Royal College of Psychiatrists: Nearly half of dementia patients take herbal extracts and vitamins

Royal college of psychiatrists logo for press releases

Tuesday, 01, Jul 2008 12:00

A new study has found nearly half of patients with dementia are taking one or more herbal extracts or vitamin supplements – the majority without their doctor’s knowledge.

There are indications that vitamins and herbal extracts are being used by many dementia patients, although there is limited evidence. In many cases, these substances are being used as over-the-counter drugs without the knowledge of health professionals, who themselves may not be aware of the benefits and risks involved.

This postal questionnaire survey examined the attitudes, knowledge and practices of dementia patients, doctors and nurses in relation to the use of herbal extracts and vitamins.

250 questionnaires were sent out to patients and 140 patients responded. A significant number of patients (44%) were taking one or more supplements, most of them without their doctor’s knowledge.

Most patients were unaware of the side-effects (79%) or interactions with other drugs (71%). The majority (81%) did not receive professional advice about their use and side-effects.

A further 350 questionnaires were sent to health professionals and 200 of these responded. The majority (68%) believed that fewer than 10% of their patients were taking these supplements.

A significant number (43.5%) reported that either they were not sure whether, or did not believe that, these substances cause side-effects. Only 24.4% reported that they always or often discussed with their patients potential side-effects, or interactions with other drugs.

The researchers conclude that although many patients are taking over-the-counter herbal extracts and vitamins, only a minority are convinced about their usefulness.

It is of concern that many professionals are unaware of the use of these substances by their patients, and that only a minority report that they discuss them with their patients.

There is a need for urgent action, they say, to target education at health professionals and dementia patients and carers alike.

Reference:

Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Annual Meeting, Imperial College London 1 - 4 July 2008

For further information contact Dr Rummana Khan, Sussex Partnership NHS Trust.

Tel: 01323 740 244 or 07720 407 236. E-mail: rummick@hotmail.com

Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Press Office: 020 7235 2351 exts. 298 or 127.

From 1-4 July, please call the Annual Meeting Press Office on 020 7594 8636 or 020 7594 1847.