Medical College of Wisconsin
CTSICores SearchResearch InformaticsREDCap

Dietary supplements and herbal medicine toxicities-when to anticipate them and how to manage them. Int J Emerg Med 2009 Jun 10;2(2):69-76

Date

02/17/2010

Pubmed ID

20157447

Pubmed Central ID

PMC2700222

DOI

10.1007/s12245-009-0105-z

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-77953478977 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   72 Citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Dietary supplements and herbal medicines are gaining popularity in many developed countries.

AIMS: Although most can be used without any problem, serious toxicities do occur.

METHODS: Problems can be anticipated when they are used for non-traditional indications, at excessive dose, for prolonged duration, or by patients who are also on multiple modern pharmaceuticals. Problems should also be anticipated when these products claim to be able to relieve symptoms rapidly or when herbs with pronounced pharmacological effects or toxic components are used.

RESULTS: Resuscitation, symptomatic and supportive care are the most important aspects of management of toxicities from these products.

CONCLUSION: This article reviews when problems with these products can be anticipated and outlines a practical approach to management.

Author List

Phua DH, Zosel A, Heard K

Author

Amy Elizabeth Zosel MD Professor in the Emergency Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin