Hello Doctor,
I've been using St. John's Wort for a few years for what I think is OCD, although I've never been diagnosed. I started with two 300mg tablets every 12 hours, but due to persistent symptoms, I increased it to three 300mg tablets every 8 hours over the last four months. While I've noticed some improvement, it's still not satisfactory. Should I continue this dosage until late November, increase it further, or switch treatments altogether?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
It’s important to approach the use of St. John’s Wort with caution, especially since you’ve been increasing the dosage on your own. While St. John’s Wort can be helpful for mood-related symptoms, higher doses can lead to side effects or potential interactions with other medications.
1. Given that you are experiencing persistent symptoms that suggest OCD, it would be wise to consult with a mental health professional. A proper assessment can help clarify your condition and guide you toward the most effective treatment options.
2. OCD often responds well to evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These approaches have been shown to be effective in managing OCD symptoms and might provide you with better results than simply increasing your dosage of St. John’s Wort.
3. Self-medication can be risky, particularly when symptoms are troublesome. Seeking professional support will give you a clearer understanding of your situation and help you find a suitable treatment plan that addresses your needs.
Thanks
