Myrrh: Adverse Reactions. Significant Interactions. Pregnancy Use.
Toxicity
A dose of 10 mg/kg/day was given to subjects in one study with no serious adverse effects.
Adverse Reactions
Restlessness, mild abdominal discomfort and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea and nausea, have been reported, mainly with orally administered extracts. Allergic dermatitis has also been reported for topical usage. The standardised guggulsterone (guggulipid) preparations tend to be far better tolerated.
Significant Interactions
Interactions are theoretical and based on in vitro and in vivo data; therefore, clinical significance is unclear and remains to be confirmed.
DIABETIC MEDICATION
In vivo studies suggest myrrh may have hypoglycaemic effects and therefore would have additive effects with diabetic medications. Monitor for changes in serum glucose in patients taking these medications.
LIPID-LOWERING MEDICATION
Guggul may have cholesterol-lowering activity and therefore have additive effects with other lipid-lowering medications — observe patients taking this combination and monitor drug requirements. Beneficial interaction possible.
ANTICOAGULANT AND ANTIPLATELET MEDICATION
Guggul inhibited platelet aggregation in vitro and in a clinical study, therefore concurrent use may theoretically increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. It is uncertain what implications this observation has for C. molmol use. Observe patients taking these combinations.
DILTIAZEM
Reduced efficacy possible. A clinical study confirmed guggulipid reduces bioavailability of this medicine. It is uncertain what implications this observation has for C. molmol use. Observe patients taking this combination.
PROPRANOLOL
Reduced efficacy possible. A clinical study confirmed guggulipid reduces bioavailability of this medicine. It is uncertain what implications this observation has for C. molmol use. Observe patients taking this combination.
Contraindications and Precautions
Do not use in cases of known allergy. Suspend use of guggul preparations 1 week before major surgery.
Pregnancy Use
Contraindicated in pregnancy.
