Alternative therapies and developmental disabilities

Graves, Philip

doi:10.1111/j.1440-1754.1990.tb02425.x

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 8 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…17, 18 Conventional therapy for chronic neurological conditions is often unsatisfactory, and frustrated parents and patients may seek alternative therapy. An understanding of the reasons for seeking alternative care may provide additional opportunities for education and support in caring for children with chronic problems.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Fatal Hypermagnesemia in a Child Treated With Megavitamin/Megamineral Therapy

2000

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

ABSTRACT. We report a case of fatal hypermagnesemia resulting from the unsupervised use of high doses of magnesium oxide administered as part of a regimen of megavitamin and megamineral therapy to a child with mental retardation, spastic quadriplegia, and seizures. The treatment regimen was given at the recommendation of a dietician working as a private nutritional consultant without the involvement or notification of the child's pediatrician. Hypermagnesemia is an uncommon but serious side effect of the use of magnesium containing compounds. These compounds are widely used as laxatives and dietary supplements, and serious side effects are uncommon when used in appropriate dosages and with adequate supervision.The use of alternative medical therapies, including megavitamin/megamineral therapy, is widespread. Many patients use alternative medicine or seek care from alternative medicine practitioners without the recommendation or knowledge of their primary physicians. Despite unproved benefit, many alternative therapies may be safe. However, unsupervised use of generally safe treatments can result in serious side effects. This case report serves to illustrate the characteristic pathophysiologic changes of severe hypermagnesemia, an entity rarely seen in pediatric practice, and more importantly, it alerts primary care and subspecialty pediatricians to be aware of and monitor the use of alternative medical therapies in their patients. Pediatrics 2000;105(2). URL: http://www. pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/105/2/e18; magnesium, alternative medicine, toxicity.

show abstract

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%