Understanding Medication: Clarifying Misconceptions About Supplements and Drugs
Medication issues Pharmacist Hou, thank you for your explanation last time. Today I would like to ask for your help with a medication change. The "You Sheng" Nabob capsule 0.5 mg (Mecobalamin) - the doctor said that Nabob capsules are vitamins, is that true? I checked o...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Tsai, 1. Naka capsules (a type of coenzyme active form of vitamin B12) can improve diabetic neuropathy and polyneuropathy, among other peripheral nerve disorders. Its uses include: 1. Enhancing nucleic acid and protein metabolism within nerve cells 2. Repairing...[Read More] Understanding Medication: Clarifying Misconceptions About Supplements and Drugs
Understanding the Interaction Between Cox2 Pain Relievers and PPI Use
The use of COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief and the administration of PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitors) such as Pantoprazole should be carefully managed? Dear Pharmacist, Due to the long-term need for pain relief, the doctor prescribed Bone Agile 7.5 mg. Previously, I took general an...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Lee: 1. Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the symptoms and signs of osteoarthritis and to alleviate symptoms of adult rheumatoid arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, and is less likely to...[Read More] Understanding the Interaction Between Cox2 Pain Relievers and PPI Use
Understanding Medication Guidelines for Patients Without Chronic Conditions
I would like to understand the issue of medication prescribed by doctors? For patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes, the health insurance coverage criteria are triglycerides <160 mg/dL and LDL-C <100 mg/dL. Therefore, the physician adjusts the medication dosage b...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: As of August 1, 2014, the National Health Insurance in Taiwan has updated the guidelines for the use of lipid-lowering medications. The standards for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in patients with diabetes and cardiovascular disease have been revised, allowin...[Read More] Understanding Medication Guidelines for Patients Without Chronic Conditions
Understanding Medication Interactions: Managing Hypertension and Insomnia
Medication issues Hello, Dr. Hou. I have been taking medication for high blood pressure for about ten years and have been on insomnia medication for nearly four years. Recently, I have been experiencing nausea more often when taking my medication. Can long-term use of Western med...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Tsai: Hypertension is a common condition among the elderly, but it can be managed with attention. 1. CLONAZEPAM (Klonopin 0.5 mg): This medication has multiple uses, including aiding sleep and alleviating anxiety. Please avoid alcohol while taking this medication. Calci...[Read More] Understanding Medication Interactions: Managing Hypertension and Insomnia
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects of Multiple Heart Medications
Medication issues Dear Pharmacist, I have been taking medication for hypertension, including 10 mg of Bacten film-coated tablets, 5 mg of Anpress stable tablets, and 160 mg of Felodipine film-coated tablets. Three years ago, I added 10 mg of Valsartan film-coated tablets. In Oc...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Betaloc (Metoprolol) 10 mg: A highly selective β-1 adrenergic receptor blocker with no intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) and no membrane-stabilizing effects. It reduces heart rate and inhibits plasma renin activity. It is used to alleviate or reduce symptoms of...[Read More] Understanding the Risks and Side Effects of Multiple Heart Medications
Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Cholesterol Medication Adjustments
I would like to understand issues related to medication prescribed by doctors? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my lipid-lowering medication. I have been taking it for a while, and my last blood test results were as follows: the dosage is 10 mg taken every two days, with A...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Normal fasting blood glucose levels are between 70-100 mg/dL. Levels that are too low may indicate hypothyroidism or galactosemia. Temporary causes can include alcohol consumption, severe liver disease, starvation, and certain medications (such as antituberculosis dru...[Read More] Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Cholesterol Medication Adjustments
Can You Take SSRIs with Calcium and Magnesium Supplements?
Can SSRIs be taken together with calcium and magnesium supplements? Hello, pharmacist. I am currently taking SSRIs for depression. Can I take calcium and magnesium supplements together with them? Thank you! 😊
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, dear parent: 1. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin, which is a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain psychological balance and improve mood. 2. Calcium and magnesium are important for preventing osteoporosis, stabilizing the nervous system, and aiding sleep...[Read More] Can You Take SSRIs with Calcium and Magnesium Supplements?
Can You Eat Grapefruit After Taking Medications?
Taking Mirtazapine? The medication instructions indicate that you should not consume grapefruit juice while taking the medication. If you take the medication and wait for 2 hours, it is still advisable to avoid eating grapefruit, as it can interact with the medication and potenti...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Norvasc (amlodipine) is a medication that can be affected by grapefruit juice, primarily metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A4 in the body. This is particularly significant for drugs with a high first-pass effect. The mechanism involves grapefruit juice inhibiting the acti...[Read More] Can You Eat Grapefruit After Taking Medications?
Is It Safe for Pregnant Women to Use Gentamicin Ointment?
Body allergies Is it safe for pregnant women to use gentamicin ointment? Recently, due to the cold weather, my left nipple and areola have been very itchy, dry, and slightly peeling, and there is some pain. Can I apply this ointment? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Neomycin ointment is a combination of Neomycin and Tyrothricin, two antibiotics effective against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms that cause localized infections in the skin, cornea, external and internal ear canal, and urethra. The pregnancy categor...[Read More] Is It Safe for Pregnant Women to Use Gentamicin Ointment?
Understanding Ergometrine: Effects on Uterine Contraction and Miscarriage Risks
Ergometrine, also known as ergonovine, is a medication that primarily acts as an ergot I took the second dose of medication for a medical abortion on December 31, 2015. The doctor also prescribed an oral medication, ergometrine, to be taken for three days. The prescription indica...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. The pharmacological action of ergometrine: It has a powerful uterine contraction effect, thus it can be used for uterine hemorrhage control after childbirth and abortion. It is indicated for postpartum bleeding, bleeding after miscarriage, uterine atony during deliver...[Read More] Understanding Ergometrine: Effects on Uterine Contraction and Miscarriage Risks
Understanding the Impact of Carotenoids and Lutein on Health
Questions about beta-carotene and lutein? 1. There are many articles online suggesting that consuming beta-carotene and lutein together may reduce the absorption of lutein. However, there are still products on the market that contain both ingredients. The rationale behind this ma...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A (Provitamin A), while lutein is an important systemic antioxidant. It is the most effective carotenoid in inhibiting lipid peroxidation and plays a key role in the antioxidant mechanism alongside other antioxidants in mitigati...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Carotenoids and Lutein on Health
How Long Should You Take Cholesterol-Lowering Medications?
How long should cholesterol-lowering medications be taken? What should be noted when taking lipid-lowering medications? Do they need to be taken for a long time? When can the medication be discontinued?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Generally, during the course of taking lipid-lowering medications, cholesterol, HDL, and LDL levels need to be monitored every three months. The physician will adjust the dosage based on the test results. If there is hypertension, LDL should remain below 100, HDL should be...[Read More] How Long Should You Take Cholesterol-Lowering Medications?
Can You Take Ginkgo and Aspirin Together? Important Considerations
Can ginkgo biloba and aspirin be taken together? Can elderly family members take Aspirin and Ginkgo together? What should be noted?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: When taking Aspirin and Ginkgo together, please be aware of the following: 1. Gum bleeding, sudden weakness in the arms or legs, nosebleeds, bruising, persistent bleeding from minor cuts, severe headaches, extreme pain or swelling in the limbs, red or dark brown urine, and...[Read More] Can You Take Ginkgo and Aspirin Together? Important Considerations
How Many DHC Iron Supplements Should You Take for Anemia?
How many pills should one take for anemia? I have been experiencing symptoms of anemia for a while and haven't gone for a check-up. I want to buy supplements on my own. I found that DHC's Red Iron Supplement comes in different dosages and quantities. I purchased the one...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. If you have anemia, it is best to check your hemoglobin levels before taking iron supplements and folic acid. Hemoglobin is a crucial protein that not only consists of amino acids but also contains a special iron-containing substance called heme. When the body lacks i...[Read More] How Many DHC Iron Supplements Should You Take for Anemia?
Can I Take 'Jingmai Shuh' While on Warfarin for DVT Recovery?
"Venous relaxation" & anticoagulant warfarin Dear Pharmacist, two months ago I had a deep vein thrombosis in my calf. A month ago, an ultrasound showed no signs of a clot. However, every day after getting up, my calf gradually becomes stiff for about 2 hours. I am c...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. When taking Warfarin, be aware of the following signs of bleeding: wounds that do not stop bleeding easily (including cuts from shaving), prolonged nosebleeds, excessive menstrual bleeding or vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation, blood in vomit, unexplained bruisi...[Read More] Can I Take 'Jingmai Shuh' While on Warfarin for DVT Recovery?
Understanding Ultracet Dosage for Effective Pain Relief
The dosage of Ultracet tablets? Recently, I have been experiencing abdominal pain whenever I eat too much or consume slightly oily foods. The pain usually occurs about 3 to 4 hours after a meal and lasts for about 2 to 3 hours. The cause is currently unknown. A doctor at Chang Gu...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Ultracet tablets contain (Acetaminophen 325mg + Tramadol 37.5mg). Tramadol is a centrally acting analgesic compound, while Acetaminophen is another centrally acting pain reliever. 2. Indications for Ultracet: Moderate to severe pain when non-opioid analgesics are ineffe...[Read More] Understanding Ultracet Dosage for Effective Pain Relief
Can I Use My Unopened Skin Cream for Acne and Eczema?
Inquiry about ointments? Previously, I experienced scalp pain when washing my hair. When I consulted a doctor, I was diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis and was prescribed "Yingyuan's Fuge Cream" to apply to the painful areas. However, since the pain wasn't s...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. The active ingredient in Fucidin Cream is Fusidic Acid 2% 5g, which exerts its antibacterial effect by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. 2. Fusidic Acid is a potent antibiotic with strong antibacterial properties, effective against most Gram-positive bacteria, par...[Read More] Can I Use My Unopened Skin Cream for Acne and Eczema?
Does Drinking Milk Reduce Medication Effectiveness?
Medication issues Hello, thank you for your previous response. My friend has a question to ask. When we take medication, does drinking milk really interfere with the medication? Does it reduce the effectiveness of the drug? Thank you for your answer!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Interactions between medications and foods must be approached with caution. Not all medications interact with milk; for instance, the antibiotic tetracycline interacts with milk due to its protein and calcium content, which is alkaline. Calcium in milk can form insolu...[Read More] Does Drinking Milk Reduce Medication Effectiveness?
Impact of Medications on Pregnancy: A Focus on Advanced Maternal Age
Advanced maternal age pregnancy, follow-up questions? Hello! I apologize for the errors in my previous inquiry about the medications. Could you please help me check again? Thank you! 1. Ephedrine (Ephedrin) 2. Ephedrine (Ephedrin) 3. Thyroid tablets (Thyroid) 4. Synephrine (500...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. You previously asked me to rewrite the classification of medications for pregnant women. The safety of medications is divided into five categories by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): A, B, C, D, and X. 2. Categories A and B are generally considered safe....[Read More] Impact of Medications on Pregnancy: A Focus on Advanced Maternal Age
Can Nursing Mothers Use Estradiol Gel? Key Insights and Considerations
Is it safe to use estradiol-containing gel while breastfeeding? Magicom Firming Gel Main Ingredients: Estradiol………….0.0022% Water, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf Extract, Horsetail Extract, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Coco-Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Alcoho...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The component estradiol can be used during breastfeeding, but it contains too many excipients, including ginkgo and potassium, which are acceptable. Is this response satisfactory for you? Wishing you peace and well-being.[Read More] Can Nursing Mothers Use Estradiol Gel? Key Insights and Considerations