What it is used for
- Relieving premenstrual-syndrome symptoms such as mood irritability, headache and breast fullness
- Relieving recurring minor symptoms before a period when a suitable herbal preparation is used
How it is used
- Swallow the tablet or capsule with water and follow the leaflet for the specific preparation
- Use it consistently as the leaflet directs and do not take extra after a missed amount
- Record symptom and period timing so response can be reviewed with a doctor or pharmacist
- See a doctor if symptoms worsen, persist or the period pattern becomes unusual
- Do not combine it with another agnus castus extract because preparations are not equivalent
Possible side effects
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Headache or dizziness
- Rash, itching or acne
- Menstrual disturbance
- Rarely, severe allergy with facial swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing
Who should not use it
- Allergy to agnus castus fruit or any product ingredient
Before and while using it
- A breast lump, unusual bleeding, severe pain or new symptoms need examination and should not automatically be attributed to premenstrual syndrome
- Ask a doctor before use if you have a hormone-sensitive tumour or a pituitary disorder
- The extract could mask symptoms of a prolactin-secreting tumour or affect its treatment
- Suitability in children or adolescents is not established; herbal monographs cover adult women
- Different herbal preparations are not interchangeable because extraction and concentration affect evidence and safety
Medicine interactions
- Dopamine agonists and antagonists may interact and need medical review
- Oestrogens, antioestrogens and other hormone treatments may be affected or alter its effect
- Tell the doctor about all herbs and supplements because interaction data are limited
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Do not use it during pregnancy; stop and contact a doctor if pregnancy occurs
- It is not recommended during breastfeeding because it may affect prolactin and milk production and infant information is limited
How to store it
- Keep the product dry in its original pack at the temperature stated in the leaflet, out of children's reach
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.