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As noted
in this issue's feature article and in previous newsletter issues, people
with HIV frequently use herbal remedies. The use of herbal therapies is
increasing especially among people who have glucose abnormalities due to
their use of highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART). This article
offers an updated list of numerous herbs that can affect blood glucose
levels. For more detailed information on the use of herbs and their interactions
with medications, refer to previous issues of the HIV ReSource Review (Jan/Feb
and March/April 2001) or visit the Herb-Drug Interaction Handbook's web
site noted above.
Decreased or increased
blood glucose levels can occur, especially when herbs are used with insulin
and oral hypoglycemic agents. (1, 2) The amount of ingested herb is relevant
to the degree of interaction. For many herbs, although the mechanism of
action is not completely understood, the hypoglycemic effect of insulin
and oral hypoglycemic agents can be enhanced. Some herbs may decrease insulin
resistance, which may be helpful to patients with increased blood glucose
induced by protease inhibitors.
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