Haemorrhage due to Ginkgo biloba?

Prescrire Int. 2008 Feb;17(93):19.

Abstract

(1) About 20 detailed reports of haemorrhage (usually cerebral, ocular, or postsurgical) in patients using Gingko biloba extracts have been published. One-third of these patients were also taking drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs). (2) Some substances contained in Gingko biloba have been shown to have an antiplatelet effect. (3) In practice, patients with risk factors for bleeding (anticoagulant or antiplatelet treatment, surgery, etc.) should avoid using Gingko biloba extracts.

MeSH terms

  • Ginkgo biloba / adverse effects*
  • Hemorrhage / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Phytotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage
  • Plant Extracts / adverse effects*
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Platelet Aggregation / drug effects*
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors