If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use bromelain without talking to your health care provider.

Antibiotics -- Bromelain may increase the amount of antibiotics absorbed by the body. In one clinical study, the combination of bromelain and amoxicillin increased the levels of amoxicillin in the blood. Also, some studies suggest that bromelain may increase the body's absorption of tetracycline, but results of other studies have been conflicting.

Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs (blood-thinners) -- Bromelain may affect the blood's ability to clot, and could interfere with any blood-thinning drugs you are taking, including:

• Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Clopidogrel (Plavix)
• Aspirin

Sedatives -- Some experts believe bromelain may increase the effect of drugs that have a sedating effect, including:

• Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin (Dilantin) and valproic acid (Depakote)
• Barbiturates
• Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium)
• Drugs to treat insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien), zaleplon (Sonata), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and ramelteon (Rozerem)
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
• Alcohol

The same is true of herbs with a sedating effect, such as valerian, kava, and catnip.