Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

GINSENG (Eleutherococcus and Panax sp.) - ORAL

Uses

Ginseng has been used for increased endurance and stamina. It has also been used for strengthening the body to fight fatigue and stress and thereby improve physical and mental performance. It is considered to be an "adaptogen", which is a substance that may normalize the conditions of the body to help reduce stress and resist disease. Siberian ginseng, from a different species of ginseng, has been used for boosting the immune system; therefore, it may increase resistance to colds and other mild infections. 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 this herbal product by mouth as directed. Dosage is based on its use and the source of the herb. Because ginseng may make it difficult to sleep, do not take it near bedtime. Use of ginseng for long periods of time (several months or more) is not recommended. Siberian ginseng should not be taken for longer than 3 weeks. If your condition worsens or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Side Effects

Headache, nervousness, agitation and trouble sleeping may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: diarrhea, fast or irregular heartbeat, skin rash, unusual vaginal bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using this product: high or low blood pressure, fever, cancer, diabetes, heart problems, any allergies. Patients allergic to one type of ginseng should avoid taking the other types. Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients must monitor blood levels carefully while using this product. 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. Ginseng is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this product. It is unknown if this product is excreted into breast milk. 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: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, linezolid), antipsychotic drugs (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), other stimulants including caffeine-containing products (e.g., coffee, cola), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), anti-diabetic medicines, "water pills" (diuretics such as bumetanide, ethacrynic acid, furosemide). Check all nonprescription medicine labels carefully, especially appetite suppressants and cough-and-cold preparations, since many may contain stimulants (e.g., phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine). Consult your pharmacist.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include trouble sleeping or swelling of ankles, feet, face, or hands.

Notes

There are three types of ginseng: American, Asian (Chinese and Korean), and Siberian. Siberian ginseng is from a different species of ginseng and may have different effects. Because of the different types and grades of ginseng which vary widely in quality, and the addition of ephedrine and caffeine in some of the products, it is important to read product labeling carefully.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist.