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Complementary medicine use in cardiovascular disease: a clinician's viewpoint
Hosen Kiat1, Yu Sun Bin, Suzanne Grant
1Australian School of Advanced Medicine, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW. hosen.kiat@chi.org.au
The Medical Journal of Australia
|December 17, 2011
Summary
Patients with cardiovascular disease are more susceptible to negative side effects from complementary medicines. This highlights the need for careful consideration of these therapies in cardiac patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affects a significant population worldwide.
- Complementary medicines are widely used, sometimes concurrently with conventional treatments.
- Potential interactions between complementary medicines and cardiovascular drugs are a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the heightened risk of adverse effects from complementary medicines in patients with cardiovascular disease.
- To identify specific complementary medicines that may pose a greater risk to cardiac patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on complementary medicine use in cardiovascular patients.
- Analysis of reported adverse events and drug interactions.
- Assessment of pharmacological mechanisms underlying potential interactions.
Main Results:
- Patients with cardiovascular disease exhibit increased susceptibility to adverse effects of complementary medicines.
- Certain herbal supplements and other complementary therapies have been associated with negative cardiovascular outcomes.
- Evidence suggests potential for interactions with common cardiovascular medications.
Conclusions:
- Cardiovascular patients require cautious use of complementary medicines.
- Healthcare providers should counsel patients on the risks associated with complementary therapies.
- Further research is needed to elucidate specific risks and interactions.
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