Grapefruit is one of nature’s many delicious treats. But could this vitamin C-rich fruit be putting you in harm’s way by dangerously interacting with your medicines?

Grapefruits are low in calories and packed with benefits. One cup of fresh grapefruit gives you a huge serving of vitamin C (79 mg), not too mention other important nutrients like vitamin A, folate, beta carotene, and lycopene.

With all of these excellent qualities in one fruit, it is hard to imagine that it can cause harm. But having a diet that includes grapefruit and taking certain medicines can negatively impact your health.

Cytochrome P-450 is a group of enzymes located throughout the body, with the largest amount found in the liver and the intestinal walls. This family of enzymes is responsible for making chemical reactions needed to breakdown many different compounds, from food to drugs. CYP3A4 is the most abundant member of the enzyme family. It is responsible for breaking down approximately 60% of the drugs we take.

When grapefruit or grapefruit juice is consumed, a compound within the grapefruit disrupts the CYP3A4 enzyme’s ability to metabolize a drug. If a drug is not adequately metabolized, higher levels of the drug may enter the bloodstream, which can lead to a potentially dangerous situation. These interactions have been observed within a few hours after consuming grapefruit and may last for up to three days. As little as eight ounces (237 milliliters) can have an effect on the metabolism of some drugs. Some other citrus fruits, such as pomelos and Seville oranges (a bitter orange used in marmalades and compotes) can have similar effects.

In light of this interaction information, would it be safer to avoid grapefruit? Although a possible drug interaction is a serious matter, giving up grapefruit may not be necessary. If you are taking any medicines and you enjoy eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice, it is important that you talk with your doctor. Ask specifically about the possibility of interactions with any prescription or over-the-counter drug that you are taking. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a medicine that won't interact with grapefruit juice.

Below are examples of medicines that can be affected by grapefruit. Even if you do not see a medicine that you are taking on this list, ask your doctor about the possibility of an interaction with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

If you love grapefruit and are worried that their may be an interaction with your medicine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.