Herbal Supplements That May Interact During Orthopedic Surgery

Before you head in for orthopedic surgery think about the herbal supplements that you are taking. When certain herbal supplements are combined with the medications that are used during and after this type of surgery, the potential for harmful side effects is a primary concern. Learning about the most important ones will give you a head start. It is also critically important to talk to your doctor about all herbal supplements that you take so that he or she is aware and can help guide you if surgery becomes necessary.

Feverfew

Feverfew is often used to prevent migraine headaches. This herbal supplement can interact with warfarin, an anti-clotting medication. Feverfew can also interact with aspirin.

On the subject of warfarin, cranberry, St. John's Wort, ginger and ginseng can also interact with this drug. On the subject of aspirin, gingko and ginger can also interact with this drug. Keep in mind that these can interact with these drugs outside of a surgical setting as well, so if you are, for example, taking aspirin at home, it is a good idea to not take feverfew, gingko or ginger.

St John's Wort

In addition to its potential to interact with warfarin, this herbal supplement may also interact with others. In terms of surgical drugs, this herbal supplement may interact with immunosuppressive drugs. This interaction may lead to the rejection of a transplant.

Valerian

This is an herbal supplement often used as a sedative to promote sleep. It is possible that using this herbal supplement may intensify anesthetics.

Garlic

Garlic has the potential to interfere with cyclosporine and anti-clotting medications. Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant used to prevent the rejection of transplants.

Black Cohosh

This herbal supplement is often used by those trying to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis. It has the potential to interact with tamoxifen. This is a cancer medication.

Glucosamine, Flavocoxid and Chondroitin

These supplements are commonly used by those battling arthritis symptoms. However, if you are heading in for surgery be sure to tell your doctor because they may affect clotting agents.

Cat's Claw

This herbal supplement is another one commonly used by those trying to alleviate their arthritis symptoms. It has the potential to interact with blood pressure medications, clotting agents and cyclosporine.

Staying Safe with Herbal Supplements Before Surgery

The general rule of thumb is not taking these at least two weeks before having your procedure done. However, it is always best to talk to your doctor and go with his or her recommendation to be on the absolute safest side.

Resources

American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons: Understanding Complementary and Alternative Medicine