Issues with Common Complementary Medicines

Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s safe

In this webinar, we’ll critically evaluate some of the most commonly used herbal and vitamin supplements and the evidence (or lack thereof) for their use. We'll explore potential interactions and side effects, and discuss the myths vs. the reality of their use.
CPD HOURS: 1
Registration Year 2025/2026
 

Course Content

Many patients choose to use complementary medicines in addition to prescribed therapy, and there is a prevailing attitude among many that because they are ‘natural’ and usually available for purchase without a script, they are completely safe.

This attitude is reinforced by slick and pervasive marketing that implies good health only happens when taking supplements, and that they're a no-risk proposition because they're safer than prescription medicine.

As you'll see in this session, this isn't the case. Many supplements, whether vitamins, minerals, or herbs, have profound pharmacological actions, both beneficial and harmful. Like prescription medicines, sometimes the bad outweighs the good and can be harmful to health, depending on the individual's overall health, any medical conditions they may have, and other medicines they are taking.

It's hard to navigate the hype from reality when we have so much information available, and it's equally hard to tell sometimes which information is questionable and which is reliable.

In this webinar, we’ll critically evaluate some of the most commonly used herbal and vitamin supplements and the evidence (or lack thereof) for their use. We'll explore potential interactions and side effects, and discuss the myths vs. the reality of their use.

Why this session may be relevant to your work

Medication management is a key part of my role and this includes patient education. This information will enhance my knowledge and ability to educate patients.

Learning Outcomes

In this session, you will:
  • Recognise some of the more common health supplements available on the Australian market 
  • Discuss the evidence of benefit for some popular supplements 
  • Recognise the risks that may be associated with their use 
  • Critically evaluate the rationale for use of supplements

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Amy Gibson

BPharm GCertHlthProfEd MClinPharm
Amy is a credentialed clinical pharmacist with experience across a range of sectors, including community pharmacy, corporate pharmacy operations, multidisciplinary teams, residential aged care and general practice.