Cranberry

Cranberry is a type of evergreen shrub found in North America, also known as American cranberry, bearberry, arándano, and other names. People have traditionally used cranberry leaves and fruits for medicinal purposes.

Cranberry has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective way to help prevent urinary tract infections in adult females, children, and those who are prone to urinary tract infections. Cranberry is not recommended for treating urinary tract infections.

Other uses that have not been proven by research include: reducing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, reducing urine odor, or improving quality of life in people with urinary incontinence.

It is not clear if cranberry is effective for treating any medical condition. The FDA has not approved the medicinal use of this product. Cranberry should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Cranberry 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 trustworthy source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Cranberry may also be used for purposes not mentioned in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You might also want to consult someone who is trained in herbal or health supplements.

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

Do not use different forms of cranberry (like pills, liquids, and others) at the same time, as this may lead to an overdose.

If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, you can open it and mix the cranberry with a sweet drink, pudding, or applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing.

Make sure to chew the chewable tablet before swallowing it.

Let the orally disintegrating tablet dissolve in your mouth without chewing it.

Contact your doctor if the condition you are treating with cranberry does not get better, or if it worsens while you are using this product.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

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

You should not use this product if you are allergic to cranberry.

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

• a history of kidney stones;
• diabetes (some cranberry products may contain high amounts of sugar); or
• if you are allergic to aspirin or salicylic acid.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any cranberry to a child without medical advice.

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

Common side effects of cranberry may include:

• upset stomach;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• diarrhea.

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

Use cranberry as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

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

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding any restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.

Do not take cranberry without talking to your doctor if you are taking:

• warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven);
• a medication for high blood pressure like nifedipine; or
• a medication for high cholesterol like atorvastatin.

Other drugs may interact with cranberry, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all your health care providers about all the medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or stop using.