Can Alternative Medicine Affect my Other Medications?

Alternative medicine, like any treatment, has the potential to interact with other drugs. This interaction can affect how well the medicines work or increase the risk of side effects.

The active compounds in some forms of alternative medicine, such as herbal remedies or plant-based therapies, are processed in the liver by enzymes that also handle many prescription drugs.

Potential Drug Interactions

Certain active compounds in alternative medicine are metabolized in the liver by enzymes that also process many prescription medications. This means there is potential for interactions, which can either enhance or reduce the effects of other drugs or increase the risk of side effects.

Blood Thinners

Alternative medicine therapies can affect the metabolism of blood thinners such as warfarin, potentially increasing their levels in the blood and leading to a higher risk of bleeding. Patients taking blood thinners should be closely monitored by their doctor.

Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications

Combining certain alternative medicine therapies with these medications can amplify their effects, potentially leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, or even exacerbation of anxiety in some cases.

Pain Medications

When used alongside opioids or other pain relievers, alternative medicine might alter the effectiveness of these drugs. This interaction can vary, potentially enhancing pain relief for some patients while increasing side effects like nausea and dizziness for others.

Anti-Seizure Medications

Some alternative treatments, such as CBD, have shown promise in treating certain types of epilepsy. However, they can also interact with anti-seizure drugs, requiring careful dose adjustments and monitoring to avoid adverse effects.

Immunosuppressants

Patients taking immunosuppressive drugs, often prescribed for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or after organ transplants, should be cautious. Alternative medicine can potentially impact the immune system and alter the effectiveness of these medications.

Final Thoughts

As patients, the journey with alternative medicine and other medications requires vigilance, communication with your doctor, and a willingness to adapt. While it can be daunting, the potential benefits of improved symptom management and quality of life make it a journey worth undertaking.