As a registered pharmacist certified in phytomedicinals, alternative medicine and functional diagnostics and therapeutics, Suzy Cohen provides simple explanations about prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, herbs, vitamins and dietary supplements in her “Dear Pharmacist” column which appears in papers nationwide. Suzy has served as Chair for Clinical Specialties for the Florida Pharmacy Association and is involved in legislative affairs for pharmacy advancement. She has experience in hospital and retail pharmacy and has worked extensively with the elderly in nursing home settings.

Faculty Disclosure

The NACDS Foundation has a conflict of interest policy that requires course faculty to disclose any real or apparent commercial financial affiliations related to the content of their presentations/materials. Ms. Cohen has no conflict of interest.

Disclaimer

Because of ongoing research, development, clinical experience, and the rapid accumulation of information relating to the subject matter comprising this CE Program, the reader is urged to carefully review and evaluate the information contained herein. The information contained herein cannot be warranted as being accurate and complete in every respect because new research and clinical experience continue to expand and broaden the knowledge pertaining to the subject matter of this CE Program. Therefore, responsibility is disclaimed for any adverse effect resulting from the use or application of any of the information contained in this CE Program. The use or application of the information contained in this CE Program is at the sole discretion and risk of the intended health-care professional who reads it.

Objectives

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this program, the participant will be better able to:
 - Identify five popular dietary supplements and their primary active ingredient(s).
 - List the medicinal purposes for these agents and their primary clinical indications.
 - Describe the possible side effects associated with each natural substance.
 - Explain the most ideal dosage form, dosages and mechanism of action associated with each substance.
 - Recommend dietary supplements containing these five natural substances as part of an integrative treatment strategy.

Target Audience

This program is appropriate for pharmacists in any practice setting.