The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 277 No 7410 p96
22 July 2006

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Liver damage warning to be added to black cohosh products

Warnings of a risk of liver damage are to be added to the labels of herbal medicines containing black cohosh root.

The decision was taken by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency after reviews by the Commission on Human Medicines and the Herbal Medicines Advisory Committee. Both agreed that there is an association between taking black cohosh and the risk of liver disorders. New labels will advise people who have previously suffered liver disease or any other serious health complaint not to take black cohosh without speaking to a doctor first. The labels will also point out possible symptoms of liver disease so that appropriate action can be taken without delay.

Black cohosh (Cimicifugae racemosae) is commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms.