Dilantin, a brand name for phenytoin in the United States, is an anti-seizure medication that helps to prevent seizures on a daily basis. It helps control seizures by acting on the impulses within your brain and slowing their effect, Drugs.com states. Saw palmetto comes from a berry palm tree grown in the southern United States. Although American medical standards do not consider the herb a medicine, some doctors may recommend it to treat problems with the male prostate gland related to urine flow from the bladder. Both of these medicinal substances have side effects. Before starting any new herbal remedy, talk with your doctor to make certain you can take them safely.
Trouble Sleeping
You may experience trouble sleeping at night when you take Dilantin, MayoClinic.com reports. You may find yourself awake at different intervals during the night. This insomnia may fade as your body acclimates to this new medication. Call your physician if this non-serious side effect continues or causes you significant problems.
Mental Problems
Dilantin may cause some serious medical issues for you. The anti-seizure medicine may cause you to become mentally confused, for example. It also may make you feel a sense of nervousness you do not usually feel. Dilantin also may force you to slur your speech. Any of these side effects requires an immediate consultation with your physician, MayoClinic.com says.
Arrhythmia
Taking saw palmetto can cause an arrhythmia to occur in your heart, Drugs.com indicates. The herbal supplement may cause bradycardia, a reduction in your normal heartbeat. It also may induce tachycardia, an acceleration of your heart rate, or it may cause the beating of your heart to become irregular. All of these changes in heart rhythm classify as serious medical health issues that need immediate care from your physician.
Constipation and Diarrhea
You may experience difficulty having a bowel movement, or your bowels may produce more movements than usual when you take saw palmetto, Drugs.com reports. You may notice your stools are hard and difficult to pass through the rectum. Increasing fluids such as water may help, as well as fiber in your diet. Conversely, your stools may become loose and watery. Either of these problems may induce cramps. Medical experts expect constipation or diarrhea to feel mild and to end on their own. Call your doctor for advice if either side effect continues.
Combination Side Effects
No interactions have been found occurring between these two medication type substances, Drugs.com indicates. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist, as side effects of taking both the medicine and the herb together may occur.
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