Cautions and Contraindications

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and headache

Cat’s claw should be avoided for people in the following situations:

Anyone who has undergone organ or bone marrow transplant surgery due to its immune stimulant properties
Anyone who is pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or is breast feeding. Although it is not considered a form of contraception
Anyone on anticoagulation, with a bleeding disorder, or preparing for a surgery
Breakdown of some of the products requires stomach acid, so avoid taking along with antacids or consider diluting the mixture with water or an acidic juice
Has been known to cause diarrhea, but it usually goes away with continued use. Discontinue use if diarrhea persists for longer than 4 days
A worsening of Parkinson’s symptoms has been observed with the intake of cat’s claw, but this worsening is reversible.
It should not be taken along with immune suppressing agents, like cyclosporin. Although not proven, in theory the two substances would have the opposite effects
It should be used cautiously by people who take drugs to treat irregular heart rhythms, such as amiodarone or digoxin, or drugs to lower blood pressure such as verapamil