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Ginkgo biloba is one of the most commonly used herbal supplements used in the world. This activity reviews the potential indications, action, and contraindications for ginkgo biloba. This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, adverse effects, and other vital factors (dosing, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, monitoring, relevant interactions) pertinent for members of the interprofessional team who take care of patients who use ginkgo biloba extract. Objectives: Identify non-FDA approved use of ginkgo biloba and current level of evidence regarding its effects on several conditions such as dementia, cardiovascular disease, sexual dysfunction, etc. Describe the most common adverse events associated with ginkgo biloba use. Outline the most common drug-drug interactions with ginkgo biloba and summarize key patient counseling points. Review the importance of improving care coordination among interprofessional team members to enhance the habit of asking patients about over-the-counter supplements, ginkgo biloba in the case, and remain on high alert about the toxicity/interactions of these supplements with patient's other medications. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Raw ginkgo seeds contain potentially toxic cyanogenic glycosides.[34] Contact or ingestion of ginkgo's seed can be poisonous. It can cause a serious allergic skin reaction such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis and also convulsions.[60][61] As discussed in this review, bleeding, seizure, serotonin syndrome could be potential consequences of ginkgo toxicity. There is no antidote for ginkgo. Treatment includes discontinuation of ginkgo and appropriate symptom control depending on the manifestation of each toxication case.

Ginkgo is one of the most common dietary supplements used in the United States. Healthcare providers often overlook inquiry about the use of herbal medicine. Due to ginkgo's several side effects and extensive interactions with other medications, it is important to educate the healthcare team (nurse practitioner, pharmacist, primary care provider, nursing staff) to incorporate the habit of asking patients about over-the-counter supplements and keep toxicity/interactions of these supplements with patient's other medications as potential causes of patient's presentation in their differentials. Patients should be educated by the team, including the clinician, nurse, and pharmacist about the possible side effects and interactions of ginkgo and encouraged to disclose such information with their healthcare providers. The pharmacist should also review their medication profile and caution if there are any possible interactions, alerting the patient's clinician and/or nurse as well. Such an interprofessional healthcare team approach to ginkgo or any supplement can contribute to optimal patient outcomes if all providers are involved and communicating a consistent message. [Level V]