Understanding the Safety and Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Chronic Urticaria
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal medicine Hello, doctor. I am a chronic urticaria patient, and I have been troubled by this allergy for almost a year. I previously consulted Western medicine, but now I am seeing a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner. My condi...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: I am glad to answer your questions. First, here are the responses to your inquiries: 1. Regarding the long-term use of traditional Chinese medicine, as long as you are taking it under the prescription of a physician in a hospital, there should be no issues. A physi...[Read More] Understanding the Safety and Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Chronic Urticaria
Can Family Members Take Orange Juice with Blood Pressure Medications?
excuse me? If a family member is taking antihypertensive medication that advises against consuming grapefruit juice, it is generally safe to consume orange juice. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice regarding diet...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello everyone: There is an interaction between antihypertensive medications and grapefruit juice, while orange juice may not necessarily have the same interaction due to different components. However, some individuals who are allergic to grapefruit juice may also be allergic to ...[Read More] Can Family Members Take Orange Juice with Blood Pressure Medications?
Medications to Avoid and Adjust for Dialysis Patients
Contraindications for Dialysis Medications What medications should dialysis patients avoid or require dosage adjustments?
Dr. Liu Huijun Reply:
Hello: Currently, there are tens of thousands of medications available in Taiwan, and not every medication requires dosage adjustment for patients with kidney disease. May I ask if you are taking any psychiatric medications? If so, could you please email us? We will organize the ...[Read More] Medications to Avoid and Adjust for Dialysis Patients
Are Co-Q10 and Q10 the Same Supplement? Understanding Their Differences
Q10 and Co-Q10 Are the commercially available oral Co-Q10 and Q10 referring to the same substance? Are they both vitamin Q? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10) and Q10 belong to the same class of compounds and are fat-soluble vitamins that are not water-soluble. Co-Q10 is closely related to at least three mitochondrial enzyme complexes, which are the main enzymes involved in ATP formation. Additionally, Co-Q...[Read More] Are Co-Q10 and Q10 the Same Supplement? Understanding Their Differences
Vaccination During Pregnancy: Safety and Recommendations
During pregnancy Is it safe to receive vaccinations during pregnancy, especially with the recent promotion of vaccination?
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: Under what circumstances should the flu vaccine not be administered? (1) Individuals with known allergies to eggs or other components of the vaccine should not receive it. (2) Infants under six months of age should not be vaccinated. (3) Vaccination should be postponed in ...[Read More] Vaccination During Pregnancy: Safety and Recommendations
Understanding Hormonal Medication Side Effects and Duration of Use
Hormone After taking Darnol, I experience dizziness, weakness in my legs, and some inexplicable discomfort. Are these side effects common? The doctor recommends taking it for 6 months. Can I stop taking it after 3 months instead? (I have undergone a total hysterectomy due to endo...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: After taking Darnol, you may experience side effects such as acne, reduced breast size, deepening of the voice, sore throat, weight gain, edema, oily skin or hair, increased hair growth, facial flushing; night sweats; burning, itching, dryness, or bleeding in the genital a...[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Medication Side Effects and Duration of Use
Can Gout Patients Safely Take Glucosamine or Glucosamine Sulfate?
Regarding medication issues (forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Dear Sir/Madam: I would like to inquire whether gout patients can take glucosamine or glucosamine sulfate. Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: For patients with gout, it is recommended to focus on adequate hydration, with a daily intake of 3 liters of water. In terms of diet, it is important to avoid foods high in purines and alcohol. Some individuals may take Glucosamine for joint symptoms related to gout. The s...[Read More] Can Gout Patients Safely Take Glucosamine or Glucosamine Sulfate?
Long-Term Effects of Saw Palmetto Supplements on Hair Health
Saw Palmetto dietary supplements I found some health supplements being sold online in the United States and have already purchased two bottles, which I am currently taking. I'm concerned about the long-term effects on my body. Previously, I was taking medications like Finast...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello: Regarding dietary supplements, it is advisable to purchase products that have qualified agents in Taiwan and have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This ensures greater safety after consumption. Additionally, you mentioned taking "Ropav" (柔...[Read More] Long-Term Effects of Saw Palmetto Supplements on Hair Health
Exploring Nootropil: Are There Different Colors of This Medication?
Regarding the medication Nordap, Hello Dr. Luo, I would like to ask about the medication Nootropil (NOOTROPIL), with the drug registration number 021165 from the Ministry of Health. Besides the red-orange color, are there any other colors available? Thank you.
Dr. Luo Guanlin Reply:
Currently, Nootropil is available in two different specifications with varying dosages: 1. Chinese Product Name: 諾多必膠囊 English Product Name: NOOTROPIL CAPSULES Indications: May be effective for cognitive impairment caused by cerebrovascular disorders and aging. Dosage F...[Read More] Exploring Nootropil: Are There Different Colors of This Medication?
Managing Side Effects of Xuexue Min and Furushi: Tips for Safe Use
Adverse drug effects What are the side effects of taking Xuexue Min (循血敏) and Furuxi (富汝喜), and how can their administration be adjusted to minimize these side effects?
Dr. Zeng Biru Reply:
Xunxue Min (Circulatory Sensitivity): Side Effects: 1. Common symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness (if these symptoms occur, appropriate dosage adjustments are necessary). 2. Skin flushing, increased heart rate, chest tightness, or hypotensio...[Read More] Managing Side Effects of Xuexue Min and Furushi: Tips for Safe Use
Understanding the Impact of Anti-Inflammatory Painkillers on Back Pain
Taking anti-inflammatory medication for lower back pain? Taking anti-inflammatory painkillers can cause lower back pain.
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear A-Jian: Poudarcam has been approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (joint pain, degenerative joint disease), ankylosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal injuries, and acute gout, with the active ingredient being Piroxicam. Common side effects of ...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Anti-Inflammatory Painkillers on Back Pain
Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and Concerns About Bleeding
Anal pain If there are cauliflower-like growths around the anus, it can be painful. After having a bowel movement, it is possible to experience bleeding when wiping.
Dr. Wang Lifen Reply:
Hello, Yueyue! Based on your description, it seems that your symptoms are more likely related to hemorrhoids rather than genital warts. Genital warts typically result from abnormal sexual behavior, so if you have not engaged in such activities, the likelihood of hemorrhoids is hi...[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and Concerns About Bleeding
Understanding the Risks: Why High Blood Pressure Patients Should Avoid Panadol
Paracetamol The warning on medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen) regarding individuals with high blood pressure or thyroid issues is primarily due to potential side effects and interactions. For those with high blood pressure, certain formulations may contain ingredients that ...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear Lai: Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have similar effects on patients with hypertension. The action of acetaminophen in the body can affect vascular constriction. In normal conditions, that is, in non-hypertensive patients, the blood vessels ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks: Why High Blood Pressure Patients Should Avoid Panadol
Safe Medication Options for Women with Mild Hypertension and Anxiety Planning Pregnancy
excuse me? I am planning to get pregnant, but I have mild hypertension and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. I am quite troubled about my medications; currently, I take Xanax XR half a tablet daily (for autonomic nervous system dysfunction) and Betaloc (a blood pressure medic...
Dr. Xie Weigong Reply:
Dear Ms. Huang, In principle, it is advisable to avoid taking any medications (including traditional Chinese medicine) during the first three months of preparation for pregnancy or after becoming pregnant. Xanax is a non-barbiturate anxiolytic used to treat anxiety disorders or ...[Read More] Safe Medication Options for Women with Mild Hypertension and Anxiety Planning Pregnancy
Do I Need Blood Pressure Medication for My Daily Readings?
Should I take medication for this blood pressure? I experience dizziness every day, and my blood pressure readings upon waking range from 145 to 158 over 97 to 106. Should I take antihypertensive medication? Please advise on medication options. Additionally, once I start taking m...
Dr. Xie Weigong Reply:
Hello Vivian: Hypertension patients should regularly monitor their blood pressure. It is advisable for both yourself and your family to learn how to measure blood pressure. Control your salt intake, limit fat consumption, and follow the same principles for managing blood lipids. ...[Read More] Do I Need Blood Pressure Medication for My Daily Readings?
Understanding Xanax Dosage: XR vs. Regular and Tapering Strategies
Dosage Hello, could you please tell me if the dosage of XANAX XR 1mg (extended-release) is equivalent to two XANAX 0.5mg (immediate-release) tablets in terms of efficacy? This medication has withdrawal potential; should I taper off by reducing the extended-release or the immediat...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Hello VIVIAN! The dosage of XANAX 1MG is equivalent to the potency of two 0.5MG tablets, while the difference between the extended-release and immediate-release formulations lies in the duration of the drug's effects. If dosage adjustment or reduction is necessary, both form...[Read More] Understanding Xanax Dosage: XR vs. Regular and Tapering Strategies
Am I Diabetic? Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Medication Needs
Is it considered diabetes? Hello, three years ago during a health check, I was told that my blood sugar was on the borderline of diabetes, with a fasting blood sugar level of 108 mg/dL. Now, my self-measured fasting blood sugar results range between 103 and 125 mg/dL, and in the ...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you consult a metabolic specialist. After a physician's diagnosis, you can decide whether medication is necessary. Wishing you health and happiness![Read More] Am I Diabetic? Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Medication Needs
Managing Menstrual Pain: Medication Concerns and Treatment Options
Menstrual pain issues? Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from dysmenorrhea for many years. During this time, I have undergone several gynecological examinations at various hospitals, all indicating a retroverted uterus. My menstrual cycle is regular, occurring every 25-28 days,...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yi: Regarding retroverted uterus, it refers to the condition where the long axis of the uterus tilts backward towards the coccyx. The cause is unknown, and it can actually be considered a normal variation. Among the four medications mentioned, two are analgesics (Pons...[Read More] Managing Menstrual Pain: Medication Concerns and Treatment Options
Is TRANCOLON Safe for Treating Digestive Issues? Expert Insights
The issue with TRANCOLON? Hello, doctor. Due to my poor gastrointestinal health, I often experience diarrhea, and each episode lasts about 3 to 4 days. I have previously undergone detailed examinations at a large hospital, and the results were normal. The doctor concluded that it...
Dr. Huang Huiqing Reply:
Your question is respectfully answered as follows: Trancolon is a prescription medication that must be prescribed by a physician after a diagnosis. It is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist, who can conduct a thorough examination and select the appropriate medicatio...[Read More] Is TRANCOLON Safe for Treating Digestive Issues? Expert Insights
Understanding the Side Effects of Moprid F.C. Tablets 5mg
Moshou Wei Qing The medication MOPRIDE F.C. TABLETS 5MG may have several side effects. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and gastrointestinal disturbances. In some cases, it may also cause more serious effects such as allergic reactions, ...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Hello! Regarding the side effects of "Moshuguqing," they include diarrhea, thirst, elevated triglycerides/cholesterol/liver enzymes, palpitations, agitation, allergies, tremors, and headaches, among others. However, the incidence of these side effects is not 100%, and n...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Moprid F.C. Tablets 5mg