Indications
Hesperidin is a flavonoid found in citrus fruits. As a medicine it is mostly used in combination with Diosmin to relieve:
- symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, such as heavy, aching or swollen legs and varicose veins;
- haemorrhoids (piles), to ease pain, bleeding and swelling.
It is also added to some vitamin C and other supplement products.
How It Works
Hesperidin supports the walls of veins and small blood vessels. It helps reduce leakiness of capillaries and has mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. With Diosmin, it improves the tone of veins and helps blood return from the legs.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults: Hesperidin is usually taken as part of a combination tablet with Diosmin (commonly 50 mg Hesperidin with 450 mg Diosmin). Follow the dose on the product or as prescribed, often 1 tablet twice a day with meals for chronic vein problems.
- Haemorrhoid flare-ups: a higher dose of the combination for a few days, as prescribed.
- Supplements: follow the label.
- Children: not usually used.
Interactions
Hesperidin may slightly add to the effect of blood thinners (such as Warfarin or Clopidogrel) and some blood pressure medicines. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, and stop it at least 2 weeks before planned surgery unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Hesperidin, Diosmin, citrus flavonoids or any ingredient of the product
Side Effects
Usually well tolerated. Possible: stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, indigestion and headache. Rarely: rash or itching.
Get medical help at once for: swelling of the face, lips or throat, trouble breathing, a severe rash, or unusual bleeding or bruising. With piles, see a doctor promptly for heavy bleeding, black stools, or symptoms that last more than about 2 weeks.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Hesperidin from normal amounts of food is safe, but there is limited information on medicinal doses in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use only if your doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- Take extra care if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners.
- Lifestyle measures still matter: for piles, eat more fibre and drink water; for leg veins, keep active and raise the legs when resting.
- Sudden swelling of one leg with pain or redness needs a doctor’s check.
Overdose
There is little experience of overdose. Too much may cause stomach upset. Contact a doctor if a large amount was taken.
Therapeutic Class
Vasoprotective medicine and dietary flavonoid.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.