Generic
Saw Palmetto
10 brands available in the market
At a glance
Saw Palmetto is a herbal supplement that helps support normal prostate function and healthy urinary flow. It is used for urination problems in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) stages I & II.
Description
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) fruit oil inhibits 5α-reductase, preventing testosterone conversion to DHT, inhibits androgen receptor binding, noncompetitively inhibits human α1-adrenoreceptors, and inhibits COX and LOX pathways for anti-inflammatory activity.
Indications
- Urination problems in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) stages I & II
- Prostate health support
- Healthy urinary flow maintenance
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
5α-Reductase Inhibitor & Anti-inflammatory
Pharmacology
Saw Palmetto inhibits 5α-reductase to prevent testosterone conversion to DHT, inhibits androgen receptor binding, inhibits α1-adrenoreceptors, and provides anti-inflammatory activity through COX and LOX pathway inhibition. It increases the apoptotic index for prostate cells and reduces prostate gland size.
Mechanism of action
Reduces DHT production by inhibiting 5α-reductase, provides anti-inflammatory activity, and supports prostate health.
Dosage
160 mg Capsule:
- For adult use only
- Usual dosage: 1-2 capsules daily
- Take as advised by the physician
500 mg Capsule:
- 1-2 g (2-4 capsules) in divided doses daily
Administration
- Take orally
- Taking on an empty stomach may cause nausea; taking with food is better
- Take as directed by a physician
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- GI disturbance (rare)
- Nausea when taken on empty stomach
- Hypertension (3.1%)
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in advanced BPH with severe urinary retention
- Do not use without first ruling out prostate cancer
- Stop use at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery (may slow blood clotting)
Contraindications
- Advanced BPH with severe urinary retention
- Use without ruling out prostate cancer
Drug interactions
- May decrease estrogen effects; may reduce effectiveness of birth control pills
- May require dose adjustment with hormones, hormone-like drugs, or adrenergic drugs
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Saw Palmetto; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Adequate information not available; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Adequate information not available; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness not established in the pediatric population
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; however, caution is needed
Renal / hepatic impairment
Not applicable
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; consult your doctor if overused.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Saw Palmetto