|
Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
|
|
GLA/Drug Interactions:- Anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugsAnticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs: May compound the natural effect of GLA and could cause excess bleeding or bruising (21). These drugs include: aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix®), NSAIDs, ibuprofen, naproxen, dalteparin, enoxaparin, heparin, and warfarin (Coumadin®).
- CeftazidimeCeftazidime: Theoretically, GLA may increase the effectiveness of ceftazidime, an antibiotic in a class known as cephalosporins, against a variety of bacterial infections (35). It is unknown whether effectiveness of other cephalosporin antibiotics are likewise affected.
- ChemotherapyChemotherapy: GLA may increase the effects of anti-cancer treatments, such as doxorubicin, cisplatin, carboplatin, docetaxil, epirubicin, idarubicin, mitoxantrone, paclitaxel, tamoxifen, vincristine, vinblastine and vinorelbine (17). GLA may decrease the effects of cisplastin and carboplatin.
- CyclosporineCyclosporine: Theoretically, taking omega-6 fatty acids, such as GLA, during therapy with cyclosporine, a medication used to suppress the immune system after an organ transplant, for example, may increase the immunosuppressive effects of cyclosporine and may protect against kidney damage associated with cyclosporine (36;37).
- PhenothiazinesPhenothiazines: Individuals taking phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, perphenazine, promazine, and thioridazine) to treat schizophrenia should not take evening primrose oil, a source of GLA, because it may interact with these medications and increase the risk of seizures (38). Theoretically, the same may be true for other GLA containing supplements.
|
|
 |
|
GLA/Herb/Supplement Interactions:- AnticoagulantsAnticoagulants: Use with herbs containing coumarin, which affects platelet aggregation, could increase the risk of bleeding (21).
- Antioxidants (CoQ10, vitamin E)Antioxidants (CoQ10, vitamin E): In cancer cells in vitro, coenzyme Q10 and vitamin E reversed the inhibition of cell growth associated with GLA (39;40;41). Thus, nutritional antioxidants may inhibit certain effects associated with GLA.
|
GLA/Food Interactions:- Insufficient available evidence.
|
GLA/Lab Interactions:- Coagulation assaysCoagulation assays: Gamma linolenic acid's inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation will prolong bleeding time and lab assay results (21).
- Lipid panelLipid panel: GLA could also decrease plasma triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol levels (21).
|
Copyright © 2011 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com)
|
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
| |
