Case Study: Prescribed Drugs with CAMs

Sample Solution

Diagnosis:

Acute exacerbation of chronic low back pain

Rationale:

Mr. X has a history of chronic low back pain that has been exacerbated by a recent lifting injury. His pain is described as aching, constant, and 3-4 out of 10 in intensity. He also has stiffness and pain on movement, with occasional spasms. His range of motion is decreased by 25%, and he has a positive straight leg test. These findings are consistent with acute low back pain.

Treatment plan:

Pharmacologic:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
• Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants can be used to reduce muscle spasms. Common muscle relaxants include cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and baclofen (Lioresal).
• Opioids: Opioids can be used for severe pain that is not controlled with NSAIDs and muscle relaxants. However, opioids should be used with caution due to the risk of addiction and overdose.

Non-pharmacologic:

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can be used to improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain.
• Heat therapy: Heat therapy can help to relax muscles and reduce pain.
• Ice therapy: Ice therapy can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with low back pain.

Comment on the use of OTC products:

Mr. X is currently taking two OTC products: kava kava and CoQ10.

Kava kava: Kava kava is a herbal supplement that has been used for centuries in the Pacific Islands to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. However, kava kava has been linked to serious side effects, including liver damage and death. Mr. X should be advised to stop taking kava kava.

CoQ10: CoQ10 is a nutrient that is found in all cells in the body. CoQ10 is important for energy production and cell protection. There is no evidence that CoQ10 is harmful, but there is also no evidence that it is beneficial for low back pain. Mr. X can continue to take CoQ10 if he wishes, but he should be informed that there is no scientific evidence to support its use for low back pain.

Drug-drug interactions:

• Kava kava and Coumadin: Kava kava can increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking blood thinners such as Coumadin. Mr. X should be advised to stop taking kava kava.
• CoQ10 and Coumadin: CoQ10 may increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking blood thinners such as Coumadin. However, the risk is low and CoQ10 is generally considered to be safe for patients taking Coumadin.

Side effect profiles:

• Kava kava: Kava kava can cause a variety of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. Kava kava has also been linked to serious side effects, including liver damage and death.
• CoQ10: CoQ10 is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. However, mild side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea have been reported.

Education plan:

Mr. X should be educated about the following:

• The causes and treatment of low back pain
• The potential risks and benefits of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments
• The importance of safety when taking OTC products, including kava kava and CoQ10
• The importance of quitting smoking
• The importance of managing his diabetes and Coumadin therapy

PowerPoint presentation:

The PowerPoint presentation should include the following slides:

1. Title slide
2. Introduction
3. Anatomy and physiology of the low back
4. Causes of low back pain
5. Symptoms of low back pain
6. Diagnosis of low back pain
7. Treatment of low back pain (pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic)
8. Prognosis of low back pain
9. Prevention of low back pain
10. Case study: Mr. X
11. Education plan for Mr. X
12. Resources