Epimedium

Epimedium is an herbal supplement claimed to be beneficial for the treatment of sexual problems such as impotence. It is believed to contain a number of active components, including plant compounds that may have antioxidant activity and estrogen-like compounds. Although it is a "natural" product, it may cause side effects; side effects that have been reported with this supplement include dizziness, dry mouth, and vomiting.

What Is Epimedium?

Epimedium (horny goat weed) is a flowering plant often used in herbal supplements. There are actually several different types of this herb, all belonging to the Epimedium group of flowering plants. This herbal supplement is used for a variety of different purposes, probably most often for treating sexual problems such as impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction, or ED).
 
(Click Epimedium Benefits for more information on what the supplement is used for.)
 

Potential Side Effects

Even though it is a "natural" product, Epimedium can cause side effects. Some of the reported side effects include:
 
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Unusual mood or behavior changes.
     
(Click Side Effects of Epimedium to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Safety of Epimedium

Epimedium seems to be relatively safe for many people, especially when used in moderation for a short period of time. Some people may be more likely to experience problems due to this herbal supplement. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking it medicinally if you:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Epimedium Safety for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
 

How Does It Work?

Epimedium probably contains numerous different "active" components. Importantly, it contains flavonoids (plant compounds that may have antioxidant activity) and phytoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds found in plants). One of these phytoestrogens, icariin, is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, much like Viagra® (sildenafil) and other similar prescription impotence medications.
 

Is Epimedium Effective?

In general, there is little scientific evidence to suggest conclusively that the substance really is effective for most uses (see Does Horny goat Weed Work? for more information).
 

Dosing Information

As with most dietary supplements, there is no well-established standard dosage for this product.
 
(Click Epimedium Dosage for more information.)
 

Epimedium Drug Interactions

Theoretically, Epimedium may interact with a few medications (see Drug Interactions With Epimedium).
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose of Epimedium. If you think you or someone else may have taken too much of this supplement, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Horny Goat Weed Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods for Epimedium

Refer to the label of your individual product for information on how to best store Epimedium. Keep all medications and supplements out of the reach of children.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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