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Grape seed

Generic name: grape seed (GRAPE SEED)
Drug class: Herbal products

What is grape seed?

Grape seed is a by-product from the making of wine from grapes. Grape seed may also be known as Grape Seed Extract, Grape Seed Oil, Extrait de Feuille de Raisin, Extrait de Peau de Raisin, Extrait de Pepins de Raisin, Huile de Pépins de Raisin, and other names.

Grape seed should not be confused with grapefruit juice or grapefruit products.

Grape seed extract has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating some symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (decreased blood flow return from the feet and legs back to the heart). These symptoms include pain or heaviness, tension or tingling, and heavy feeling in the legs.

Research has shown that grape seed may not be effective in treating seasonal allergies or hay fever.

Other uses not proven with research have included improving night vision, or treating varicose veins, heavy menstrual bleeding, hemorrhoids, high cholesterol, and other conditions.

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

Grape seed 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.

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

Important Information

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.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this product if you are allergic to grapes or grape products.

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

It is not known whether grape seed will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether grape seed passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

How should I take grape seed?

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use grape seed, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Do not use different forms (tablets, liquid, oil, teas, etc) of grape seed at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with grape seed does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Store at room temperature in a sealed container, away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra grape seed to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while taking grape seed?

It may not be safe to take vitamin C and grape seed together. This combination may raise your blood pressure. Avoid taking vitamin C and grape seed if you already have high blood pressure.

Avoid taking grape seed if you are also taking or eating lactobacillus. Grape seed may reduce the benefits of lactobacilli products by slowing the growth of these "friendly" bacteria in the intestines.

Grape seed side effects

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.

Common side effects may include:

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.

What other drugs will affect grape seed?

Do not take grape seed without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with grape seed, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this product guide.

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.