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Dietary supplement

Saw Palmetto 320 Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Pure Encapsulations

Softgel Capsule Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Saw Palmetto 320 is a dietary supplement by Pure Encapsulations with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for benign prostatic hyperplasia (bph) symptoms, urinary problems, hair loss.Based on those ingredients, 174 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract at 320 mg per softgel. Saw palmetto is a plant extract traditionally used for urinary and prostate concerns.

The capsule itself is made from gelatin.

Does it work?

Leans against
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Leans against

The strongest graded evidence we hold for the stated purpose leans against a benefit.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Supports urinary function and prostate health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), Non-neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), Prostate cancer, Prostatitis, Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS).
  • The closest evidence on file: Saw Palmetto is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Saw Palmetto is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Prostate cancer, Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), Prostatitis, Non-neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

The evidence for saw palmetto is mixed and often limited. For benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — enlarged prostate — the data rates it as possibly ineffective.

For transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), it's rated possibly effective, though the evidence base is small. For other uses listed — including male pattern baldness, chronic bronchitis, and non-neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms — there isn't enough reliable evidence to know either way.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Saw Palmetto

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Saw palmetto is generally well tolerated, and adverse effects when they do occur are usually mild and reversible. The most common side effects are abdominal pain, constipation, decreased libido, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and rhinitis.

Rarely, cases of heart-related symptoms (high blood pressure, heart rhythm changes, chest pain) have been reported, and one case of severe heart block occurred. A few reports describe skin reactions, including blistering and worsening acne.

Avoid saw palmetto during pregnancy because of possible hormonal effects and lack of safety data. Do not use while breastfeeding — there isn't enough information on safety in nursing.

Use under guidance, especially if you're taking it for prostate or urinary symptoms.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Saw Palmetto

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Saw Palmetto.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 174 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Saw Palmetto 320, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel) — saw palmetto may increase bleeding risk. Also double-check if you're on birth control pills or estrogen replacement, since saw palmetto might reduce their effectiveness.

These are Moderate-severity interactions that warrant a conversation before you start.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with graded evidence leaning against its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Saw palmetto may be worth considering if you're exploring options for prostate health, though the evidence for BPH is limited. Anyone taking blood thinners, birth control, or estrogen replacement needs to check with their doctor or pharmacist first — the interaction risk is real.

If you have a heart condition or history of heart rhythm problems, that's another reason to talk it over before starting. Your pharmacist can help you weigh whether this fits safely with your other medications.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 25, 2019.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Saw Palmetto 320, straight from the product label.

Brand Pure Encapsulations
Barcode (UPC) 766298007830
Net contents 120 Softgel Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 25, 2019
DSLD ID 184926
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Softgel Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Softgel Capsule(s)
Servings per container
120
UPC/BARCODE
766298007830
IngredientAmount% DV
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract320 mg--

Other ingredients: Gelatin Capsule

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Recommendations: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule, 1-2 times daily, between meals.

Precautions

Warning: Not to be taken by pregnant or lactating women. If you have any health condition or are taking any medication, consult your health professional before use.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Use only if safety seal is intact.

General Statements

Scan to learn about our hypoallergenic supplements

Contents may not fill package in order to accommodate required labeling. Please rely on stated quantity.

Formula

Supports urinary function and prostate health

Formulation

Gluten-free, Non-GMO & Hypoallergenic

Gluten-free, Non-GMO & Hypoallergenic

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

General

V5 code: SP31

See for yourself

Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Softgel Capsule(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container120 Amounts shown are per serving.

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract

Interacts with
174 drugs
320 mg per serving Form: total Fatty Acids

Saw palmetto is a plant extract most often used for urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate (BPH). The best research suggests it works no bett...

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Gelatin Capsule. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Saw Palmetto 320?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
174Drugs
174 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Saw Palmetto 320 with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) extract3 drug types · 174 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Saw palmetto might increase the risk of bleeding with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Saw palmetto is reported to prolong bleeding time. Theoretically, it might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Saw palmetto might reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive drugs.
Saw palmetto might have antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, it might interfere with contraceptive drugs taken concomitantly.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Estrogens

Saw palmetto might reduce the effectiveness of estrogens.
Saw palmetto might have antiestrogenic effects. Theoretically, it might interfere with estrogens taken concomitantly.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Saw Palmetto 320, from the product label.

Pure Encapsulations

See all Pure Encapsulations products
Name
Pure Encapsulations
Street Address
490 Boston Post Road
City
Sudbury
State
MA
Phone Number
1-800-753-2277
Web Address
www.PureEncapsulations.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations: Common Questions

Does Saw Palmetto 320 by Pure Encapsulations interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Saw Palmetto 320 has a known interaction with 174 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Saw Palmetto 320 contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take saw palmetto if I'm on birth control?
You'll want to check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Saw palmetto may have antiestrogenic effects that could interfere with how well your birth control works — that's a Moderate-severity interaction. Your prescriber can help you decide if it's right for you or suggest alternatives.
Is saw palmetto safe during pregnancy?
No. Saw palmetto is rated as likely unsafe in pregnancy because of possible effects on hormones and a lack of safety data. Avoid it if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What are the most common side effects?
Mild and reversible ones: abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue are the most frequently reported. A small number of people have also reported changes in libido. Serious side effects like heart rhythm problems are rare.
Does saw palmetto actually work for an enlarged prostate?
The evidence is limited. For benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the data rates saw palmetto as possibly ineffective. For prostate surgery recovery (TURP), it's rated possibly effective, but the evidence base is small. Talk with your doctor about what the research supports for your specific situation.
Can I take saw palmetto if I'm on a blood thinner like warfarin?
Check with your doctor first. Saw palmetto may prolong bleeding time and increase the risk of bleeding when combined with blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs — that's a Moderate-severity interaction. Your prescriber needs to evaluate whether it's safe for you.
Is saw palmetto safe while breastfeeding?
There isn't enough safety information to know. Avoid saw palmetto while breastfeeding unless your doctor says it's okay. Talk with your healthcare provider if you're considering it.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Saw Palmetto 320 label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Saw Palmetto 320's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 22 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Saw Palmetto 22 references
  1. Wilt TJ, Ishani A, Stark G, et al. Saw palmetto extracts for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review. JAMA 1998;280:1604-9. PubMed
  2. Carraro JC, Raynaud JP, Koch G, et al. Comparison of phytotherapy (Permixon) with finasteride in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia: a randomized international study of 1,098 patients. Prostate 1996;29:231-40. DOI
  3. Di Silverio F, D'Eramo G, Lubrano C, et al. Evidence that Serenoa repens extract displays an antiestrogenic activity in prostatic tissue of benign prostatic hypertrophy patients. Eur Urol 1992;21:309-14. PubMed
  4. Stepanov VN, Siniakova LA, Sarrazin B, Raynaud JP. Efficacy and tolerability of the lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa repens (Permixon) in benign prostatic hyperplasia: a double-blind comparison of two dosage regimens. Adv Ther 1999;16:231-41.
  5. Cheema P, El-Mefty O, Jazieh AR. Intraoperative haemorrhage associated with the use of extract of Saw Palmetto herb: a case report and review of literature. J Intern Med 2001;250:167-9. PubMed
  6. Jibrin I, Erinle A, Saidi A, Aliyu ZY. Saw palmetto-induced pancreatitis. South Med J 2006;99:611-2. PubMed
  7. Prager N, Bickett K, French N, Marcovici G. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of botanically derived inhibitors of 5-alpha-reductase in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. J Altern Complement Med 2002
  8. Avins AL, Bent S, Staccone S, et al. A detailed safety assessment of a saw palmetto extract. Complement Ther Med 2008;16:147-54. PubMed
  9. Morgia, G., Mucciardi, G., Gali, A., Madonia, M., Marchese, F., Di, Benedetto A., Romano, G., Bonvissuto, G., Castelli, T., Macchione, L., and Magno, C. Treatment of chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome category IIIA with Serenoa repens plus
  10. Aliaev, IuG, Vinarov, A. Z., Lokshin, K. L., and Spivak, L. G. [Efficiency and safety of prostamol-Uno in patients with chronic abacterial prostatitis]. Urologiia. 2006;(1):47-50.
  11. Agbabiaka, T. B., Pittler, M. H., Wider, B., and Ernst, E. Serenoa repens (saw palmetto): a systematic review of adverse events. Drug Saf 2009;32(8):637-647. PubMed
  12. Wargo, K. A., Allman, E., and Ibrahim, F. A possible case of saw palmetto-induced pancreatitis. South.Med.J. 2010;103(7):683-685. PubMed
  13. Lapi, F., Gallo, E., Giocaliere, E., Vietri, M., Baronti, R., Pieraccini, G., Tafi, A., Menniti-Ippolito, F., Mugelli, A., Firenzuoli, F., and Vannacci, A. Acute liver damage due to Serenoa repens: a case report. Br.J.Clin.Pharmacol. 2010;69(5):558-560.
  14. Mantovani, F. Serenoa repens in benign prostatic hypertrophy: analysis of 2 Italian studies. Minerva Urol.Nefrol. 2010;62(4):335-340.
  15. Hanaka, M., Yoshii, C., Yatera, K., Ito, C., Chojin, Y., Nagata, S., Yamasaki, K., Nishida, C., Kawanami, T., Kawanami, Y., Ishimoto, H., and Mukae, H. [A case of rhabdomyolysis caused by saw palmetto of healthy foods]. J.UOEH. 6-1-2012;34(2):193-199. PubMed
  16. Miroddi, M., Carni, A., Mannucci, C., Moleti, M., Navarra, M., and Calapai, G. Hot flashes in a young girl: a wake-up call concerning Serenoa repens use in children. Pediatrics 2012;130(5):e1374-e1376.
  17. Braeckman J. The extract of Serenoa repens in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a multicenter open study. Current Therapeutic Research 1994;55(7):776-785. DOI
  18. Jipescu D, Patel A, Bohra H, Pientka A. Rare case of saw palmetto induced heart block. JACC 2017;69(11) supplement:2310.
  19. Morabito P, Miroddi M, Giovinazzo S, Spina E, Calapai G. Serenoa repens as an endocrine disruptor in a 10-year-Old young girl: a new case report. Pharmacology. 2015;96(1-2):41-3. doi: 10.1159/000431327.
  20. Gammoudi R, Ameur K, Ouni B, et al. Fixed drug eruption to Serenoa repens: first case report and consideration of the use of herbal medicine. Dermatol Ther 2020 Aug 29:e14247.
  21. Paulis G, Paulis A, Perletti G. Serenoa repens and its effects on male sexual function. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Arch Ital Urol Androl 2021;93(4):475-480. PubMed
  22. Venkateswaran S, Declet-Bauzo R, Shodeinde M, Gilford P. Postoperative Retroperitoneal Hematoma: A Case of Saw Palmetto and the Importance of Primary Care Intervention. HCA Healthc J Med 2020;1(5):279-282. PubMed

See these in context on the Saw Palmetto monograph →

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

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