Possible side effects
Garlic supplements are generally well tolerated, but some people experience:
- Garlic breath or body odour
- Heartburn or an upset stomach
- Allergic reactions in people sensitive to garlic or honey
Medicine interactions
Garlic may increase the risk of bleeding and can interact with blood-thinning medicines such as warfarin. It may also add to the effect of blood pressure medicines. Never stop or change a prescribed medicine to take a supplement.
Who should talk to a GP first
Talk to your GP or pharmacist first if you take blood-thinning or blood pressure medicine, have surgery coming up, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are allergic to garlic or honey.
When to stop
Stop taking it and seek advice if you notice unusual bruising or bleeding, signs of an allergic reaction, or any symptom that worries you. Call 000 in an emergency.
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Common, mild side effects
Reported with garlic supplements in general:
- Garlic breath or body odour (usually less with aged garlic)
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Bloating, wind or an upset stomach
- Rarely, a skin rash or allergic reaction
Garlic, bleeding and blood thinners
Garlic may slow blood clotting. That matters if you take warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel, aspirin or similar, or if you have surgery or dental work coming up. Your doctor may ask you to stop garlic supplements beforehand.
Read next: Garlic & blood thinners
If you take blood pressure medicine
Because aged garlic may lower blood pressure slightly, taking it with blood pressure medicine could add to the effect. Keep taking your medicine as prescribed and let your GP know you're using a garlic supplement so they can keep an eye on your readings.
Read next: Aged garlic & blood pressure
When to stop and get help
Stop taking it and speak to a doctor if you notice:
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Swelling, hives or trouble breathing (call 000)
- Ongoing stomach pain
Frequently asked questions
Is VitalFlush safe?
Garlic and honey are common foods, but supplements can still cause side effects and interactions. It isn't right for everyone. Talk to your GP or pharmacist first if you take blood-thinning or blood pressure medicine, have surgery coming up, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are allergic to garlic or honey.
Can I take VitalFlush with blood pressure tablets?
Ask your GP first. Garlic may add to the effect of blood pressure medicines. Don't stop your prescribed medicine.
Can VitalFlush cause low blood pressure?
It's possible if combined with blood pressure medicine, as garlic may lower blood pressure slightly. Speak to your GP if you feel dizzy.
Is VitalFlush safe for diabetics?
It contains a small amount of honey. Check with your doctor, especially if you take diabetes medicine.
Can I take VitalFlush while pregnant?
Speak to your doctor or midwife first. Garlic supplements aren't recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
Does aged garlic cause garlic breath?
Aged garlic is usually milder than raw garlic, but some people still notice it.