Safety issues in using complementary and alternative medicine.
OBJECTIVE
A number of reports have documented the apparent increasing popularity of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among cancer patients. Unfortunately, there are limited available published data regarding the potential toxicity of a variety of CAM strategies.


METHODS
A review of the medical literature was undertaken to highlight the potential side effects of CAM.


RESULTS
Although many CAM approaches are quite safe, both minor and major toxicities have been documented, including emesis, hypersensitivity reactions, cardiovascular events, neurologic dysfunction, hepatic and renal failure, and the development of malignant disease.


CONCLUSIONS
It is important that oncologists are aware of what nonprescription CAM medications are being taking by their patients and have a basic understanding of the potential toxicities of these agents.
Markman
Maurie
M
Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology and Taussig Cancer Center, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. markman@ccf.org
D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs