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Herbal remedies 'adversely affect heart patients taking meds' | Herbal supplements such as St. John's wort, gingko biloba, garlic and even grapefruit juice may adversely affect people taking medications for heart disease. The use of these products is especially concerning among elderly patients
who typically have co-morbidities, take multiple medications and are already at
greater risk of bleeding. "Many people have a false sense of security about these
herbal products because they are seen as 'natural,'" said Dr Arshad Jahangir,
Professor of Medicine and Consultant Cardiologist, Mayo Clinic Arizona. "But 'natural' doesn't always mean they are safe. Every compound we consume has some effect on the body, which is, in essence, why people are taking these products to begin with," he added. In addition to their direct effects on body function, these herbs
can interact with medications used to treat heart disease, either reducing their
effectiveness or increasing their potency, which may lead to bleeding or a greater
risk for serious cardiac arrhythmias. "We can see the effect of some of these
herb-drug interactions-some of which can be life-threatening-on tests for blood
clotting, liver enzymes and, with some medications, on electrocardiogram," Jahangir
added. John's wort, which is typically used to treat depression, anxiety and sleep
disorders among other problems, reduces the effectiveness of medications contributing
to recurrences of arrhythmia, high blood pressure or increase in blood cholesterol
levels and risk for future heart problems. Ginkgo biloba, which is supposedly
used to improve circulation or sharpen the mind, increases bleeding risk in those
taking warfarin or aspirin. Garlic, which supposedly helps boost the immune system
and is commonly used for its cholesterol and blood pressure lowering properties,
can also increase the risk of bleeding among those taking warfarin. "These herbs
have been used for centuries-well before today's cardiovascular medications-and
while they may have beneficial effects these need to be studied scientifically
to better define their usefulness and, more importantly, identify their potential
for harm when taken with medications that have proven benefit for patients with
cardiovascular diseases," said Jahangir. "Patients, physicians, pharmacists and
other healthcare providers need to know about the potential harm these herbs can
have," he added. The study is published in the Journal of the American College
of Cardiology. |
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