Herbal medicines and supplements are often called "alternative medicine" because
in many cases we don't have a wealth of biomedical research to support their
safety and efficacy, ideal dosage, drug interactions, or side effects. The
use of these products, however, is definitely mainstream. According to Prevention
Magazine (7/99), Americans now make more than 600 million visits to
alternative practitioners per year, almost double the number of visits per year
to family physicians. And while 4 out of 10 Americans say they have tried some
form of alternative medicine, 7 out of 10 of those have not shared this information
with their physicians.
The good news about alternative medicines is that our research base to support
their use-or not-is increasing. I have some concerns about the bad news, however:
First, I am concerned about patients who fear the side effects of "traditional"
medicines, so they choose herbal remedies assuming that they "must" be safe,
since they're sold over-the-counter. Most consumers do not realize that herbal
products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration FDA) the same
way that prescription or standard over-the-counter medicines are.
Next, I am concerned about patients who think that "If a little is good, a
lot is better"-they take their prescriptions all right, as well as an several
other herbal products! Many of these products may overlap or interact.
Finally, I am concerned about patients who have been advised against taking
certain prescription products for medical reasons-and then take herbal "alternatives"
not realizing that their active ingredients may act in the same way.
The bottom line? If you are taking herbal products or supplements, know what
you're taking and why. As with any medicines, be sure to discuss them with
your healthcare provider and make sure this information is in your medical record.
Created: 3/26/2004  - Donnica Moore, M.D.