The complementary and alternative medicine I choose is ginkgo biloba
At the completion of this assignment, the student will be able to:
- Identify the characteristics of a complementary or alternative medication.
- Locate and interpret quality research information on CAMs.
- Describe the risks and benefits of the CAM product and the interventions
needed to maintain patient safety.
Instructions:
Step 1: Choose a complementary or alternative medication. Do NOT choose a treatment,
or a vitamin. Look in the supplement aisle of the drug store for ideas. If you are not
sure, consult with the instructor. Some options include, but are not limited to: aloe
vera, angelica, arnica, bilberry, black cohosh, burdock, capsicum, chromium
picolinate, comfrey, deglycerinated licorice, echinacea, ephedra, evening primrose,
garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, glucosamine and chondroitin, hawthorn, holly, kava-kava,
melatonin, milk thistle, MSM, red rice yeast, saw palmetto, St. John’s wort, tea tree oil,
ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q 10), valerian, yohimbe.
Step 2: Research the medication using a minimum of 3 professional, high quality peer
reviewed journals, websites, and databases. At least 1 should be in nursing.
Step 3: Using APA style with citations as needed, be sure to explain the following:
A. Introduction: What is the definition of a CAM product? How is it regulated by
the FDA? What are the laws pertaining to CAM products? What are the pros and
cons of these products? What is the appeal to patients? What are the problems
generally involved when patients take these products?
B. Describe your product. Be sure to include:
- Brand and generic names for the CAM.
- Where does it come from (what natural source)?
- Indications: What is it usually used for? What is it supposed to do?
- How does it work? Explain the current theories of action.
5 Recommended dosages and routes available (be very specific).
C. Describe the negative issues associated with this product. Be sure to include:
- Are there any side effects or adverse effects?
- Is there anyone who should not take this medication? Why?
- Are there any medications that should not be mixed with this substance?
Why? Explain what could happen.
D. Review the research that has been done on this product.
- Briefly describe each study. Include the following:
a. How many people participated?
b. How long did they take the CAM?
c. How did they measure the effect?
d. What did they find?
E. What teaching should the patient receive about this CAM product?
F. Opinion: Is the research enough to recommend this to a patient? Would you try it?
G. Reference page in APA style.
Title: Exploring Ginkgo Biloba: A Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Introduction
Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) are non-conventional treatments or substances used alongside or as alternatives to conventional medicine. These products are regulated differently from pharmaceuticals by the FDA and have their own set of pros and cons. This essay focuses on ginkgo biloba, a popular CAM and explores its characteristics, indications potential adverse effects, available research, patient education, and personal opinion.
A. Definition and Regulation of CAM Products
CAM products encompass a range of treatments derived from natural sources, such as plants and herbs.
The FDA regulates CAM products as dietary supplements, which means they are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval processes as pharmaceutical drugs.
The laws pertaining to CAM products require manufacturers to ensure their safety and accurately label their contents.
Pros of CAM products include potential natural remedies for certain conditions and patient empowerment in managing their health. Cons include lack of standardization, potential interactions with conventional medications, and limited scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.
B. Characteristics of Ginkgo Biloba
Brand Name: Ginkgo Biloba (also known as maidenhair tree)
Source: Extracted from the leaves of the ginkgo tree
Indications: Ginkgo biloba is often used to improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. It is also believed to enhance blood flow and act as an antioxidant.
Mechanism of Action: Ginkgo biloba contains flavonoids and terpenoids that are thought to have neuroprotective and vasodilatory effects.
Recommended Dosages: Typical doses range from 120-240 mg per day, divided into two or three doses.
C. Negative Issues Associated with Ginkgo Biloba
Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mild side effects such as headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur.
Contraindications: Ginkgo biloba should be avoided by individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications due to an increased risk of bleeding.
Drug Interactions: Ginkgo biloba may interact with anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and some psychiatric medications. These interactions may increase the risk of bleeding or alter the effectiveness of certain medications.
D. Research on Ginkgo Biloba
Study 1: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 3,069 participants over 6 years found no significant difference in the prevention of dementia or cognitive decline between ginkgo biloba and placebo groups.
Study 2: A meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials involving 4,361 participants revealed a modest improvement in cognitive function in individuals with dementia or cognitive impairment who took ginkgo biloba compared to placebo.
Study 3: A study involving 118 patients with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction found that ginkgo biloba extract had a positive effect on sexual function compared to placebo.
E. Patient Education
Patients using ginkgo biloba should be educated about:
The potential benefits and limitations of ginkgo biloba in relation to their specific condition.
The importance of discussing its use with their healthcare provider to ensure compatibility with other medications.
The need to adhere to recommended dosages and report any adverse effects experienced.
F. Opinion
Based on the available research, the evidence supporting the efficacy of ginkgo biloba is mixed. While some studies suggest potential benefits for cognitive function and sexual dysfunction, others show no significant effects. Therefore, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions. As a healthcare provider, I would approach ginkgo biloba cautiously and consider individual patient factors before recommending its use.