The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) stated that using low-quality maintenance medications and supplements could interfere with the treatment of heart disease.
Before taking any vitamins or pharmaceuticals in addition to their maintenance meds, people with cardiovascular issues should speak with their doctor, according to PHA Council on Pharmacotherapy Connie Sison.
"Meron tayong tinatawag na drug interaction and that includes supplements and that is the misconception because people think they are supplements, then they are safe," Sison said.
Avoiding poor quality drugs
Sison stressed that food supplements, subpar drugs, or counterfeit drugs may exacerbate the side effects of heart medications a person is already on, citing the fact that all drugs have an impact on the body.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) previously issued a warning to the public about phony medical product endorsements on social media and counterfeit medications, such as paracetamol, that are offered for sale at sari-sari stores.
"Some would have interactions with the drugs they are taking. These drugs may be less effective and these drugs may be harmful," Sison said.
Only from trusted sources
In order to prevent unintended or further health issues, the PHA encourages the public to only purchase prescription medications from reliable sources and on the recommendation of doctors.
The PHA encourages all Filipinos to follow best practices when selecting medications and health supplies that are good for their general and cardiovascular health.
