Possible Interaction: Antidepressive Agents and St John's Wort

“In line with antidepressant data, it appears that the interactions of constituents may be important for the anti-inflammatory activity of Hp.”

“Combinations of St John's wort with serotonergic agents and other antidepressants should be restricted to prescription-only, by experienced clinicians, due to potential central pharmacodynamic interactions.”

“ St John's wort also enhances the metabolism of other CYP3A4 substrates including the protease inhibitors indinavir and nevirapine, oral contraceptives, and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline.”

“These results support the hypothesis that several active constituents of Hypericum might in a synergistic way contribute to its antidepressant effect in the central nervous system.”

“On the basis of scientific literature, there was shown that simultaneous intake of antidepressants , antipsychotic drugs and herbal drugs or dietary supplements containing: St. John's wort , valerian root, ginkgo biloba leaf, hops, and food ingredients: dietary fiber or folic acid, may lead to interactions.”

“The paper also critiques current evidence for co-administration of St. John's wort with synthetic antidepressants.”

“Significantly reduced concentrations of various therapeutic drugs such as digoxin, theophylline, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, tricyclic antidepressants , warfarin, and protease inhibitors can be observed due to interaction of these drugs with St. John's wort , causing treatment failure.”

“Serotonin syndrome may occur when St. John's wort is combined with sympathomimetics, antidepressants , or triptans.”

“Combinations of St John’s wort with serotonergic agents and other antidepressants should be restricted to prescription-only, by experienced clinicians, due to potential central pharmacodynamic interactions.”

“For example, St. John's Wort , an herb used to treat mild to moderate depression, can cause serotonin syndrome when combined with traditional antidepressant medications.”