Are Emergency Department Patients at Risk for Herb—Drug Interactions?

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of herbal and/or dietary supplement use and identify patients at risk for herb—drug interactions. Methods: A convenience sample of 944 patients were surveyed to determine the prevalence and types of supplements used. Patients with heart disease, diabetes, psychiatric disorders, and/or hypertension were assessed for potential interactions. Results: One hundred thirty‐five (14.3%) patients reported regular use. Of these, 79.3% were taking supplements concurrently with prescription medications, and 80.0% were administered medication(s) in the emergency department. Cardiac: 19.8% (n? 33) reported regular use, with four potential interactions. Hypertension: 20.3% (n? 54) reported regular use, with two potential interactions. Diabetes: 15.9% (n? 20) reported regular use, with no known interactions. Psychiatric: 15.9% (n? 10) reported regular use, with one potential interaction. Conclusions: Six patients were identified at risk for seven known herb—drug interactions. The prevalence of undisclosed herbal supplement use and lack of research on these supplements suggest that more patients may be at risk.