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Abstract #18341 Published in IGR 3-3
Ginkgo biloba precipitating epileptic seizures
Granger ASAge and ageing 2001; 30: 523-525
BACKGROUND: The herbal remedy Ginkgo biloba is promoted as a treatment for a variety of ailments including memory loss and dementia, poor concentration and mood, glaucoma, 'cerebral insufficiency' and 'peripheral circulatory disturbances'. It is gaining worldwide popularity, particularly as a potential treatment for dementia. CASE REPORTS: Two patients with well-controlled epilepsy presented with recurrent seizures within two weeks of commencing extract of Ginkgo biloba. The herbal remedy was discontinued and both patients are seizure-free several months later. DISCUSSION: Ginkgo biloba may have precipitated seizures in these two patients. This and other potential adverse effects should be highlighted on the packaging of the drug.
Dr A.S. Granger, Health Care of the Elderly, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
Classification:
11.7 Treatment of bloodflow (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)