Co- use of prescription and herbal medicines among older adults
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Concurrent use of prescription drugs and herbal medicinal products among older adults
IRAS ID
138718
Contact name
Taofikat/B Agbabiaka
Contact email
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
CRD42014009091, Systematic Review on PROPSERO
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 30 days
Research summary
Background
There has been global increase in the use of herbal medicinal products (HMPs). About a quarter of UK adults use HMPs, bought over the counter by self-prescription and not disclosed to health care professionals. Potential adverse herb-drug interaction is a clinical concern. Older people are at greater risk due to co-morbidities and slower clearance of pharmacologically active compounds. Whilst there is a good understanding of herbal drug use by older people, less is known about the extent and implications of concurrent use with prescription medicines.Aim: to assess the prevalence, safety issues and other factors associated with concurrent herbal and prescription medicines use among older adults
Research Design and Methods: The study is structured into three phases:
Phase 1: Systematic Literature Review
Through a review of existing literature, major findings and gaps in knowledge will be identified, to inform research questions for the main study. A protocol is registered with PROSPERO, registration number: CRD42014009091.Phase 2a: Focus group interviews
The views and perceptions of older people (65 years and older) about HMPs, and concurrent use with prescribed medications will be explored through two focus group interviews. The aim of the focus groups is to test assumptions and help to focus subsequent phases of the study.Phase 2b: Questionnaire survey
Questionnaire survey to identify older adults on prescription medications and concurrently using HMPs,the different types of HMPs and prescription drugs and potential herb-drug interactions. Two general practises in Essex will identify from their records, patients who are 65 years and older, and using at least one prescription medication.Phase 3: Semi-structured interviews
A survey is less likely to provide an understanding of reasons for concurrently using HMPs with prescription medications, experiences and views. Therefore semi-structured interviews will be used to gain rich and in-depth understanding of these areas. Survey participants, who indicated concurrent use, will be invited for interview.REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/1870
Date of REC Opinion
10 Nov 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion