sam-e

I think it is supposed to be a natural version of drugs like Prozac. I don’t know anyone who has used it.

In reference to any herbal supplements, my husband almost had a stroke from Ginko since he has undiagnosed high blood pressure and I ended up with an ulcer from St Johns Wort and 2 years later stilltake Prilosec twice daily. This was due to the fact that I did not talk to my doctor first. Talk to an MD or a pharmacist before taking any herbal supplements. Just becasue they are “natural”does not make them safe.

Oh my GAWD beverly! Did your husband have heartburn often? Before taking St. Johns wort? I am curious because I live on Zantac,and have been taking St. John’s periodicly when I can remember,wonder if this is making my heartburn worse?!

I never had heartburn before starting St Johns Wort (I took the St Johns Wort, my husband was taking Ginkgo) and did not go to the doctor until after taking it for almost a year after realizing that I was eating a bottle of Tums every 3 or 4 days. I did feel the benefits of the St Johns Wort but the doctor told me flat out that it is known to cause heartburn and excess acid production and in my case was bad enough that I ended up with severe reflux. I have been on the Prilosec for over a year. I have not taken St Johns Wort since. It probably is making your heartburn worse since you were already taking Zantac.

This is not to say that this would happen to everyone, I apparently had a dormant problem, that is why it is very important to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking anything. Just because it is natural does not mean it is safe for everyone. I knew someone who was taking St Johns Wort with a prescription antidepressant who never read the label nor told her doctor that she was taking the St Johns Wort because it is an herb.

Your pharmacist is also usually able to tell you about prescription drugs and “natural” remedies and their effects and interactions. Sometimes it is easier to get hold of your pharmacist than it is your Dr.