Why are doctors reluctant to prescribe supplements or natural drugs?
Answer by Dr. Daniel Sparks, PhD
Medical doctors are reluctant to prescribe supplements, or natural drugs, because they are not viewed as "evidence-based medicine". Pharmaceuticals are rigorously tested through randomized controlled drug trials, to illustrate the dose, response and safety of the drug. Supplements really should be called or natural drugs, because as with drugs, they can both be therapeutic and toxic. While these products can have a reasonable safety profile, some can be very dangerous, particularly when taken with other medications. Consumers are taking these dietary supplements blindly, with no idea of whether they are helping or hurting. Consequently, health professionals often view supplements as inconsequential, but potentially dangerous.