Interaction of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) with hypotensive agent, nicardipine, in rats

Abstract

The effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE, 0.5%) orally administered for 2 weeks on the antihypertensive action of oral nicardipine was examined in Wistar rats. GBE significantly increased hepatic P-450 content and reduced the hypotensive effect of nicardipine. GBE administration resulted in a significant decrease in maximal nicardipine plasma concentration (Cmax) and the 23-hour area under the curve (AUC0-23). Thus, it is suggested that GBE attenuated the therapeutic potency of nicardipine, probably secondary to increased hepatic drug metabolism.