Generic
Primrose Oil
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Evening Primrose Oil is used for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), benign breast disease and cyclical mastalgia, lactation, atopic eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and promoting healthy skin. It is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid.
Description
Evening Primrose Oil is obtained from the seeds of the plant native to North America. It is relatively high in essential fatty acids (EFAs), particularly GLA (7-10%). By supplying GLA, it bypasses the rate-limiting step in LA metabolism. GLA is rapidly absorbed and converts directly to DGLA and other prostaglandin precursors.
Indications
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Benign breast disease and cyclical mastalgia
- Lactation
- Atopic, allergic, and neurodermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Thrombosis
- Atopic eczema
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Essential Fatty Acid (GLA)
Pharmacology
Evening Primrose Oil supplies GLA, bypassing the rate-limiting step in LA metabolism. GLA is rapidly absorbed and converts directly to DGLA and other prostaglandin precursors. It improves EFA composition of plasma, erythrocyte, and platelet lipids and acts on the prostanoid pathway.
Mechanism of action
Supplies GLA to correct essential fatty acid deficiency and reduce inflammation.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Atopic & allergic dermatitis: 1 capsule twice daily
- Benign breast disease & mastalgia: 1 capsule 2-3 times daily with or after meal
- PMS: 1 capsule twice daily (morning & night) with or after meal
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 1 capsule daily
Pediatric Dose:
- Atopic dermatitis: 1 capsule 1/2 times daily
Administration
- Take with or after meals
- Follow the prescribed dose
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Rare at recommended dosages
- Overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain
Precautions & warnings
- Previously not recommended for schizophrenia patients; recent clinical trials showed no clear therapeutic or adverse effect
Contraindications
No known contraindications.
Drug interactions
No known interactions.
Food interactions
Take with food for better absorption; it is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: According to WHO, pregnant women should get 5% of daily caloric intake from EFAs; considered safe during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Linolenic acid, GLA, and DGLA are important components of human breast milk; safe to take while nursing.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dose established; consult your doctor.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients; consult your doctor.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause loose stool and abdominal pain; treatment: reduce dose or discontinue.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Evening Primrose Oil