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Trade Associations Guide St. John’s Wort Manufacturers with Labeling Statements

Both the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) and the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) have made labeling recommendations for St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) products.

While similar in intent, the actual verbiage varies somewhat. AHPA’s Board of Trustees adopted the following statement: "NOTICE: Do not use this product while taking any prescription drug(s) without the advice of your prescribing physician. Avoid excessive exposure to UV irradiation (e.g., sunlight; tanning) when using this product."

This suggestion is proposed as "guidance" rather than formal "trade recommendation."

CHPA’s voluntary labeling program agreed on the following information statement: "If you are taking a prescription medicine, ask a health professional."

Alternative, but equivalent statements are permitted, but the statements should be placed on product labels by April 2, 2001. CHPA members may also opt to combine the new statement with other voluntary labeling infor-mation, as appropriate. – Karen Robin, ABC