Erectile dysfunction as side effect

Erectile dysfunction is considered one of the adverse effects of certain antidepressants. However, while taking St. John’s wort they seem to occur only in exceptional cases. The possible mechanism of action and effectiveness of the substances contained in St. John’s wort is still relatively poorly researched.

This is one of the reasons why it is difficult to explain any undesirable effects that may have been observed. In addition, many over-the-counter preparations containing St. John’s wort contain too few active substances to have a detectable effect. However, if erectile dysfunction occurs due to an impaired mood, it may take a while for the erectile dysfunction to improve, as St. John’s wort takes a while to have a mood-lifting effect. During this time, erectile dysfunction can occur while taking St. John’s wort without St. John’s wort being the cause.

Side effects on the liver

Certain substances contained in St. John’s wort are broken down and metabolised in the liver. So-called cytochrome p450 enzymes play a special role here. If St. John’s wort is taken frequently, the body reacts.

An increased amount of cytochrome p450 enzymes is produced in the liver. This is particularly the case with high-dose preparations containing St. John’s wort. Although the increased production of cytochrome p450 enzymes is initially harmless, problems can arise as soon as drugs are taken that require these enzymes for their action or are also broken down by them.In addition, St. John’s wort seems to have a directly harmful effect on the liver, especially in high doses.

Fatigue as a side effect

Fatigue is often reported as an adverse effect of preparations containing St. John’s wort. It seems to occur especially when St. John’s wort is taken for a longer period of time. It is possible that substances contained in St. John’s wort influence the level of the endogenous hormone melatonin.

There is also evidence that St. John’s wort contains melatonin or similar substances. Among other things, melatonin is used in the body to control the day-night rhythm. In addition, depression is often associated with sleep disorders.

If St. John’s wort has a sufficient effect on depression, it can also improve sleep. This can be perceived as increased tiredness. In some cases, such as sleep disorders, the actually undesirable effect of fatigue can also be sought specifically. However, the tiring effect of St. John’s wort is hardly sufficient to be used as an effective sleeping aid.