More than a million over-65s may suffer dangerous side-effects because they are taking herbal remedies and dietary supplements alongside drugs prescribed by their GP, a study has found.
Some ‘hazardous’ combinations can increase the risk of bleeding, raise blood sugar levels or stop medications from working effectively, warned scientists.
They stressed that statins, diabetes drugs and stomach acid pills can interact negatively with popular health supplements.
Omega-3 fish oil tablets are a popular health supplement that can interact negatively with medication. File photo
Natural remedies such as St John’s wort and dietary supplements including omega-3 fish oil and calcium tablets are taken by millions of Britons for their supposed health benefits.
But doctors say older patients who are on common medications are unwittingly putting themselves in danger by taking alternative therapies at the same time.
They estimate that 1.3million people in the UK are taking dangerous combinations.
Researchers from the University of Hertfordshire questioned 149 patients over 65 who were taking at least one prescribed medication.
Almost half of women – 44 per cent – said they were regularly using herbal remedies or supplements, along with 22 per cent of men.
The patients – who were receiving treatment for health problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and an over-active thyroid – took between one and 18 prescription drugs.
Scientists found six combinations that either posed a ‘significant’ hazard or were potentially hazardous.
older patients who are on common medications are unwittingly putting themselves in danger by taking alternative therapies such as St John’s wort. File photo
They said people with high blood pressure and taking St John’s wort, believed to be a natural sleep aid, are significantly reducing the effectiveness of life-saving statins.
Similarly, omega-3 fish oil – said to boost brain, joint and heart health – can be dangerous when taken with beta-blockers as it interferes with the medication and could make blood pressure too low.
The study, published in the British Journal of GPs, said doctors should ask patients about their herb and supplement use.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, which monitors drug safety, said: ‘Patient safety is our highest priority.’
It urged patients to read leaflets included with medicines and to speak to their GP if in doubt.