The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 276 No 7399 p525
6 May 2006

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Polygonum multiflorum warning over liver reactions

Patients taking Polygonum multiflorum may experience liver reactions, including hepatitis and jaundice, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency warned last week.

In a statement on its website, the MHRA said that reports have been submitted by patients and health professionals through the yellow sard scheme. “Members of the public who experience symptoms of liver disease while taking a product containing Polygonum multiflorum are being advised to see their doctor. If a liver disorder is diagnosed they should stop taking Polygonum multiflorum immediately,” it advised.

Polygonum multiflorum root tuber is traditionally used in Chinese medicines as a tonic and an anti-ageing remedy, and is also known as He Shou Wu (Heshouwu). It may be an ingredient of a number of products, including Shen Min, Shou Wu Pian and Shou Wu Wan, the MHRA explained.