Longevity

Piperine — timing, dose & interactions

Alkaloid from black pepper that inhibits glucuronidation and drug-metabolizing enzymes (CYP3A4, P-glycoprotein) — raising blood levels of curcumin and of some medications.

Also known as Black pepper extract, BioPerine

Timing

When to take it

Take at the same time as the compound you want to boost (usually curcumin).

Interactions

Piperine with other supplements

Safety

Medications & health conditions

CautionBlood thinners

Piperine can raise drug levels. Piperine inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, which clear many medications including some anticoagulants. Ask your pharmacist.

Mechanism-based
CautionStatins

Piperine may raise statin levels. Simvastatin, lovastatin and atorvastatin are cleared by CYP3A4, which piperine inhibits — higher levels mean more risk of muscle side effects.

Mechanism-based
CautionPregnant or breastfeeding

Concentrated piperine: no safety data in pregnancy. Concentrated piperine has not been studied for safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid unless your clinician recommends it.

Mechanism-based

Buying guide

What to look for on the label

  • Piperine

    • Standardized 95% piperine, usually pre-combined with curcumin

FAQ

Common questions

When is the best time to take Piperine?

Lunch or Dinner. Take at the same time as the compound you want to boost (usually curcumin).

Should Piperine be taken with food?

Yes. It is fat-soluble, so take it with a meal that contains some fat.

Can you take Piperine with Curcumin?

Yes — take them at the same time; that is the whole point of the pairing. Take in the same dose, with a fat-containing meal. If you take prescription drugs, check with a pharmacist first — or choose a piperine-free enhanced curcumin (phytosome, micellar).

Can you take Piperine with Resveratrol?

Probably yes — though the evidence comes from mice. Optional. Same drug-interaction caveat as piperine with curcumin.

Sources

References

  1. 01Shoba G et al. Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta Med 1998.