Can Eating Grapefruit Once Affect My Cancer Treatment?

On the website, it states, "Avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and grapefruit products while on IBRANCE therapy." I think it is meant for people who always consume grapefruit. But, that is my opinion.

Thanks Monika. In the past three years when I got my diagnosis, I tend to overreact to anything medical. 😳

Hi Susan, I believe the reason that grapefruit is to be avoided is that it messes with the absorption rate of the ibrance in your liver and bloodstream. As in, your body processes it faster and makes it more concentrated. (Maybe there’s a pharmacology maven on her who can explain this better?) so though grapefruit should be avoided, if you accidentally have it don’t despair. Mention to your oncologist for confirmation, but I think if you were to have had any interactions you would have known by now (dizziness, etc).

Many thanks!

Grapefruit potentiates the ibrance meaning it makes it stronger than normal. I don't think one meal is going to hurt but always double check with your oncologist

That’s really interesting. Thank you, Melisa.

One grapefruit exposure is unlikely to cause lasting effects, though it's always best to check with your healthcare team about any concerns with your treatment plan. Many people in this community have faced similar worries about dietary interactions, and your fatigue could have several causes including the travel you mentioned - consider reaching out to your medical team if the tiredness continues or worsens.