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Why should I avoid eating grapefruit if I am on blood pressure medication?

RealAge
RealAge
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A beta blocker with a grapefruit juice chaser may nix the effectiveness of the blood pressure medication, thanks to the chemical behind the fruit's tart taste. Another chemical in that fruit may actually boost the effects of other blood pressure drugs. Either way, you're not getting what you need, so keep grapefruit and blood pressure meds away from each other.

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
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If you're on blood pressure medication, you should avoid eating grapefruit. The reason why is that grapefruit is very acidic and breaks down certain medications much faster. For some people, this causes them to absorb too much of the medicine and for others, not enough. Blood pressure medications that are affected by grapefruit juice include calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.