Saw Palmetto Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Saw palmetto is derived from a palm-like plant from the southeastern United States, which goes by a number of names including American Dwarf Palm Tree and Cabbage Palm. The ripe fruit is used to make saw palmetto supplements, which are most often used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy, BPH, also commonly called enlarged prostate. Saw palmetto may reduce symptoms such as frequent urination. It has also been used historically to treat stomach or intestinal problems, bladder irritation, and bronchitis. There are no conclusive studies that show saw palmetto is effective at treating any illnesses or symptoms.[1]
Saw palmetto supplements are not evaluated by the FDA for safety, purity or effectiveness. It is possible that saw palmetto may produce side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation and weakness.
 Saw Palmetto | |
| Brand names | Nature's Way, Source Naturals, Nature's Bounty, others |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Various |
| Uses | Used to treat enlarged prostate and infection |
| Common side effects | Possibly gastrointestinal distress and headaches[1] |
| Who should not take Saw Palmetto | Pregnant or nursing women[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Saw Palmetto Side Effects
The primary side effect of saw palmetto is gastrointestinal distress, which is mild and can be minimized by taking supplements with food. In general, saw palmetto is thought be quite safe.[3]
Although saw paletto users have reported side effects such as headache, bowel irregularity, upset stomach and dizziness, the same side effects were also reported among those taking sugar pills (placebos).[1]
About Drug Side Effects
Saw Palmetto Allergic Reactions
It is possible to have an allergy to saw palmetto, or to any of the ingredients in saw palmetto supplements. Those who experience blistering skin, high temperature, or peeling skin are advised to see a physician. Those who experience breathing problems or anaphylaxis are urged to dial 911. These symptoms indicate dangerous allergies to a drug or other substance.[4]
Saw Palmetto and Prostate Health
Saw Palmetto Precautions and Warnings
- Because of the lack of standardization, there is no guarantee that saw palmetto products in the U.S. are equivalent No one knows what an optimal dose of saw palmetto is, but the amount typically used in studies is 320 milligrams.[5]
- There is a possibility that saw palmetto can make birth control pills less effective. It can cause the same problem with estrogen therapy.[1]
- Saw palmetto may hinder blood clotting. This effect may be more pronounced when taken with blood-thinning agents like Plavix and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen.[1]
Also See: Saw Palmetto Coupons, DHEA Coupons, Fish Oil Coupons, Biotin Coupons, Casodex Coupons, Flomax Coupons, Flomax Side Effects
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/971.html
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-971-SAW%20PALMETTO.aspx?activeIngredientId=971&activeIngredientName=SAW%20PALMETTO
- ↑ http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0315/p1281.html
- ↑ http://firstaid.webmd.com/drug-allergy-treatment
- ↑ http://www.wellnessletter.com/html/ds/dsSawPalmetto.php
