What are the side effects of Danshen tablets?
Feb 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Danshen tablets may cause side effects such as dry mouth and bitter taste, gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, bleeding tendency, and electrolyte disturbances. It is recommended to strictly follow medical advice when using Danshen tablets, controlling both dosage and duration of medication, to ensure safe and effective use.
Generally, as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Danshen tablets may cause side effects such as dry mouth, bitter taste, gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions, bleeding tendency, and electrolyte imbalance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Mouth and Bitter Taste
The medicinal components in Danshen tablets can irritate the oral mucosa, leading to mild oral discomfort, such as dryness and bitterness, in some patients after taking the tablets. These symptoms usually resolve on their own without special treatment after discontinuation of the medication.
2. Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Long-term or excessive use of Danshen tablets may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, increase gastric acid secretion, and consequently cause upper abdominal discomfort, pain, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
3. Allergic Reaction
Patients with allergic constitutions may experience allergic reactions to Danshen tablets, presenting as rashes, itching, swelling, and other symptoms. If an allergic reaction occurs, the medication should be stopped immediately, and medical attention should be sought.
4. Bleeding Tendency
Danshen tablets have the effect of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, which can reduce platelet aggregation. Therefore, excessive use of Danshen tablets may lead to bleeding problems, such as bleeding gums or nosebleeds.
5. Electrolyte Imbalance
Danshen tablets have functions of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, regulating qi flow, and relieving pain. The tablets may enhance the kidney's excretion of potassium, leading to excessive potassium loss from the body and a decrease in serum potassium levels, which can cause electrolyte imbalance.
It is recommended that Danshen tablets should be taken strictly according to the doctor's instructions, with proper dosage and duration of treatment to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication. At the same time, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet and moderate exercise, can help strengthen the body's resistance and reduce the occurrence of drug side effects.
