Bitter Melon
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 6, 2025.
What are other common names?
- Momordica charantia
- African Cucumber
- Ampalaya
- Art Pumpkin
- Balsam Apple
- Balsam Pear
- Balsambirne
- Balsamine
- Balsamo
- Bitter Apple
- Bitter Cucumber
- Bitter Gourd
- Bitter Melon
- Bitter Squash
- Bittergurke
- Carilla Cundeamor
- Carilla Fruit
- Carilla Gourd
- Cerasee
- Karela
- Margose
- Melon Amer
- Vegetable Insulin
- Wild Cucumber
What is this product used for?
Bitter melon is a vegetable. It is also sold as a dietary supplement product. Some people use it as a medicine but science does not support its use for any health problem.
What are the precautions when taking this product?
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Always check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Some products may not mix well with other drugs or natural products.
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This product may interfere with some lab tests. Be sure to talk with your doctor about this and all drugs you are taking.
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Be sure to tell your doctor that you take this product if you are scheduled for surgery or tests.
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Do not use this product if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant soon. Use birth control you can trust while taking this product.
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Do not take this product if you are breastfeeding.
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Do not take this product if you were born with a condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
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Take extra care if you are taking drugs for blood sugar problems. These are drugs like glipizide, glyburide, rosiglitazone, repaglinide, or insulin.
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If you have blood sugar problems, keep hard candies, glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or juice on hand for low blood sugar.
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Take extra care and check with your doctor if you have:
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Liver problems
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Alcohol problems
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Metabolic disorders
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Diabetes
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Infection
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Problems with your heart beat or rhythm
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What should I watch for?
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Stomach cramps
When do I need to call the doctor?
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Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.
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Signs of liver problems. These include upset stomach or throwing up, belly pain, feeling tired, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, not hungry.
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Signs of low blood sugar. These include hunger, dizziness, shaking, a fast heartbeat, confusion, or sweating.
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Very bad loose stools
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Very bad headache
Last Reviewed Date
2023-04-27Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
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