Case

An adolescent rheumatology patient started using evening primrose oil three months ago and feels it has helped. Her grandmother is concerned about potential side effects and possible interactions with her other medications.

Answer D is correct.

Evening primrose oil (EPO) is taken orally. Its primary active ingredients, the omega-6 fatty acids gamma linolenic acid and linoleic acid, serve as precursors to anti-inflammatory leukotrienes and prostanoids. Two randomized controlled trials support the use of EPO in treating adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. It also lowers serum cholesterol and may have mild benefits on eczema, cyclic breast pain, and rheumatoid arthritis when taken in doses of 3-6 grams daily for several months. Some patients may experience diarrhea and headaches while taking EPO. EPO has no known interactions with steroid medications or with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EPO
Our EPO page has:

An in-depth monograph with references
A summary for clinicians
A handout for patients
Links to EPO information on other websites
Click here

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Last Updated: August 29, 2001
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