Multivitamins, herbal products, protein powders, and immunity boosters are often perceived as “safe” because they are natural or easily available. In reality, many supplements interact with anticoagulants, antiepileptics, chemotherapy agents, and cardiovascular drugs.
What makes this risk greater is that patients rarely disclose supplement use unless specifically asked. This creates blind spots in treatment plans and adverse event monitoring.
Pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and dietitians must collectively shift the narrative: supplements are pharmacologically active substances, not harmless add-ons. Evidence-based counselling matters more than marketing claims.
Do you routinely ask patients about supplements—or only prescribed medicines?
MBH/AB