How Should Clinicians Respond to Patient Interest in Dietary Supplements to Treat Serious Chronic Illness?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data reveal that consumption of over-the-counter vitamins, minerals, and herbals is widespread. Many clinicians, however, lack critical information about their patients' use of dietary supplements. Particularly clinically relevant are supplement ingredients' interactions with prescription medications, supplements' questionable effectiveness in treating serious conditions, and their potential for causing harm. This article considers how clinicians might address dietary supplements' safety, efficacy, and appropriate use with patients.