Pattern of use of complementary and alternative medicine among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Alexandria, Egypt.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a major health problem worldwide. Several studies have shown that a significant number of diabetic patients resort to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), which raises concerns regarding compliance to pharmacotherapy as well as the safety of these medications.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to determine the pattern of CAM use among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Alexandria, Egypt, and its impact on compliance to pharmacotherapy.

PATIENTS SAND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of 1100 T2DM patients attending outpatient clinics of different hospitals such as University, Health Insurance, governmental, and private sector hospitals using a pretested questionnaire.

RESULTS

CAM use among the patients was found to be 41.7% (26.3% use CAM on a daily basis). The main reason for using CAM was belief in its benefits. The most commonly used CAM comprised white lupine, fenugreek, onion, and remedies consisting of unknown components. Poor compliance to conventional therapy (P<0.05), complete cessation of conventional therapy by the patient himself (P<0.005), poor glycemic control (P<0.05), and higher rates of complications (P<0.01) were associated with CAM use.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

CAM use is notably prevalent among T2DM patients in Alexandria, Egypt, with significant impact on compliance to conventional therapies and the associated complications. Hence, there is increasing importance for raising patient awareness and continuing medical education for physicians.