Asafoetida (Herb/Suppl)

GI problems (flatulence, dyspepsia), bronchitis, other respiratory problems, cancer, influenza

Efficacy: animal studies only

Frequency Not Defined

GI problems (eg, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting) (rare)

Bleeding (rare)

Swelling of lips (rare)

Convulsions (rare)

Headache (rare)

Contraindications

Pregnancy (may be abortifacient), bleeding disorder, epilepsy, blood pressure problems

Infant colic

Cautions

May cause GI upset

Contains coumarin-like substances, may incr risk of bleeding if given with anticoagulants

Pregnancy Category: N/A avoid

Lactation: N/A

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

Metabolism: N/A

Excretion: N/A

Mechanism of Action

Unclear; may contain antimicrobials that help reduce flatulence