Fruits to Avoid While Taking Atorvastatin: A Guide for Patients
Regarding fruits that should not be consumed while using Atorvastatin? Hello, doctor. I am currently taking a lipid-lowering medication, Atorvastatin 10mg. I would like to inquire about the information I found regarding the consumption of grapefruit and its juice, as I have read ...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello Mr. Su: First of all, I am glad to address your question. Grapefruit juice can interact with many medications, including lipid-lowering agents such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, and simvastatin. This is because grapefruit juice inhibits the activity of the enzyme CYP3A4 in t...[Read More] Fruits to Avoid While Taking Atorvastatin: A Guide for Patients
Can Bitter Melon Peptide Supplements Interact with Other Medications?
Health supplements and other medications? Hello, I would like to inquire if it is safe to take bitter melon peptide supplements while currently on medications including Urelax, Lamitcal 100, Rifampicin, and Epinex. I have been taking B12 and biotin in the morning for over six mon...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, 1. According to the Micromedex database, there are no known drug interactions with the medication you are using. However, to be more cautious, the specific mechanism of action of bitter melon peptides may interfere with or diminish the efficacy of the medication, an...[Read More] Can Bitter Melon Peptide Supplements Interact with Other Medications?
Concerns About Traditional Chinese Medicine Purchased from TV: Safety of Ingredients
Herbal medicine purchased by the television station? I would like to ask if there are any concerns regarding the traditional Chinese medicine purchased from the television station, which contains ingredients such as white peony root (Bai Shao), rehmannia (Di Huang), cinnamon twig...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello Ian: Thank you for your question. Regarding the principles for purchasing from television stations, it is generally more inclined towards health supplements or health foods. It is advisable to check for any certified food labels. If you require pharmaceutical-grade products...[Read More] Concerns About Traditional Chinese Medicine Purchased from TV: Safety of Ingredients
Interactions Between Emergency Contraceptives and Mental Health Medications
Interactions between emergency contraceptive pills and psychotropic medications? Hello, I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill (Kylian) consistently. Recently, I received some medications from a psychiatrist, including an antidepressant (Mirtazapine), an anxiolytic (Alpra...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. GYNERA (Qilian) contains ethinylestradiol and gestodene, which is a combined estrogen and progestogen contraceptive. 2. There are no interactions between GYNERA and the sleeping medication Eurodin, the anxiolytic Ativan, or Brintellix (vortioxetine). However, Ativan and...[Read More] Interactions Between Emergency Contraceptives and Mental Health Medications
Managing Fever in 4-Month-Olds: Medication Guidelines and Safety
Fever in a 4-month-old infant? I have finished a course of medication and my fever has subsided. Should I continue taking the medication? Additionally, I would like to inquire if these medications are suitable for infants of a young age. The doctor examined my throat and found re...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello, Spring Mom: 1. POTARLON 500: analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic. 2. BROAIN S.C.: reduces swelling. 3. Dimetine: for allergic rhinitis with runny nose. 4. Nompin: cough suppressant. 5. Vioment Tablet (Lactobacteria 3mg + Glycobacteria 2mg): two types of probioti...[Read More] Managing Fever in 4-Month-Olds: Medication Guidelines and Safety
Is It Safe to Use Metron Eye Drops While Breastfeeding a Toddler?
Medication Safety: Metronidazole Eye Drops If you are still breastfeeding and accidentally applied a drop of Metronidazole eye drops in each eye, will it affect the child? The child is currently two years old. Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Dear Ms. Maggie Wu, 1. As a mother, your primary concern is everything related to your child. The mikelan eye drops you are using are not safe for breastfeeding, as the medication can appear in breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers must discontinue nursing. Additionally,...[Read More] Is It Safe to Use Metron Eye Drops While Breastfeeding a Toddler?
Long-Term Use of Colchicine: Effects on Kidney Health and Mouth Ulcers
Colchicine I have been prescribed colchicine by my doctor for recurrent oral ulcers, taking two tablets daily. I would like to know if long-term use will affect my kidneys. Additionally, regarding the oral ulcer issue, I have had blood tests to rule out autoimmune diseases, but i...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ian: 1. Colchicine has many uses, such as for gout, cellulitis, and recurrent oral ulcers. Some physicians prescribe colchicine (0.5 mg) to treat recurrent oral ulcers. When taking colchicine, it is important to note that in patients with severe renal impairment (Clcr <...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Colchicine: Effects on Kidney Health and Mouth Ulcers
Is It Safe for Pregnant Women to Use Gentamicin Eye Drops?
Eye drops for pregnant women? I have a stye, and my ophthalmologist prescribed Gentamicin eye drops for me. Is there any impact on pregnant women using this medication?
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, Miss Strawberry: First of all, thank you for your question. When you experience discomfort in your eyes, remember to consult a physician. Additionally, it is important to inform the doctor if you are currently pregnant or taking any medications. Gentamicin ophthalmic solut...[Read More] Is It Safe for Pregnant Women to Use Gentamicin Eye Drops?
Understanding Birth Control Pills: Timing and Drug Interactions Explained
Types of Birth Control Pills and Their Usage Hello, pharmacist. I am a patient who has been taking epilepsy medication, and I would like to ask if it is necessary to start taking birth control pills within 1-5 days after the onset of menstruation. Can I start taking them after my...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, 1. Regarding the drug interactions I mentioned to you yesterday, I would like to add that the medication Wenbunin (ESTRADIOL ETHINYL 0.05MG/NORGESTREL L-0.25MG) also has a moderate interaction with the antiepileptic drug LAMICTAL that you are taking. Please be mindf...[Read More] Understanding Birth Control Pills: Timing and Drug Interactions Explained
Can You Take Birth Control Pills with Epilepsy Medications?
Inquiring about the concurrent use of contraceptive pills and antiepileptic medications? I would like to inquire whether it is safe to take the contraceptive pill "Yueji" for menstrual regulation and contraception while currently on medications for epilepsy, including &...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Wu: 1. Levetiracetam (Keppra) 2. LAMICTAL (Lamotrigine) 3. Drospirenone 3.0 mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg (birth control pill) 4. Exforge (antihypertensive) The above medications are the antiepileptic and contraceptive drugs you are taking. According to Microme...[Read More] Can You Take Birth Control Pills with Epilepsy Medications?
Do Antibiotics Interact with Birth Control Pills? What You Need to Know
Drug interactions? I recently visited a doctor and was prescribed 500 mg of Cephalexin, an antibiotic. I would like to know if taking the Alesse birth control pill will have any interactions with this antibiotic. If there is sexual activity, do I need to take additional contracep...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Tsai: Is there an interaction between Alesse and Cephalexin? 1. Alesse: It is a combined estrogen/progestin preparation, and this medication is metabolized by the liver, which can induce microsomal enzymes that accelerate the clearance of sex hormones. It may also affec...[Read More] Do Antibiotics Interact with Birth Control Pills? What You Need to Know
Can I Take Turtle and Deer Antler Gel with Osteoporosis Medications?
Can osteoporosis medications be taken together with Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao? Dear Pharmacist Huang, I am currently taking calcium supplements prescribed by my doctor for the treatment of osteoporosis. Can I also take Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao?
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, A-Zhe: First of all, thank you for your question. The Gui Lu Er Xian Jiao (Tortoise and Deer Gel) is primarily made from tortoise shell, deer antler, ginseng, and goji berries, and is also known as Si Zhen Jiao (Four Treasures Gel). The "Compendium of Materia Medica&q...[Read More] Can I Take Turtle and Deer Antler Gel with Osteoporosis Medications?
Managing Delirium Symptoms: Are Oxycodone and Oxycontin the Cause?
What should be done to address the phenomenon of delirium? My father is currently hospitalized due to cancer and is receiving targeted therapy. He has also been diagnosed with a urinary tract infection, for which the doctor prescribed antibiotics and two pain medications: Oxycodo...
Dr. Weng Yiji Reply:
Hello: Based on the situation you described, cancer, urinary tract infections, targeted therapy, antibiotics, and analgesics could all potentially cause delirium. Currently, the information does not allow us to confirm the types of targeted therapy and antibiotics, as well as the...[Read More] Managing Delirium Symptoms: Are Oxycodone and Oxycontin the Cause?
Breastfeeding and Medication: Safety Concerns for New Mothers
I would like to inquire about medications for breastfeeding? Today, I went for a consultation, and the doctor initially mentioned that this medication may cause a slight secretion of breast milk, but in very small amounts, and that the baby could switch to formula. However, since...
Dr. Zhang Cai Tingyu Reply:
Regarding your consultation questions, here is the information I found: 1. Clarithromycin is excreted in breast milk. 2. There is no data available for INOLIN (TRIMSOAN). 3. MEDICON is safe for breastfeeding. 4. DONISON is safe for breastfeeding if taken 4 hours prior. 5. There...[Read More] Breastfeeding and Medication: Safety Concerns for New Mothers
Persistent Bleeding on Dailian: Should You Continue or Switch?
Continuous bleeding with the contraceptive pill Diane? This is the first time taking a contraceptive pill. Based on the pharmacist's recommendation, I purchased a 21-day pack of Diane. I followed the doctor's advice to start taking it on the evening of the first day of ...
Dr. Huang Wanyu Reply:
Hello: If you are not using any other medications and notice persistent light bleeding under normal usage conditions, it is recommended to stop taking the medication and seek medical attention. During the period of discontinuation, consider using alternative contraceptive methods...[Read More] Persistent Bleeding on Dailian: Should You Continue or Switch?
Can You Safely Combine Rebetol and Yaz Birth Control?
Drug interactions Hello, I am currently taking Rebetol. Can I take it together with the contraceptive pill Yaz? I am currently on a 3 mg dose; if I increase it to 14 mg in the future, can I still take them together? Will this affect the efficacy of either medication? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. Rebif + Erezzi = According to a review of Micromedex, there are no interactions, regardless of the dosage. However, Rebif may cause mild nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, so it's advisable to be cautious while taking it. Additionally, not everyone will experience sid...[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Rebetol and Yaz Birth Control?
Can You Safely Combine Antidepressants with Viagra or Cialis?
Can medications be taken together? Currently, I am taking 5/160 mg of Amlodipine/Benazepril daily. If I want to use Viagra (Sildenafil) or Cialis (Tadalafil), will there be any interactions or other side effects?
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Mr. Leo: 1. Viagra or Cialis and Amvlo 5/160mg have no interactions according to UpToDate and Micromedex, but it is still important to monitor blood pressure and be aware of mild dizziness. Additionally, avoid grapefruit juice. However, it is crucial to note that Viagra or ...[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Antidepressants with Viagra or Cialis?
Managing Throat Discomfort from Birth Control Pills: Alternatives and Solutions
Taking emergency contraceptive pills can cause a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, which may lead to nausea? I have tried more than six types of third and fourth generation oral contraceptives, and each one causes a strong sensation of a foreign body in my throat, making...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin, 1. The new generation of contraceptive pills has fewer side effects related to progesterone, but you may still experience symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal discomfort, and breast tenderness. You can take some antacids to alleviate thes...[Read More] Managing Throat Discomfort from Birth Control Pills: Alternatives and Solutions
Understanding Drug Interactions: Managing Multiple Medications Safely
Medication Consultation Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing tinnitus and acne issues, and I have also been seeing a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner for menstrual regulation. I have been taking the following medications: ENT department's Morbica sustain...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Nina: 1. Moxifloxacin is used for relieving nasal and bronchial congestion, and it may cause drowsiness. 2. Urokinase is used to promote blood circulation, while strocaine and doxycycline are a gastric medication and an antibiotic, respectively. These medications do not ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Managing Multiple Medications Safely
Can Augmentin and Nystatin Be Taken Together Safely?
Issues Related to Concurrent Use of Two Antibiotics Can Augmentin and nystatin be taken together? If so, how long should the interval be?
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: 1. Augmentin is used to treat infections caused by Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and other susceptible bacteria. 2. Nystatin is used for the prevention and treatment of Candida infections. There are no interactions between the two, and it...[Read More] Can Augmentin and Nystatin Be Taken Together Safely?