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Herb-drug interactions

Long-Term Care Nursing Advisor, March 11, 2005

With herbal supplements gaining mainstrain popularity, it is essential that you closely monitor your residents for possible herb-drug interactions.

Some common herbal supplements and dangerous interactions include:

  • Dong quai: Can interact with warfarin, estrognens, photosensitizing drugs, anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and a number of other medications
  • Echninacea: Should be used with caution with other immunosuppressive therapies
  • Ginkgo biloba: Can interact with Warfarin, NSAIDs, and MAO inhibitors
  • Glucomannan: Should be avoided by diabetics; delays absorption of glucose from intestines
  • Kava: Can interact with CNS depressants and benzodiazepines
  • Siberian ginseng: Can increase digoxin levels
  • No matter what herbal supplements your resident is taking be sure to check any potential interaction with medications. If you have any questions, consult your pharamacist or the resident's physician.

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