CAM

Question 1

contrast complementary and alternative medicine.

Answer 1

complementary: non-mainstream practice used together with conventional medicine
alternative: non-mainstream practice used in place of conventional medicine

Question 2

Name the issues with CAM.

Answer 2

1. Contamination with poisonous chemicals
2. Adulteration with potentially harmful western drugs
3. Misidentification of plant species

Question 3

List the beneficial effects of garlic.

Answer 3

• blocks cholesterol synthesis
• inhibits clot formation
• interferes with platelet aggregation
• dilates blood vessels
• lowers blood pressure

Question 4

List the adverse drug reactions of garlic.

Answer 4

• GIT related symptoms
• burning sensation in the mouth

Question 5

What are potential DDIs when taking garlic?

Answer 5

• increased risk of bleeding (with aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, gingko biloba)
• increased breakdown of anti-HIV drugs

Question 6

Explain the mechanism of action of St John’s Wort.

Answer 6

• active ingredient is hypericin (0.3%)
• inhibits MAO and reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine (in the brain)
• hence improves symptoms in patients with mild to moderate depression

Question 7

What are the adverse drug reactions of St John’s Wort?

Answer 7

• allergic dermatitis
• CNS effects (insomnia)
• dry mouth
• GIT discomfort
• photodermatitis (at high dose)

Question 8

What are the DDIs associated with St John’s Wort?

Answer 8

• CYP450 enzyme inducer
• enhances effects of serotonin and serotoninergic transmission

Question 9

What are the effects of Gingko Biloba?

Answer 9

• dilates blood vessels
• reduces blood viscosity
• anti free radicals
• inhibits platelet aggregation
• may be beneficial in asthma

Question 10

What is Gingko Biloba used for?

Answer 10

1. CNS memory disorders
2. peripheral vascular disorders
3. erectile dysfunction
4. eye problems (eg glaucoma, diabetic eye disease)

Question 11

What are the adverse drug reactions of Gingko Biloba?

Answer 11

• nausea and constipation
• CNS effects

Question 12

What are the DDIs of Gingko Biloba?

Answer 12

should not be taken with aspirin and warfarin

Question 13

What is the active ingredient in Ginseng?

Answer 13

ginsenosides mainly found in roots

Question 14

What is Ginseng used for?

Answer 14

• immunomodulatory effects
• anti-cancer effects
• reduce after-food glucose levels

Question 15

Name 5 effects of Ginseng.

Answer 15

1. modulation of immune function
2. anti cancer activity
3. anti-inflammatory effects
4. cardioprotection
5. vasoregulatory effects
6. analgesia
7. glucose homeostasis
8. anti-stress activity
9. effects on CNS activity
10. anti-platelet activity
11. anti-oxidant activity

Question 16

What are the adverse drug reactions associated with Ginseng?

Answer 16

• oestrogenic properties (breast swelling, breast pain, menstrual irregularities)
• insomnia and nervousness
• hypertension

Question 17

What are the DDIs of Ginseng?

Answer 17

• should not be taken in diabetics, warfarin, CNS drugs, immunocompromised patients
• bleeding increased when taken with warfarin
• avoid in psych patients taking lithium