Combining herbal remedies and medicines?

Combining herbs and medicines

In the Netherlands, herbal remedies are available in different forms: as herbal medicines, herbal supplements and in homeopathic medicines. Always read the label and package insert before using an herbal product and a medicine. These may contain information about interactions with other products. Is there nothing on the label or package insert? The risk of interaction between products is not always known. Be alert if you want to combine medicines and herbal remedies. Do you have the feeling that your medicine is working less well or are you suddenly experiencing side effects? Then consult with us.

Do you want to know if you should pay attention when using herbal remedies?

Do the herbal check from the Medicines Evaluation Board here!

Please note that these are examples of known interactions of commonly used herbal medicines with drugs. The listed interactions are based on official product information of herbal medicines and scientific research. There may be interactions for other herbs and medications as well. Moreover, the listed interactions do not necessarily always occur. It depends, for example, on the concentration of active ingredient in the drug.

The efficacy and safety of supplements have not been scientifically evaluated. They vary quite a bit in composition and recommended daily dose. The effect and interaction with other drugs, therefore, is unpredictable.

Many of the medications listed below may interact with the herbs above: antipsychotics, antidepressants, painkillers, cardiovascular medications (e.g., blood pressure reducers and blood thinners), diabetes drugs, antacids, folic acid (B vitamin), antiviral drugs, antibiotics, anticancer drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, antifungal drugs, cholesterol reducers, antiepileptics, muscle relaxants, immune system suppressants, contraceptives.

Questions about combining herbal remedies/herbal medicines with your current medication? Ask us.

Source:cbg-meb.co.uk, medical file