ABSTRACT
Drug dosage regimens are designed to produce an effective plasma concentration for a specifi ed period with the aim of achieving a therapeutic effect. Just as certain drugs may enhance or interfere with the action of other drugs, specifi c foods, nutrients, or phytochemicals in botanical supplements may modify drug actions. Conversely, drugs may increase the need for particular nutrients. It is rare for a drug to decrease the need for a nutrient, but not uncommon for ingested substances to increase drug effectiveness. Nutritional support is an important aspect of patient care. When a drug regimen interferes with nutritional status, dietary assessment and counseling are required. Similarly, when a patient’s diet or usage of supplements may interfere with drug therapy, it is crucial to monitor the patient carefully to avoid adverse reactions. Standards for ensuring good quality of patient care in clinical settings are set by organizations such as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and the standards apply to hospitals, long-term-care facilities, and ambulatory care facilities. Quality assurance standards have been developed with guidance of professional organizations such as the American Dietetic Association. JCAHO standards include patient education concerning food-drug interactions. Adverse interactions are monitored by the Food and Drug Administration through the MedWatch reporting system.
