From the Guidelines
Valerian products approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia are considered safe for use, particularly for insomnia, and can be continued as per the patient's requirement. According to the Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) consensus statement published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings in 2021 1, valerian is considered safe and can be continued, especially for patients using it for insomnia. The statement mentions that although valerian is considered safe, there is no objective benefit for sleep latency or quality 1.
Key Points to Consider:
- Valerian products are available over-the-counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts.
- Most approved products contain standardized extracts of Valeriana officinalis, ranging from 500mg to 2000mg per dose.
- The recommended dosage is typically taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime for sleep difficulties.
- Some products combine valerian with other herbs like hops, passionflower, or lemon balm for enhanced sedative effects.
- Valerian interacts with GABA receptors in the brain, similar to benzodiazepines but with fewer side effects.
Important Considerations:
- Users should be aware that valerian may cause drowsiness.
- While generally considered safe for short-term use, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it with other medications.
- The TGA has approved these products based on traditional use and some clinical evidence for mild insomnia and anxiety relief.
From the Research
Valerian Products Approved by TGA
There is no direct information available in the provided studies regarding valerian products approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). However, the studies discuss the use of valerian for sleep and its efficacy.
Efficacy of Valerian for Sleep
- A systematic review and meta-analysis found that valerian might improve sleep quality without producing side effects 2.
- Another study suggests that valerian is relatively safe but has equivocal benefits on sleep quality 3.
- Valerian is considered a non-FDA-approved hypnotic agent, and its use is common despite limited data on benefits and harms 3.
Safety and Efficacy of Sleep Medicines
- A review of safety and efficacy of sleep medicines in older adults included valerian as an off-label drug, stating that it has a small impact on sleep latency and can produce residual sedation 4.
- The same review emphasizes the importance of nonpharmacologic interventions and treating comorbid conditions, with benzodiazepines and non-BzRAs used as last resorts 4.
Regulatory Status
- The studies do not provide information on the regulatory status of valerian products in Australia or their approval by the TGA.
- It is essential to consult the TGA website or other reliable sources for information on approved valerian products in Australia.