Consuming grapefruit has the potential to impact drug metabolism and absorption, antidepressants included, by altering their concentration within the body and intensifying adverse reactions. Psychiatrist Vladimir Katorgin shared this information with “Gazeta.Ru.”
According to the expert, the flavonoids present in grapefruit inhibit enzymes responsible for breaking down and eliminating medicinal substances. This blockage can lead to the accumulation of the active ingredient, resulting in an overdose effect and heightened side effects. Conversely, if a drug requires enzymatic activation to work, grapefruit consumption can diminish its efficacy, a scenario seen with certain blood pressure medications, for instance. Katorgin emphasized the critical need for patients to consult medication inserts to prevent toxic responses.
Psychiatrist Pavel Beschastnov corroborated the theoretical basis for this interaction, pointing out that grapefruit slows down the hepatic enzymes that metabolize antidepressants. Nevertheless, he characterized these risks as largely speculative with contemporary medications, stating that throughout his career, he has never personally encountered such incidents. In his view, issuing specific warnings to patients against grapefruit is unnecessary, particularly when contrasted with alcohol, which truly is contraindicated.
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