Are you taking over-the-counter or prescription medicine? Dealing with a chronic health problem? Preparing for surgery? If so, be especially cautious of supplements.
Supplement-medication combos may interfere with or boost the effect of medication to harmful levels. Either way, their interaction may become dangerous.
Consider some examples:
- Vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo biloba, as well as aspirin and Coumadin (prescription drug) all thin blood.
- St. John’s wort can make oral contraceptives, as well as prescription drugs for treating heart disease, depression, certain cancers, or seizures, less effective.
- Ephedra (in some weight-loss products), garlic, ginkgo, kava, St. John’s wort, and valerian can change your heart rate and blood pressure and increase bleeding—risky for surgery.
If you choose to use supplements, protect your health.
- Listen for health alerts. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issues advisories about products causing adverse reactions.
- Let your doctor and pharmacist know! Talk about any supplements you take, especially if you’re having surgery, taking any medication, or dealing with a health problem. (Probably stop any supplement at least two to three weeks before elective surgery.)
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