The hidden risks of using traditional Chinese medicine with Western prescriptions

In the latest installment of Health Matters series, Aidyn Fitzpatrick uncovers the hidden dangers of combining traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with Western prescriptions. A recent case involving an elderly woman with a mechanical heart valve highlights the risks of using the Chinese herb danshen alongside the blood thinner warfarin.

Danshen, also known as red sage, is often used in TCM to promote blood circulation and treat cardiovascular conditions. However, it can significantly increase warfarin's anticoagulant effect, potentially leading to severe bleeding complications. Dr Raymond Wong Siu-ming, a consultant at the Prince of Wales Hospital’s Poison Treatment Centre and lead expert with the Integrated Chinese-Western Medicine Treatment Safety Centre, emphasizes that patients may not be aware of the impact such combinations can have on their health.

He stresses that just because a product can be purchased over the counter does not mean it is inherently safe. The level of risk depends on various factors, including the product's ingredients, dosage, duration of use, and the individual's overall health. Experts warn that many documented interactions are derived from laboratory or animal studies and may not always translate to human outcomes.

However, for patients managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, or cancer, concentrated herbs or extracts should be treated like active medications and evaluated by a healthcare professional before use.