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Saw Palmetto × PDE5 Inhibitors

MODERATE INTERACTION

⚠️ Mechanism

Saw Palmetto is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, which decreases metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates, potentially increasing their plasma concentrations and risk of adverse effects.

📋 Effect

Increased plasma levels of sildenafil (pde5-inhibitors), potentially leading to toxicity or enhanced adverse effects.

💊 Management

Monitor for increased adverse effects of sildenafil. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consider alternative supplement or consult healthcare provider.

Plain Language Summary

This combination may increase the risk of side effects. Saw Palmetto can slow down how your body breaks down PDE5 inhibitors, which may cause higher levels of the medication to build up in your bloodstream.

Source

Flockhart CYP450 Table (drug-interactions.medicine.iu.edu)

Supporting Research

Serenoa repens for benign prostatic hyperplasia PMID:19370565 DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD001423.pub2 2009
Serenoa repens for benign prostatic hyperplasia PMID:23235581 DOI:10.1002/14651858.CD001423.pub3 2012
Non-hormonal treatment for male infertility: the potential role of Serenoa repens, selenium and lycopene PMID:31002161 DOI:10.26355/eurrev_201904_17595 2019
Comparison of Serenoa repens With Tamsulosin in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis PMID:32274957 DOI:10.1177/1557988320905407 2020
Effects of dietary supplements on androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis PMID:41561175 DOI:10.3389/fnut.2025.1719711 2025
Benign prostate hyperplasia and nutrition PMID:31451276 DOI:10.1016/j.clnesp.2019.07.015 2019
American palm ethnomedicine: a meta-analysis PMID:20034398 DOI:10.1186/1746-4269-5-43 2009
Benign prostatic hyperplasia and male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) PMID:21871136 2011
Medical Disclaimer: This interaction record is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Drug-supplement interactions can be dangerous. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining any supplement with prescription medications. Do not stop or change any medication without professional guidance.