Ginkgo biloba precipitating epileptic seizures
- PMID: 11742783
- DOI: 10.1093/ageing/30.6.523
Ginkgo biloba precipitating epileptic seizures
Abstract
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 2 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.
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