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One in six Americans taking
a prescription drug is also taking one or more herbal or dietary supplements,
raising concerns about the possibility of adverse interactions.
Overall, more than 80%
of adults in the US take some type of medication in any given week with
half taking a prescription drug.
About 7% of the population
takes five or more prescription drugs in any given week and 25% take five
or more of any type of drug, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter
pain relievers and cold remedies, herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba
or St. John's wort and vitamin and mineral supplements.
Adverse reactions to drugs
are among the leading causes of hospitalization and death in this country.
JAMA January 16, 2002;287:337-334
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