Ginkgo Biloba Bleeding Risk — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePharmacologyGinkgo Biloba Bleeding RiskNDEB AFK

Which herbal supplement commonly taken by patients can increase bleeding risk during dental surgery due to antiplatelet effects?

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Correct answer: D — Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba has antiplatelet properties (inhibits platelet-activating factor, PAF) that can increase bleeding risk during and after dental surgery. Other herbal supplements with anticoagulant/antiplatelet effects include garlic (ajoene inhibits platelet aggregation), ginseng, fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids), turmeric (curcumin), and feverfew. Dental practitioners should specifically ask about herbal supplement use during medical history taking, as patients may not voluntarily disclose them.

Reference: Katzung – Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed., 2021