Complementary and alternative medicine for the allergist-immunologist: where do I start?

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Healthcare Management
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is prevalent, with nearly 40% of patients using or considering CAM.
• Natural products, including herbals, are common CAM therapies, with over 5% of children using CAM for allergies like asthma.
• Physicians face significant challenges in managing CAM information due to its volume, quality, and associated liability risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide physicians with a structured approach to CAM consultations.
• To address legal and logistical factors influencing CAM encounters.
• To highlight the need for improved information access and safety surveillance for CAM therapies.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review focusing on CAM consultation strategies.
• Presentation of a 10-step process for conducting CAM consultations and documentation.
• Emphasis on the critical role of high-quality information resources like the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.

Main Results:

• A 10-step process is outlined to guide physicians through CAM consultations.
• The importance of accessing specific efficacy and safety data for CAM products is emphasized.
• Limited understanding of serious adverse events associated with CAM necessitates improved surveillance.

Conclusions:

• Physicians require efficient tools and information to manage CAM consultations effectively.
• Enhanced safety surveillance and international information sharing are crucial for CAM therapies.
• The allergy-immunology specialty is uniquely positioned to advance CAM-related adverse event evaluation and research.