AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
Expert: Nigel Simmons Date: 3/26/2008 Subject: interaction of gabapentin and spirulina
Question i'm taking gabapentin 100mg 3x a day, is it safe to take spirulina 250mg 8 tablets a day? thanks
Answer Chap
I'm afraid there is insufficient evidence on the use and effects of herbal products such as Spirulina, and moreover how they may interact with conventional medicines or medical conditions.
Ultimately it is your own risk and decision, but given the significant consequences of a loss of control of your epilepsy or pain control (you don't say what the gabapentin has been prescribed for), I personally would not recommend it.
Additionally, if there was significant clinical evidence of the benefits of Spirulina, then the information would be available. At the moment I fear there is more anecdote and hype than real benefits.
