Understanding Changes in Thyroid Medication Dosage After Surgery
Medication dosage-related issues! Hello! I have been taking thyroid hormone medication since my surgery. Originally, the doctor prescribed a dosage of 1/2 tablet to be taken before breakfast, but now it has changed to 2/3 tablet. I would like to ask if this means that the dosage ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The medications for treating hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism are dosed based on adult dosage. The amount you are using should be adjusted by your physician according to your symptoms and should not exceed the recommended dosage. It is important to learn to relax and not ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Thyroid Medication Dosage After Surgery
Is Sleepwalking Normal for Cancer Patients on Medication?
Usage and Safety of Antong Is it normal for a cancer patient to experience sleepwalking after using a medication? The patient cannot be awakened even when called, and if they do wake up, they fall back asleep within seconds and continue sleepwalking. The doctor has prescribed the...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: I apologize for the delay in my response. The medication you mentioned, which combines Acetaminophen and Tramadol, is used for pain relief in cancer patients when standard analgesics are ineffective. Its side effects may include drowsiness and decreased attention, so cauti...[Read More] Is Sleepwalking Normal for Cancer Patients on Medication?
Does Oral Tranexamic Acid 250mg Really Help with Melasma and Skin Whitening?
Depigmentation Is it true that oral Tranexamic acid 250mg prescribed by a dermatologist for melasma has "spot reduction and whitening" effects?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Tranexamic acid was originally used to treat systemic and localized bleeding or hemorrhagic disorders. It was later found to inhibit tyrosinase, rapidly modulating the activity of exogenous stimuli to prevent the activation of factors that cause skin darkening, thereby inh...[Read More] Does Oral Tranexamic Acid 250mg Really Help with Melasma and Skin Whitening?
Understanding Your Prescription: Fynadin, Dexa, Cabidrin, and Amoxicillin Explained
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate? I have nasal congestion, a runny nose, a sore throat with phlegm, and discomfort. The ENT doctor prescribed the following medications (why do I feel like they are not effective?): 1. Fynadin 2. Dexa 3. Cabidrin ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
1. Fynadin: Indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria in adults and children aged 6 years and older. 2. Dexa: Dexamethasone is used for primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency, as an anti-allergic agent,...[Read More] Understanding Your Prescription: Fynadin, Dexa, Cabidrin, and Amoxicillin Explained
Effective Prevention and Treatment Strategies for High Uric Acid Levels
Prevention and Treatment of Hyperuricemia Hello, Pharmacist Hou: I have some questions regarding elevated uric acid levels. What are the prevention and treatment options? Additionally, if treatment is necessary, should medications such as colchicine be used, or are there other be...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. What are the preventive measures for gout and hyperuricemia? (1) Avoid alcohol, especially fermented beverages like beer and wine. (2) Drink plenty of water (approximately 2500cc), maintaining a daily urine output of over 2000cc. (3) Regularly check blood ...[Read More] Effective Prevention and Treatment Strategies for High Uric Acid Levels
How to Test Your Medication When You No Longer Have the Packaging?
Drug testing How can I have my medication tested? I have already discarded the medication bag... How can I verify if what I am taking is correct?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: If you have discarded your medication bag, you can call the place where you received treatment, provide them with your medical record number, and ask them to confirm the name of your medication, its indications, precautions, expiration date, and dosage instructions. Wishin...[Read More] How to Test Your Medication When You No Longer Have the Packaging?
Understanding Tamoxifen: Usage, Side Effects, and Dietary Interactions
Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) commonly used in the treatment and Hello, Pharmacist Hou! I have heard that you are quite knowledgeable about pharmacology, and I would like to ask you some questions regarding tamoxifen. 1. The medication packaging in...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. If the medication instructions indicate a frequency of twice daily after meals, is it necessary to take it in two separate doses? Can I take two tablets at once after a meal? ANS: Yes, it is acceptable. A 10-milligram twice daily dosage is bioequivalent to a 20-milli...[Read More] Understanding Tamoxifen: Usage, Side Effects, and Dietary Interactions
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 Pharmacology
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?
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 Pharmacology
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 Pharmacology
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 Pharmacology
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 Pharmacology
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?
Interactions Between Aspirin and Common Hypertension Medications: What You Need to Know
Interactions between ASPIRIN and other medications for hypertension? When taking BOKEY E-M CAP 100MG (Aspirin) with the following medications, please consider the following precautions regarding drug interactions, administration order, and timing: 1. **Tenormin 100MG TAB (Atenol...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. You are currently taking a total of 7 medications. It is important to inform your physician that you are taking ASPIRIN when you are scheduled for a tooth extraction or surgery. Be cautious when using it in conjunction with anticoagulants, although the medications you a...[Read More] Interactions Between Aspirin and Common Hypertension Medications: What You Need to Know
How to Test Medications for Ingredients and Ensure Safety
Drug testing Hello, I would like to ask how I can test what ingredients are contained in a medication. What would be the best way to do this? Where can I find testing services? I don't want this unscrupulous doctor to continue harming people...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Everyone is concerned about the internal ingredients of medications, whether they are safe. For inquiries regarding drug testing, you can call the Department of Health or the Food and Drug Administration, which can assist you with testing. Is this response satisfactory for...[Read More] How to Test Medications for Ingredients and Ensure Safety
Enhancing Memory: The Role of Phosphatidylserine, Fish Oil, and Ginkgo
Phosphatidylserine (PS), fish oil, ginkgo biloba? Recently, I saw on television that "phosphatidylserine (PS), fish oil, and ginkgo biloba" can enhance memory and promote faster neural connections for both adults and children. I also noticed similar health supplements b...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
1. These three products have been medically proven to promote cerebral blood circulation; however, their effectiveness and intensity in enhancing memory vary from person to person. Recently, many schools have been encouraging middle school students to take ginkgo biloba, but it i...[Read More] Enhancing Memory: The Role of Phosphatidylserine, Fish Oil, and Ginkgo
Long-Term Use of Ultracet and Aceclofenac: Risks and Considerations
Controlled substances Hello Dr. Hou, I am 155 cm tall and weigh 41 kg. I sought medical attention due to severe upper back pain and am currently taking Ultracet (tramadol 37.5 mg + acetaminophen 325 mg) at a dosage of 4 tablets per day, along with "Tonec" (aceclofenac 1...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The maximum single dose of Ultracet is one to two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain relief, with a maximum of eight tablets per day. This medication is not recommended for patients with severe liver dysfunction. It is intended for short-term use, with a to...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Ultracet and Aceclofenac: Risks and Considerations
Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe? Concerns About Weight Loss Supplements
Garcinia Cambogia weight loss supplement Hello, I bought a weight loss product that contains Garcinia Cambogia extract (with HCA, minerals, and potassium) and patented formulas like chromium niacinate. After taking it, my heart rate increased, and I couldn't sleep at night, ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Due to the lack of detailed information regarding the issues you mentioned, I can only provide explanations based on some of the components you brought up. 1. Garcinia Cambogia extract comes from the fruit of the Garcinia Cambogia plant, with the active ingredient being Hydroxy...[Read More] Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe? Concerns About Weight Loss Supplements
Do Certain Medications Like Tenormin and Zandipin Cause Stomach Ulcers?
What are the causes of gastric ulcers? The use of Tenormin (atenolol), Zandipin (zopiclone), and Manadine (amantadine) is not commonly associated with the development of gastric ulcers. However, individual responses to medications can vary, and it is important to consult a health...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: (1) Atenolol (brand name Tenormin): This medication is a selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocker, used for the treatment of hypertension and tachycardia. No reports have been found indicating that it causes gastric ulcers. (2) Lercanidipine (brand name Zanidip): This ...[Read More] Do Certain Medications Like Tenormin and Zandipin Cause Stomach Ulcers?
Key Considerations for Using Demerol, Morphine, and Other Opioids
What precautions should be taken when using morphine? Demerol (Meperidine): Onset after IV dose is approximately 5 minutes; half-life of the parent compound is about 3 to 5 hours. Morphine: Onset after IV dose is approximately 5 to 10 minutes; half-life of the parent compound is...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Morphine is classified as an opioid analgesic, and overdose can lead to acute toxicity. Side effects include hypotension, bradypnea and respiratory depression, shock, coma, hypothermia, miosis (pinpoint pupils), flushing, and cyanosis. Long-term use can result in addiction...[Read More] Key Considerations for Using Demerol, Morphine, and Other Opioids
Top Blood Cleansing Supplements and Their Interactions with Medications
What are some health supplements for blood purification? What are some health supplements for blood purification? What should be noted when taking them simultaneously with Aspirin/ACE inhibitors (ACEI)?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: (1) The Taiwan Department of Health has approved health foods with lipid-regulating effects, including red yeast rice, oat green tea, low-sugar high-fiber soy milk, EPA, DHA, chitosan from tomato juice, flavonoid cane extract containing alpha-linolenic acid, gamma-linoleni...[Read More] Top Blood Cleansing Supplements and Their Interactions with Medications