Quercetin and Drug Interactions with Olmesartan and Atenolol
Based on the available clinical evidence, there are no documented pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions between quercetin and either olmesartan or atenolol. The provided guidelines and research studies do not identify quercetin as an interacting substance with these antihypertensive medications.
Evidence Review
Olmesartan Interactions
The clinical pharmacology studies specifically examining olmesartan medoxomil interactions demonstrate:
- No clinically significant interactions have been documented between olmesartan and digoxin, warfarin, or antacids (aluminum magnesium hydroxide) 1
- Olmesartan can be safely combined with amlodipine without pharmacokinetic alterations—mean AUC values were 2439 ng·h/mL for olmesartan alone versus 2388 ng·h/mL when combined with amlodipine 2
- Similarly, olmesartan combined with atenolol showed bioequivalence with mean AUC of 2340 ng·h/mL alone versus 2247 ng·h/mL in combination, with no significant pharmacokinetic interactions 2
Atenolol Interactions
The guidelines list atenolol as a beta-blocker commonly used in hypertension management 3, with documented combination use alongside:
- Hydrochlorothiazide in fixed-dose combinations 3
- Olmesartan without interaction concerns 2
- Various other antihypertensives in clinical trials 3
Quercetin Absence from Clinical Literature
Notably, quercetin is not mentioned in any of the major hypertension guidelines from the European Society of Hypertension/Cardiology 3, the Joint National Committee 3, the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 3, or the European Society of Cardiology 3 as an interacting substance with either olmesartan or atenolol.
Clinical Implications
Photosensitivity Consideration
While olmesartan is listed among angiotensin receptor blockers that can cause drug-induced photosensitivity 3, this is unrelated to quercetin interaction and represents an independent adverse effect requiring sun protection measures.
Practical Recommendation
Patients taking olmesartan or atenolol can use quercetin supplements without expected drug interactions based on current evidence. However, standard monitoring of blood pressure control should continue, as with any antihypertensive regimen 3.
Important Caveats
- The absence of documented interactions does not guarantee absolute safety, as quercetin may not have been specifically studied in combination with these medications
- Patients should maintain consistent supplement use patterns and report any changes in blood pressure control to their healthcare provider
- Both olmesartan and atenolol have well-established safety profiles when used appropriately 4, 1, and adding quercetin should not alter their fundamental pharmacology based on available evidence