Generic name: saw palmetto [ saw-pal-MET-toe ]
Brand name: Prostate SR
Dosage form: oral capsule (-; 320 mg with phytosterols; 450 mg)
Drug class: Herbal products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 20, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is saw palmetto?

Saw palmetto is a tree also known as American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Chou Palmiste, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palma Enana Americana, Palmier de Floride, Palmier Nain, Palmier Nain Américain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Sabal Fructus, Saw Palmetto Berry and other names.

Saw palmetto has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in reducing complications from prostate surgery (such as blood loss or problems during surgery) and the time spent in the hospital after surgery.

Saw palmetto has also been used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) such as pain when you urinate or increased urination at night. However, research has shown that saw palmetto may not be effective in treating this condition.

Other uses not proven with research have included hair loss, breathing disorders such as asthma and chronic bronchitis, pelvic pain, prostate disorders, common cold, hirsutism (increased facial or body hair growth in women), urination problems, prostate cancer, sexual problems, and other conditions.

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

Saw palmetto 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.

Saw palmetto may also be used for other purposes not listed in this product guide.

Saw palmetto side effects

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

Stop using saw palmetto and call your healthcare provider at once if you have:

• unusual bleeding--nosebleeds, bleeding gums, any bleeding that will not stop;

• signs of liver or pancreas problems--loss of appetite, upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back), nausea or vomiting, fast heart rate, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

• heart problems--high blood pressure, pounding heartbeats, dizziness, loss of consciousness, swelling, cough, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating;

• new changes in skin; or

• hot flashes.

Common side effects of Saw Palmetto may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain;

• headache, dizziness, tiredness;

• impotence, sexual problems; or

• runny or stuffy 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.

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Warnings

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

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

• a planned surgery.

Do not use saw palmetto if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Saw palmetto is considered likely unsafe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Saw palmetto may make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about other birth control options such as an injection, implant, skin patch, vaginal ring, condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge.

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

How should I take saw palmetto?

If you choose to use saw palmetto, use it as directed on the package or as directed by the doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different strength or brand form of this product. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take with food if saw palmetto upsets your stomach.

If you need surgery, dental work, or a medical procedure, stop taking saw palmetto at least 2 weeks ahead of time.

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

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled 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 saw palmetto?

Avoid using saw palmetto together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, dandelion, danshen, evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, turmeric, and willow.

Do not use different forms of saw palmetto (pills, liquids, and others) at the same time or you could have an overdose.

What other drugs will affect saw palmetto?

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

• birth control pills and other hormones; or

• blood thinners and medicine used to prevent blood clots.

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

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Further information

• Consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using any herbal/health supplement. Whether you are treated by a medical doctor or a practitioner trained in the use of natural medicines/supplements, make sure all your healthcare providers know about all of your medical conditions and treatments.

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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