Navigating ethical dilemmas in complementary and alternative medicine: a narrative review

Mohammad Sadegh  Adel Mehraban; Asieh  Mosallanejad; Mehdi  Mohammadi; Ozra  Tabatabaei Malazy; Bagher  Larijani

doi:10.18502/jmehm.v17i3.15391

Mohammad Sadegh Adel Mehraban PhD Candidate of Traditional Medicine, Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Traditional Persian Medicine and Complementary Medicine, Student Association, Students’ Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Asieh Mosallanejad Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism, Imam Hossein Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Mehdi Mohammadi Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
Ozra Tabatabaei Malazy Associate Professor, Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Bagher Larijani Professor, Medical Ethics and History of Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmehm.v17i3.15391

Keywords: Complementary medicine; Persian medicine; Alternative medicine; Ethics

Abstract

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a rapidly growing industry, with millions worldwide seeking these treatments for various ailments. While many CAM therapies have shown promise in improving health outcomes, there are also ethical challenges associated with them. In this article, we explore some of the most pressing ethical issues in CAM, including informed consent, justice in accessibility, and evidence-based therapies. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues in CAM and offers practical guidance for health-care providers navigating these complex issues. By understanding the ethical dilemmas in CAM, health-care providers can offer their patients safe and effective care while maintaining their professional and ethical obligations.