Articles: phytotherapy-adverse-effects.
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Medicinal plants have many beneficial effects on human health. Garlic (Allium sativum, Alliaceae) is one of the most famous herbal species, used for various diseases and conditions. Unfortunately, garlic is also associated with adverse effects, including cutaneous manifestations. ⋯ The chemistry of garlic is also presented, with focus on volatile organic sulfur compounds, which also seem to be responsible for burns formation. Treatment of garlic burns was mainly symptomatic, and various types of drugs were used. Although not commonly expected, garlic should be taken into consideration as causative agents of burns by treating doctors, and patients should be advised against application of fresh garlic onto skin and mucosa.
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Pharmacopuncture is a combination of acupuncture and herbal medicine, which involves the injection of herbal extracts into acupuncture points (acupoints). Pharmacopuncture has become one of the major therapeutic tools used in Korea; however, safety is one of the major concerns associated with it. We aim to systematically review clinical studies on the adverse events of pharmacopuncture in Korea. ⋯ Comprehensive investigation of all types of clinical studies in Korea will provide clearer evidence of the safety of pharmacopuncture. The results of this study will be useful for traditional medical doctors and patients who use such treatments and interventions.Systematic Review Registration: Open Science Foundation (osf.io/umhyz).
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A 2-year-old child was accompanied by his parents to the pediatric emergency room for refusal to eat, trismus and generalized contractures four days after the application of a traditional topical treatment (Cassava leaves) on lesions of a severe thermal burn. A temperature of 38̊C, a heart rate of 114 beats/min, and a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg were recorded. The tetanus vaccination was not up to date. ⋯ Antitetanus serum (immunoglobulin), an antibiotic (amoxicillin and clavulanic acid), and a myorelaxant (benzodiazepine) were administered. Local treatments were also performed. The child died within 24 hours.
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Review
Are Senna based laxatives safe when used as long term treatment for constipation in children?
Senna is a stimulant laxative commonly used by pediatricians, pediatric gastroenterologists, and pediatric surgeons. Many clinicians avoid Senna for reasons such as tolerance or side effects but this has little scientific justification. We recently found several patients we were caring for developed perineal blistering during the course of Senna treatment. Because of this we chose to review the literature to identify side effects in children taking this medication as well as to analyze our Center's experience with Senna's secondary effects. ⋯ IV.