Sambucol

Sambucol is a berry from a European or Black elder tree. The berries are used to make medicine.

Sambucol is also known as Arbre de Judas, Baccae, Baises de Sureau, Black-Berried Alder, Black Elder, Boor Tree, Bountry, Elderberries, Ellanwood, Ellhorn, European Alder, Fruit de Sureau, Grand Sureau, Hautbois, Holunderbeeren, Sabugeuiro-negro, Sambequier, Sambu, Sambuc, Sambuci Sambucus, Sambugo, Sauco, Saúco Europeo, Schwarzer Holunder, Seuillet, Seuillon, Sureau, Sureau Noir, Sus, Suseau, or Sussier.

Sambucol should not be confused with American Elder, Elderflower, or Dwarf Elder.

Sambucol has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating constipation. This medicine is also possibly effective in reducing the symptoms of influenza (the flu).

Other uses not proven with research have included heart disease, gum disease, high cholesterol, obesity, or the common cold.

It is not certain whether Sambucol is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This medicine should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Sambucol is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds, and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Sambucol may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You may also want to consult a practitioner who is trained in herbal/health supplements.

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

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Sambucol is used to relieve cold & flu symptoms such as stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, fever, and chills. Take it at the first sign of cold or flu symptoms.

If you want, you can mix Sambucol liquid with water, fruit juice, yogurt, or a smoothie.

Contact your doctor if the condition you are treating with Sambucol does not get better, or if you have a fever for more than 3 days or cold symptoms for more than 7 days.

Store your Sambucol product as directed, away from moisture, heat, and light.

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 disease such as:

• multiple sclerosis;
• lupus; or
• rheumatoid arthritis.

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

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

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

Although not all side effects are known, Sambucol is thought to be possibly safe when taken as directed for a short time.

Sambucol is possibly unsafe when uncooked leaves, stems, or fruit are eaten. The sambucus plant contains a chemical that produces cyanide in the leaves and other parts of the plant, as well as in the unripe green fruit. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or more serious side effects if consumed in large amounts.

Sambucol may cause serious side effects. Stop using Sambucol and call your doctor right away if you have:

• severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhea;
• numbness; or
• severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion.

Common side effects of Sambucol may include:

• nausea, vomiting;
• stomach cramps;
• diarrhea; or
• runny nose.

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 FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time.

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

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

Do not take Sambucol without talking to your doctor if you are using any of these medications:

• medicine to prevent organ transplant rejection;
• medicine to treat multiple sclerosis;
• medicine to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders;
• medicine to treat ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease; or
• steroid medicine.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with Sambucol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.