horny goat weed

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

horny goat weed (Epimedium) is a traditional herbal remedy used for various purposes, including as an aphrodisiac, a treatment for erectile dysfunction, and as a general tonic for overall health. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Adverse reactions 

None 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications 

• Hepatic impairment 
• Renal impairment 
• Bleeding disorders 
• Hormone-sensitive cancers 
• Pregnancy  
• Breastfeeding 
• Hypersensitivity to the drug 
• Drug interactions 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

The drug is unsafe during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Avoid the drug during lactation. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show fetal risks in the first or later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women        
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

horny goat weed contains icariin, which has been shown to inhibit the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). PDE5 inhibitors are commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction, and icariin has been shown to have similar effects. horny goat weed may help increase nitric oxide levels in the body.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

horny goat weed may have bone-strengthening effects and could benefit people with osteoporosis or other bone disorders. It shows anti-inflammatory effects, which could help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

Icariin, the active compound, is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. However, the absorption rate may vary depending on the preparation and dose. 

Distribution 

Icariin and other compounds in horny goat weed are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. However, their distribution may be limited by the blood-brain barrier. 

Metabolism 

Icariin is metabolized in the liver by various enzymes, such as cytochrome P450. The metabolites are then excreted in urine and feces. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The half-life of icariin varies depending on the dose and route of administration. However, it is generally eliminated from the body within a few hours. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

horny goat weed can be taken orally as capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts. It can also be consumed as tea by steaming the dried leaves in hot water for several minutes. 

horny goat weed can be taken at any time of the day, although some products may be taken in the morning or before sexual activity for maximum effectiveness. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: horny goat weed 

Pronounced: hawr-nee goth-weed 

Why do we use horny goat weed? 

horny goat weed is used for various health purposes, primarily related to its potential to improve male sexual function, bone health, inflammation, immune system, and cardiovascular health.