Herbal Medicine Use Among Transplant Recipients in Saudi Arabia: Prevalence and Risk Awareness

BACKGROUND Herbal medicine is commonly used in Saudi Arabia, and is widely viewed as natural and safe. However, its use among transplant recipients poses risks due to interactions with immunosuppressive therapies. This study explores herbal medicine use, knowledge, and attitudes among Saudi transplant recipients. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study of 203 transplant recipients from multiple clinics in Saudi Arabia was conducted using a structured questionnaire to assess demographics, herbal supplement use, awareness of risks, and attitudes. Statistical analyses compared users and non-users of herbal supplements. RESULTS Post-transplant herbal supplement use decreased significantly (44.3% to 19.2%, p=0.0001). Many relied on unreliable sources like friends or the internet, and 54.24% of reported supplements posed interaction risks with immunosuppressive drugs. Participants aware of these risks were significantly less likely to use herbal supplements (15% vs 88%, p=0.0007). Alarmingly, 81.1% received no pre-transplant education, and 70.4% received no post-transplant care, despite 81% desiring guidance from healthcare providers. CONCLUSIONS Herbal supplement use among transplant recipients in Saudi Arabia is prevalent and risky due to potential drug interactions. Most patients lack education about these risks, underscoring the need for improved healthcare education.