Saw Palmetto - Finasteride 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: Finasteride
Brand names:
Propecia, Proscar
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Finasteride 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
Both saw palmetto and finasteride are believed to work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can contribute to prostate enlargement.
While studies examining the effectiveness of saw palmetto and finasteride have yielded mixed results, they both can be effective at reducing BPH symptoms in some patients.
However, there is limited research available regarding the potential interaction between saw palmetto and finasteride when used together.
Based on their similar mechanisms of action, it stands to reason that the combined use of saw palmetto and finasteride may not provide any additional benefit beyond what each medication can provide on its own.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that using both medications together may increase the risk of side effects without much-added benefit.
Most studies have not examined the combined use of saw palmetto, but rather, the efficacy of saw palmetto versus finasteride or a combination of saw palmetto with tamsulosin (which has a different mechanism of action) versus finasteride with tamsulosin.
Therefore, further research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of combining saw palmetto and finasteride.
It's unlikely that there is a significant interaction between the two that would result in severe adverse reactions, but as always, it is important to always consult with your doctor before starting or stopping any medication, including natural supplements like saw palmetto.
Both saw palmetto and finasteride are believed to work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can contribute to prostate enlargement.
While studies examining the effectiveness of saw palmetto and finasteride have yielded mixed results, they both can be effective at reducing BPH symptoms in some patients.
However, there is limited research available regarding the potential interaction between saw palmetto and finasteride when used together.
Based on their similar mechanisms of action, it stands to reason that the combined use of saw palmetto and finasteride may not provide any additional benefit beyond what each medication can provide on its own.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that using both medications together may increase the risk of side effects without much-added benefit.
Most studies have not examined the combined use of saw palmetto, but rather, the efficacy of saw palmetto versus finasteride or a combination of saw palmetto with tamsulosin (which has a different mechanism of action) versus finasteride with tamsulosin.
Therefore, further research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of combining saw palmetto and finasteride.
It's unlikely that there is a significant interaction between the two that would result in severe adverse reactions, but as always, it is important to always consult with your doctor before starting or stopping any medication, including natural supplements like saw palmetto.
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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
Finasteride Overview
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Finasteride (Proscar) is used alone or in combination with another medication (doxazosin [Cardura]) to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH, enlargement of the prostate gland). Finasteride is used to treat symptoms of BPH such as frequent and difficult urination and may reduce the chance of acute urinary retention (sudden inability to urinate). It also may decrease the chance that prostate surgery will be needed. Finasteride (Propecia) is also used to treat male pattern hair loss (gradual thinning of the hair on the scalp, leading to a receding hairline or balding on the top of the head in men.) Finasteride (Propecia) has not been shown to treat thinning hair at the temples and is not used to treat hair loss in women or children. Finasteride is in a class of medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. Finasteride treats BPH by blocking the body's production of a male hormone that causes the prostate to enlarge. Finasteride treats male pattern hair loss by blocking the body's production of a male hormone in the scalp that stops hair growth.
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.