Friday, April 04, 2008
Drug Interactions
Herbal Supplements And Arthritis Drugs Can Be Dangerous Mix
Not all supplements are safe if you are taking arthritis medications. According to a study in the May 2005 issue of Annals of The Rheumatic Diseases, researchers anonymously surveyed 238 arthritis patients from three clinics in England about the arthritis drugs and supplements they took, as well as their knowledge of possible interactions.
44% reported taking an herbal or dietary supplement in the last 6 months
Only about 25% of those who took a supplement were aware of any risk
Many who were not aware of the risk said their doctor told them is was "ok"
1 in 3 had taken cod liver oil
1 in 5 had taken glucosamine and/or chondroitin
1 in 10 reported taking supplements known to interact with some arthritis medications
5 of 120 patients taking DMARDS raised their risk of liver toxicity by taking echinacea
10% of patients taking NSAIDS increased their risk of bleeding problems by taking ginkgo biloba, garlic, and devil's claw.