Can I take Certican (Everolimus) and Matcha together?

Why this happens

Certican is broken down in the body by a specific enzyme (CYP3A4) and a transport protein (P-glycoprotein). Matcha, which is a concentrated form of green tea, contains high levels of catechins. These natural compounds can interfere with these enzymes and proteins, slowing down how quickly your body clears the medicine.

What you should do

You should use caution and speak with your transplant team or specialist before consuming matcha regularly. While an occasional cup of standard green tea may be fine, matcha is much more potent. It is best to keep your intake consistent and inform your doctor if you notice any new or worsening side effects.

Important precautions

Live vaccines

You must avoid live vaccines (such as yellow fever, MMR, or shingles) while taking Certican. Your immune system will be less able to respond, and the vaccine could cause a serious infection.

Drug-food interaction

Matcha contains high levels of catechins which can interfere with how your body breaks down Certican. This can cause the medicine to build up to toxic levels in your blood. Avoid consuming large amounts of matcha or green tea extracts.

Pregnancy and contraception

Certican can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. You must use highly effective contraception during treatment and for 8 weeks after stopping. Men taking this medicine should also use contraception if their partner is of childbearing potential.

Matcha contains high concentrations of caffeine; intake should be limited to avoid exceeding 200mg of caffeine per day from all sources, as high intake is linked to low birth weight.

Wound healing

Certican significantly delays wound healing. If you are scheduled for surgery, you must inform your surgeon as you may need to stop the medication temporarily to prevent serious wound complications.

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice

You must avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Certican. It can significantly increase the amount of medicine in your blood to potentially dangerous levels, increasing the risk of serious side effects.

Fatty meals

You should be consistent in how you take Certican. Either always take it with food or always take it on an empty stomach. Taking it with a high-fat meal can change how much of the drug is absorbed into your body.

Matcha and Green Tea

Matcha is a concentrated form of green tea. Some studies suggest that green tea compounds can interfere with the enzymes and transporters that process everolimus. This could potentially alter the levels of the medicine in your blood. Consult your transplant team before consuming large amounts of matcha.

St John's Wort

While not a food, this herbal supplement is often found in teas or health products. You must avoid it as it can significantly decrease the effectiveness of Certican, risking organ rejection.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.