What Herbs Interact With Primidone?

Primidone, closely related to the anti-seizure medication phenobarbital, is used to treat similar conditions and most often prescribed to treat seizures associated with epilepsy. It's also used to calm the uncontrollable limb tremors caused by restless leg syndrome. As with any medication, some herbal supplements interact poorly with primidone. Talk to your doctor about which herbs you should avoid while taking primidone.

Gingko Biloba

Gingko biloba is an ancient herb used for a variety of medical conditions. Its antioxidant flavonoids may have a protective effect on heart, eye and nerve tissue, while its terpenoid substances may act to increase blood flow through blood vessel dilation. Gingko is probably best known for its use in fighting the ravages of dementia and Alzheimer's disease on the brain. Although pure gingko doesn't interfere directly with primidone, some gingko supplements are contaminated with a nerve toxin naturally present in gingko biloba seeds. If present in sufficient quantity, this nerve toxin could potentially decrease the effectiveness of anti-seizure medications such as primidone. Discuss the use of gingko supplements with your physician.

St. John's Wort and Dong Quai

St. John's wort is a popular herbal supplement used to ease the symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue and loss of appetite. Dong quai, also called angelica, is used to relieve hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause, as well as a treatment for arthritis, high blood pressure and headache. Primidone causes an increased sensitivity to direct sunlight, which increases your risk of sunburn. St. John's wort and dong quai also cause increased sun sensitivity, which has an additive effect when taken with primidone. Avoid taking either of these herbal supplements while taking primidone without first discussing it with your doctor.

Sedative Herbs

Kava, valerian root, hops and passionflower are herbs used for their natural sedative effects. Kava is used for anxiety, insomnia and restless leg syndrome, and valerian root is taken for nervousness, indigestion and insomnia. Hops is used to treat sleeplessness and stomach trouble, and passionflower for extreme anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and insomnia. Primidone has a depressant effect on some people, and taking herbs that act as natural depressants can result in oversedation and increased mental impairment. Get your doctor’s advice before using any herbal supplements containing kava, valerian, hops or passionflower while taking primidone.

Other Supplements to Avoid

The best approach to managing your medications is to inform your doctor about all the supplements you currently take and consult her before adding any additional supplements. Don't take evening primrose oil or borage along with primidone because these herbal supplements can increase your chances of having a seizure. Avoid ginseng supplements because ginseng may have an additive effect on anti-convulsant medications such as primidone. Sage may lessen the effects of primidone, niacin may increase primidone levels in your bloodstream and high doses of glutamine can increase your risk of seizures.