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PC-SPES

Introduction

PC-SPES is a combination of eight natural products. It has been used to slow signs of prostate cancer and improve prostate health. The herbs used in PC-SPES are chrysanthemum, dyer’s woad, licorice, Panax ginseng, saw palmetto, skullcap, Robdosia rubescens, and reishi mushroom. PC-SPES can be taken as a pill, but it has been recalled and is no longer legally available in the United States.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for PC-SPES

What Research Shows

There is not enough data to support that PC-SPES is helpful in treating health problems. We will review future studies as they are published.

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It may be safe to take PC-SPES in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use PC-SPES.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse such as:

  • People with high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, or urinary problems should talk to their doctors before taking PC-SPES. It may interact with their medicine.

 

References

PC-SPES (PDQ®)—Health Professional Version. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/pc-spes-pdq. Published July 27, 2017. Accessed August 6, 2019.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC