Safety Issues With Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a popular
dietary supplement claimed to be beneficial for a variety of different uses. You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking it if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
- Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
- Breastfeeding.
You should also be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Specific Warnings and Precautions With Tribulus Terrestris
Warnings and precautions to be aware of concerning the safety of T. terrestris include the following:
- T. terrestris could theoretically increase the risk of prostate cancer or might worsen prostate cancer. It may also worsen an enlarged prostate.
- In theory, T. terrestris might increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people with diabetes.
- As dietary supplements, T. terrestris supplements are not as closely regulated as prescription or non-prescription drugs. They can be marketed without any proof that they are either safe or effective. Do not assume that just because a product is sold or advertised in the United States that it is safe or effective. Be sure to look for T. terrestris supplements from a reputable manufacturer. Your pharmacist is a good resource for information about which manufacturers are most reputable.
- If you have a chronic or severe medical condition, it is always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication or supplement, including T. terrestris.
- T. terrestris is unsafe for use during pregnancy (see Tribulus Terrestris and Pregnancy).
- It is unknown if T. terrestris is safe for breastfeeding women (see Tribulus Terrestris and Breastfeeding).
