Aubepine

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Aubepine

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Aubepine

What is Aubepine? (Quick Facts and Overview)

Property Description
Active Ingredient Hawthorn (Crataegus) extract
Form Tablets, Capsules, Liquid Extract
Pharmacological Class Cardiotonic, Cardioprotective
Common Use Support for heart function and mild nervousness
Origin Natural (Plant-based, Herbal)

Aubepine: Identity and Pharmacological Classification

Aubepine is a phytopharmaceutical, meaning it is a medicinal product derived directly from the plant source, specifically the dried leaves and flowers of the Hawthorn (Crataegus) species. It is formally classified as a cardiotonic agent, a designation for substances that exert a beneficial effect on heart muscle function. This medicine is recognized as a traditional herbal medicinal product due to its long history of documented use in supporting cardiovascular function. The plant material is traditionally used to relieve temporary nervous heart complaints. Its primary identity is rooted in phytotherapy, where it serves as a slow-acting cardioprotective agent often utilized by adult patients seeking complementary heart support.

Composition, Form, and General Purpose

The active basis of Aubepine is the Hawthorn extract, which is standardized to contain key natural compounds, primarily flavonoids (like hyperoside and vitexin) and oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs). As a natural, plant-based medicine, its profile stems from the synergy of these multiple constituents. Hawthorn extracts are associated with supporting blood flow and improving cardiac output, providing a functional benefit for mild heart conditions. Aubepine is typically sold as an OTC (Over-the-Counter) single-ingredient product. It is administered orally in various convenient dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts. The ultimate purpose of the medicine is to offer foundational support to the heart and circulation, consistent with its cardiotonic classification, while providing a mild calming action that helps alleviate associated symptoms of nervousness.

What side effects are possible with Aubepine?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Aubepine (Hawthorn extract), as documented by government regulatory bodies, classifies adverse reactions primarily by frequency and the affected body system. This information is derived solely from regulatory labeling and provides a high-level summary of documented safety characteristics.

Adverse Reactions Scope and Frequency

Adverse reactions reported in official documents are generally classified into three tiers:

  • Common reactions (occurring in up to 1 in 10 patients) primarily involve the Gastrointestinal System, such as mild stomach upset or nausea.
  • Uncommon effects (occurring in up to 1 in 100 patients) often pertain to the Nervous System and may include reports of headache or vertigo (dizziness).
  • Rare reactions (occurring in up to 1 in 1,000 patients) are often associated with the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, involving manifestations such as minor skin reactions or allergic responses.

While the overall occurrence of adverse events is low, the potential for a Rare but serious Severe Allergic Reaction (Hypersensitivity) is officially documented and monitored.

Regulatory Safety Constraints

Official labeling defines specific constraints for using Aubepine that limit its administration in certain contexts:

  1. Population Restrictions: The medicine is officially not recommended for use in children and adolescents (under 18 years of age), or for individuals who are pregnant or lactating, due to a lack of sufficient data establishing safety for these groups.
  2. Usage Limitations: Strict regulatory statements require a definitive diagnosis and regular medical supervision when Aubepine is used by patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or if it is taken at the same time as other cardiotonic agents (heart medications). The medicine is not a substitute for standard medical therapy in severe cardiac conditions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory guidance for Aubepine (Hawthorn extract) overdose has documented presentations that include severe dizziness and severe drowsiness. While the official labeling generally notes a low acute toxicity, it recognizes that ingestion of large quantities poses a risk. The primary concern defined in the regulatory profile is the potential for serious cardiac effects due to the drug's cardiotonic nature. High doses may be linked to serious cardiac rhythm disturbances, making the cardiovascular system the most relevant physiological system affected.

Due to this potential for severe outcomes, regulators explicitly mandate that individuals contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately if an overdose is suspected. Immediate medical help is required for any suspected overdose scenario to manage vital functions. The required clinical intervention is formalized as symptomatic and supportive treatment, including necessary hospital monitoring. This management approach is required because official documentation confirms that no specific antidote is known for this overdose. The regulatory profile does not explicitly document differences in severity for specific populations.

Therapeutic Uses of Aubepine

What Aubepine Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Aubepine is commonly used to provide supportive therapeutic benefit in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms related to a stable, mild decline in heart function. The application includes helping to address symptom clusters that may become intense, such as generalized fatigue, exhaustion, and shortness of breath during exertion. The main therapeutic domains for Aubepine include mild to moderate chronic heart support and the management of nervous heart complaints and mild mental stress.

The medicine is also relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, specifically for temporary complaints like anxiety-related palpitations and sleep disturbances. Applied in situations where patients experience these functional symptoms, it may assist with coping more steadily with symptom fluctuations.

Aubepine is used in settings where symptoms become temporarily overwhelming, providing support that helps ease the overall symptom burden.

The medicine may be part of symptomatic management, relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort.


Quick Fact: Used to help manage symptoms of Exertional Fatigue and Nervous Tension

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility and Population Restrictions

Aubepine (Hawthorn extract) is a traditional herbal medicinal product with specific eligibility rules determined by regulatory bodies. Eligibility is segmented by age, indication, and certain physiological states.

Populations for Whom Use is Allowed

Category Eligibility Status (Regulatory Wording)
Adults and Elderly Allowed for both nervous cardiac complaints and for mild mental stress/sleep aid.
Adolescents (12+ Years) Allowed for the use to relieve mild symptoms of mental stress and to aid sleep.

Populations for Whom Use is Not Recommended

Category Regulatory Status (Basis for Non-Recommendation)
Children under 12 Not recommended due to lack of adequate safety and efficacy data.
Adolescents under 18 Not recommended for the treatment of nervous cardiac complaints.
Pregnant/Lactating Women Not recommended as safety during these periods has not been established.

Absolute Contraindication

The medicine is formally contraindicated for any individual with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the active substance, Crataegus extract. No specific eligibility restrictions are documented based on renal or hepatic impairment in the official monograph. Furthermore, eligibility for use related to nervous cardiac complaints is conditional, permitted only after a medical doctor has excluded serious underlying cardiac conditions.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Aubepine (Hawthorn extract) has officially documented interaction patterns primarily characterized by pharmacodynamic synergism with other medicinal products, as described in regulatory documents. This classification indicates that the concurrent use of these substances may lead to an additive or increased physiological effect.

Drug–Drug Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Co-administration with cardioactive agents, such as digoxin, is documented to increase the effects of the cardioactive medicine. Similarly, the blood pressure-lowering action of antihypertensive agents (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) may be reinforced, potentially causing additive hypotensive effects. Aubepine is also documented to cause additive QTc interval prolongation when combined with QTc-prolonging medicines, and its use alongside agents like vandetanib is subject to regulatory restriction. Furthermore, concurrent use with CNS depressants may enhance the effects of central nervous system depression.

Substance and Laboratory Interactions

The product may engage in additive effects with alcohol, which can lead to increased sedation. A non-pharmacokinetic interaction is documented concerning laboratory procedures: Aubepine may interfere with specific immunoassay tests utilized to measure serum concentrations of digoxin, which can result in a reading that is falsely elevated.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of Aubepine (Hawthorn extract) is defined by a pleiotropic action targeting physiological pathways that modulate cardiac contractility and vascular integrity. This action involves the complementary mechanisms of its constituents: flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs).


Positive Inotropy and Cardiac Ion Modulation

Constituents modulate the Sodium-Potassium Pump ( Na^+/ K^+-ATPase) and influence the sensitivity of myofilaments to calcium ( Ca^2+). This action results in a positive inotropic effect, increasing the force of heart muscle contraction via a mechanism independent of beta-adrenergic signaling.


Vascular Tone Regulation and Reduced Resistance

Active components promote the release of Nitric Oxide ( NO) and inhibit Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) in vascular smooth muscle cells. This cascade causes vasodilation, reducing mechanical resistance (afterload) and promoting blood flow, particularly within the coronary arteries.


Cellular Cardioprotection via Antioxidant Activity

This domain involves influencing the functional status of cardiovascular tissues. The OPCs are antioxidants that actively scavenge Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) (free radicals) that cause cellular damage. This mechanism reduces the effect of oxidative stress and molecular damage, influencing the functional status of the heart muscle and the lining of the blood vessels.

Dosage and Administration Information

The use of Aubepine (Crataegus species leaf and flower extract) is generally recommended for adults as an adjunctive therapy for certain cardiovascular complaints. The appropriate method of administration and dosage depends significantly on the specific formulation and the indication being addressed.

Dosage and Administration

For products standardized to the active constituents, dosages for chronic heart failure (CHF) treatment in adults have been evaluated as commonly ranging from 160 to 900 mg daily of a standardized extract, often divided into two or three doses. Maximum benefits for certain CHF symptoms have been observed after six to twelve weeks of continuous therapy.

For traditional uses, such as relieving symptoms of temporary nervous cardiac complaints or mild mental stress, adult dosages vary by preparation type:

Preparation Type Standard Daily Dose (Adults)
Dried leaf and flower herbal tea Up to 4 cups daily (e.g., 1–2g per cup)
Dry Extract (e.g., in tablets/capsules) Typically 240–900 mg in divided doses

Important Considerations

  • Treatment Duration: The full therapeutic effect of Aubepine may require four to six weeks of continuous use. If symptoms persist or worsen after two weeks of use for traditional indications, consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary.
  • Interactions: Consult a physician before starting Aubepine if you are taking any cardiovascular medications (such as digoxin, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers) or blood-thinning medications, as interactions may occur.
  • Special Populations: The use of Aubepine is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation due to insufficient safety data. It is also generally not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Aubepine

Research Evidence for Chronic Heart Function Support

Research exploring standardized Aubepine extracts was studied for use in heart function, primarily relying on Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These short- to medium-term studies often compared the extract to a placebo or was observed in conjunction with conventional heart medications, defining it as an adjunctive measure. The studies monitored outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, such as measurements of how patients tolerated physical activity, as well as patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

Studies reported measurements showing patterns observed in the studies related to functional capacity, which was evaluated through measures like exercise tolerance. Trials reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, with differences measured during the study period when compared to the placebo groups. This evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns, but findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.

Evidence for Nervous Heart Complaints and Mild Stress

Aubepine was studied for temporary nervous complaints and mild stress based on its long history of documented use in phytotherapy. This traditional use is supported by regulatory monographs that acknowledge its application based on a history of use in settings with varying symptom burdens. The research describing these uses focuses on outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as temporary palpitations due to nervousness and associated sleep disturbances.

Evidence for these traditional uses suggests that findings help contextualize how patients reported their experience over time. However, the research foundation for this specific application is primarily historical and observational, and is limited regarding modern, controlled study data. Certainty remains low because there is an explicit lack of high-quality, randomized controlled trials to explore these nervous and mild stress indications.

What Remains Uncertain in the Research Record

Findings indicate several known limitations in the available evidence. The results apply only to the populations studied, and there is limited information for long-term outcomes, particularly concerning major clinical endpoints like hospitalization. Additionally, findings were sometimes mixed due to the specific, standardized extracts used across various trials, and direct comparisons remain uncertain. Research provides insight into short-term changes, but further studies exploring the consistency of results across a wider range of patients and over extended time intervals are necessary to contribute to the broader evidence landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Aubepine (FAQ)

Q: Is Aubepine a new medicine or has it been around for a while?

Aubepine (Hawthorn extract) is globally recognized as a traditional herbal medicinal product. Official documents reflect its long history of documented use in phytotherapy. This classification indicates that the medicine is established through traditional application rather than being a newly developed chemical entity.


Q: Is Aubepine known to cause drowsiness?

Official safety documents indicate that sleepiness or drowsiness is a potential side effect associated with the use of Aubepine. Because this medicine has a mild calming action and is sometimes used to aid sleep, it may affect alertness.


Q: Can Aubepine be used by people with a history of [general organ] problems?

The official product information has not established safety for use in individuals with severe liver or kidney disease. If a person has a history of major organ problems, professional medical supervision is necessary to determine the medicine's appropriateness.


Q: Do I need to avoid any specific foods or drinks while using Aubepine?

Official warnings focus on the potential for interactions with alcohol and certain prescription drugs. Specific warnings to avoid particular foods or non-alcoholic drinks are generally not provided in regulatory documents. A healthcare professional can offer clarity based on the specific formulation being used.


Q: Is it safe to use Aubepine with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

Regulatory information advises that using Aubepine alongside nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen should be done under professional guidance. This is due to the potential for an increased risk of bleeding.


Q: What does it mean if Aubepine has a black box warning?

A black box warning is a serious caution required by the FDA for drugs with life-threatening risks. According to official warnings and safety data, the hawthorn herbal supplement does not currently carry a black box warning.


Q: Does the time of day matter when using Aubepine?

The full daily dosage is often described as being divided into two or three doses. The optimal time for taking each dose can vary based on the product and the intended effect, particularly if the product is used to help aid sleep.


Q: What kind of monitoring is typically done while taking Aubepine?

Official regulatory guidance states that medical monitoring is typically needed, especially when taken alongside other heart medications. This monitoring can involve checking heart rate, blood pressure, and watching for signs of bleeding or potential drug interactions.


Q: Are there any long-term health concerns associated with Aubepine use?

Research supporting the use of Aubepine has primarily focused on short-term outcomes, with safety possibly established for periods up to 16 weeks. Official product information states that its safety when used continuously over long-term periods is not known.


Q: What should I do if I experience a mild stomach upset from Aubepine?

Mild stomach upset or nausea is listed in regulatory documents as a common adverse reaction. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or if they include unusual signs like bloody stools, any severe, persistent, or unusual symptoms warrant medical evaluation.


Q: Can Aubepine affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Aubepine has the potential to cause dizziness and can enhance the effects of central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Due to these potential effects on alertness, the potential for impaired ability to drive or operate machinery exists.


Q: Where can I find the official prescribing information for Aubepine?

The official labeling and prescribing information can be found on government health websites. These resources include regulatory bodies such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the U.S. FDA’s DailyMed database for the specific product used.


Q: What happens if I accidentally take too much Aubepine?

Taking too much of any medicinal product, including Aubepine, is considered a serious event. Official guidance states that immediate emergency medical attention is required or a regional Poison Control Center should be contacted.


Q: Does Aubepine need to be taken with food?

Specific instructions vary based on the product’s formulation, with some labeling indicating it can be taken with or without food. Referencing the specific product label is necessary for proper use conditions.


Q: Are there any specific tests needed before starting Aubepine?

For use concerning nervous heart complaints, official eligibility rules require that a serious underlying cardiac condition be excluded by a medical professional before starting the medicine. This assessment requires a medical professional to examine the cardiac condition.


Q: Is it necessary to use Aubepine indefinitely or can treatment be stopped?

The available safety data supports use for up to 16 weeks, suggesting a short-term treatment duration. Because official information has not established long-term safety, treatment is not typically assumed to be indefinite.


Q: Do people typically have to adjust their other medications when starting Aubepine?

Regulatory documents indicate that Aubepine may reinforce or increase the effects of other cardiovascular medications (like blood pressure drugs). Due to this potential for pharmacodynamic synergism, concurrent use requires a doctor's supervision for monitoring and dose management.


Q: What are the signs of a serious side effect from Aubepine?

While rare, a severe allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) is officially documented. Documented signs that require immediate medical evaluation include unusual bleeding from the nose or gums, bloody stools, or heart pounding in the chest.


Q: Is Aubepine primarily eliminated by the kidneys or the liver?

Official pharmacology information indicates that the active compounds of Aubepine undergo metabolism (chemical change) in the liver. Their elimination, or removal from the body, appears to be primarily through the kidneys.


Q: How long does Aubepine stay in your system?

Pharmacological studies describe the active compounds as having a short half-life. This suggests that any temporary adverse effects would typically diminish within a short period after discontinuation.

How should Aubepine be stored and disposed of?

Regulatory documents define mandatory conditions for the storage and disposal of Aubepine (Hawthorn) to ensure product quality and public safety. These rules apply to the product's entire shelf life:

  • Temperature and Environment: The product must be stored at a temperature that generally does not exceed 25 C. It is mandatory to protect from light and protect from moisture by storing in a dry place. The medicine must not be frozen.
  • Packaging Rules: Keep the medicine in the original package and ensure the container is tightly closed to maintain protection against humidity.
  • Child Protection: The product must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Disposal Instructions: Unused or expired Aubepine must be disposed of according to local regulations. The product must not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste to prevent environmental contamination, unless specific local instructions permit.

The official labeling mandates strict compliance with these protective storage conditions and requires that disposal follow established pharmaceutical waste procedures.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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