Complementary and Alternative Medicines for the Treatment of Diabetes

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2009

Abstract

There is a growing interest among diabetic patients in the role of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in controlling blood sugar and prevention of complications. It is being used among diabetic patients in addition to usual medical treatment and lifestyle modifications. Complementary and alternative medicine products are marketed for the treatment of diabetic complications and lowering of blood glucose, but the actual therapeutic role remains controversial due to lacking information regarding safety and efficacy. The majority of evidence for the use of CAM is as an adjunctive therapy to the patient’s current diabetic regimen. Trials have shown CAM to be effective for diabetes treatment, but further rigorous study is needed to establish safety, efficacy, and the exact mechanism of action. As the use of CAM increases among the diabetic population, there is a need for patients to communicate with health care professionals to educate them about the safety and efficacy of alternative therapy.

Publication Title

Journal of Pharmacy Practice

Volume

22

Issue

6

First Page

546

Last Page

552

Comments

This article was published in Journal of Pharmacy Practice, Volume 22, Issue 6, Pages 546-552.

The published version is available at https://doi.org/10.1177/0897190009332658.

Copyright © 2009.

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