Q Isn't taking herbal medicine for a long time harmful to the liver? I've already been taking sleeping pills for a long time, so I'm worried about my health.
A Herbal medicine prescribed based on accurate differential diagnosis has a high level of safety even with long-term use. If you are taking sleeping pills concurrently, monitor your liver enzyme levels while taking herbal medicine, and do not stop taking the sleeping pills arbitrarily.
Detailed Answer
Concerns regarding liver toxicity from herbal medicine are mainly reported from health supplements purchased arbitrarily without accurate differential diagnosis or from excessive dosages. Herbal medicine prescribed by a Korean medicine doctor tailored to your constitution and symptoms has often been confirmed to be safe for long-term use. Since Zolpidem and benzodiazepine-based sleeping pills are metabolized in the liver, it is safer to check liver enzyme levels through regular blood tests when taking herbal medicine concurrently.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Dongjedang reviews the list of all medications you are currently taking and formulates prescriptions using ingredients that place a low burden on the liver. If you notice any abnormal signs during treatment, please inform us immediately so we can adjust the prescription. If you wish to reduce your sleeping pills, do not stop taking them arbitrarily; instead, consult with your prescribing doctor and reduce the dosage gradually.
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