FB - Pharmacology and Toxicology of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Flashcards
What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)?
Health care practices outside of mainstream Western medicine.
When is a non-mainstream practice considered “complementary”?
When used alongside conventional medicine.
When is it considered “alternative”?
When used in place of conventional medicine.
What are three main problems associated with CAM use?
Contamination, adulteration, misidentification.
Name one herbal supplement associated with hepatotoxicity.
Mahogany seeds.
What are the active components in garlic capsules?
Allicin and other sulfur compounds.
How do garlic capsules benefit the cardiovascular system?
Lowers blood pressure mildly, inhibits platelet aggregation.
Name a potential drug-herb interaction with garlic.
Increased risk of bleeding with blood thinners.
What is St. John’s Wort used for?
Mild to moderate depression.
What enzyme does St. John’s Wort induce?
CYP450 enzyme.
Name a side effect of St. John’s Wort.
Allergic dermatitis
How does Ginkgo Biloba benefit cognitive function?
Enhances blood flow to the brain.
What is a potential ADR of Ginkgo Biloba?
Nausea and constipation.
Name a drug that should not be taken with Ginkgo Biloba.
Aspirin, due to increased bleeding risk.
What are ginsenosides?
The main active components of Ginseng.