Generic
Devil's Claw
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is a herbal preparation used for the treatment of low back pain and osteoarthritis.
Description
Devil's claw contains chemicals that might decrease inflammation and swelling and resulting pain. It helps reduce low-back pain and works about as well as some NSAIDs. It also helps decrease osteoarthritis-related pain and may allow patients to lower the dose of NSAIDs they need for pain relief.
Indications
- Low back pain
- Osteoarthritis (hip and knee)
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Herbal Preparation
Pharmacology
Devil's claw contains chemicals that might decrease inflammation and swelling and resulting pain.
Mechanism of action
Devil's claw reduces inflammation and pain by decreasing the production of inflammatory mediators, which helps relieve back pain and osteoarthritis symptoms.
Dosage
Osteoarthritis: Harpadol (Arkopharm) 2.6 g/day (57 mg harpagoside, 87 mg iridoid glycosides) OR Doloteffin (Ardeypharm) 2400 mg/day.
Back pain: Doloteffin (Ardeypharm) 50-100 mg harpagoside/day.
Administration
May be taken with or without food. Take in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Devil's Claw, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: Diarrhea (in ~8% of people in one study), nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, loss of appetite, loss of taste.
Other: Allergic skin reactions, menstrual problems, changes in blood pressure.
Precautions & warnings
Caution in heart problems, high blood pressure, low blood pressure (may affect heart rate and blood pressure); diabetes (may lower blood sugar, dose adjustment of diabetes medications may be needed); avoid in gallstones (may increase bile production); avoid in peptic ulcer disease (may increase stomach acid production).
Contraindications
No known contraindications. However, avoid in gallstones and peptic ulcer disease.
Drug interactions
No adequate information on drug interactions is available.
Food interactions
Can be taken with or without food.
Use in pregnancy
Avoid use during pregnancy (may harm the developing fetus).
Pregnancy Category: N/A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Avoid use during breastfeeding (not enough safety information available).
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric populations have not been established.
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No adequate information is available regarding use in patients with kidney or liver problems.
Overdose effects
No adequate information on overdose is available. If you take more than the recommended dose, consult your doctor.
Storage conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Devil's Claw