ABSTRACT

The content and outcomes of a learning module, which focuses on the issues of patient self-medication and physician–patient communication, is described.  The stimulus for discussion examines patient self-medication with herbal substances commonly used to address neurological complaints.  The module is best employed in small group settings with a faculty facilitator.  Student learning outcomes are: recognize the importance of patient self-medication behaviors and of obtaining a complete medication history, understand the concept of untoward effects of medications, recognize the quality of clinical data available on alternative and complementary drug therapies, and understand the physiological effects of four herbal substances commonly used by patients for self-medication.