Q Is it okay to take herbal medicine along with the anti-inflammatory painkillers prescribed by an orthopedic doctor?
A Caution is required when taking NSAIDs and herbal medicine simultaneously, as this may increase the metabolic burden on the liver. You must inform your doctor of your current list of medications before taking them. Generally, methods such as staggering dosing times or switching between medications gradually are used. Avoid indiscriminate combination and proceed only under the judgment of a professional.
Detailed Answer
NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) produce rapid anti-inflammatory effects through COX inhibition, but their drawbacks include gastrointestinal irritation and a burden on the kidneys. Since some components of herbal medicine can also affect CYP450 enzymes, there is a possibility of changes in blood drug concentrations when used in combination. Caution is also required regarding immune modulation when using steroid injections and herbal medicine simultaneously. In Korean medicine, long-term use of anti-inflammatory painkillers cools the digestive system, impairing digestion and absorption functions and exacerbating the production of waste products. At Dongjedang, we identify all medications currently being taken during the initial consultation to check for interaction risks, and we formulate a treatment plan to gradually reduce dependence on oral medication by increasing the proportion of external treatments such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and pharmacopuncture. Please be sure to consult with a Korean medicine doctor to determine whether simultaneous use is safe.
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