Reg safety and Med marijuana

How are herbal and dietary supplements regulated in the U.S.?

They are regulated as foods, not drugs, under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994.

What are the main limitations of DSHEA?

It allows supplements to be sold without FDA approval for safety or effectiveness; manufacturers are responsible for ensuring product quality.

What did the Dietary Supplement and Nonprescription Drug Consumer Protection Act (2007) establish?

It requires manufacturers to report serious adverse events to the FDA.

What are potential risks of herbal or vitamin supplements?

Contamination, mislabeling, inconsistent potency, drug interactions, and toxicity from overuse.

Why should nurses ask patients about supplement use?

To identify potential interactions with prescription medications and reduce risk of adverse effects.

What are signs a supplement may be unsafe?

Claims of "miracle cures," "rapid results," "guaranteed effects," or use of untested ingredients.

What should patients be taught before using herbal or dietary supplements?

Consult their healthcare provider; use reputable brands; avoid taking multiple supplements with overlapping effects.

What are common high-risk interactions with herbal products?

Increased bleeding with anticoagulants, serotonin syndrome with antidepressants, and reduced drug levels with enzyme inducers like St. John's Wort.

What populations are most at risk from supplement use?

Pregnant or lactating women, children, older adults, and those with liver, kidney, or cardiovascular disease.

What does the FDA require on supplement labels?

A statement that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease, and ingredient lists with manufacturer information.

What is the nurse's role in supplement safety?

Educate patients, evaluate for herb-drug interactions, and promote evidence-based use.

What is medical marijuana?

The therapeutic use of the Cannabis sativa plant and its chemical components, primarily THC and CBD, for symptom management.

What are the main active components of cannabis?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) — psychoactive; CBD (cannabidiol) — non-psychoactive with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties.

What are the medical indications for cannabis use?

Chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, appetite stimulation in HIV/AIDS, seizure disorders, and muscle spasticity in MS.

What are common routes of cannabis administration?

Inhalation, oral capsules, tinctures, edibles, and topical oils.

What are the adverse effects of cannabis use?

Sedation, impaired coordination, dry mouth, tachycardia, cognitive impairment, and anxiety or paranoia at high doses.

What are contraindications for medical marijuana?

History of psychosis, severe cardiovascular disease, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

What are nursing responsibilities regarding medical marijuana?

Assess patient understanding, monitor for adverse reactions, and educate on safe use, storage, and legal restrictions.

What legal considerations exist for medical marijuana?

Legal status varies by state; federal law still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug.

What should patients be taught about cannabis and driving or work?

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence; THC can impair judgment and reaction time.