Dietary supplements and herbal medicine toxicities—when to anticipate them and how to manage them
Authors
D Phua
Emergency Department, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, 11 Jalan, Tan Tock Seng, S(308433) Singapore
A Zosel
Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, CO USA
K Heard
Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, CO USA
Keywords:
Dietary supplements, Herbals, Toxicity, Poisoning, Drug contamination, Herb-drug interaction
Abstract
Dietary supplements and herbal medicines are gaining popularity in many developed countries.
Aims
Although most can be used without any problem, serious toxicities do occur.
Methods
Problems can be anticipated when they are used for non-traditional indications, at excessive dose, for prolonged duration, or by patients who are also on multiple modern pharmaceuticals. Problems should also be anticipated when these products claim to be able to relieve symptoms rapidly or when herbs with pronounced pharmacological effects or toxic components are used.
Results
Resuscitation, symptomatic and supportive care are the most important aspects of management of toxicities from these products.
Conclusion
This article reviews when problems with these products can be anticipated and outlines a practical approach to management.
Keywords: Dietary supplements, Herbals, Toxicity, Poisoning, Drug contamination, Herb-drug interaction
Author Biography
K Heard, Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, CO USA
Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado, Denver, CO USA
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