Homeopathy and Integrative Medicine: A Review for Pharmacists to Address Patient Inquiries

Homeopathy and Integrative Medicine: A Review for Pharmacists to Address Patient Inquiries is organized by Pharmacy Times Continuing Education (PTCE).

Release date: January 31, 2022
Expiration date: January 31, 2024

Description:
Homeopathy is defined as a system of complementary and integrative medicine based on the principle of “similars” in which the most appropriate treatment for a patient is a substance that, when administered to a healthy individual, generates symptoms comparable to those that the patient is experiencing. Many consumers are often concerned about the potential adverse effects associated with conventional medicine and some seek the use of homeopathic products to treat or prevent common ailments. The use of homeopathy continues to grow in popularity, but it is often viewed with uncertainty by many in the health care profession and is still excluded from medical guidelines. However, many health experts agree that homeopathic medications are typically well tolerated and rarely associated with allergic reactions. Many pharmacists lack training on homeopathic medications. Since pharmacists are likely to encounter patients seeking guidance on the various homeopathic medications on the market, pharmacists should be prepared to counsel them and evaluate the appropriateness of these types of medications based on the patient’s symptoms as well as medical and medication history.

Educational Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, pharmacists will be able to:

• Analyze the growing trend of using homeopathic medicines and the intended uses
• Identify the 3 principles of homeopathy, the preparation process, and manufacturing regulations and standards
• Examine the benefits versus risks associated with homeopathic medicine
• Explore the role of the pharmacist as both educator and clinician for patients using homeopathic products and in addressing the most frequently asked questions