Who should avoid evening primrose oil?

Who Should Avoid Evening Primrose Oil?
Evening primrose oil (EPO) is a popular supplement derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, known for its high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid. While many people use EPO for various health benefits, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid it altogether due to potential risks and interactions.
Individuals on Anticoagulant or Antiplatelet Medications
One of the primary concerns regarding evening primrose oil is its potential to increase the risk of bleeding. This is particularly relevant for individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, such as warfarin or aspirin. The oil may enhance the effects of these drugs, leading to an elevated risk of hemorrhage. Therefore, those on such medications should consult their healthcare provider before considering EPO supplementation.
People with Seizure Disorders
Another group that should avoid evening primrose oil includes individuals with a history of seizures. Research indicates that EPO may increase the risk of seizures, especially in those who are already predisposed to them. This is particularly concerning for patients taking phenothiazines, a class of medications often used to treat psychiatric disorders, as the combination may lead to serious side effects, including nausea and vomiting.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to be cautious with evening primrose oil. While some believe it may help with certain pregnancy-related conditions, there is insufficient evidence to guarantee its safety during pregnancy or lactation. The potential effects on fetal development or nursing infants remain unclear, making it prudent for these individuals to avoid EPO unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional.
Individuals with Allergies to Evening Primrose or Related Plants
Those who have known allergies to evening primrose or other plants in the Onagraceae family should avoid using evening primrose oil. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin irritations to severe anaphylactic responses, depending on the individual’s sensitivity.
Patients with Certain Health Conditions
Individuals with specific health conditions, such as liver disease or those undergoing surgery, should also approach evening primrose oil with caution. The oil’s effects on liver function and its potential to interfere with blood clotting can pose additional risks for these patients.
Conclusion
While evening primrose oil offers various health benefits, it is essential for certain individuals to avoid its use due to potential risks and interactions. Those on anticoagulant medications, individuals with seizure disorders, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with allergies to the plant, and patients with specific health conditions should consult healthcare professionals before considering EPO supplementation. As with any supplement, informed decision-making is crucial to ensure safety and efficacy.

What age should you stop taking evening primrose oil?

There is no official ‘upper limit’ for EPO, but the European Medicines Agency warns that children under 12 should not take it. You should also avoid taking EPO if you: Are on blood-thinning drugs like Warfarin – this is due to the fact EPO has blood-thinning effects.

Does evening primrose increase estrogen?

Although evening primrose oil is not a source of estrogen, it may play a role in managing symptoms associated with this transition, particularly through its influence on prostaglandins.

What medications should not be taken with evening primrose oil?

Possible interactions include:

• Anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs, herbs and supplements. These types of drugs, herbs and supplements reduce blood clotting.
• Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates.
• Lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra).
• Phenothiazines.

Is evening primrose oil safe for everyone?

Evening primrose oil may raise the risk of bleeding among people who take anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications. It may also raise the risk of seizures as well as serious nausea and vomiting for people taking a class of drugs known as phenothiazines.

What does evening primrose do to a woman’s body?

May Improve Some Menopause Symptoms
Evening primrose oil is a source of phytoestrogens, or compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. 6 It may be helpful for reducing menopause symptoms related to low estrogen.

Does primrose oil increase estrogen?

Although evening primrose oil is not a source of estrogen, it may play a role in managing symptoms associated with this transition, particularly through its influence on prostaglandins.

What medications does evening primrose interfere with?

Possible interactions include:

• Anticoagulants and anti-platelet drugs, herbs and supplements. These types of drugs, herbs and supplements reduce blood clotting.
• Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates.
• Lopinavir and ritonavir (Kaletra).
• Phenothiazines.

Are there any negative side effects to evening primrose oil?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea. If you take any type of medicine, talk with your health care provider before using evening primrose oil or other herbal products; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.

Does evening primrose reduce belly fat?

There was no significant difference in the weight loss achieved by those taking EPO compared with placebo, either in the subjects with refractory obesity or in those treated at time of initial referral. It would appear that any antiobesity property possessed by EPO is clinically insignificant.

Can evening primrose cause weight gain?

Evening primrose oil is touted as a weight loss solution
As you know by now, EPO contains GLA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid. Research suggests balancing your omega-3 and omega-6 intake reduces your risk of obesity. So yeah, in a way, keeping those fatty acids balanced is part of maintaining a healthy weight.