The following is written by Sheldon S. Sones, RPh, FASCP, President, Sheldon S. Sones and Associates.
When patients present their current drug regimens to your ambulatory surgery center, they should be inclusive not only of prescription medications but also over-the-counter products such as analgesics, gastrointestinal agents and … herbals.
Here are five common herbal medications, their claimed use, and what your ASC should watch for to help spot the usage of these medications and limit their negative side effects.
Ginkgo biloba
Claimed use: Peripheral arterial insufficiency of lower limbs, improved memory, dementia
Watch for: Hyphema (blood in eye), itching, use with anticoagulants
Echinacea
Claimed use: Antiviral, sinusitis, immunosuppressant
Watch for: Rash, burning sensation in mouth, shivering, possibly hepatotoxic
Gineseng
Claimed use: Stimulant or "tonic" for stamina, concentration, healing, stress resistance
Watch for: Hypertension, diarrhea, allergic skin reactions, agitation. May have anticoagulant properties so watch anticoagulants
St. John's wort
Claimed use: Treat anxiety, anorexia, antiulcerogenic, depression
Watch for: MAO inhibitor use, no use during pregnancy.
Saw palmetto
Claimed use: Treatment (or prophylactic) for prostate cancer and cystitis
Watch for: Gastric upset
References
Guide to Herbal Remedies, Drug Topics, August, 2007, Tebbett, I., 36-42
Nursing Drug Reference, Mosby, 22nd Edition, 2009
Learn more about Sheldon S. Sones and Associates and www.sheldonsones.com.
Read more from Sheldon Sones:
- 6 Strategies for Surgery Centers to Address Drug Shortages
- Tip: Two Small Investments to Save $100,000 in Drugs
