The popular remedy has been found to reduce the effect of the anti-rejection drug cyclosporine and may put transplant recipients at risk of rejection. Doctors discovered the woman had been taking daily doses of St. John's wort. After she stopped taking the herb, her cyclosporine levels returned to normal and doctors were able to reduce her cyclosporine doses after four weeks. Two months later, doctors learned that she was taking St. John's wort and asked her to stop. Her blood levels of cyclosporine did eventually return to normal, but she did need to receive another kidney transplant in January 2000.
Researchers advise all patients to talk to their physician before taking any herbal therapies.
Return to Contents for November 2000 5. Released in four phases, each of the phases includes a book and accompanying newsletter. Readers may progress through the Plan at their own pace by returning the postage-paid return card to request the next phase whenever necessary. This format will let readers view the Patient Plan in color, exactly as it appears in the books. Return to Contents for November 2000 6.