Complementary/Alternative Medicine Flashcards
What is complementary medicine
A combination of other forms of med (eg TCM) with conventional(Western medicine)
What is Alternative Medicine
Using other forms of medicine (TCM) to completely replace Conventional medicine(Western)
What are some problems associated with CAM?
CAM > Contamination(accidental adding of contaminants eg herbicides, toxic minerals), Adulteration( Adding western medicines intentionally), Misidentification
What is a complication that commonly results from CAM
Hepatotoxicity
What is St. John’s Wort used for?
treat MILD TO MODERATE depression
What are some complications of St. John’s Wort?
Increased BP, Serotonin Syndrome(esp if you take with SSI), GIT discomfort
What diseases do Garlic help with?
Hypertension, Atherosclerosis
What is the mode of action of Garlic?
Dilates Blood Vessels, reduces clotting
Possible complication of garlic
Increased Bleeding (esp when taken with blood thinners such as Warfarin)
(just for fun) Which part of Gingko Biloba do you eat?
The leaves
What are the benefits of Gingko
Reduces clotting and helps with thrombotic/atherosclerotic pnts . Also helps with Brain function (better memory, concentration etc)
What is the Mode of Action of Ginkgo
It thins the blood(reduces viscocity) and reduces platelet aggregation
How does Gingko increase Brain functions?
Increased blood flow to the brain
What drugs can you NOT take with Gingko
Blood thinners eg Aspirin, Warfarin
What forms of TCM should you be wary of? (pills, soup, powder)
Pills and powder > more concentrated and easily contaminated/adultered
