Drug Interactions With Kava
It is not recommended to take Kava (Kava Kava / Piper Methysticum) and then drive. We also insist that Kava not be used with any prescription and many non-prescription medications.
The following is a guideline of documented interactions that have had an adverse effect.
- Anticonvulsants - Used with Kava, anticonvulsants may increase side-effects of medications used to treat seizures.
- Alcohol - Kava and Alcohol do not go together hand in hand. Impairment from both booze and Kava Kava can produce fatal consequences - please don't do this.
- Anti-Anxiety Medications - Kava is reported to increase the effects of CNS depressants (such as Benzodiazepines), used for sleep disturbances or anxiety. Barbiturates (such as Pentobarbital) for sleep disorders and seizures are also said to have adverse effects.
- Antipsychotic Medications - Kava Kava may also increase the risk of side effects associated with Phenothiazine medications (mainly used for the treatment of Schizophrenia), including Chlorpromazine and Promethazine.
- Levodopa - There has been at least one report that Piper Methysticum may reduce the effectiveness of Parkinson's disease medications. Do not use Levodopa and Kava together if you are on this medication.
People on any of the above drugs or medications are advised not to use the two together. For obvious reasons (i.e. the health of a developing child), pregnant, nursing or expectant mothers should not consume Kava. No documented studies have shown harm, but for our peace of mind we don't suggest consumption by these people. People with a pre-disposition to liver damage, or people with liver damage are advised to consume Kava only in small quantities on less frequent occasions.