What is a Cat's Claw?
Cat's claw, also known as Griffe Du Chat (also called Liane Du Perou), Life-Giving Vine from Peru, Samento, and Una De Gato, is a perennial plant. Alternative medicine has used cat's claw as a possible effective treatment for arthritis. Cat's claw has been used by people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Cat's claw comes in different forms to treat each type of arthritis. Use the form prescribed by your doctor.
Research has not proved that other uses, such as stomach and intestinal problems, herpes and shingles, chickenpox, and hay fever, have been proven.
There is no way to know if a cat's claw can be used as medicine. The FDA has not approved the use of cat’s claw as a medicine. Cat's claw is not a substitute for medication prescribed by your doctor.
Cat's claw can be sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds are not manufactured to regulated standards, and some supplements on the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic drugs or metals. To minimise the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. This product guide does not list all possible uses for a cat's claw.
Side effect of Cat's claw
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Cat's claw may be safe for short periods of time, even though not all the side effects have been identified.
Cat's claw side effects include:
- Dizziness;
- Headaches;
- Vomiting.
There may be other side effects.Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA's 1-800-FDA-1088 number for reporting them.
Warnings
Please read all instructions on the label or package of your product. Informing your healthcare provider of all medical conditions, allergies and medicines you are currently taking will allow them to provide optimal care.
Before you take this drug
If you are suffering from:
- An autoimmune disorder, such as multiple sclerosis or lupus;
- Leukaemia
- Low blood pressure.
Avoid using a cat's claw while pregnant. This could harm your unborn child. Use birth control and inform your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant.
There is no way to know if a cat's claw can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. Do not breastfeed while using the product. Never give herbal or health supplements directly to children without first consulting with their pediatrician.
How to take Cat's Claw?
Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal supplements. Use the cat's claw only as directed. Follow the instructions on the packaging or those of your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended amount of this product.
Use different forms of cat's paw (tablets or liquids, tinctures, teas, etc.) At the same time without consulting a doctor. Combining different formulations increases the risk of an overdose. Stop taking a cat's paw for at least two weeks before you need surgery. If the condition that you are treating with a cat's claw doesn't improve or worsens, call your doctor. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. Don't use Cat's Claw Extra to make up for the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Avoid taking herbal or health supplements like casein protein (ubiquinone), fish oil, or L-arginine. If you combine a cat's claw with any of these substances, your blood pressure may become too low.
Interaction with other drug
You should not take cat’s claw without consulting your doctor if you use a medication for any of the conditions listed below:
- Any type of infection, including HIV, malaria, or tuberculosis;
- Anxiety, or depression.
- Allergies or asthma
- Cancer;
- Erectile dysfunction;
- GERD or heartburn
- High cholesterol or high blood pressure are all heart conditions.
- Migraine headaches
- Autoimmune disorders include psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- A psychiatric condition;
- Seizures.
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or if you have changed your medication during treatment with cat claw.
- Hormonal replacement therapy or birth control pills
- Drugs that suppress the immune system, such as chemotherapy, steroids, and drugs to prevent transplant rejection,
This list is incomplete. There are other drugs that may interact with cat claws. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions.
