THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST IN THE ASSESSMENT OF HERB–DRUG INTERACTIONS AND THE SAFETY OF HERBAL MEDICINES

LAZAROVA, Sanja and SHABANI, Arijeta and CANGA, Jehona and NUHII, Nexhibe and HAXHIU-ZAJMI, Arlinda and AHMETI-LIKA, Sihana (2026) THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST IN THE ASSESSMENT OF HERB–DRUG INTERACTIONS AND THE SAFETY OF HERBAL MEDICINES. In: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “FROM RESEARCH TO APPLICATION”, 20 May, 2026.

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Abstract

In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in the global use of herbal medicines and phytotherapeutic products, driven by the widespread perception that “natural” products are inherently safer than synthetic pharmacotherapy, as well as by their broad availability and long-standing traditional use. However, this trend raises important clinical, pharmacological, and regulatory concerns, particularly in the context of the concomitant use of herbal and conventional medicines without appropriate consultation with healthcare professionals. This research aims to analyze herb–drug interactions, with a particular focus on their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic mechanisms, and to evaluate the safety of herbal products in clinical practice. Key risks include adverse effects such as hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and allergic and neurological reactions, as well as contamination, variability in composition, adulteration, and lack of standardization. Challenges related to limited clinical evidence and underdeveloped pharmacovigilance systems are also addressed.Global regulatory inconsistencies represent a major barrier to ensuring consistent quality, safety, and efficacy of herbal products. Therefore, the need for an integrated approach that combines scientific research, regulatory frameworks, and clinical practice is emphasized.Particular attention is given to the role of the pharmacist as a key clinical expert in identifying and preventing interactions, optimizing therapy, educating patients, and contributing to pharmacovigilance. In summary, the safe and rational use of herbal medicines requires a multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach, active pharmacist involvement, and improved patient health literacy, reinforcing the principle that “natural does not always mean safe,” particularly in the context of polypharmacy.

Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects: Q Science > Q Science (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email zshi@unite.edu.mk
Date Deposited: 04 Sep 2026 11:56
Last Modified: 04 Sep 2026 11:56
URI: http://eprints.unite.edu.mk/id/eprint/2365

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