This program is a partner to “Herbs: Safety and Regulations,” which covered the differences in federal regulation of medications labeled as supplements, over-the-counter, and prescription. This program discusses the common uses of herbs and provides strategies and recommendations for counseling patients on their use.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• discuss how to advise patients on the safest way to use supplements.
• discuss the mechanisms of potential drug-herb interactions.
• discuss the uses, mechanisms of action, and side effects of at least four commonly used supplements.
• list references for finding more information on specific supplements.