May 26, 2012
Topics A-Z Drugs Valerian Root: Common Indications and Side Effects
Valerian Root: Common Indications and Side Effects |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: Is it safe to take 400mg of valeriana officinalis tablet form, everyday to help prevent anxiety or panic attacks? I've been taking one every morning for almost a week and find it helps, I'm more tired but that's all.They say they are night pills but I was told they could be used during the day. Valeriana officinalis has been used for sleep disorders, anxiolysis (relieve anxiety) and as muscle relaxants. The usual dosage to treat sleep disorders is 300-600mg of liquid root extract, which is equal to 2-3g of dried valerian root. For anxiety, the dosage is usually smaller. Try seeing the bottle of the valerian supplement if it has these dosages per pill. Also, some individuals may be drowsy when taking it (that’s why it is advisable to use at bedtime; using it during daytime may cause drowsiness and impair driving skills); in fact, it is sometimes used as an alternative for benzodiazepines (valium, ativan) for those who developed dependence on these drugs. If you can try lowering the dose from 400mg and still find it effective for controlling anxiety, then that is good. If you insist on maintaining the 400mg daily, then that is still okay, as long as you don’t exceed the recommended daily dosage. Bear in mind though that valerian root should not be used in pregnancy; drugs that should not be taken together w/ valerian root are monoamine oxidase inhibitors; SSRIs, benzodiazepines, codeine, over-the-counter sleep and cold remedies (these are also sedating, which adds to the drowsiness caused by valerian root), and Phenobarbital. Also, there have been no long-term safety studies for Phenobarbital, which means side effects for chronic (long term) users are not known. Those with liver disease should also take this herbal supplement w/ caution. You may also try meditation and yoga to help with your anxiety issues. I do hope this helps. Take care always. |
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| Last Updated ( Monday, 30 May 2011 ) |
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