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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