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Brand Names: Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil

Generic Name: evening primrose (Pronunciation: EVE ning PRIM rose)

• What is evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What are the possible side effects of evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What is the most important information I should know about evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• How should I take evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What happens if I overdose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What should I avoid while taking evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• What other drugs will affect evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?

Evening primrose is a flowering plant also known as Oenothera biennis, scabish, king's cureall, night willow herb, sun drop, and fever plant.

Evening primrose has been used in alternative medicine as an aid in treating heart disease, high cholesterol, circulation problems, premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis, breast pain, certain symptoms of menopause, eczema, psoriasis, acne, osteoporosis, and multiple sclerosis. It has also been used in cancer, Alzheimer's disease, asthma, diabetes, hyperactivity, and stomach or intestinal disorders.

Not all uses for evening primrose have been approved by the FDA. Evening primrose should not be substituted for medications prescribed for you by your doctor.

Evening primrose is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Evening primrose may also be used for other purposes not listed in this product guide.

What are the possible side effects of evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking evening primrose and call your healthcare provider at once if you have a seizure (convulsions).

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, and you may have none at all.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about evening primrose (Evening Primrose, Evening Primrose Oil, Primrose Oil)?

Do not take evening primrose without the advice of a doctor if you have epilepsy or a seizure disorder, schizophrenia, a bleeding disorder, or if you are taking blood thinners or an antipsychotic medication.

Not all uses for evening primrose have been approved by the FDA. Evening primrose should not be substituted for medications prescribed for you by your doctor.

Evening primrose is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Use evening primrose as directed on the label, or as your healthcare provider has prescribed. Do not use this product in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.