Technology Update- InteractionsGuide Web Application

Stacie Deyglio, ND

Technology Update: InteractionsGuide Web Application

The InteractionsGuide (http://medicineworks.com/interactionsguide%E2%84%A2-herb-nutrient-and-drug-interactions-web-application) is an Internet-based application providing access to articles and content of the publication Herb, Nutrient and Drug Interactions: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Strategies (http://interactionsguide.com). Via the use of an innovative search-and-analysis function, any user may have access to a consistent array of subject matter pertaining to herb-drug interactions and drug interactions with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and nutraceuticals, as well as drug-induced nutrient depletions.

It is common practice for NDs to prescribe botanical or nutraceutical drugs to patients presenting with medical conditions. It is the combination of pharmaceuticals with herbs or nutrients that may complement or interfere with a drug’s therapeutic action. These combinations may also increase adverse effects. With so many patients today using nutritional supplements and herbs by means of self-medication or as part of professional care, practitioners are apt to be more confident about prescribing such combinations when using the features of the InteractionsGuide, especially when evaluating critical issues of safety, efficacy, and clinical management. One also needs to recognize that drug-induced depletion of essential nutrients may contribute to acute and/or long-term adverse effects. These are preventable situations, especially with the use of informed clinical management such as that available in the InteractionsGuide. This is effective in assessing potential interactions, evaluating therapeutic strategies, and collaborating on complex cases using this respected, clinically oriented, and scientifically grounded reference tool. Key features include more than 70 comprehensive monographs of herb-drug and nutrient-drug interactions that cover most commonly used herbs and nutrients found in contemporary healthcare. The monograph features include summary tables and concise practical suggestions providing quick and easy references.

The InteractionsGuide Web application is divided into 3 generalized parts. Section 1 includes herbs interacting with drugs. Section II comprises nutrients interacting with drugs and drug-induced nutrient depletions. Section III contains citations and reference literature for each monograph.