White Paper on Natural Products

Michael Gabay, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Judith A. Smith, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Mary L. Chavez, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Micheline Goldwire, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Scot Walker, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Scott A. Coon, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Rena Gosser, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Anne L. Hume, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Megan Musselman, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Jennifer Phillips, American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Andrew M. Abe, American College of Clinical Pharmacy

Abstract

The American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) published an initial white paper on herbal products in 2000. Since then, the global market for natural products has continued to expand, with tens of millions of consumers using such products on an annual basis in the United States alone. However, despite this expansion, natural products remain largely unregulated compared with prescription medications, have moderate- to low-level clinical evidence for efficacy, and continue to have safety concerns, including adulteration and misbranding. As comprehensive medication management experts, clinical pharmacists are uniquely qualified to navigate these concerns and advise patients appropriately. To develop and recommend a suitable care plan involving natural products, clinical pharmacists must establish a strong pharmacist-patient relationship, assess the appropriateness of therapy, educate the patient regarding key issues, and continuously monitor and follow up on the effectiveness of the care plan. This process should not only occur in an individual community or hospital setting, but also whenever a patient transitions from one care setting to another in cooperation with other clinicians.