Primary Pulmonary Hypertension?

[Rosemary349]

Hi

I've just read somewhere that using St John's Wort can cause Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.  I don't know a lot about this condition but i've been using St John's Wort for years for OCD like symptoms.  I've never needed medication for it as it's mild, but the SJW helped.

Now i'm worried as in the last 6 months i've noticed an irregular heartbeat, but I'm getting it investigated.

Meanwhile i should really lower my dose of SJW, but it is not a good time (with the recent, sudden death of my father).

Does anyone know much about this?  If you think it's serious and i should wean off the SJW, how quickly?  

Just thought i'd post in case anyone else here knows anything about it.

thanks!  :-)

[Rosemary349]

PatJoy

Thanks.  Did the accupuncturist say what caused it from their point of view?  Is the treatment safe?

I've had accupuncture for recurring cystitis and it worked when nothing else did.  So i've an open mind....but accupuncture for the heart?

[PatJoy]

I also developed skipped heartbeats.  But I went to an acupuncturist and in just two visits my heartbeats became normal.  

[Rosemary349]

Thanks kenkeith

I too agree from what i've learned that SJW interacts badly with a number of medications and my GP knows that i take it.  I am very careful to let a doctor know if i am given any new drugs....

but this new thing that it could cause PPH has just made me think that i ought to stop taking it.  I wish i didn't have to because it does seem to help with ocd symptoms and means i don't have to take any other medication.....but maybe i wouldn't have to anyway.

I have reduced my dose already.

[kenkeith]

"St. John's wort can cause many serious interactions with prescription drugs, herbs, or supplements. Therefore, people using any medications should consult their healthcare providers including their pharmacist prior to starting therapy."

>>>>I agree or I should say my doctor agrees.  It is advisable not to mix herbs and medication without notifying the doctor.  

[Rosemary349]

mammo

thanks.  I googled it and there is a legal company that is saying that people have developed PPH from using SJW.

I think i've been on it too long anyway....  I will take off a third off the dose and see how i am in 4 weeks.  If ok i will take off another third, etc.

[mammo]

I have never heard of this being a problem.  It seems to work somewhat for short term depression.  Read below to make sure you're not having any interactions, otherwise I think you're fine.


St. John's wort can cause many serious interactions with prescription drugs, herbs, or supplements. Therefore, people using any medications should consult their healthcare providers including their pharmacist prior to starting therapy.