Generic
Evening Primrose Oil
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At a glance
Evening Primrose Oil is a herbal supplement used for premenstrual syndrome, breast disease, eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, and skin health.
Description
Evening Primrose is a plant native to North America. It is obtained from the seeds of plant. It has been used medicinally in Europe since the 16th century. Clinical studies have focused on its use in treating problems associated with essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiency including premenstrual syndrome, atopic eczema, inflammation and diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is relatively high in essential fatty acids (EFAs), particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-10%).
Indications
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Used for treatment of PMS symptoms.
- Breast Disease and Cyclical Mastalgia: Used for breast tenderness and pain.
- Atopic and Allergic Dermatitis: Used for skin allergies.
- Psoriasis: Used for psoriasis treatment.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Used for arthritis treatment.
- Atopic Eczema: Used for eczema treatment.
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Essential Fatty Acid Supplement
Pharmacology
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is relatively high in essential fatty acids (EFAs), particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-10%). By supplying GLA, it bypasses the rate-limiting step in the metabolism of LA. After ingestion of EPO, GLA is rapidly absorbed and then converts directly to DGLA and other prostaglandin precursors.
Mechanism of action
Evening Primrose Oil provides gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which helps in prostaglandin precursor formation and reduces inflammation.
Dosage
Adult Dose:
- Atopic and Allergic Dermatitis: 1 capsule 2 times daily.
- Breast Disease and Mastalgia: 1 capsule 2/3 times daily (with or after meal).
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): 1 Capsule 2 times daily (morning and night, with or after meal).
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: 1 Capsule daily or as directed by physician.
Child Dose (Atopic Dermatitis): 1 capsule ½-1 time daily.
Administration
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. It is better to take it with or after food.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
Side effects
Side Effects: Side effects are rare at recommended dosages; overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain.
Precautions & warnings
Precautions: Keep out of reach of children; keep away from direct sunlight.
Contraindications
Contraindications: Previously not recommended for schizophrenia patients; recent analysis did not indicate clear therapeutic or adverse effect.
Drug interactions
Drug Interactions: No known interactions.
Food interactions
Food Interactions: May be taken with or after food.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: According to WHO, pregnant women should get 5% of daily caloric intake from EFAs; consult doctor.
Pregnancy Category: N/A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Linolenic acid, GLA and DGLA are important components of human breast milk; may be taken while nursing (with doctor's advice).
Pediatric use
Pediatric Use: Child dose for atopic dermatitis: 1 capsule ½-1 time daily.
Geriatric use
Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe for patients with kidney disease.
Hepatic Impairment: Safe for patients with liver disease.
Overdose effects
Overdose: Overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Storage: Store below 25 degree C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Evening Primrose Oil