Grapefruit, with its tangy flavor and refreshing taste, has long been celebrated as a nutritious fruit rich in vitamins and antioxidants. However, beneath its vibrant peel lies a compound known as furanocoumarins, which can interact with certain medications, leading to unexpected consequences.

Furanocoumarins are natural chemicals found in various citrus fruits, including grapefruit, that serve as a defense mechanism against pests and pathogens. While they play a role in the fruit’s protection, they can also interfere with enzymes in the body responsible for metabolizing medications.

When consumed alongside certain drugs, furanocoumarins inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver and intestines. These enzymes are crucial for breaking down medications and facilitating their absorption into the bloodstream. By inhibiting these enzymes, furanocoumarins can significantly alter the concentration of drugs in the body, leading to either increased or decreased levels of the medication.

The interaction between furanocoumarins and medications can have serious implications for patient health. In some cases, it can lead to heightened drug potency, causing adverse effects such as increased risk of toxicity or overdose. On the other hand, decreased drug levels can result in reduced therapeutic efficacy, rendering the medication less effective in treating the intended condition.

It is essential for healthcare providers to educate patients about the potential risks associated with consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking certain medications. Patients should be advised to read medication labels carefully and consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist if they have any concerns about potential interactions.

This can cause acute kidney failure, breathing problems, internal bleeding and even sudden death. At risk are older people, whose bodies are less able to withstand an “overdose” of drugs enhanced by citrus fruits. As doctors note, furanocoumarins remain in the body for many hours after eating grapefruit.