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How should I take saw palmetto?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to take saw palmetto, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Saw palmetto is available in a capsule formulation.

Other forms of saw palmetto may also be available, such as teas, tinctures, and topical forms. Do not use many different forms of saw palmetto together at the same time, unless you healthcare provider instructs you to. Using different forms together may increase your risk of an overdose of saw palmetto. Saw palmetto should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset. If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using saw palmetto. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Store saw palmetto at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

No information is available about missing a dose of saw palmetto. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a saw palmetto overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking saw palmetto?

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using saw palmetto.

What are the possible side effects of saw palmetto?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using saw palmetto and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• weakness or fainting;

• black, bloody, or tarry stools;

• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

• pain or swelling in your breasts or testicles;

• chest pain;

• fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;

• easy bruising or bleeding; or

• nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;

• diarrhea or constipation;

• bad breath;

• headache;

• dizziness;

• sleep problems (insomnia);

• muscle pain;

• depressed mood; or

• increased or decreased interest in sex;

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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