Posted by Larry Hoover on February 14, 2005, at 16:21:27
In reply to St. Johns Wort, posted by edgeofmadness88 on January 25, 2005, at 19:14:14
> Anyone know of any negative side effects relating to St. Johns Wort?
It can cause initial side effects of headache and digestive disturbance, but those usually pass quickly. Each can be treated with typical over-the-counter meds.
Occasional cases of photosensitivity arise, so ensure adequate UV protection if in the sun for extended periods.
Hypericum induces the liver enzyme 3A4, so any drug which is metabolized by that enzyme will be excreted at faster than the typical rate. That can lead to loss of efficacy of that other drug. Examples include birth control pills (failures of birth control have been linked to SJW), and problems with drugs used to control AIDS. If you have any specific meds to consider, I'll be happy to check them for you.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:447682
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20050131/msgs/457749.html