If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you
should not use valerian without first talking to your healthcare provider.
Anesthesia For those facing surgery, it is important to note
that valerian may increase the effects of anesthesia and, thus, it is important
to discuss the use of valerian with your healthcare providers (particularly the
surgeon and anesthesiologist) well in advance of your planned operation. The
doctors may advise you on how to taper use of valerian prior to the surgery. Or,
they may allow you to continue use up to the time of surgery, making any
necessary adjustments to the anesthesia and giving you medication to avoid
possible withdrawal symptoms from the valerian while in the hospital.
Sedatives and Anti-anxiety Medications There are no reports in
the scientific literature to suggest that valerian interacts with any
conventional medications. However, valerian is a sedative herb that may increase
the effects of alcohol and medications for anxiety and insomnia. Valerian should
not be combined with barbiturates (medications, such as pentobarbital,
prescribed for sleep disorders or seizures), and should be used with caution, if
at all, by people taking benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety and sleep inducing
medications including alprazolam, diazepam, and lorazepam) or other sedative
medications (such as antihistamines).
The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of
the information or the consequences arising from the application, use, or misuse
of any of the information contained herein, including any injury and/or damage
to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or
otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made in regard to the contents
of this material. No claims or endorsements are made for any drugs or compounds
currently marketed or in investigative use. This material is not intended as a
guide to self-medication. The reader is advised to discuss the information
provided here with a doctor, pharmacist, nurse, or other authorized healthcare
practitioner and to check product information (including package inserts)
regarding dosage, precautions, warnings, interactions, and contraindications
before administering any drug, herb, or supplement discussed
herein.