Essential Medication Consultation: Addressing Sleep, Calcium, and Epilepsy Concerns

Q: Essential Medication Consultation: Addressing Sleep, Calcium, and Epilepsy Concerns

Hello Mr. Tsai： 1. Calcium supplements come in various forms, such as Calcium Citrate. Its function is to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women. It is suitable for adults, pregnant women, women before and after menopause, the eld

Medication Consultation

Hello, Pharmacist Hou.
I have three questions to ask:
1.
Previously, the doctor at the insomnia clinic prescribed calcium supplements for me, but now when I go to Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, they haven't prescribed calcium for me.
Can I buy it myself? I saw on the news that taking too much calcium can cause men to develop enlarged breasts.
Is that true?
2.
The epilepsy medication I'm currently taking helps with sleep, but I often wake up in the middle of the night.
I want to take calcium supplements to stabilize my nerves and muscles to prevent pain.
Is that okay?
3.
It seems that the epilepsy medication that helps with sleep is causing me to forget things.
I often feel like I haven't completed tasks that I actually have.
What should I take to improve this?

Cai Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/30

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello Mr.
Tsai:
1.
Calcium supplements come in various forms, such as Calcium Citrate.
Its function is to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women.
It is suitable for adults, pregnant women, women before and after menopause, the elderly, and patients with fractures for long-term use.
It is also used as a phosphate binder for patients with end-stage renal disease, mild to severe renal insufficiency, and renal osteodystrophy.
Excessive intake may lead to muscle relaxation, loss of appetite, weight loss, muscle pain, and joint pain, so calcium supplements should be taken in moderation.
2.
Calcium Carbonate is a very effective antacid with a high capacity to neutralize stomach acid.
It is commonly used as an over-the-counter stomach medication.
Long-term use may lead to hypercalcemia.
3.
Calcium Acetate is used for hyperphosphatemia in end-stage renal failure.
Clinically, some patients may experience nausea, anorexia, vomiting, belching, and abdominal bloating.
The aforementioned types of calcium do not have the side effect of breast enlargement, but they should still be taken in moderation.
4.
Clonazepam is a medication that helps with sleep and anxiety.
Side effects may include fatigue, daytime drowsiness, lassitude, muscle weakness, dizziness, and caution should be exercised in individuals with a history of alcohol or substance abuse.
When using this medication, one should be aware of potential drug interactions when taking it with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
Its side effects may cause some delayed reactions, so driving should be approached with caution.
The side effects mentioned may not occur in everyone and can vary from person to person.
To improve memory and cognitive function, I believe getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity are the best approaches.

Reply Date: 2017/12/30

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your health concerns, particularly related to sleep, calcium supplementation, and epilepsy medication. Let's address each of your queries in detail.

1. Calcium Supplements: It is generally safe for you to purchase calcium supplements over the counter if your doctor has previously recommended them. Calcium plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve transmission. However, it is essential to take the right dosage, as excessive calcium intake can lead to health issues such as kidney stones or hypercalcemia. Regarding the concern about calcium causing breast enlargement in men, this is largely a myth. While hormonal imbalances can lead to gynecomastia (breast tissue enlargement), there is no direct evidence linking calcium supplementation to this condition. If you have concerns about your calcium levels or the need for supplementation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

2. Epilepsy Medication and Sleep: Some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) can indeed have sedative effects, which may help with sleep. However, if you are experiencing frequent awakenings during the night, it may be beneficial to discuss this with your prescribing physician. They can evaluate whether your current medication regimen is optimal or if adjustments are needed. Regarding the use of calcium supplements to stabilize nerve and muscle function, it is important to note that while calcium is essential for muscle contraction, it should not be viewed as a primary treatment for muscle pain or neurological symptoms. If you are experiencing muscle pain, it may be more effective to explore other treatment options or therapies with your healthcare provider.

3. Memory Issues with Epilepsy Medication: Cognitive side effects, such as forgetfulness or a feeling of mental fog, can occur with certain antiepileptic medications. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is crucial to communicate this with your doctor. They may consider adjusting your medication or exploring alternatives that have a lower risk of cognitive side effects. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as sleep hygiene, stress management, and a balanced diet can also play a significant role in cognitive function. Engaging in regular physical activity and mental exercises can help improve memory and cognitive clarity.

In summary, while it is generally safe to take calcium supplements, it is essential to do so under the guidance of a healthcare provider. If your epilepsy medication is affecting your sleep or cognitive function, please consult with your doctor to discuss potential adjustments or alternative treatments. Your health and well-being are paramount, and a tailored approach is often the best way to manage complex health issues.

Best wishes for your health and recovery. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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