Potential coagulation effects of preoperative complementary and alternative medicines.

Abstract

Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are commonly consumed by patients before surgery, though CAM use seldom is revealed during preoperative assessment. Many alternative medicines may interact with anesthetic drugs to inhibit coagulation, precipitating unnecessary surgical blood loss. This article reviews research of herbs and dietary supplements that have effects on the coagulation process. Knowledge of specific pharmacodynamic mechanisms of action is essential to determine herbs and dietary supplements that may interact with drugs that alter the hemostatic process. Further integrative research, education of practitioners, and greater patient communication are necessary to prevent herb-supplement drug interactions that may inhibit coagulation in surgical patients.

• Authors: C L Norred, F Brinker
• Journal: Alternative therapies in health and medicine (Altern Ther Health Med) 2001 Nov-Dec Vol. 7 Issue 6 Pg. 58-67 ISSN: 1078-6791 [Print] United States
• PMID: 11712472 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S., Review)

Chemical References

• Anticoagulants
• Coumarins
• coumarin

Topics

• Anticoagulants (adverse effects)
• Blood Coagulation (drug effects)
• Complementary Therapies (adverse effects)
• Coumarins (adverse effects)
• Dietary Supplements
• Drug Interactions
• Humans
• Phytotherapy (adverse effects)
• Platelet Aggregation (drug effects)
• Postoperative Hemorrhage (chemically induced)
• Preoperative Care
• Self Medication