The Role of Biotransformation Processes in Mediating Interactions Between Psychotropic Drugs and Natural Products

    April 2020 in “ Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences ”
    Nicolae Bacinschi, Ina Pogonea, Lilia Podgurschi, Maria Mihalachi-Anghel, Emil Ștefănescu, Bogdan Socea, Marin Chianu
    Studysummary This study reviewed reports on interactions between psychotropic drugs and natural beverages, finding that substances like grapefruit juice and St John's wort can significantly affect drug metabolism, emphasizing the need for physician-patient education on drug administration to prevent harmful interactions. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
    The study highlighted significant interactions between psychotropic drugs and natural products, such as grapefruit juice and St John's wort, which could alter drug efficacy and safety. These interactions were primarily due to the inhibition or induction of biotransformation enzymes like cytochrome P450, affecting drug metabolism. For example, grapefruit juice increased the bioavailability of drugs like sertraline and benzodiazepines, while St John's wort reduced methadone serum concentrations by 47%. The research emphasized the need for healthcare providers to educate patients on these interactions and recommended taking medications with water to avoid adverse effects.
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