AmandaF919 asked
Am I taking too many supplements? Here are the supplements I take, and why I take them.... Morning: Multivitamin SAMe - mood/anxiety B-complex - mood/anxiety Horny Goat Weed - Libido/sex drive Ashwaganha - Libido/sex drive Night: Omega3 Hair/Skin/Nails Probiotic/Prebiotic/Cranberry mix - female health Vitamin D Evening Primrose Oil - libido
Answer
It is extremely difficult to give accurate information regarding potential interactions when it comes to supplements and herbal products. There just isn't a lot of data available to go off of as studies severely lack in this area. The best we can often do if infer potential interactions based on the supposed mechanism of action of the supplements.
Having said that, no reported interactions are reported with the supplements you mentioned in your question:
- SAM-E
- Horny Goat Weed
- Ashwagandha
- Omega-3 Mix
- Evening Primrose Oil
We can list some of the potential prescription drug interactions with the products you mentioned.
SAM-e
Sam-e (S-adenosyl-L-methionine) is a naturally occurring compound our bodies produce from methionine, an amino acid found in many proteins. It is used for a variety of treatments including depression, osteoarthritis and cirrhosis. Potential interactions are theoretical, but it may interact with certain antidepressants and mood stabilizers.
Horny Goat Weed
Horny goat weed refers to the leaves of, Epimedium and has been used as an herb in traditional Chinese medicine for a long period of time. Horny goat weed is theorized to have a potential interaction with anticoagulant drugs, as it may potentiate their effects, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. In addition, it is thought that horny goat weed may have anti-hypertensive effects, which may drop blood pressure too low if you are already taking blood pressure medications.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is used for a wide variety of indications and is thought to be relatively safe to use as a supplement. Ashwagandha has purported anti-diabetic effects as well as anti-hypertensive effects so care must be taken with drugs that treat those conditions. In addition, There is evidence that ashwagandha might decrease the effects of immunosuppressant drugs.
Evening Primrose
Like ashwagandha , evening primrose is widely used. In regard to interactions, it may potentiate the effects of anticoagulants. Evening primrose oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is thought to have anticoagulant effects. Thus, evening primrose could increase the risks of bleeds in those on anticoagulants.
It is important to let your doctor know about all the medication and supplements you are taking so they may provide you with accurate medical advice as well as monitor for interactions/side effects.
