Cranberry Fruit

Cranberry Fruit is a type of evergreen shrub found in North America, also known as American Cranberry Fruit, bearberry, arándano, and other names. The leaves and fruits of Cranberry Fruit have been used for medicinal purposes for a long time.

Cranberry Fruit has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective way to help prevent urinary tract infections in adult females, children, and people who are prone to urinary tract infections. Cranberry Fruit 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 unclear if Cranberry Fruit is effective for treating any medical condition. The medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Cranberry Fruit should not be used instead of medication prescribed by your doctor.

Cranberry Fruit 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 Fruit may also be used for reasons not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You might also want to consult a practitioner who knows about herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use Cranberry Fruit, 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 Fruit (pills, liquids, and others) at the same time, as this could lead to an overdose.

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

You must chew the chewable tablet before swallowing it.

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

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Cranberry Fruit 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 directions on the product label and package.

Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

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

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 Fruit 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 Fruit 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 Fruit 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 Fruit 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 attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Do not take Cranberry Fruit without talking to your doctor if you are using:

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

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