Ginkgo Biloba

It is used by some people to help with mild dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety and memory problems. Some will take it to help with dizziness, ringing sounds in the ears (tinnitus), pain in the legs when walking (claudication) or tiredness. It is not fully understood how ginkgo biloba works; but it is thought to improve blood circulation to the brain and other parts of the body.

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.

• You may take this medication with or without food.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

• You have a bleeding disorder or are on medications that thin your blood e.g. warfarin, enoxaparin

• You have epilepsy (fits) or are on anti-seizure medications e.g. phenytoin or sodium valproate

• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

• You have kidney problems or liver problems

• You are scheduled for surgery

• You are currently on oral contraceptives e.g. containing Levonorgestrel/Ethinylestradiol

• Stomach upset such as nausea/vomiting or diarrhoea

  • Take with or after food to reduce stomach upset

• Headaches

  • Speak to your doctor if it does not go away

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

• Difficulty in breathing

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

There may be an increased risk of bleeding.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

• Do not take Ginkgo with Warfarin (blood thinner) as it can increase the risk of bleeding

• Do not take Ginkgo with oral contraceptives (birth control pills) e.g. containing Levonorgestrel/Ethinylestradiol, as it may cause the birth control to be less effective

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.