PERFIL DO CONSUMO DE PRODUTOS NATURAIS E A ANÁLISE DE INTERAÇÕES MEDICAMENTOSAS POR USUÁRIOS DA CLÍNICA DA PESSOA IDOSA DO MUNICÍPIO DE OLINDA
Authors: Brito Thiago Marques , Silva Ana Paula Fernandes da , Carvalho Raquel Lira Lustosa , Silva Filho Fernando Luiz , Furtado Karla Enoska Misael Camino , Cantarelli Renata Fernandes Fialho , Carvalho Pedro Cantarelli Primo de , Pereira Júlia Maria da Silva , Costa Alfredo Manoel Ramiro Basto de Barros , Amorim Maria Eduarda Cavalcante , Pacheco Roberta Barbosa de Araújo , Serra Maria da Conceição de Albuquerque Cordeiro 
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION: Phytotherapy, which consists of the use of plants or herbs with the aim of treating and preventing health problems, has become increasingly common in several countries. In the United States, for example, 25% of individuals over 60 use at least four types of herbal medicine, while in underdeveloped countries this number can reach 80% of the population, due to accessibility, belief in safety and recommendations from acquaintances. In Brazil, the herbal medicine market generates significant values in the pharmaceutical sector. However, despite the growing popularity, there is still a lack of scientific studies that prove the effectiveness, tolerance and safety of these substances, in addition to the need for more research on the interactions between herbal medicines and medicines. The concomitant use of these substances is often not reported to doctors, increasing the risk of complications such as harmful drug interactions, especially in cases of use of medications such as anticoagulants and chemotherapy drugs. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this article is to analyze the growing use of herbal medicine and its implications for public health, focusing on efficacy, safety and potential interactions between herbal medicines and conventional medicines. Furthermore, we seek to highlight the importance of scientific studies that evaluate the profile of use of these substances and the need for health education for users. METHODOLOGY: The study used a descriptive observational model with a cross-sectional design, carried out at the Clinic for the Elderly in Olinda/PE, with data collection through structured interviews with elderly people, conducted by the student researcher. Standardized forms were used to ensure data consistency, which were organized into charts and tables with the help of Excel and Google Docs programs. The analysis of variables and statistical correlations was carried out in methodological accordance with the advisor's guidance, allowing the interpretation of results based on existing literature on the topic. Data collection took place on Fridays, aiming to optimize the number of patients and guarantee a representative sample of the pharmacoepidemiological profile of herbal medicine use among the elderly. RESULTS: The study analyzed the use of herbal medicines in a sample of 55 participants, divided by gender, showing that women use medicinal plants significantly more than men. Statistical analysis indicated a significant association between gender and the use of herbal medicines. The most used plants were boldo, lemon balm and lemongrass, recognized for their therapeutic properties. However, several plants used, such as green tea and cinnamon, may have important drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants and medications metabolized by the liver. The study highlights the need for monitoring and guidance on the safe use of herbal medicines, given the potential for adverse interactions with conventional medicines. CONCLUSION: The research concluded that the use of medicinal plants is a common practice among the population, with emphasis on greater consumption among women. However, the indiscriminate use of these herbal medicines, without professional guidance, poses significant health risks, such as adverse reactions and drug interactions, especially in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and pregnant women. The research reinforces the need to promote health education actions to raise awareness among the population about the responsible use of medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of consulting health professionals and providing information about the use of herbal medicines to avoid complications.