* such as green tea, black tea, uva ursi,
black walnut, red raspberry, oak, and witch hazel
Depletion or interference
None known
Side effect reduction/prevention
None known
Supportive interaction
None known
Adverse interaction
None known
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Tannin-containing herbs
Tannins are a group of unrelated chemicals that give plants an astringent taste. Herbs
containing high amounts of tannins, such as green
tea(Camellia sinensis), black tea, uva ursi(Arctostaphylos uva-ursi),
black walnut (Juglans nigra),red
raspberry(Rubus idaeus),oak(Quercus spp.), and witch hazel(Hamamelis virginiana), may
interfere with the absorption of the drug when taken by mouth.1
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Diphenoxylate may enhance the actions of alcohol,2 resulting in increased
drowsiness, dizziness, imbalance, and poor response times. Therefore, people taking
diphenoxylate should avoid alcohol, especially when staying alert is necessary.
References (To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions.
Sandy, OR: Eclectic Institute, 1997, 100.
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2923–4.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience,
or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur
in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over
the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist
for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in
prescribed medications.
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