About st johns wort extract
Herbal antidepressant supplement
Used for
- Traditionally used for mild to moderate depression.
- Sometimes used for anxiety or menopausal symptoms; evidence is limited.
Usual adult dose
Commonly studied extract dose: 300 mg three times daily; products vary in strength and standardization.
Common side effects
- Stomach upset, dry mouth, dizziness, or tiredness.
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
- Restlessness or sleep problems.
Important warnings
- Can reduce the effectiveness of many medicines, sometimes dangerously.
- Do not combine with antidepressants without medical supervision; serious serotonin effects may occur.
- Avoid before surgery and discuss use with a clinician.
- May worsen bipolar disorder by triggering mania.
Pregnancy
Safety is uncertain; avoid use during pregnancy unless a clinician recommends it.
Breastfeeding
Safety is uncertain; avoid use while breastfeeding unless a clinician recommends it.
Interactions
- Can reduce levels of birth control pills, transplant drugs, HIV medicines, and blood thinners.
- May interact with antidepressants, migraine medicines, and other drugs affecting serotonin.
- Can reduce the effectiveness of many prescription and nonprescription medicines.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.