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Exhaustion, Decreased Motivation, Daytime Sleepiness, Decreased Libido, Sleep
Disturbances, and Cognitive Complaints
Iovieno et al. state that rhodiola is effective in treating physical deficiencies such as exhaustion,
decreased motivation, daytime sleepiness, decreased libido, sleep disturbances, and cognitive
complaints such as concentration deficiencies, forgetfulness, decreased memory, susceptibility
to stress, and irritability.
Alleviation of Side Effects of Psychotropic Medication
In Brown et al. II, Panossian asserts, based on one small study, that rhodiola can relieve side
effects of psychotropic drugs used to treat schizophrenia.
DRUG INTERACTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS
Drug Interactions
If you are considering continuing the use of rhodiola with psychotropic drugs, you
should definitely consult with the prescribing physician, even though there are no
documented interactions except for MAOIs. Brown et al. advise against use of rhodiola
with MAOIs.
Rhodiola may add to the stimulant effects of caffeine; it also may augment antianxiety,
antibiotic, antidepressant medications.
Rhodiola may affect platelet aggregation in higher doses.
Rhodiola may interfere with birth control pills.
Rhodiola may interfere with diabetic or thyroid medication.
Side Effects
Generally uncommon and mild.
May include allergy, irritability, insomnia, increased blood pressure, and chest pain.
Most frequent side effects (according to Brown et al) are activation, agitation, insomnia,
anxiety, and occasional headache.