Saw Palmetto

Description

Saw Palmetto is a fusion of fatty acids taken from the plant Serenoa repens. It is used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men.

Uses

Saw Palmetto reduces and relieves the symptoms that are associated with BPH. The fatty acids in the Saw Palmetto prevents the conversion of a precursor DHT into testosterone. This conversion is typically the cause of BPH in men. It is typically used to ease the urinary problems that are caused by the enlarged prostate due to BPH. This medication does not reduce the size of the prostate.

It does, however, help with allowing individuals to urinate more easily. It also increases the flow of urine in men. This allows those with BPH to not have to urinate frequently. Saw Palmetto is especially effective in reducing nocturia, the urge to urinate several times during the night. This disrupts sleep for individuals with BPH.

This medication may also reduce the need for surgical intervention for BPH. It is believed to reduce the amount of inflammation in the body. It may also reduce hair loss that is experienced by men.

Contact your physician to find out all of the uses that this medication may offer you.

Dosage

You should always observe the directions that your doctor has given you. Saw Palmetto is strictly to be taken in the doses that have been prescribed. It should not be taken in a quantity that is lower or higher.

This drug is to be taken in oral form.

The maximum dosage that is safe for this medication is between 200mg and 800mg a day. Maximum dose is divided between two smaller doses between 100mg and 400mg.

If you forget a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, skip the missed dose. Avoid taking two doses together.

In the event of an overdose, call your local emergency medical service.

Side Effects

The adverse effects that may result from taking Saw Palmetto are:

 Lightheadedness
 Headache
 Nausea
 Unsettled stomach
 Change in bowel movements

In rare instances, an allergic reaction may occur due to the ingredients in Saw Palmetto. In the event that you experience one of these adverse effects, call your physician immediately.

Contraindications

 Do not take this medication if you are allergic to Saw Palmetto.

 Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease. Saw Palmetto may negatively impact the functioning of your liver or your kidneys on rare occasions.

 This medication reduces the amount of estrogen hormone that is produced by the body.

 Saw Palmetto reduces blood clotting in the body. Do not take Saw Palmetto with other medications like warfarin that also decrease blood clotting. This may lead to excessive bleeding and bruising under the skin.

 If you are undergoing surgery, inform your surgeon as well as your physician if you have been prescribed Saw Palmetto. You may have to stop taking this medication for at least two weeks prior to undergoing surgery.