Herbal and nonherbal supplements in medical-psychiatric patient populations.
Nutritional supplements remain a popular choice for patients seeking relief or prevention from a wide range of physical and mental disorders. Review of available literature finds support for some therapeutic uses, but flaws in study design (e.g., small sample sizes) and methodology (e.g., inadequate blinding and a lack of placebo control) limit the possibility of making strong recommendations. Quality-control issues also raise concerns about the safety of supplement use (see previous list). In addition, potential interactions with prescription drugs are another consideration (Table 1). By becoming more knowledgeable about the risks and benefits of nutritional supplements, psychiatrists can assist patients in making informed choices and avoiding unnecessary harm.
Crone
Catherine C
CC
Department of Psychiatry, Inova Transplant Center, Falls Church, Virginia, USA.
Gabriel
Geoffrey
G
D016907:Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000188:drug therapy*; D019587:Dietary Supplements / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000523:psychology; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012651:Self Medication
D010936:Plant Extracts