By the way, doctor: Is it okay to drink grapefruit juice, as long as I don't take my statin at the same time?
Grapefruit contains compounds that interfere with digestive enzymes that break down (metabolize) various drugs — especially the enzyme CYP34A, which is part of a large family of drug-metabolizing enzymes called cytochrome P450. This increases the amount of drug absorbed and thus the amount in the bloodstream. Other chemicals in grapefruit alter the activity of proteins responsible for transporting some drugs through the wall of the intestine. This also boosts drug absorption and blood levels of the drug.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
