Q Is it okay to take anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) prescribed by an orthopedic doctor while also taking herbal medicine from a Korean medicine clinic?
A In most cases, the combined use of NSAIDs and herbal medicine can place a burden on the gastrointestinal mucosa, so caution is required. It is safest to inform the Korean medicine clinic of your current medications and coordinate the dosage schedule by maintaining a minimum interval of 1 to 2 hours. If you bring a list of your medications to your appointment, the doctor will adjust the composition of the herbal medicine for you.
Detailed Answer
NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) produce anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting COX, but they place a burden on the gastrointestinal mucosa and kidneys. Some herbal ingredients (such as licorice and rhubarb) can affect liver metabolic enzymes (CYP450), so there is a possibility of drug interactions. If you are taking oral steroids or anticoagulants, verification is particularly necessary before concomitant use.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, anti-inflammatory painkillers serve as a response focused on superficial symptoms by temporarily suppressing heat. Long-term use damages the warm energy of the digestive system, weakening digestion and absorption; in this state, taking herbal medicine may reduce its effectiveness. At Dongjedang, we prioritize external treatments such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and pharmacopuncture to reduce dependence on anti-inflammatory painkillers, while adjusting the composition of herbal medicine to support digestive function, thereby minimizing the burden of concomitant use. If you provide a list of all medications you are currently taking during your initial consultation, we can design a safe prescription.
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