Health Tip

Herbal Supplements

Many people take over-the-counter herbs, which are considered a form of dietary supplements. You probably know someone who takes herbal supplements, or perhaps you take them yourself. People take herbs for a variety of reasons ranging from general health improvement to care of chronic conditions.
        Like prescription medicines, herbs can have benefits. However, they, like prescription medications, can also have unwanted side effects, cause drug interactions, and possibly create surgical problems.
       You should always check with your physician before taking a supplement of any kind. Dietary supplements, including herbs, may not be risk-free for certain people and/or in certain situations. Take your herbs and other dietary supplements with you when you visit the doctor. Your doctor can review your supplements with you and discuss any possible problems or risks with you.
       Some dietary supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Pay attention to warnings about these products, whether taken alone or in combination. For example, Coumadin (a prescription medicine), gingko biloba (an herb), aspirin (an over-the-counter drug), and vitamin E (a vitamin) can each thin the blood. If you are taking any of these products together, you could be at an increased risk for internal bleeding. Taking St. John’s Wort with certain HIV drugs significantly reduces their effectiveness. St John’s Wort may also decrease the effectiveness of prescription drugs for heart disease, depression, seizures, certain cancers, or birth control pills.
       If you are scheduled for surgery, remember to tell your surgeon and healthcare providers about any vitamins, minerals, herbs, or any other supplements that you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking these products for a period prior to your operation to avoid potentially dangerous supplement/drug interactions, such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and increased bleeding.
       If you are pregnant, nursing a baby, or have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, consult your physician before purchasing any supplements. Although vitamin and mineral supplements are widely used and generally considered safe for children, you should check with your child’s doctor before giving supplements to your child. Large doses of any medication or supplement can be dangerous. More is not always better. Do not take larger than the recommended doses.
       One of the most important things that you can do is to take the time to study your medications and supplements. By learning about their side effects and any possible drug interactions, you can avoid possible problems and risks to your health.