Capsicum and Warfarin

Capsicum is more commonly known as: chili pepper, hot pepper, green bell pepper, pimento, red pepper and others. Taken orally, capsicum is used as a digestive stimulant, antiflatulant, colic, diarrhea, cramps, toothache, improvement of blood circulation, reduction in cholesterol, preventing arteriosclerosis and heart disease.1

Capsicum can cause irritation of the stomach, sweating, flushing of the neck and head as well as a "theoretical" affect of anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs. Increases in effect and side effects may be expected.2

Unlike many other herbal supplements and interacting foods, capsicum is not likely a food patients are going to consume for days and weeks at a time associated with a greater likelihood of warfarin interaction. The FDA has not evaluated capsicum for widespread medicinal use. Speak with your doctor if you are interested in beginning or stopping oral capsicum or any herbal preparation.

  1. 2010 Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database
  2. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications And Drug Interactions, Second Edition. 1998.