Integrating Biologically-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAM)

Biologically-based Complementary and Alternative Medicines are vitamins, herbs, functional foods, and other substances found in nature that are used to support wellness and promote the healing process.

Today, biologically-based CAMs come in just about every form imaginable: teas, powders, liquids, tablets, capsules, soft gels, and gel caps. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it is estimated that there are nearly 24,000 to 30,000 herbal dietary products available for purchase in the United States.

A recent review of one national survey indicates that the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicines, including nutritional or herbal supplements, continues to grow at an exponential rate. Findings from another national survey conducted between 1990 and 1997 show a 380% increase in the use of dietary supplements during that period. And in 1997 alone, an estimated 33 million adult Americans consulted a healthcare professional for advice regarding the use of nutritional and herbal supplements.

Despite the dramatic increase in the use of herbal preparations, the extent to which patients disclose their use of them to their physicians remains low. When a patient asks for advice, “the average physician just shrugs his shoulders,” said George Lustig, MD, who chairs the Broward County (FL) Medical Society’s Complimentary and Alternative Medicine committee. For most patients, it is best for doctors “to be open-minded and approachable,” suggests Dr. Mary O’Brien, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University Of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. And she adds, “Folks don’t want to tell you about the Benadryl they’re taking over the counter…In most cases, they don’t want to confide because they’re afraid of reproach, criticism and feeling foolish. Unless our patients trust us, we’re going to be operating without complete information.”

Biologically-based Complementary and Alternative Medicines like Clarocet® can serve as a helpful addition when integrated with many types of treatment plans. Research shows that doctors who become more informed about the benefits and actions of dietary supplements can also better assist patients who prefer natural alternatives. The more open-minded a healthcare provider can be in terms of complementary and alternative approaches to medicine, the more they will be able to open up communication with their patients to support their overall health and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I distribute Clarocet products through my professional practice?
Has Clarocet been clinically tested?
When will my patient feel the benefits of Clarocet?
Can my patient take Clarocet with other prescription drugs?