[Risk-free complementary and alternative medicine?].
In public opinion methods and drugs of the so called complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) are regarded as safe and risk-free. The data on both efficacy and risks and adverse events (AEs) are insufficient. But serious direct (e.g., injuries, immunological AFs, drug interactions) and indirect risks (cases of missed essential diagnoses and therapy, etc.) and even deaths have been recorded. Refusal of vaccination poses a risk to both individuals and the general public. Factors increasing these risks by promoting questionable methods need to be considered as well. The public needs to be informed of the risks. An increased vigilance of physicians and the systematic collection of data is required.
Burkhard
Barbara
B
Medizinischer Dienst der Krankenversicherung Bayern, München. b.b.burkhard@t-online.de
D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008318:Malpractice / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000592:standards; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012449:Safety