Saw Palmetto - Allegra (Fexofenadine) Interaction
Herbal: Saw Palmetto
Also Known As: Serenoa repens, American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palmier Nain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Sabal Fructus, Saw Palmetto Berry
Drug: Fexofenadine
Brand names:
Allegra
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Fexofenadine and Saw Palmetto. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, fexofenadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Allegra isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Allegra, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, fexofenadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Allegra isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Allegra, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
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On the whole, saw palmetto has very few reported drug interactions due to its lack of effects on liver metabolizing enzymes (e.g., CYP P450 enzymes).
There have been some reports of minor interactions with anticoagulants, estrogens, and contraceptives due to saw palmetto's purported effects on blood clotting and various hormones in the body. However, these interactions have generally only been seen in lab studies and for most individuals, are not considered clinically significant.
As always, however, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new medications or supplements so you can be appropriately monitored.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDSaw Palmetto Overview
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a plant native to the southeastern United States and a member of the Arecaceae family. It is a small, palm-like tree with fan-shaped leaves that produces small, white flowers. The fruit of the plant is a small, dark purple berry, which is what is used in dietary supplements.
In traditional medicine, saw palmetto has been used to treat a variety of health conditions, including prostate problems (such as BPH [benign prostatic hyperplasia]) and urinary tract disorders. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and to improve hair growth.
Fexofenadine Overview
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Fexofenadine is used to relieve the allergy symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (''hay fever''), including runny nose; sneezing; red, itchy, or watery eyes; or itching of the nose, throat, or roof of the mouth in adults and children 2 years of age and older. It is also used to relieve symptoms of urticaria (hives; red, itchy raised areas of the skin), including itching and rash in adults and children 6 months of age and older. Fexofenadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergy symptoms.
Saw Palmetto - More Interactions
Saw Palmetto interacts with 170 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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