I would like to add the term "complementary" to the list. To me, "alternative" is something one takes instead of what the doctor ordered whereas "complementary" may be in addition to the doctor's recommendation. I guess "adjunctive" is a similar word, but to me it is an addition the doctor may be in favour of or recommend whereas "complementary" has more of a "natural" or "self medication" connotation (just my take on the difference between the two). And before I get blasted, I believe that "natural" should never be confused with "safe" or "good"(although some may well be). After all, cyanide is natural and it is one of the deadliest substances on the planet (as we learned the day my sister at age 9 triumphantly announced she had just swallowed 9 cherry stones and found herself bent over my father's knee with his fingers down her throat). And we all know how safe that natural leaf first cultivated and smoked by the native Americans is. What was its name again ...?

There are some great websites that allow you to input all your medications and it will report possible interactions which can be discussed with a doctor. A word of caution before racing off to the google "drug interactions": Like "natural" the word "interaction" can be good and/or bad. Whilst we often talk about the bad effects of drugs as interactions, there are desirable interactions too. Unfortunately, the interactions database doesn't know the difference so will just spit out the result and it is up to the user to figure it out (and this where the medic comes in handy). A classic example of a "good" interaction is the use of chemotherapy in conjunction with radiotherapy. Radiation works well but if chemo is added, it works better.

A web based interactions database has its uses and is a good back up for those who might be taking an over the counter medication and forgot to tell their doctor. It may also be useful for someone who can't remember if it is vitamin B that interacts with their chemo or something else. Finally, it may also provide a starting point for discussion with one's healthcare professional around possible side effects and their management. In my opinion it is better than going forward blindly but never as good as talking to the doctor or pharmacist (who will also use a database to check for interactions). PS Nurses are particularly good at side effects and interactions - have you noticed?