Side Effects of Pycnogenol

According to the Mayo Clinic, pycnogenol is the patented trade name of a product derived from the bark of the French Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster). In supplement form pycnogenol has similar antioxidant properties to those of grape seed and green tea. It has been used to treat a wide variety of conditions.

Uses

• According to MedlinePlus, pycnogenol may be beneficial in treating asthma in adults and children. It may also be useful in the management of chronic venous insufficiency. While further research is needed, pycnogenol is said to have antioxidant properties and may also prove to be useful in the treatment of ADHD, diabetes, cramps, erectile dysfunction, gingival bleeding, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and male infertility.

Side Effects

• Pycnogenol is generally safe and well tolerated. Patients with hypogylcemia or diabetes are cautioned as the supplement may adjust blood sugar levels. There is also the risk of increased bleeding in patients with bleeding disorders.

Dosages

• Pycnogenol is only recommended for adults, 18 years and older. Generally, 25 to 360 mg are taken per day in divided doses. Because supplement brands can all have different ingredients, dosages can vary greatly. It is recommended that you consult with your health-care provider before adding a new supplement to your diet.

Interactions

• According to MedlinePlus, pycnogenol may interact with drugs that lower blood pressure. Caution is advised if taking pycnogenol with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding, or drugs that lower blood sugar. When taken with herbs and dietary supplements, pycnogenol may increase vitamin C levels. Instances of bleeding have been reported with the use of gingko biloba, garlic and saw palmetto.

Warnings

• Herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The purity and safety of supplements may vary, and there is no guarantee of the effectiveness. Before adding a new herb or supplement to your health plan, you should consult a health-care provider. When using a supplement, if you have any side effects you should contact your health-care provider immediately.

Clinical Opinion

• The Mayo Clinic reports that pycnogenol may have a role in the future as an antioxidant. It is generally safe when used in recommended dosages. However, little is known about how it works or what should be considered a standard dose. Further, pycnogenol most likely contains nothing that is not already available in a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Because it is trademarked to a single company it is also likely to be more expensive.