Side Effects of Garlic Supplements

Typically a flavor enhancer in cooking, garlic is also used as a natural remedy. Garlic is now readily available as a supplement and, though not entirely backed by scientific research, is claimed to benefit high blood pressure, prevent cancer, reduce the hardening of arteries, protect the liver, boost the immune system, reduce blood sugar and relieve menstrual pains. It is also believed to be possibly helpful as an antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral.

Common Side Effects

• Drugs.com lists the possible side effects of garlic supplements as; nausea, bad breath, diarrhea, sweating, lightheadedness, burning of the mouth and throat and body odor. There are also possible allergic reactions that can be a result of taking garlic supplements, though rarely.

Allergic Reactions

• According to Drugs.com, if you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking garlic supplements and contact your doctor or emergency care immediately: "difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue or face; or hives."

Drug Interactions

• Because of its blood-thinning properties, garlic can possibly interact with medications for blood-related disorders. It is advised that you speak to a doctor before taking garlic supplements if you are taking any of the following; anti-platelet medications, blood-thinning medications and protease inhibitors. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that herbs, like garlic, "contain components that can trigger side effects and that can interact with other herbs, supplements or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine."

Safety

• If you have diabetes, garlic supplements can lower your blood sugar. Check your levels regularly and notify your doctor before adjusting your insulin intake. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding it is not recommended that you take garlic supplements. Drugs that control blood sugar, anti-inflammatory drugs, protease inhibitors, warfarin, aspirin or heparin may interact negatively with garlic supplements. Discuss any and all medications you are taking, including herbs and alternative medicines, with your doctor before taking garlic.

Enteric Coating

• Garlic supplements can be coated with a substance that allows for the medicine to dissolve in the small intestine instead of the stomach, resulting in possibly less stomach discomfort or odor.