Nutrition Bytes

Saint John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an increasingly popular over-the-counter dietary supplement used to treat mild to moderate depression. It is generally considered safe and is reported to have a better side-effect profile than other commonly prescribed antidepressants. However, recent reports indicate the need to re-evaluate the issue of safety. Hypericum is suspected to increase cytochrome P-450 enzyme activity leading to lower plasma concentrations of prescription drugs metabolized by this system such as digoxin, cyclosporin, and indinavir. This emerging information underscores the need for physicians to exercise diligence in monitoring all medications and supplements being taken by their patients.