When trying new treatments, it is especially important to monitor any medications you take. As your symptoms improve, and your body grows stronger, you may have less need for your current medications. It is very important to work with your doctor to be sure your dosage is correct. You should always know the following information about the drugs you are taking...

• What is it used for?
• How am I supposed to use it (# of pills, frequency, with or without food?, etc.)
• What does it do, what should I expect to feel?
• What are possible side effects?
• What are the symptoms of over dosage?

Herbal Therapy

There are many good herbal formulas and dietary supplements out on the market today. However, as many as 83% of patients do not tell their doctors about their herbs and supplements. Herbs and Supplements can have profound effects. There are some critical interactions that can occur, but they are rather infrequent. More importantly, it makes it more difficult for your physician to monitor your health if he/she doesn't know all the things that you are taking.

Before Surgery is one time when it is vital for your doctors to know what supplements you are taking. With the high risk of general anesthesia, it is usually best to discontinue herbs and supplements for at least one week before and two weeks after surgery. To be sure, check with your doctor a few weeks before surgery.

For more info, check out this article on Supplement Safety.