Acupuncture/TCM and Medication

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Expert: - 2/14/2010


Question
Hi, I would like to know if traditional chinese medicinal herbal preparations are safe to take with medications such as antidepressants.  thank you

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

Generally speaking they are safe but you don't want to take them at exactly the same time.  Leave a few hours in between taking them so they can both work with maximum effectiveness.  That being said, there are a few specific interactions with SSRIs, blood thinners, etc... with certain herbs.
I am not the most adept herbalist so I will direct to a colleague that literally wrote the book on pharmaceutical and herbal interactions: Dr. Greg Sperber.  He wrote "Integrated Pharmacology, Combining Modern Pharmacology with Chinese Medicine" published by Blue Poppy.  His office in El Cajon, Ca can be reached at (619) 270-1123 if you  have specific questions.
I would also suggest that you work with an herbalist (or acupuncturist/herbalist) to prescribe your medicinal preparation rather than buying "over the counter" patent formulas from a store.  The herbal medicine formulated by the herbalist will work better and be safer because it will be individualized to you and your needs.
I hope that helps answer your question or at least give you some good leads to learn more.

Take care,
Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.

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Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac.

Expertise

Please ask me about acupuncture and oriental medicine, nutrition, dietary supplements, and herbs. I am always happy to answer questions about how any of these areas relate to your health and well-being, specific conditions, or simply if you would like some information. I specialize in acupuncture for palliative care, acute injuries, chronic illness, autoimmune disorders, bone health, and western supplements.

Experience

I am a licensed acupuncturist in the state of California and hold a Master's degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. This degree includes training for acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, exercise and bodywork. I have work for a decade in the natural products industry both at the retail and manufacturing levels. I have worked using acupuncture in private clinics, community clinic settings and in inpatient care facilities; including hospice and supportive housing residences. I currently practice in San Francisco in a private clinic, making house calls for home bound patients, and working on grant funded community acupuncture projects.

Education/Credentials
Master's in Traditional Oriental Medicine, Certified Massage Therapist and Health Educator, Reiki Practitioner.

Past/Present Clients
Everyone from the stressed out worker, to the detoxing substance user, to the dying, to the new mother. Acupuncture can help them all.

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