68395: HERBAL MEDICATIONS: AN EVIDENCE-BASED REVIEW

Course overview

Patients, and in some cases healthcare providers as well, are not fully aware of the health risks incurred by ingestion of herbal medications, either due to their potential adverse effects or pharmacologic interactions with other medications. This situation is further compounded by the fact that 40% to 70% of the patients taking herbal medications do not disclose this fact to their healthcare provider. This course provides the knowledge and tools required for clinicians to discuss natural health products with patients and other members of the healthcare team. It also discusses the need for physicians and nurses to actively inquire if the patient is taking herbal medications and take this information into account prior to prescribing new medications. A brief historical background and an overview of regulatory bodies responsible for overseeing herbal medications is provided. Relevant examples of widely used herbal compounds are presented. Clinically relevant information on commonly used herbal medications regarding therapeutic effectiveness, pharmacologic mechanism of action, adverse effects and drug interactions are reviewed based on scientific evidence.