Geriatrics. 2001 Aug; 56(8): 44-7.

Alternative medicine. Achieving balance between herbal remedies and medical therapy.

Rhodes-Kropf J, Lantz MS, .

Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Adult Development, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA.

The case patient was taking multiple herbal preparations as well as the prescription hypnotic zolpidem. The combination was probably increasing the patient's confusion, agitation, and aggression. The treatment team reached a compromise with the daughter after providing her with education and support. They continued the wheat germ oil and a multivitamin supplement, which appeared safe, even if of limited value. The patient continued taking valproate, 125 mg bid, which reduced her physical aggression and improved resistance to care. All other herbal remedies and zolpidem were discontinued. Balancing traditional therapies with requests for herbal remedies is a common challenge for physicians. The most successful intervention occurs when doctors familiarize themselves with herbal preparations and educate patients and families about the treatments.