Prozac (Fluoxetine)
Prozac is an antidepressant that appears to work by inhibiting the uptake of the hormone serotonin in cells of the central nervous system.
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum
perforatum)
Recent investigations have suggested that St. John’s wort may work by a similar
mechanism to Prozac and drugs like it.1 Concern has
therefore been raised that the two should not be combined, although as yet interaction
problems have not been reported. An herbal practitioner should be consulted before
combining the two.
References:
1. St. John’s wort, Hypericum perforatum. In American Herbal Pharmacopoeia and Therapeutic Compendium, ed. R Upton. Santa Cruz, CA: AHP, 1997.
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Those wanting to insure they have complete information about possible interactions between a prescription or over-the-counter medication and specific nutrients, herbs, or other medications should talk with the prescribing physician, a pharmacist, or both.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.