What are the side effects of Tripterygium wilfordii?
Disease description:
Some symptoms may occur when taking medications containing Tripterygium wilfordii. Recently, I've been feeling slightly unwell overall and am wondering whether it could be due to the side effects of Tripterygium wilfordii. What are the side effects of Tripterygium wilfordii?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Tripterygium wilfordii has certain pharmacological activities and is widely used in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatism, nephritis, and skin disorders. However, this herbal medicine also has some side effects.
1. Gastrointestinal reactions: Patients may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Severe cases may even lead to liver function damage.
2. Reproductive system toxicity: Long-term or high-dose usage may cause reduced sperm count and decreased motility in males, while females may develop menstrual disorders or even amenorrhea, affecting fertility.
3. Liver damage: Mainly表现为 (manifested as) elevated transaminase levels; severe cases may result in acute toxic liver injury, although generally reversible.
4. Bone marrow suppression: It may inhibit the hematopoietic system of the bone marrow, leading to reduced white blood cells, platelets, or hemoglobin. Aplastic anemia is occasionally observed, but most cases can recover after discontinuation of the drug or with symptomatic treatment.
5. Cardiovascular system: Tripterygium wilfordii may cause adverse reactions such as arrhythmia and blood pressure fluctuations.
6. Skin damage: Examples include skin pigmentation, drug rash, erythema nodosum, oral mucosal vesicles, and so on.
