Abstracts

Complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM) products are used commonly and represent a valued aspect of self-care for many Americans. Information regarding the prevalence of CAM product use among persons with epilepsy is limited. In addition, the potential risks and benefits of many CAM products are not well defined. A self-administered structured survey was distributed to patients attending epilepsy care clinics at two university-affiliated San Francisco medical centers. Information was gathered regarding demographics, epilepsy care and treatment response, and general health perceptions and practices. Surveys were returned by 187 adults with epilepsy or their representatives (e.g., caregivers). CAM products (including vitamin/mineral supplements, herbal, and natural products) were used by 104 respondents (56%). The most common reasons for use of CAM products were to: improve general health; to supplement diet; and, in response to a physician[apos]s recommendation. Vitamin/mineral supplements were the products most often used (83 persons). Among the 104 CAM users, 19% used a product with the potential to alter CYP450 activity (e.g., St. John[apos]s Wort, echinacea, garlic), and 14% had used a product that contained ingredients reported to potentially increase the occurrence of seizures (e.g., ephedra, ginseng, evening primrose, gingko). Only 6 persons reported using CAM products for the explicit purpose of benefiting their epilepsy condition or to alleviate antiepileptic drug (AED)-related adverse effects. CAM product use was not more common among persons with frequent seizures (as compared to infrequent seizures), nor among persons who reported adverse effects from their AED therapy. Sixty-eight percent of patients reported that they disclosed the use of CAM products to their physicians. CAM products are used commonly by persons with epilepsy who attend epilepsy specialty clinics. Over one quarter of these persons used products containing ingredients with the potential to either increase the occurrence of seizures, or alter hepatic drug clearance. Additional research and education is necessary to provide evidence-based recommendations to patients and healthcare providers regarding the risks and benefits of CAM products in persons with epilepsy. (Supported by An unrestricted gift from Abbott Laboratories.)