Echinacea

What is echinacea?

Echinacea, also known as the purple coneflower, is a dietary supplement made from the Echinacea plant, and is primarily used for immune system support, as an anti-inflammatory, or to shorten the duration of upper respiratory conditions. It is most often used in dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses.

Various over-the-counter products containing echinacea are available as veterinary supplements. Differences in efficacy of echinacea supplements can occur based on the species of echinacea used, as well as the extraction and preparation methods. The most common species used in veterinary medicine are Echinacea purpura and Echinacea augustifolia.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet echinacea?

• Echinacea is given orally (by mouth) and comes in various forms, including powders, soft chews, capsules/soft gels, oral liquids, and chewable tablets.
• Oral doses may be given with or without food.
• If vomiting occurs when given on an empty stomach, give future doses with a small meal or treat.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions and use supplements according to their label.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• Ideally, give this supplement at the same time daily.
• Ensure access to fresh, clean drinking water.
• If you have difficulty getting your animal to take the supplement, ask your veterinarian or pharmacist for tips to reduce the stress of medication time for both you and your animal.
• Wash your hands after handling.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

Echinacea may take several days to take effect, and improvements are not always outwardly noticeable.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

• There are no documented side effects from echinacea; however, studies are limited, so information regarding side effects is also limited.
• High doses of echinacea may cause gastrointestinal signs, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
• In humans, side effects may also include headache, dizziness, or oral irritation, but the significance of these side effects in pets is unknown.

Sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting drug/supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

DO NOT USE echinacea in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or to any of the ingredients in the supplement

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with autoimmune disorders
• Pets that are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used WITH CAUTION with echinacea, including:

• Certain antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine)
• Chemotherapy drugs and other immunosuppressant drugs, such as cyclosporin

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store echinacea?

• Ensure oral supplements are stored in a cool, dry area in tightly sealed containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.