Who Shouldn't Take Evening Primrose Oil?

Evening primrose oil is a naturally occurring oil extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. This oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids such as gamma linoleic acid (GLA) is used exensively in complementary and alternative medicine to treat dozens of common ailments. Evening primrose oil may help to treat several conditions, including breast pain, osteoporosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Although safe when used in recommended doses under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, evening primrose oil is not safe for everyone. There are some evening primrose oil contraindications-- circumstances under which the supplement should not be used. Do not use evening primrose oil if you are in any of these high-risk groups.
People with Bleeding Disorders
Evening primrose oil might increase your chances of bleeding and bruising, particularly if you have a bleeding disorder such as von Willebrand disease or hemophilia. Bleeding disorders are a major evening primrose oil contraindication, because the supplement could potentially cause life-threatening problems. Do not use evening primrose oil if you have a history of any bleeding disorder.
People with Seizure Disorders
Evening primrose oil can increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy and other seizure disorders. Even if your condition is well-controlled, it is prudent to avoid evening primrose and other supplements that increase your risk of seizures. If you have a history of seizures, do not use evening primrose oil unless your health care provider specifically suggests and approves it. Note any changes in symptoms to your practitioner.
People Scheduled to have Surgery
Evening primrose oil supplements can increase the risk of bleeding, so scheduled surgery is an evening primrose oil contraindication. It can increase the risk of hemorrage during and after surgery. Stop using evening primrose oil at least two weeks prior to surgery. If you need emergency surgery while using evening primrose oil, tell your practitioner so he can take extra precautions to prevent bleeding.
People Taking Anticoagulant Drugs

If you take a medication with anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects, you should not use evening primrose oil. You may experience a life-threatening bleeding episode or have an increased chance of nosebleeds and bruising. Drugs that increase this risk include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin and warfarin (Coumadin).

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