Perioperative Implications of Five Herbal Medications

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

 

- Insulin, PPD, Vaccines and the 28-Day Rule: Q&A With Sheldon Sones of Sheldon S. Sones and Associates

 

- Tip: Two Small Investments to Save $100,000 in Drugs

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