Effectiveness

New York Heart Association classes I through III chronic congestive heart failure: effective for symptom control based on short-term studies, but no evidence of decrease in mortality

Adverse effects

Well tolerated overall; vertigo and dizziness are the most common adverse effects

Interactions

May enhance the activity of digitalis; theoretic interactions with antiarrhythmics, antihypertensives, antihyperlipidemic agents

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to Crataegus products; insufficient reliable information for safety of use in children and in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

Dosage

Most effective dosage not currently known; recommended dosages range from 160 to 1,800 mg per day in two or three divided doses

Cost*

$3 to $25 per month, based on 160- to 1,800-mg daily dosage

Bottom line

Hawthorn should not be used in place of proven conventional therapies for heart failure; may be effective for symptom improvement when used as an adjunct to conventional therapies; use should be carefully considered and monitored