Abstract: Objective This paper aims to find out the risk-related factors and provide references for the rational use of the Chinese traditional medicine containing anthraquinones by reviewing the application situation and the characteristics of the adverse reactions. Methods This study used the methods of questionnaire survey and literature research. We conducted the questionnaire survey on the application and risk problems of anthraquinones-containing functional food in the public. On the other hand, we searched the domestic literature systematically such as CNKI, Wan Fang and VIP and collected the ADR /AE case reports caused by anthraquinones-containing traditional Chinese medicine and Chinese patent medicine comprehensively from the establishment to February 28, 2021. Then, we analyzed the adverse reactions from retrospective study and data mining. Results Total 6000 questionnaires were distributed and 5491 valid questionnaires were collected. 1140 questionnaires contained with the reports of discomfort symptoms, such as astrointestinal damage, skin and accessories damage, and urinary system dysfunction, after using the anthraquinones-containing functional food. And 234 papers contained the reports of ADR/AE induced by the anthraquinones-containing Chinese traditional medicine and Chinese patent drug, involving 276 cases, which showed damages to skin and appendages, digestive system, and other organs and systems. This research shown the influencing factors of ADR/AE were the special population and irrational drug use. Conclusion The anthraquinones-containing traditional Chinese medicine has potential risks, so it is necessary to recognize the risk factors in daily healthcare and clinical applications. This paper might ensure the safe use of the anthraquinones-containing Chinese medicine.

Key words: anthraquinones, traditional Chinese medicine, risk problems, rational application, adverse drug reaction/adverse event