Garlic Capsules and Tablets: Everything you need to know!

We all know that garlic has many properties. So some people use garlic pills and capsules in the hope of various health benefits. But it is very important that we are fully aware before using these. Because, although it seems like a simple thing, if not used properly, problems can arise. Let's talk about this garlic supplement today.

What are Garlic Capsules and Tablets? Why do we take them?

Simply put, these are supplements made from the extract of garlic, sometimes with other ingredients. Many people use them because they are thought to be good for heart health and to reduce inflammation in the body. Some also believe they can help lower cholesterol and control blood pressure.

But there's something very important you need to remember here. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States has not yet approved these garlic supplements for any medical use, that is, to treat any disease. This means that they are not registered as a "medicine", but as a "dietary supplement". Therefore, it is difficult to give a great guarantee about what they actually contain and how strong they are. They may also contain things that are not mentioned on the label. That is why it is very important to talk to your medical team (doctors, nurses) about any supplement you take.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this garlic supplement!

If you're thinking about using a garlic supplement, or if you're already using one, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about it. Don't be shy or think, "This is a small thing." Your doctor will be the one who can tell you for sure if it's right for you and if it will interact with other medications you're taking.

Be sure to tell us, especially if you have these conditions:

• If you have a bleeding disorder: Garlic has the ability to thin the blood a little. So if you already have a problem where your blood doesn't clot easily, this could make it worse.
• If you have diabetes (diabetes mellitus): Some studies have shown that garlic can slightly lower blood sugar levels. So if you are taking medication for diabetes, this can cause your blood sugar levels to drop too low (hypoglycemia). So talk to your doctor and adjust your medication dose if necessary.
• If you have HIV or AIDS: Garlic may interact with some HIV medications (such as Saquinavir) and reduce their effectiveness.
• If you are taking medications that prevent or treat blood clotting (e.g. `(Warfarin)`, `(Aspirin)`): This is very important. If someone taking such medications takes garlic supplements, the risk of bleeding is greatly increased. Even a small wound can cause major bleeding.
• If you have an allergic reaction to garlic, other herbs, supplements, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• If you're trying to get pregnant, or are already pregnant: It's best to ask your doctor before taking anything during pregnancy. The same goes for garlic supplements.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: Talk to your doctor about this as well, as things you take can pass to your baby through your milk.

How do you use this garlic supplement properly?

Okay, you talked to the doctor and he said you can use this. So, how do you take it properly?

• This supplement is to be taken orally with water.
• Follow the instructions on the label exactly. It should clearly state how much to take and how many times a day to take it.
• You can take this before or after a meal. However, if you feel like you're getting an upset stomach, it's best to take it with food.
• Never take more than the amount recommended on the label.
• Don't think, "If you take more, you will get better faster." That won't happen, and the chances of side effects will increase.

What if you give it to children?

Special care is needed when giving such supplements to children. Sometimes these may not be suitable for children, or the dosage may need to be much lower. Therefore, it is essential to consult a pediatrician before giving garlic supplements to a child.

What happens if you take too much? (Overdosage)

If you think you have taken more of this supplement than you thought, don't panic and go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately, or call a poison control center.

Important: This supplement is for your own use only. Do not recommend it to your friends or family. What works for one person may not work for another.

What if I miss a dose?

If that happens, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

What medications can this garlic supplement interact with? (Could it conflict?)

This is also a very important point. Garlic supplements can "interfere" with some medications. That is, they can change the way those medications work or increase side effects.

Here are some such medications:

• Aspirin and other aspirin-like medications.
• `(Cilostazol)` (a medicine that improves blood circulation in the legs)
• Clopidogrel (a medicine that prevents blood clotting)
• `(Dipyridamole)` (a medicine that prevents blood clotting)
• Medications that prevent or treat blood clots: These are also called ``anticoagulants'' and ``antiplatelets''. Examples: ``(Warfarin)'', ``(Enoxaparin)'', ``(Dalteparin)'', ``(Apixaban)'', ``(Dabigatran)'', ``(Edoxaban)'', and ``(Rivaroxaban)''. Taking garlic with these medications can greatly increase the risk of bleeding.
• `NSAIDs` (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs): These are the types of medications we usually take for pain and swelling. For example, `(Ibuprofen)` or `(Naproxen)`. Taking garlic with these can increase the risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding.
• Other herbal or dietary supplements: For example, ginger, turmeric (in large amounts), ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, danshen, dong quai, and willow bark, which have blood-thinning properties and may increase the risk when taken with garlic.
• `(Pentoxifylline)` (a medicine that improves blood circulation)
• `(Prasugrel)` (a medicine that prevents blood clotting)
• `(Saquinavir)` (A medicine for HIV – garlic may reduce the effectiveness of this medicine)
• `(Ticlopidine)` (a medicine that prevents blood clotting)

This list is not exhaustive. There are other medications that may interact with garlic. That's why we've said before that you should tell your doctor about every medication you take, every supplement you take, and if you smoke, drink, or use any illegal substances.

What should you be especially careful about when using garlic supplements?

You should also pay some attention to your health while taking garlic supplements.

• See your doctor at regular intervals and check how you are doing.
• If you don't see the reduction in symptoms you expect, or if your symptoms seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor right away.
• Very important: If you are going to have any surgery, such as a tooth extraction, or any other medical procedure, you should definitely tell your doctor /surgeon that you are taking garlic supplements. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking them a few days before the surgery, as garlic can increase the risk of bleeding.
• If you have diabetes, garlic supplements may affect your blood sugar levels. So talk to your doctor about whether you need to make any changes to your diet or medications.

A little reminder about supplements

This is not just true for garlic supplements, but for many herbal or complementary foods:

• These are not as strictly regulated as the medications we buy at the pharmacy. This means that their quality, purity, and potency (how strong they are) can vary. Even within the same brand, there can be differences from bottle to bottle.
• Don't expect these supplements to specifically cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease. They have not been proven to do so.

To protect yourself, consider these things:

• Always read the label carefully and follow the instructions on it.
• Just because something is labeled "natural" doesn't mean it's completely safe for humans to use. Even some natural things can be harmful.
• Look for the letters `(USP)` in the ingredients list. `(USP)` stands for `(US Pharmacopoeia)`. This means that the manufacturer has made it according to a certain standard. This may not always be seen in Sri Lanka, but it is good if it is there.
• Choose supplements made by reputable, well-known companies whenever possible. They are usually more likely to be produced under strict controls.

What are the possible side effects of these?

Like anything, garlic supplements can cause side effects in some people.

If something like this happens, see a doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions: This is the most dangerous. If you experience any of these symptoms, such as skin rash, hives, severe itching, red spots on the skin, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing , seek medical attention immediately.

It's normal to see, but if it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor :

• Bad breath (garlic smell)
• Body odor when sweating
• Frequent burping
• Heartburn (feeling like a burning sensation in the stomach, chest)
• An upset stomach, like having a full stomach.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual or uncomfortable, please tell your doctor .

How do you keep these garlic supplements safe?

• Keep these in a high place out of reach of children and pets.
• Store at room temperature, or as directed on the package/bottle.
• Protect from moisture. Do not store in places like the bathroom.
• Do not use any supplements that have passed their expiration date. Throw them away.

Finally, here are some important things you should remember (Take-Home Message):

Okay, we've talked a lot about garlic supplements now. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

1. If you are considering starting a garlic supplement, or any other herbal or dietary supplement, for any reason, talk to your family doctor first. He or she is the best person to know if it is right for you.

2. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking (over-the-counter, prescription, Ayurvedic), and any medical conditions you have (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma), without hiding anything.

3. Garlic supplements can interact with some medications, especially blood thinners . Be very careful with this.

4. Don't blindly believe that just because you see the "Natural" label, it is safe for everyone, all the time.

5. This supplement is not a magic pill that will cure any disease. A balanced diet, exercise, and proper use of your doctor's medications are the best way to stay healthy. Supplements are just an aid to that, and only if taken with your doctor's approval.

So, if you're thinking about garlic supplements, consider these factors and make an informed decision. Your health is worth a lot to you!

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