Complementary/Alternative Medicine: This monograph describes a natural or herbal product that is not subject to FDA guidelines for medicines. Patients and clinicians are advised to read package labels carefully to ensure safe and efficacious use.
Has antioxidant effects. It inhibits free radical production, increases superoxide dismutase, and decreases lipid peroxidation. Astragalus potentiates effects of interferon, increases antibody levels of IgA and IgG in nasal secretions, and increases interleukin-2 levels.
Explain purpose and side effects of astragalus with patient.
Advise patient to consider discontinuing astragalus prior to elective surgery, as it may ↑ risk of bleeding.
Advise patients with autoimmune disease to use with caution due to the immunostimulating properties of astragalus.
Advise patient to notify health care provider of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult with health care provider before taking other medications.
Rep: Advise women of reproductive potential to notify health care provider if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.