Do Psychiatric Medications Interact with My Birth Control Pills?
Will the psychiatric medications interact with my birth control pills? Hello Doctor: I need to take Prewell Sustained-Release 0.5 mg (1 tablet) and Xinkang Le 10 mg (1 tablet) in the morning. I will take another Xinkang Le tablet in the afternoon. I have scheduled to take my birt...
Dr. Chen Jianfang Reply:
Hello: Upon reviewing the psychiatric medication you are taking, it is noted that the package insert for Topamax (active ingredient: Topiramate) mentions in the "Drug Interactions" section that patients using oral contraceptives alongside Topiramate should consider the ...[Read More] Do Psychiatric Medications Interact with My Birth Control Pills?
Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?
Interactions between emergency contraceptive pills and analgesics? Is there any interaction between Yaz (an oral contraceptive) and 500 mg of mefenamic acid that could reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello, ttakiuyu: 1. There is no known interaction between Yaz (Drospirenone 3mg + Ethinyl estradiol 0.02mg) and 500mg Mefenamic Acid. However, concurrent use of caffeine and combination contraceptives may result in enhanced CNS stimulation, so it is advisable not to take them tog...[Read More] Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?
Understanding Drug Interactions: Birth Control, Alcohol, and Caffeine
Drug interactions Hello, I am currently taking the oral contraceptive pill Yaz (Drospirenone 3mg + Ethinyl estradiol 0.02mg) regularly. I have heard from my doctor that it is not recommended to consume alcohol while taking this medication, as they may interfere with each other. S...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello ttakiuyu: First of all, thank you for your question. It is not recommended to take the contraceptive pill Yaz with alcohol, and in general, it is advised not to combine any medications with alcohol. The seven-day break after stopping the medication does not have an impact. ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Birth Control, Alcohol, and Caffeine
How Long After Missing Birth Control Pills Can You Have Unprotected Sex?
If you miss two days of taking the birth control pill before starting the second pack, it is recommended to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms, for at least 7 days after resuming the pill to ensure effective pregnancy prevention? The menstrual period was fro...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, Thank you for your question. Since you did not mention the name of the contraceptive pill you are taking, I cannot provide a precise response. If you are using a 21-pill pack, you should stop taking the pills for 7 days and then continue with a new pack. If you are using...[Read More] How Long After Missing Birth Control Pills Can You Have Unprotected Sex?
Understanding the Pharmacological Differences Among Three Medications
Medication Consultation Director: Hello, could you please explain the pharmacological differences between the 20 mg Eplerenone film-coated tablets, the 20 mg Dronedarone film-coated tablets from Bayer, and the 80 mg Dexamethasone film-coated tablets?
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Sir: The Olmesartan FC tablet Olsaa 20 mg (active ingredient: Olmesartan 20 mg/tab) and the Olmesartan FC tablet Olmetec 20 mg (active ingredient: Olmesartan 20 mg/tab) have the same active ingredient but are produced by different manufacturers under different brand names....[Read More] Understanding the Pharmacological Differences Among Three Medications
Timing and Effectiveness of Propafenone for Anxiety-Induced Symptoms
Propafenone I recently experienced increased heart rate and trembling due to anxiety before a presentation, and I took propafenone. However, I found that it did not alleviate my heart rate or trembling, and the shaking was still quite significant. I would like to ask the doctor f...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello, 1. Propafenone is an antiarrhythmic medication that exhibits membrane-stabilizing properties and sodium channel blocking effects. Side effects of Propafenone include dizziness, cardiac conduction abnormalities, palpitations, visual disturbances, vertigo, fatigue, and ort...[Read More] Timing and Effectiveness of Propafenone for Anxiety-Induced Symptoms
Understanding Alcohol Disinfection: Risks and Recommendations
Questions related to disinfectant alcohol? Hello, doctor. Due to the recent pneumonia issues, I would like to ask you some questions. According to the CDC website, hand hygiene should involve using alcohol with at least 60% concentration. However, I have also seen reports from va...
Dr. Zheng Shuwen Reply:
Hello: Although alcohol has certain disinfecting and antibacterial properties, it is only a temporary cleaning solution when handwashing is not possible and cannot completely replace the act of washing hands. Therefore, frequent use is not recommended. It is suggested that you ca...[Read More] Understanding Alcohol Disinfection: Risks and Recommendations
Fruits to Avoid When Taking Medications: A Guide for Patients
Medications and Fruits Hello, pharmacist. Besides grapefruit, are there any specific fruits that should be avoided before or after taking medications? How long should I wait between taking the medication and eating? I recently read an article stating that kiwi should not be consu...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Regarding the interaction between fruits and medications, one of the most common interactions to avoid is between blood pressure medications and grapefruit. Additionally, fruits such as peaches, cantaloupes, honeydew melons, kiwis, papayas, gua...[Read More] Fruits to Avoid When Taking Medications: A Guide for Patients
Switching Hypertension Medications: Key Considerations and Best Practices
Regarding the change of antihypertensive medication? Hello, Director Huang. I have been taking Kadyxin extended-release tablets for many years. However, in the past year, I have experienced an increase in instances of missed pulses. After several follow-ups, my doctor switched my...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello Mr. Zhang: First of all, thank you for your question regarding switching back to the extended-release formulation of Katie's medication. There's no need to worry about this issue; please follow your doctor's instructions for the switch and there's no nee...[Read More] Switching Hypertension Medications: Key Considerations and Best Practices
Understanding Dizziness from NKP371: Common Side Effects Explained
Nankang Nengde Shuang White Capsule NKP371 Hello, pharmacist. I have been taking Nankuang Nengdeshuang extended-release capsules NKP371 for four days, and I experience dizziness or a sensation of my body swaying each time. Could you please provide a detailed explanation? Thank yo...
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: Nanguang Nengde Shuang Capsule (Ingredient: Diltiazem SR cap) is a prescription medication. The side effects of this ingredient are generally mild. Reports have indicated that the side effects may include: ankle edema, headache, dizziness, fatigue, flushing, nausea, ...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness from NKP371: Common Side Effects Explained
Managing Heart Rhythm: Can I Take Nankuang After Sirdalud?
Medication issues Supplementary question: I forgot to tell my cardiologist that I took Sotalol at 5:14 AM and 12:03 PM today. If I experience palpitations tonight, can I take Nankang Nidec 120 mg? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: Nankang Nengdeshuang 120 mg is an extended-release capsule that should be taken at regular intervals as directed by your physician. If you experience palpitations after taking Nankang Nengdeshuang, it is advisable to consult your doctor for medication adjustment (whe...[Read More] Managing Heart Rhythm: Can I Take Nankuang After Sirdalud?
Should You Stop Finasteride When Planning for Pregnancy?
Finasteride and Pregnancy Hello doctor, I am someone who takes finasteride to prevent hair loss. I would like to ask if I need to stop the medication if I have plans to conceive. I have read online that finasteride can reduce sperm count, and I have asked many people; half say I ...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question regarding the use of finasteride and pregnancy plans. It is advisable to discontinue the medication. According to the information provided by the manufacturer, the use of finasteride does not affect fertility or sperm quality, with less than a 2...[Read More] Should You Stop Finasteride When Planning for Pregnancy?
Is Nankang Nengdeshuang 120mg Safe for Heart Patients?
Nankang Nengde Shuang White Capsule NKP371 I visited the cardiology department today and reported to the doctor that I experienced coughing issues while using Sotalol, and I also have episodes of my heart skipping beats, accompanied by chest tightness. The doctor has switched my ...
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: Nanguang Nengde Shuang Capsule (Ingredient: Diltiazem SR cap) is a prescription medication. This ingredient can be used for angina or hypertension, and it is safe to take under a physician's guidance. However, if you have any other symptoms, you should consult y...[Read More] Is Nankang Nengdeshuang 120mg Safe for Heart Patients?
Can Oral Isotretinoin Be Safely Combined with Certain Antibiotics?
Is it true that oral isotretinoin should not be used in conjunction with certain antibiotics? Hello, pharmacist: I am currently undergoing treatment with oral isotretinoin, but recently I have had to take antibiotics due to a cold. The antibiotics prescribed by my doctor are CURA...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
CURAM 1000mg and Klarith F.C 250mg are both not tetracycline antibiotics and do not have any interaction issues with oral isotretinoin.[Read More] Can Oral Isotretinoin Be Safely Combined with Certain Antibiotics?
Impact of Dental Procedures and Medications on Unknowingly Pregnant Women
Because I didn't know I was pregnant, I had my wisdom teeth removed and took medication? I was unaware that I was pregnant when I had my wisdom teeth extracted. I had an X-ray taken and, due to tooth pain a few nights ago, I took some over-the-counter medication. I would lik...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, Mi Mi: First of all, thank you for your question. Regarding the safety of medications during pregnancy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies various drugs into five categories: A, B, C, D, and X. Categories A and B are generally considered safe, while cat...[Read More] Impact of Dental Procedures and Medications on Unknowingly Pregnant Women
Can I Switch Back to Cardil While Taking Sotalol for Cough?
Could you please provide more details about the medication issue? I have been taking Sotalol recently due to a cough issue, with some discomfort in my bronchi. I would like to switch back to my original dosage of Cardizem taken three times a day. Is that possible? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: If you are taking Sotalol (active ingredient: Propranolol), you must consult a physician if you experience emphysema or non-allergic bronchitis (which may promote bronchospasm). Additionally, Cardizem (active ingredient: Diltiazem) and Sotalol have different active i...[Read More] Can I Switch Back to Cardil While Taking Sotalol for Cough?
Differences Between Shenda and Youliang Heart Rhythm Pills: Can They Be Alternated?
Regarding antiarrhythmic drugs? What are the differences between Shenda Heart Rhythm Tablets and Youliang Heart Rhythm Tablets? Can they be taken alternately? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello, Miss: Both Shengda Heart Rhythm Tablets (active ingredient: Propranolol tab) and Youliang Heart Rhythm Tablets (active ingredient: Propranolol tab) contain the same active ingredient, so their indications are the same. Please pay attention to the dosage; Youliang Heart Rhy...[Read More] Differences Between Shenda and Youliang Heart Rhythm Pills: Can They Be Alternated?
Can I Take Vitamin C and Calcium with My Current Medications?
Medication Concepts Hello, Doctor. I am currently taking Rosuvastatin, Dexamethasone, and Berberine enteric-coated granules. Can I take Vitamin C and calcium supplements? If so, should they be taken separately? I apologize for the interruption and thank you for your response.
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello San: Thank you for your question. After checking, there are no interactions between Rosuvastatin, Daliquel tablets, and Berkey enteric-coated granules with vitamin C and calcium supplements. Calcium is suitable to be taken before bedtime, as it has calming effects and helps...[Read More] Can I Take Vitamin C and Calcium with My Current Medications?
Proper Storage of Supplements and Medications: Key Guidelines
Storage of Dietary Supplements 1. I usually buy health supplements in large containers, and it takes about four months to finish them. I read some articles that say I should throw away the desiccant after opening. Is that correct? 2. When I pick up medications from the hospital...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello Mr. Eric; first of all, thank you for your question. Regarding the first question, should the desiccant be discarded after opening? The answer is yes, because if the desiccant remains in the bottle, it can easily lead to moisture accumulation. It is recommended to dispose o...[Read More] Proper Storage of Supplements and Medications: Key Guidelines
Safety of Steroid Nasal Sprays for Allergic Rhinitis: A Comparison
Steroid nasal spray I have allergic rhinitis, and my doctor recommended nasal spray treatment. I have two types of corticosteroid sprays: Aiminshi and Bikonar. I've heard that corticosteroids can cause glaucoma, so I'm hesitant to use them. Can you tell me if either of ...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
1. The use of any medication may have side effects, and it is important to consider the treatment needs and the risks versus benefits of the disease. 2. Steroids have a wide range of medical uses and have been clinically used for a long time, with extensive experience in their ap...[Read More] Safety of Steroid Nasal Sprays for Allergic Rhinitis: A Comparison