Generic
St. John's Wort
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
St. John's Wort is a herbal supplement used for mild to moderate depression, insomnia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It exhibits antidepressant effects by inhibiting serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake.
Description
The main active constituents of St. John's Wort are hypericin and hyperforin. It inhibits serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake, inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO), and up-regulates serotonin receptors. It exhibits antidepressant, anxiolytic, and sedative properties.
Indications
- Mild to moderate depression
- Insomnia
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals
Pharmacological class
Antidepressant (Herbal)
Pharmacology
St. John's Wort inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, GABA, and L-glutamate. It inhibits MAO and COMT enzymes and up-regulates serotonin receptors. These mechanisms improve mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality.
Mechanism of action
Reduces depression by inhibiting serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- 1 capsule three times daily
- Take as prescribed by a doctor
Administration
- Take orally with plenty of water
- Do not chew, crush, or break
- Take at the same time each day
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:
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
Precautions & warnings
- Caution with drugs metabolized by CYP450 and drugs that lower the seizure threshold
- Caution in kidney disease
- May cause liver damage (especially in pre-existing liver conditions)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to St. John's Wort
Drug interactions
- SSRI antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine), other serotonin-affecting antidepressants (nefazodone), migraine treatments (sumatriptan, naratriptan)
Food interactions
Alcohol with St. John's Wort is strongly discouraged (potential for serious interactions and adverse effects).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy; long-term safety studies lacking; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended due to potential risk to the infant; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Not recommended for children
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution required; dose adjustment may be needed; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: May cause liver damage (especially in pre-existing liver conditions); consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause dry mouth, dizziness, and diarrhea; provide symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Keep out of reach of children; store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
Chemical structure
St. John's Wort