DRUG INTERACTIONS STUDY SUMMARY

There is some evidence to suggest that Horny goat weed could have interactions with drugs used to lower blood pressure, medications that slow blood clotting, and estrogen hormones. Taking this supplement can also change the speed at which the liver metabolizes other drugs so always speak with a provider about taking supplements.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the blood flow and tissue effects of Icariin (ICA) on rats who have an injured cavernous nerve (the main penile nerve regulating erection). After the nerve injury the rats were subsequently treated for 4 weeks with daily feedings of placebo solution vs. the Icariin solution. In conclusion, ICA may have neurotrophic effects in addition to known phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibiting effects.

Horny goat weed could be an option for patients who are looking to self treat or who are trying to avoid prescription medications. I would not discourage a patient from trying out the supplement but I would caution them if they are taking certain/multiple prescription medicines. The limited testing on therapeutic efficacy leaves me skeptical about recommending the product especially because it is not very cost effective.

References:

Horny Goat Weed Lexi-Drugs Lexicomp Wolters Kluwer Health Inc Riverwoods IL Accessed August 24, 2016 http://online lexi com

Horny Goat Weed - Uses, Side Effects, and More Web MD Accessed February 20, 2023 https://www webmd com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-699/horny-goat-weed

Shindel AW Xin ZC Lin G et al Erectogenic and neurotrophic effects of icariin a purified extract of horny goat weed (Epimedium spp ) in vitro and in vivo J Sex Med 2010;7(4 Pt 1):1518-1528 doi:10 1111/j 1743-6109 2009 01699 x

Gonzalez Stuart A Horny Goat Weed University of Texas El Paso Accessed February 20 2023 https://www utep edu/herbal-safety/herbalfacts/herbal%20facts%20sheet/horny-goatweed%20 html