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Herbs / Supplements
There's a new concern that St. John's wort may increase the risk of cataracts.
Some researchers say the hypericin can react with ultraviolet light. . .producing free radicals that can damage the eye.
This is preliminary.. .but could be very important.
Until more is known, caution patients using St. John's wort to limit their exposure to bright light, use sunglasses,
etc.
There's a new report of a significant interaction between warfarin and dong quai.
This herb is used for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. It's thought to have antispasmodic effects.
But dong quai may double the INR in warfarin patients.
It contains natural coumarins and other substances that can inhibit blood clotting.
Advise patients to steer clear of dong quai.
Explain that there's no convincing evidence that it's
effective for menopausal symptoms. . .plus it can increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin.i509t5
Many other natural medicines might interfere with warfarin. An increased risk of bleeding might happen with garlic...
ginger.. .ginkgo. . .feverfew. . .fish oils. . .and vitamin E. Some supplements have the OPPOSITE effect.
Warfarin can become less effective if taken with herbs that
contain vitamin K such as alfalfa.. .parsley. . . stinging nettle. . .and great plantain.
And possibly large amounts of green tea.
All these herb-related interactions are very easy to find
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