PTCB PTCE Question Answer
St. John's Wort is primarily used as a(n):
immune enhancer
mild antidepressant
antioxidant
antihypertensive
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)is anherbal supplementcommonly used formild to moderate depression.
Containshypericin and hyperforin, which may increaseserotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrinelevels.
Often used as analternative treatment for depression, but not FDA-approved for this indication.
Hasserious drug interactions, including withantidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), warfarin, oral contraceptives, and cyclosporine.
(A) Immune enhancer❌Incorrect – Not primarily used to boost the immune system.
(B) Mild antidepressant✅Correct – Used for mild depression.
(C) Antioxidant❌Incorrect – While it has some antioxidant properties, this is not its primary use.
(D) Antihypertensive❌Incorrect – It does not lower blood pressure.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) – St. John’s Wort:https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
MedlinePlus – St. John's Wort Drug Interactions:https://medlineplus.gov
PTCB Exam Content Outline – Herbal Supplements & Drug Interactions
How St. John’s Wort Works:Analysis of Answer Choices:References for Pharmacy Technicians:
TESTED 20 Dec 2025
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