Drug-supplement interactions in perspective
Researchers from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota have reviewed the evidence and report that most interactions are confined to a relatively small number of drug classes and supplements.
First, the details.
- 1818 patients treated at the Mayo Clinic in 6 different specialty clinics were surveyed for their use of dietary supplements.
- Concurrent use of prescription drugs was obtained from patients’ medical records.
- A computerized search was used to assess the potential significance of each interaction on the patients’ health.
And, the results.
- 710 (40%) of the 1795 patients who responded reported use of dietary supplements.
- 107 interactions with potential clinical significance were identified.
- The 5 most common natural products with a potential for interaction accounted for 68% of the potential clinically significant interactions.
- Garlic
- Valerian
- Kava
- Ginkgo
- St John’s wort
- The 4 most common classes of prescription medications with a potential for interaction accounted for 94% of the potential clinically significant interactions.
- Antithrombotic medications
- Sedative
- Antidepressant drugs
- Antidiabetes drugs
The bottom line?
No patient was harmed seriously from any interaction.
It’s still a good idea to include a list of your supplements with your prescription drugs when you go to the doctor.
3/22/08 20:31 JR