Contraindications, Adverse Effects, and Interactions of Saw Palmetto

• Primary side effect is GI distress which is mild and can be minimized by taking herb with food.

• No mutagenic or teratogenic effects in rats and dogs fed 2 g per kg daily for 6 months were seen. No changes in laboratory parameters have been seen.

• A study of over 1,000 men showed no decrease in the PSA level, allowing the herb to not mask prostate cancer. This study showed finasteride to decrease PSA levels by 41%.

• No known drug interactions.

• Clinical studies have used dosage of 160 mg BID or 320 mg qd of a lipophilic extract containing 80-90% of the oil. Teas are not considered effective. Whole berries can be used at 1-2 g qd. Dosages may vary because of lack of standardization

• Saw palmetto is an effective treatment for the symptoms of BPH; it is as effective as finasteride and is better tolerated, less expensive, and less likely to decrease PSA.