Cat's claw

Cat's claw is a plant also known as Griffe Du Chat, Liane du Pérou, Life-Giving Vine of Peru, Samento, Uña De Gato.

Cat's claw has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective treatment for arthritis. People with either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis have used cat's claw. Different forms of cat's claw may be intended for treating each type of arthritis. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about which form to use.

Other uses that have not been proven by research include stomach and intestinal issues, hemorrhoids, chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes, shingles, chickenpox, hay fever, and many other conditions.

It is not clear whether cat's claw is effective in treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved the medicinal use of cat's claw. Cat's claw should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Cat's claw is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards for many herbal products, and some supplements on the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be bought from a trusted source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Cat's claw may also be used for purposes not mentioned in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You might also want to talk to a practitioner who is trained in herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use cat's claw, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not take more of this product than what is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, tincture, teas, etc.) of cat's claw at the same time without medical advice. Using different types together raises the risk of an overdose.

If you need surgery, stop taking cat's claw at least 2 weeks beforehand.

Contact your doctor if the condition you are treating with cat's claw does not get better or if it worsens while using this product.

Keep it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have:

• an autoimmune disorder such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, or psoriasis;
• leukemia; or
• low blood pressure.

Do not use cat's claw if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether cat's claw passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this product.

Do not give any Herbal products to a child without medical advice.

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.

Although not all side effects are known, cat's claw is believed to be possibly safe when taken for a short time.

Common side effects of cat's claw may include:

• dizziness;
• headaches; or
• vomiting.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra cat's claw to replace the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid taking other herbal or health supplements such as casein protein, coenzyme Q-10 (ubiquinone), fish oil, L-arginine, lycium, or stinging nettle. Combining cat's claw with any of these substances may cause your blood pressure to get too low.

Do not take cat's claw without talking to your doctor if you are using a medication for any of the following conditions:

• any type of infection (including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis);
• anxiety or depression;
• asthma or allergies;
• cancer;
• erectile dysfunction;
• heartburn or GERD;
• high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart condition;
• migraine headaches;
• psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders;
• a psychiatric disorder; or
• seizures.

Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using, and any that you start or stop while taking cat's claw, especially:

• birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy; or
• drugs that weaken the immune system such as cancer medicine, steroids, and medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection.

This is not a complete list. Other drugs may interact with cat's claw, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and Herbal products. Not all possible interactions are included in this medication guide.