Nutrient- and non-nutrient-based natural health product (NHP) use in adults with mood disorders: prevalence, characteristics and potential for exposure to adverse events.

Karen M Davison,Bonnie J Kaplan

doi:10.1186/1472-6882-13-80

Abstract

BackgroundTo address knowledge gaps regarding natural health product (NHP) usage in mental health populations, we examined their use in adults with mood disorders, and explored the potential for adverse events.MethodsFood and NHP intake was obtained from 97 adults with mood disorders. NHP data was used to compare prevalence with population norms (British Columbia Nutrition Survey; BCNS). Bivariate and regression analyses examined factors associated with NHP use. Assessment of potential adverse effects of NHP use was based on comparing nutrient intakes from food plus supplements with the Dietary Reference Intakes and by reviewing databases for reported adverse health effects.ResultsTwo-thirds (66%; 95% CI 56 to 75) were taking at least one NHP; 58% (95% CI 47 to 68) were taking NHPs in combination with psychiatric medications. The proportion of each type of NHP used was generally higher than the BCNS (range of p’s < 0.05 to 0.0001). When intakes from food and NHP sources were combined, a small proportion exceeded any Lowest-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Levels: only for niacin (n = 17) and magnesium (n = 6), two nutrients for which the potential for adverse effects is minimal. Conversely, about 38% (95% CI 28 to 49) of the sample were taking a non-nutrient based NHP for which previous adverse events had been documented.ConclusionsThe prevalent use of NHPs in this population suggests that health care providers need to be knowledgeable about their characteristics. The efficacy and safety of NHPs in relation to mental health warrants further investigation.

Highlights

To address knowledge gaps regarding natural health product (NHP) usage in mental health populations, we examined their use in adults with mood disorders, and explored the potential for adverse events
Settings and procedures Data from a cross-sectional nutrition survey of adults (> 18 years; n = 97) that were randomly selected from the Mood Disorders Association of British Columbia (MDABC) membership list and resided in the lower mainland of British Columbia (n = 1400) was used; the list was provided to researchers by the MDABC
Sample The response rate was about 75% (97/129), calculated with the assumption that all the unresolved cases were in-scope. Those who did not want to participate in the study were asked a set of demographic health behaviour questions including their marital status, education level, use of vitamin and mineral supplements, type of bread and milk they consumed, and whether they smoked; no significant group differences were found between study participants and the non-responders based on these variables

Summary

Introduction

To address knowledge gaps regarding natural health product (NHP) usage in mental health populations, we examined their use in adults with mood disorders, and explored the potential for adverse events. National surveys of general populations have found that NHP use is increasing around the world [2,3,4,5], but few studies have examined individuals with mental health conditions. It would be useful to know more about NHP use in people with mental health conditions. This analysis examined characteristics of NHP use including potential for adverse events in adults with mood disorders

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion