Drug Database - Kava

Common Names: kava, kava kava, awa, kava pepper

Latin Name: Piper methysticum

Classification: Herb / Dietary Supplement

Kava has been used to help people fall asleep and fight fatigue, as well as to treat asthma and urinary tract infections. Topically, kava has been used as a numbing agent. Today, kava is used primarily for anxiety, insomnia, and menopausal symptoms.

Although scientific studies provide some evidence that kava may be beneficial for the management of anxiety, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning that using kava supplements has been linked to a risk of severe liver damage.

Kava is not a proven therapy for other uses. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) funded studies on kava were suspended after the FDA issued its warning.

Kava has been reported to cause liver damage, including hepatitis and liver failure (which can cause death).

Kava has been associated with several cases of dystonia (abnormal muscle spasm or involuntary muscle movements). Kava may interact with several drugs, including drugs used for Parkinson's disease.

Long-term and/or heavy use of kava may result in scaly, yellowed skin.

Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery while taking kava because the herb has been reported to cause drowsiness.

Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.