GENERIC NAME: VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis) - ORAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Valerian root has been used for anxiety, restlessness and sleeping problems (insomnia). Some herbal/diet supplement products have been found to contain possibly harmful impurities/additives. Check with your pharmacist for more details regarding the particular brand you use. The FDA has not reviewed this product for safety or effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

HOW TO USE: Take by mouth, generally 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. This product should not be taken for more than 2 weeks. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your condition persists or worsens or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, blurred vision, nausea, change in heartbeat, and morning grogginess may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report: dark urine, stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: If you have liver problems, consult your doctor before using this product. Limit alcohol intake, as it may aggravate the effects of this product. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving). Liquid preparations of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of this product. This product is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this product. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this product is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of drugs causing drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants and antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check all nonprescription medicine labels carefully, especially cough-and-cold preparations, since many contain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Consult your pharmacist if you are uncertain.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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