AIMA is recognised as one of the most respected representative organisations in the medical fraternity on integrative health care matters, and since 1994 was affiliated with the Australian Medical Association in Victoria. Since 1997 AIMA was recognised as a special interest group by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), and since 2004 developed a joint working party with the RACGP, which Dr Kotsirilos chairs, to address the appropriate and ethical use of complementary medicine by the medical profession. Dr. Kotsirilos also serves on various expert advisory committees on the Federal Government such as the TGA.
At the MWIA Western Pacific Regional Congress on 18 October 2008 Dr Kotsirilos presented the evidence for integrative medicine and their use in the Australian community including:
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the use of fish oil to reduce heart disease
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the use of ginger, B6 and accupressure in hyperemesis gravidarum
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the equivalence of Harpagophytum Procumbens (Devil’s Claw) to 12.5mg/day of rofexocib (Vioxx) in reducing low back pain – there is strong evidence that it reduces pain and rescue medicine use compared to placebo. There is also moderate evidence for the use of White Willow Bark and Capsicum Frutescens (Cayenne) in low back pain.
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exercise, muscle strengthening, Tai Chi, glucosamine, yoga, weight loss, hypnosis, acupuncture and diet (fruit, vegetables) high in Vitamin C in the treatment of osteoarthritis
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in premenstrual symptoms magnesium was found to reduce pain and the need for extra medication, also reducing fluid retention. B6, B1 and omega 3 fatty acids reduced pain although Vitamin E was found to have no difference in pain relief to placebo. Calcium was found to reduce mood disorder, water retention, food cravings and pain/discomfort. Vitex agnus castus was found on RCT to improve symptoms of PMS. Studies do not show evidence of relief of PMS with Evening Primrose Oil, although it is found useful for Rx of cyclical mastalgia. Black Cohosh also reduces hot flushes, urinary symptoms, vaginal dryness and mood lability.
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a diet high in phytoestrogens in the treatment of menopause symptoms
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in prostatic hypertrophy Saw Palmetto has been found equally efficacious to finasteride
To download Dr Kotsirilos’ Powerpoint presentation please click here.
