Acute Liver Damage Due to Serenoa Repens: A Case Report

The case report described an instance of acute liver damage in a 58-year-old man following the use of a commercial preparation of Serenoa repens, commonly known as Saw Palmetto, which he took to alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Despite the absence of predisposing factors or other medications, the patient experienced significant liver enzyme elevation and symptoms, which resolved after discontinuing the supplement. Laboratory analyses ruled out contaminants, confirming the liver injury was likely due to Serenoa repens itself. This case highlighted the potential risks of herbal remedies, often perceived as safe, and underscored the importance of pharmacovigilance and spontaneous adverse drug reaction reporting, as clinical trials may not capture rare adverse events. The report also emphasized the need for better public awareness and regulatory oversight of herbal products marketed as dietary supplements.