Potential Dietary Supplement and Medication Interactions in a Subset of the Older Adult Population Attending Congregate Sites

Abstract

This study assessed possible dietary supplement–medication interactions of 62 older adults recruited from 8 senior congregate sites in Bexar County, Texas. Dietary supplement and medication use were collected by paper questionnaire and potential supplement–medication interactions were assessed using online databases. The majority of participants reported dietary supplements (77%), non-prescription medication (50%), and prescription medication (73%) use. Fifty percent of participants who reported dietary supplement and medication use were at-risk for a potential supplement–medication interaction, ranging from one to eight potential interactions. Calcium and multivitamin-mineral supplements were the most common dietary supplements with potential medication interactions. Surveyed older adults reported dietary supplements should be reported to a physician (97%), but over 20% believe herbal products are pure (38%) and dietary supplements are risk free (34%) and will not cause harm (22%). In conclusion, regular education and screening of dietary supplement and medication use among older adults is recommended.