Indications
Saw palmetto is a herbal extract from the berries of Serenoa repens, a small palm tree. It is traditionally used to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH), such as a weak stream, frequent urination and getting up at night to pass urine. Large, well-designed studies have shown little or no benefit over placebo, so evidence is limited. It is also sometimes used for hair loss, with little evidence.
How It Works
Saw palmetto contains fatty acids and plant sterols. It is thought to weakly block the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which turns testosterone into a stronger hormone (dihydrotestosterone) that drives prostate growth, and it may have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, usually with food. Benefit, if any, may take 4 to 8 weeks to appear. Have your prostate checked by a doctor before starting, because urinary symptoms can have other causes, including cancer.
Interactions
- It may increase the risk of bleeding with Warfarin, Clopidogrel, Aspirin or other blood thinners.
- It may interact with hormone treatments, including oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.
- Using it with Finasteride or Dutasteride may add to their effects; ask your doctor.
Contraindications
- Allergy to saw palmetto.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Children.
Side Effects
Usually mild: stomach upset, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea, headache, dizziness and, rarely, reduced sex drive.
Get urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine, see blood in your urine, have unusual bleeding or bruising, yellow skin or eyes, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Saw palmetto has hormone-like effects and must not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- It may affect the PSA blood test used to check the prostate; tell your doctor you take it.
- Stop taking it about 2 weeks before surgery because of the bleeding risk.
- See a doctor if urinary symptoms get worse.
- Herbal products vary in quality; buy from a trusted source.
Overdose
No serious effects are well documented, but large amounts may cause stomach upset. Contact a doctor if you feel unwell.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal preparation for urinary and prostate symptoms.
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.