Un-Reported Herbal and Drug Interactions: A Threat to Ponder for Patients’ Safety in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan uses a lot of herbal remedies because of economic, religious, and cultural reasons. Despite their widespread use, there is a considerable danger of drug–herbal interactions (DHIs) when they are used with prescription medications. Hospitalizations, severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and changed medication efficacy can result from these combinations. With an emphasis on widely used herbs like black seed, fenugreek, ginger, liquorice, garlic, neem, ajwain, green tea, and ashwagandha, this review examines the extent of DHIs in Pakistan. In this review article, it is highlighted that there are clinically important interactions with anticoagulants, antidiabetic, and cardiovascular medications, talk about its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic mechanisms, and ponder the weaknesses in Pakistan's National pharmacovigilance center (NPC). To reduce these dangers, we make suggestions for research, legislation, and therapeutic practices. As far as we are aware, this is the first comprehensive review paper on DHIs that is tailored to Pakistan.