Which over-the-counter supplement requires caution when prescribed alongside warfarin?

Saw palmetto is an over-the-counter herbal supplement that is often used for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other conditions. When prescribed alongside warfarin, which is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots, caution is necessary because saw palmetto may have blood-thinning effects. This potential interaction can increase the risk of bleeding, as both saw palmetto and warfarin can influence hemostasis and coagulation.

Additionally, due to the lack of regulation and standardization in herbal supplements, the potency and specific effects of saw palmetto can vary widely between products. This inconsistency can complicate the management of patients on warfarin, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients closely if they are taking both.

In contrast, loratadine is an antihistamine, furosemide is a diuretic, and pantoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. These medications do not have significant known interactions with warfarin that would necessitate the same level of caution as seen with saw palmetto. Therefore, saw palmetto stands out as requiring careful consideration when used concurrently with warfarin.