118k views
1 vote
A client with a metabolic disorder takes several medications daily, including cholesterol lowering agents, antihypertensives, and antidiabetics. which herbal supplement is most likely to be safe for the client to take?

O cranberry
O ginkgo biloba
O St. John's wort
O ginseng

User Mrzo
by
8.1k points

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

Cranberry is the most likely safe herbal supplement for a patient taking cholesterol-lowering agents, antihypertensives, and antidiabetics due to fewer interactions with these medications compared to ginkgo biloba, St John's wort, and ginseng.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the use of herbal supplements in a patient who takes several medications, such as cholesterol-lowering agents, antihypertensives, and antidiabetics, it is important to avoid interactions that could either potentiate or diminish the effects of the prescribed medication. Among the options given, cranberry is most likely to be safe for a client to take as it typically has fewer interactions with medications compared to the other supplements mentioned. Ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort, and ginseng have known interactions with a variety of drugs, including those affecting blood clotting and metabolism.

Ginkgo biloba may increase bleeding risk, especially if taken with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. St. John's wort may interfere with the metabolism of various drugs, including antidiabetics, through induction of the cytochrome P450 system, leading to reduced drug efficacy or potential side effects. Ginseng can affect blood sugar levels and may interfere with antihypertensive drugs. Therefore, cranberry, often used for urinary tract health, typically does not interact with cholesterol-lowering agents, antihypertensives, or antidiabetics and can be deemed the safest choice.

User Avinash Ravi
by
7.9k points