Is Glucosamine the Same as Joint Health Supplements?
Is glucosamine the same as chondroitin? Glucosamine = Chondroitin sulfate?
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, "Viartril-s" is a patented name from the Italian pharmaceutical company Rotta, with its main ingredient being glucosamine sulfate. It is used for degenerative knee osteoarthritis. Therefore, the general public often refers to all products containing glucosamine a...[Read More] Is Glucosamine the Same as Joint Health Supplements?
Is It Safe to Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Medications?
Questions about natto and red yeast rice? I would like to ask again, is it appropriate to take natto and red yeast rice now, considering that I have never taken them before and I started my current medication two months ago? Should I space out the timing of taking them with my pr...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, thank you for your follow-up question. Based on the medications you provided last time, there doesn't appear to be any direct interactions at first glance. However, for safety, it would be best to have your pharmacist review them.[Read More] Is It Safe to Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Medications?
Can You Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Your Current Medications?
Medication Consultation Currently, you are taking the following medications: Fluitran (Trichlormethiazide) 2 mg, Olmetec FC (Olmesartan Medoxomil) 20 mg, Nacid (Hydrotalcite) 500 mg, Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) 5 mg, and Plavix (Clopidogrel) 75 mg once daily, as well as Trenryl...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, regarding the use of natto and red yeast rice, there are several important considerations: 1. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. 2. Individuals with abnormal liver function tests. 3. Those with liver damage due to chronic alcohol abuse. If you are takin...[Read More] Can You Take Natto and Red Yeast Rice with Your Current Medications?
Are There Any Other Precautions When Taking Natto Enzyme?
Are there any other contraindications for consuming natto enzymes? Are there any other contraindications for consuming natto enzymes?
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Natto is rich in vitamin K, which is related to the promotion of blood coagulation (hemostatic effect). For patients taking the anticoagulant Warfarin, it can counteract the effects of the anticoagulant.[Read More] Are There Any Other Precautions When Taking Natto Enzyme?
Can I Take Western Medicine While Using Traditional Chinese Medicine?
I am currently taking traditional Chinese medicine; can I also take Western medicine? I am currently taking traditional Chinese medicine; can I also take Western medicine?
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, it is important to note that taking traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine together can sometimes lead to adverse effects. It is best to consult a physician to confirm that there are no issues before taking them together. It is recommended to space the doses of ...[Read More] Can I Take Western Medicine While Using Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Can You Take Medications on an Empty Stomach? Effects on Efficacy
Can it be taken on an empty stomach? Most medications should be taken 30 minutes after a meal. What happens if they are taken on an empty stomach? Will it affect the efficacy of the medication? Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Medications that are taken after meals are often believed to be less harsh on the stomach; however, the main difference between taking medications before or after meals is related to the interaction between the medication and food, which can affect drug absorption. "After me...[Read More] Can You Take Medications on an Empty Stomach? Effects on Efficacy
Medication Safety During Pregnancy: Evaluating Common Cold Remedies
Medications during pregnancy The pharmacist would like to ask you that I am currently 32 weeks pregnant and have a cold. I saw a pediatrician who prescribed medication, but I am hesitant to take it. Could you please help me review these four medications: Inolin (3), Cyproheptadin...
Dr. Chen Shuzi Reply:
Hello: The effects and pregnancy classifications of the following four medications are described as follows: Inolin (Trimetoquinol) - Bronchodilator / Pregnancy Category C CYPROHEPTADINE (Cyproheptadine) - For skin itching or allergies / Pregnancy Category B Ditopax - Antac...[Read More] Medication Safety During Pregnancy: Evaluating Common Cold Remedies
Over-the-Counter Medications vs. Doctor Visits for Colds: What's the Difference?
Why not use over-the-counter medications? Since childhood, I have always had a question: I see television commercials promoting over-the-counter medications for colds, yet most elders still say that one should see a doctor for a cold. Is there a difference between these two appro...
Dr. Lin Peiyu Reply:
Hello, over-the-counter medications can be categorized into three levels based on their safety: non-prescription drugs, indicated drugs, and prescription drugs. Non-prescription drugs are those with mild effects and higher safety, which do not require guidance from healthcare pro...[Read More] Over-the-Counter Medications vs. Doctor Visits for Colds: What's the Difference?
Can Expired Salicylic Acid Acne Cream Still Be Used?
Can expired salicylic acid be used? Hello, doctor. I have an acne cream with the main ingredients of salicylic acid and tea tree oil, but it has been expired for over a year. I'm wondering if it is still safe to use (it is unopened). It seems to have become more liquid. Than...
Dr. Zheng Yizhan Reply:
Subject: Reply to the question about using expired salicylic acid (recommendation against use) Response: Dear Mr. Bang, You inquired whether an acne cream containing salicylic acid and tea tree oil that has been expired for over a year can still be used. My recommendation is n...[Read More] Can Expired Salicylic Acid Acne Cream Still Be Used?
What to Do If Your Child's Fever Persists After Medication?
If the fever persists and does not subside, what should be done? If a one-year-old child has a persistent high fever of 39 degrees Celsius (102.2 degrees Fahrenheit) that does not subside even after administering fever-reducing medication, it is important to take the following st...
Dr. Huang Yiping Reply:
Hello: Antipyretic syrup only temporarily reduces fever; it is not a "fever-stopping" medication. It can make the body feel more comfortable and is considered symptomatic treatment rather than a cure for the underlying condition. Therefore, after the effects of the anti...[Read More] What to Do If Your Child's Fever Persists After Medication?
Concerns About Antibiotic Resistance in Children: What You Need to Know
Antibiotic concerns? Hello, the doctor prescribed my child amoxicillin for 7 days due to concerns about sinusitis, but my child started taking it 3 days late and only took it for 4 days. The symptoms improved a bit. During the follow-up visit, the doctor prescribed an additional ...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear: Antibiotics should be taken as prescribed by a physician, completing the entire course. The medication has been changed from Amoxicillin to Cefaclor 250mg, indicating that the physician has assessed the need to switch to a second-line treatment. The goal now is to resolve t...[Read More] Concerns About Antibiotic Resistance in Children: What You Need to Know
Can You Take Hualitamine and Ruoyuan Ding Together Safely?
Hyaluronic Acid & Roflumilast Can I take Halitamin and Ruo Yuandeng together? I have a habit of using Ruo Yuandeng due to ongoing gastrointestinal issues, and recently I've been feeling fatigued and sore from work, so I want to take Halitamin. I'm wondering what the...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello, A-Gui: 1. "Yuan Wei Chang Pian" is a gastrointestinal medication that has three functions: digestion, intestinal regulation, and nutrition. 2. "He Li Ta Ming" is used for neuralgia, neuritis, neurogenic bladder, postoperative intestinal paralysis, vi...[Read More] Can You Take Hualitamine and Ruoyuan Ding Together Safely?
Recommended High-Dose B Vitamins for Long Work Hours
High-dose B vitamins Doctor, may I ask about working long hours, over 12 hours a day, for several consecutive months without rest? Do you have any recommendations for high-dose B vitamins? Previously, when my workload was lighter, I took regular B-complex vitamins or supplements,...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: Due to a heavy workload and the inability to rest, I need to supplement with high-dose vitamins. I believe this is not advisable, as relying on supplements to enhance performance can put a burden on the liver and kidneys. The B vitamins serve the following functions: 1. Th...[Read More] Recommended High-Dose B Vitamins for Long Work Hours
How Long Can Prescription Oral Medications Be Safely Stored?
excuse me? How long can oral medications prescribed by a physician during a general Western medicine consultation be stored?
Dr. Chen Shuzi Reply:
Hello: Medications prescribed by a physician are intended solely for the patient for whom they were prescribed. If the prescription is for 28 days, it should be completed within that timeframe. If symptoms improve and the remaining medication is to be discontinued, it may be reus...[Read More] How Long Can Prescription Oral Medications Be Safely Stored?
Are Stool Softeners Safe? Addressing Concerns for Your Loved Ones
Regarding stool softeners? Hello Dr. Hou, my mother hasn't had a bowel movement for five days, so I want to buy a stool softener for her to take. However, she is worried about potential side effects. I think it's not a big deal, but she is still concerned about it harmi...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: Laxatives are categorized into mild, moderate, and strong types. Mild laxatives have fewer side effects, but if someone hasn't had a bowel movement for several days, it can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which is not good for health. One can use a mil...[Read More] Are Stool Softeners Safe? Addressing Concerns for Your Loved Ones
Understanding Uterine Contraction Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Uterotonics Hello, Pharmacist Chen. I would like to ask about my condition. Due to abnormal heavy menstrual bleeding, I visited a gynecologist who prescribed me three medications: one is ERGONOVINE MALEATE (to promote uterine contractions), the second is TRANEXAMIC ACID (brand na...
Dr. Chen Shuzi Reply:
Hello: The English brand name for Ergonovine maleate is Ergonovine. It is indicated for postpartum hemorrhage, uterine atony, and bleeding due to miscarriage; it is used for postpartum hemorrhage, miscarriage bleeding, and uterine atony. Common side effects include nausea, vomiti...[Read More] Understanding Uterine Contraction Medications: Side Effects and Concerns
Where to Find Adult Chickenpox Vaccines in Taiwan Hospitals?
Adult varicella vaccine Hello, I would like to inquire about which hospitals in Taiwan offer the adult self-paid varicella vaccine. If the scope is too broad, could you please specify which hospitals in Yunlin County and Kaohsiung City provide the adult self-paid varicella vaccin...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: I sincerely apologize for the delay in my response as I was out of the country and had an agent assist you. It seems there was an issue with the internet connection. I apologize once again. The cost for the adult self-paid varicella vaccine is NT$2,160 per ampule....[Read More] Where to Find Adult Chickenpox Vaccines in Taiwan Hospitals?
Can Taking Zinc on an Empty Stomach Cause Stomach Pain?
Taking zinc on an empty stomach? Taking zinc tablets (50mg) on an empty stomach one morning resulted in stomach pain throughout the day. Is it advisable to avoid taking zinc on an empty stomach? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello YOYO: 1. Trace element zinc is primarily distributed in muscles and bones, participating in the body's structure and composition, and is responsible for physiological and biochemical functions within the body. Zinc is mainly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract ...[Read More] Can Taking Zinc on an Empty Stomach Cause Stomach Pain?
Understanding the Differences Between Boska and Diuretic Medications
Boscak and diuretics? Hello Doctor, I found that the difference between Finasteride and Dutasteride is that Finasteride inhibits type I 5α-reductase, while Dutasteride inhibits both type I and type II 5α-reductase. Therefore, if I experience side effects from using Finasteride, d...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear: The pharmacological effects of Dutasteride (brand name AVODART®) and Finasteride (brand name PROSCAR®) are indeed as you described; however, the inference regarding side effects cannot be made in the same manner. Clinical trial data indicate that the most commonly reported ...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Boska and Diuretic Medications
Are High Doses of Multivitamins Safe for Long-Term Use?
Regarding multivitamins? Hello Doctor, Due to studying abroad, I am unable to accurately consume vegetables and fruits in my three meals, so I have been taking a multivitamin to supplement the deficiencies. However, I have noticed that the fat-soluble vitamin components in the ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello, If students are living away from home and unable to consume vegetables and fruits, should they consider taking vitamin supplements? My child is also studying away from home, and I often remind them to eat more fruits and vegetables and to exercise. If not, then natural f...[Read More] Are High Doses of Multivitamins Safe for Long-Term Use?