Does Green Tea Interact With Zoloft? (+5 Safety Tips)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 02/01/2024 | Next review date: 02/01/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we’ll address the question: ‘Does green tea interact with Zoloft?’ We’ll also delve into the research and explore potential side effects.

Does green tea interact with Zoloft?

Yes, green tea can interact with Zoloft (Sertraline). When taken together, it can increase the risk of bleeding especially if green tea is consumed in large quantities.

Zoloft and green tea can also cause gastrointestinal side effects. It’s advised not to take Zoloft and green tea together.

Green tea is widely consumed for weight loss and mental alertness. It is a common refreshing beverage. Sertraline is used to treat depression, anxiety and mood disorders.

What does research suggest?

Some studies have reported interactions between green tea and sertraline.

A study explored herb-drug interactions and found that the chances of interaction between green tea and prescription medicines, including Sertraline, were “probable” in 51% of the reports and “highly probable” in approximately 8%. About 37% were classified as possible herb-drug interactions, while only 4% were considered doubtful. (1)

Studies suggest that green tea and sertraline individually may elevate the risk of bleeding especially in patients with ulcers. This risk is high if these are taken together. Therefore, it’s advisable to consider limiting green tea consumption or avoiding it altogether when taking sertraline. (2,3)

Studies and reports have also highlighted various gastrointestinal side effects associated with green tea consumption. These include issues such as acid reflux and heartburn, often attributed to green tea’s caffeine content, which can relax the lower oesophagal sphincter. (4)

Similarly, sertraline (Zoloft), is known to be associated with its own set of gastrointestinal side effects. Nausea and vomiting are relatively common, particularly when initiating treatment with sertraline. (2)

These research findings collectively shed light on the potential interactions and effects of green tea when combined with sertraline, offering valuable insights for those considering this combination.

Potential side effects of Sertraline and green tea

Combining sertraline with green tea can potentially lead to several side effects, including:

Gastrointestinal Issues

Both sertraline and green tea have been associated with gastrointestinal problems. Sertraline can cause nausea and upset stomach, while green tea, due to its caffeine content, may lead to issues like acid reflux, heartburn, and even vomiting.

When used together, these gastrointestinal issues may become more pronounced and uncomfortable. (2,4)

Increased Risk of Bleeding

Both sertraline and green tea can affect blood clotting. Sertraline, as an antidepressant, can have anticoagulant properties, while green tea contains compounds like catechins that can interfere with blood clotting.

When combined, they may synergistically increase the risk of bleeding, leading to nosebleeds, easy bruising, or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts. (2,3)

Insomnia

Both sertraline and green tea can potentially disrupt sleep patterns. Sertraline may cause insomnia as a side effect in the initial phase of treatment, and green tea, again due to its caffeine content, can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep when consumed close to bedtime. (5,6)

Some patient groups at higher risk of side effects include:

Patients with bleeding disorders like Haemophilia
Elderly patients with chronic comorbidities
Patients regularly using NSAIDs for arthritis or joint pain
Patients with stomach ulcers, liver, or kidney problems
Higher Zoloft doses may increase the risk of green tea interaction
Prolonged use of both substances can amplify potential interactions

Consider these potential side effects and consult your healthcare provider before using both substances. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance based on your specific health status and medication regimen to ensure your safety and well-being.

What to do if sertraline interacts with green tea?

If you are concerned about interactions between green tea and Sertraline, follow these safety tips

Before using green tea or any herbal supplements alongside sertraline, talk to your healthcare provider.
Reduce or eliminate green tea while taking sertraline to minimise potential interactions.
Avoid excessive caffeine consumption, as it can amplify sertraline’s side effects.
Stay away from foods that can interact with Sertraline like cheese, avocados, and soybeans, which can interact with sertraline and raise blood pressure.
Discuss medication dosage adjustments with a healthcare provider to address bleeding concerns.

Conclusion

In summary, the combination of green tea and sertraline can indeed lead to drug-herb interactions. To mitigate the potential risks of this combination, it is advisable to either limit or avoid consuming green tea while taking sertraline. This caution is primarily rooted in the increased risk of bleeding, potential insomnia, and the likelihood of experiencing gastrointestinal side effects when both substances are used concurrently.