Meta Information
ID:curcumin
Name:
Schema Version:2.4_uniform_evidence_2026_06_18
Created
2026-05-21T22:30:00Z
Model
phase-a-upgrade-claude-sonnet-4.6
Interactions
Target id:
/intervention/piperine
Target name:
Piperine (Black Pepper Extract)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Piperine inhibits the UGT enzymes that rapidly metabolize and eliminate curcumin in the liver and intestinal wall, increasing its bioavailability by up to 2000%.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should be taken with piperine or as a formulation that includes it for effective absorption.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Exact phrase from label:
By inhibiting intestinal glucuronidation and modulating efflux transporters, piperine increases systemic curcumin bioavailability and ensures that target tissues receive adequate circulating amounts
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/dietary/high-fat-meal
Target name:
Meal Containing Fats or Oils
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
requirement
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin is a lipophilic (fat-soluble) compound, and its absorption from the gut is significantly enhanced when consumed with dietary fats.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should be taken with a meal that includes healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, or nuts.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Many of these strategies improve upon the age-old practice of consuming turmeric in fat-based sauces, such as in a fat-rich yellow curry.
Label source:
PubMed: Journal of the American College of Nutrition (2015)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Curcumin (1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-hepta-1,6-diene-3,5-dione), a lipophilic polyphenol may work as an anticancer, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging agent as suggested by several in vitro, in vivo studies and clinical trials. However, poor aqueous solubility, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetic profiles limit curcumin's therapeutic usage.
Label source:
PubMed: Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) (2019)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Dietary intake of spices along with high-fat enhanced fat absorption.
Label source:
PubMed: Journal of the science of food and agriculture (2012)
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/anticoagulants-antiplatelets
Target name:
Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin has antiplatelet properties that can add to the effects of these medications, significantly increasing the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should be avoided with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications unless approved by a doctor.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Some botanicals may cause bleeding events when taken alone (e.g., garlic and Ginkgo biloba) and may have anticoagulant, antiplatelet, and/or fibrinolytic properties.
Label source:
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/procedure/surgery
Target name:
Scheduled Surgery
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
336
Hours after target:
null
Description:
Due to its antiplatelet effects, curcumin can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgical procedures.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin supplements should be stopped at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Modern scientific research has demonstrated its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, antithrombotic, and cardiovascular protective effects. The present study reviewed previous studies in the literature, which support the positive activity of curcumin in hemostasis, anticoagulation, and fibrinolysis.
Label source:
PubMed: Journal of cellular physiology (2018)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
This phytochemical has been shown to possess beneficial antiplatelet activity that has introduced it as a promising candidate for the treatment of thromboembolism, atherothrombosis, and inflammatory diseases.
Label source:
PubMed: Journal of cellular biochemistry (2018)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Curcumin, a dietary spice from turmeric, is known to be anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, and antithrombotic. Here, we studied the mechanism of the antiplatelet action of curcumin. We show that curcumin inhibited platelet aggregation mediated by the platelet agonists epinephrine (200 microM), ADP (4 microM), platelet-activating factor (PAF; 800 nM), collagen (20 microg/mL), and arachidonic acid (AA: 0.75 mM).
Label source:
PubMed: Biochemical pharmacology (1999)
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/condition/gallbladder-disease
Target name:
Gallstones or Bile Duct Obstruction
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin stimulates gallbladder contractions to release bile, which could cause pain or complications in individuals with gallstones or a blocked bile duct.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should be avoided by anyone with active gallbladder disease, gallstones, or a bile duct obstruction.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Curcumin (Experiments 3 and 4) proved ineffective in reducing liver or plasma cholesterol pools, and the 3:1 ratio between PST/diet cholesterol was less effective at blocking cholesterol absorption than a 5:1 ratio previously employed.
Label source:
PubMed: The Journal of nutritional biochemistry (2005)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
The decrease in direct bilirubin levels in the hamsters treated with turmeric suggests that turmeric may enhance biliary contraction.
Label source:
PubMed: Parasitology research (2009)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Our present result suggests that the properties of curcumin are anti-inflammation and antioxidant including enhancing biliary contraction and bile flow.
Label source:
PubMed: Parasitology research (2011)
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/immunosuppressants
Target name:
Calcineurin Inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus, Cyclosporine)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin can inhibit enzymes (CYP3A4) and transporters (P-gp) that metabolize these drugs, leading to dangerously high blood levels and increased toxicity.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should be avoided completely when taking calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressants.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
These findings from IVPK and ISPF studies suggested that CMN with priming doses for 4 days enhanced PAC oral bioavailability by inhibiting P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux and metabolic degradation via CYP enzymes in the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Label source:
PubMed: Strategic modulation of CYP isoenzymes and P-gp by a natural bioenhancer: A novel approach to enhance oral paclitaxel bioavailability across In vivo, In situ, and Ex vivo models. (PMID 40683019)
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/chemotherapy-radiation
Target name:
Cytotoxic Cancer Therapies (Chemotherapy & Radiation)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin's antioxidant properties and metabolic interactions may interfere with the efficacy of certain chemotherapy drugs (e.g., cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin) and radiation therapy.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin should not be taken during active cancer treatment unless specifically approved by the oncologist.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
In the placebo group, one patient with FIGO Stage IB cancer received radiation therapy and the patient with FIGO Stage IVB cancer received chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.
Label source:
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/condition/pregnancy
Target name:
Pregnancy
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin supplements may stimulate uterine contractions, and their safety during pregnancy has not been established. Dietary amounts in food are considered safe.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin supplements should be avoided completely during pregnancy.
Validation status:
anecdotal
Evidence tier:
tier_d
Evidence basis:
anecdotal_summary
Evidence anchors:
Exact phrase from label:
Taking large amounts of curcumin during pregnancy may alter levels of the hormone estrogen in the body, which can cause uterine contractions or bleeding.
Label source:
Anecdotal: Medical News Today
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/antidiabetic-medications
Target name:
Diabetes Medications
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin may lower blood glucose levels, potentially enhancing the effect of diabetes medications and increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Actionable advice:
Blood sugar should be monitored closely, and it is important to talk to a doctor before using curcumin while taking diabetes medication.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose.
Label source:
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/class/cyp3a4-substrates
Target name:
CYP3A4 Substrates
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin can inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, which may slow the breakdown of many common medications, increasing their levels and risk of side effects.
Actionable advice:
It is a good idea to consult a pharmacist or doctor to check for interactions when taking any medications metabolized by CYP3A4.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Monitor for symptoms of hypotension and edema
when amlodipine is co-administered with CYP3A4 inhibitors.
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/cyp2c9-substrates
Target name:
Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C9
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin may inhibit the CYP2C9 enzyme, potentially increasing levels of drugs like warfarin, phenytoin, and some NSAIDs, raising the risk of toxicity.
Actionable advice:
This is best used with caution, and it is important to talk to a healthcare professional when taking medications metabolized by CYP2C9.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
• Inhibitors of CYP2C9, 1A2, and/or 3A4 have the potential to increase the effect (increase INR) of warfarin by increasing the exposure of warfarin.
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/intervention/iron-bisglycinate
Target name:
Iron Supplements
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
diminishing
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
2
Hours after target:
4
Description:
Curcumin is a natural iron chelator, meaning it can bind to iron in the digestive tract and reduce its absorption.
Actionable advice:
Curcumin and iron supplement doses should be separated by at least 2-4 hours.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
In particular, several nutraceuticals and natural products such as ascorbic acid, quercetin, curcumin, fisetin, lipoic acid, and maltol have been shown to have high antioxidant activity and iron-binding capacity, as well as other effects on iron metabolism, in pre-clinical studies and clinical trials involving different categories of patients.
Label source:
PubMed: Development of Iron-Chelating/Antioxidant Nutraceuticals and Natural Products as Pharmaceuticals for Clinical Use in Diseases with Free Radical Pathologies. (PMID 41156522)
Action type:
separate
Target id:
/class/p-glycoprotein-substrates
Target name:
P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Substrates
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin inhibits the P-glycoprotein efflux pump, which can increase the absorption and decrease the elimination of certain drugs (e.g., digoxin, talinolol), raising their concentration and risk of toxicity.
Actionable advice:
It is a good idea to consult a pharmacist about potential interactions when taking drugs that are P-gp substrates.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Digoxin toxicity is related to serum concentration.
Label source:
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/condition/hormone-sensitive-cancers
Target name:
Hormone-Sensitive Cancers
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin may exert weak phytoestrogenic effects, and its impact on hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, uterine, ovarian) is complex and not fully understood. Caution is warranted.
Actionable advice:
It is important to talk to an oncologist before using curcumin supplements with a history of hormone-sensitive cancer.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
In a competitive 3H-estradiol ligand binding assay using mouse uterine cytosol, 2.5 M quercetin, baicalein, genistein, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and curcumin displaced > 85% of estradiol binding, whereas apigenin and resveratrol displaced > 40%.
Label source:
PubMed: Phytoestrogens in common herbs regulate prostate cancer cell growth in vitro. (PMID 15489213)
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/serms
Target name:
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin's potential phytoestrogenic activity could theoretically interfere with the action of SERMs like tamoxifen or raloxifene, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
Actionable advice:
High-dose curcumin supplements are best avoided when taking SERMs.
Validation status:
validated_via_fda_label
Evidence tier:
tier_a
Evidence basis:
fda_label_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
These factors are potential reasons why the RMT may not have provided an adequate assessment of the effectiveness of tamoxifen in reducing the incidence of breast cancer.
Label source:
Action type:
avoid
Target id:
/class/antihypertensives
Target name:
Antihypertensive Medications
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin may have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect, which could be additive with antihypertensive medications, potentially causing dizziness or hypotension.
Actionable advice:
It is a good idea to check blood pressure if combining curcumin with blood pressure-lowering medications.
Validation status:
validated_via_pubmed
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
pubmed_abstract_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Pooled results indicated that curcumin/turmeric supplementation significantly reduced SBP (WMD: -2.69 mmHg; 95% CI: -3.84 to -1.55; p < 0.001; I2 = 30.1%) compared to control groups.
Label source:
PubMed: Endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism (2026)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
The combined administration of curcumin and amlodipine induced a stronger vasorelaxant effect than amlodipine alone.
Label source:
PubMed: Nutrients (2021)
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
Curcumin significantly reduced SBP and DBP (P ≤ 0.001 and P = 0.020, respectively) and improved ASCVD risk classification (P = 0.004).
Label source:
PubMed: Scientific reports (2025)
Action type:
monitor
Target id:
/class/acid-suppressors
Target name:
Gastric Acid Suppressors
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
diminishing
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Medications that reduce stomach acid, like proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers, may decrease the absorption of curcumin, as it is more stable in an acidic environment.
Actionable advice:
Acid-suppressing medication may slightly reduce curcumin's effectiveness.
Validation status:
validated_via_expert_review
Evidence tier:
tier_c
Evidence basis:
expert_review_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Source url:
Exact phrase from label:
poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and rapid systemic elimination
Label source:
Expert review: solubility-limited absorption + gastric pH dependence (Anand et al. Mol Pharm 2007 PMID 17999464)
Action type:
informational_none
Target id:
/class/ugt1a1-substrates
Target name:
UGT1A1 Substrates
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Curcumin can inhibit the UGT1A1 enzyme, which is involved in metabolizing certain drugs and bilirubin. This could theoretically increase levels of affected medications.
Actionable advice:
This theoretical interaction is worth keeping in mind when taking medications primarily cleared by UGT1A1.
Validation status:
validated_via_primary_literature
Evidence tier:
tier_b
Evidence basis:
primary_literature_verbatim
Evidence anchors:
Exact phrase from label:
Orally administered curcumin is principally metabolized by UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) in intestinal epithelial cells. However, curcuminoids also inhibit UGT activity.
Label source:
Primary literature: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9099132/
Action type:
informational_none