Taking supplements with your meds?

The Tranquil Way, Dr. Douglas Street

There are persons who try very hard to maintain their health and who may go beyond taking medications by adding supplements to their daily regime because they believe they will help. Many don't consider if there could be any consequences to this action, but is it safe?

Garlic is a very commonly used herbal treatment and, in fact, is used as a seasoning for various food preparations. It is used in the treatment of high cholesterol, circulatory disorders, hypertension, various infections, and other ailments. It can, however, increase the risk of bleeding in persons using NSAIDs (eg aspirin and ibuprofen) and anti-clotting medications (eg warfarin and clopidogrel). It may also interact with some HIV, diabetes, and thyroid treatments.

Echinacea is another commonly used herb. It is used especially for viral respiratory infections. Prolonged used should be avoided, though, as it may be harmful to the liver, especially if combined with medications which are also harsh on the liver.

Gingko biloba has been shown to be useful in circulatory disorders in the extremities and the brain. It is sometimes used to treat dementia. Like garlic, though, it may increase the risk of bleeding in combination with NSAIDs and anti-clotting medications. It may also interact with medications used to treat hypertension, diabetes, seizures, dementia, and depression.

GINSENG

Ginseng is also a popular herb used to enhance strength and vitality. It has also been found to be useful in the treatment of heart disease, diabetes, and a weak immune system. It can, however, interact with NSAIDs and anti-clotting medications and medications used to treat hypertension, psychosis, heart failure, cancer and cholesterol. It may also negatively affect hormone-sensitive disorders such as breast cancer and endometriosis.

St John's wort is probably the most commonly used herbal treatment for depression. It may, however, interact with many medications such as those used for depression, HIV, seizures, cholesterol, anxiety, circulation, migraine, and various infections.

Vitamin E has been shown to be useful in treating circulatory problems and is important for optimal immune function. It may interact with anti-clotting medications, as expected.

Ginger is frequently consumed for its flavour and it is also useful to treat nausea and vomiting caused from pregnancy and possibly chemotherapy. It may, however, interact with anti-clotting medications, increasing the risk of bleeding, and antacids.

When seeing the doctor, discuss the supplements you use so you can be properly advised about the safety of the individual combination.