Archive 1995–2023
2003, volume 19, issue 1
Article
St. John’s wart in the treatment of depression
Iwona Koszewska1
1. II Klinika Psychiatryczna Instytutu Psychiatrii i Neurologii w Warszawie
Farmakoterapia w Psychiatrii i Neurologii, 2003, 1, 45-54
Summary
Author reviews the data concerning the use of drugs, based on St. John’s wort in depression. The mechanisms of action, research based evidences for its effectiveness, indications and contraindications to its use, side effects and the interactions – are presented in the paper. There are a growing number of papers, suggesting a lack of scientific base to regard St. John’s wort, as an effective antidepressant (questioning even its use in minor or moderate depression). Author warns against its use in major depression, taking into account the risk of improper treatment. There are also more and more data concerning the risk of interaction between St. John’s wort and other drugs.