Understanding Psychiatric Medications: Risks, Dependency, and Usage Guidelines
Important Information Regarding Psychiatric Medications Dear Pharmacist, Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions despite your busy schedule. I have been taking medication for anxiety for a year, and the names and dosages of the medications are as follows: 1. Lital...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Kangdianling is a medication used to treat epilepsy and improve mental conditions. 2. Wuyuningmoyi tablets: These are used to treat emotional symptoms (persistent low mood, cognitive impairment, and psychotic symptoms, etc.). It is important to avoid alcohol, and plea...[Read More] Understanding Psychiatric Medications: Risks, Dependency, and Usage Guidelines
Understanding the Role of Calcium Supplements for Seniors' Bone Health
Drug inquiries? Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about the supplement "Calcium and Vitamin D." I'm not quite sure if it is a medication or a vitamin for bone health. For elderly individuals over 60 years old who experience bone degeneration, should it be ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The main ingredient of Glucosamine is essential for the biosynthesis of connective tissue matrix. It promotes the normalization of joint metabolism, facilitates the regeneration of articular cartilage, improves the composition of synovial fluid, and helps restore the lubri...[Read More] Understanding the Role of Calcium Supplements for Seniors' Bone Health
Understanding Drug Effects and Side Effects: A Focus on Common Medications
Drug actions and side effects? Metoprolol, potassium chloride, senna, analgesic, madopar, digoxin, aluminum, aspirin dispersible, haloperidol, gliclazide.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Metoprolol: Indications: Control of hypertension, arrhythmias, and prevention of angina. Side effects: Dizziness, drowsiness. Potassium chloride: Indications: Treatment and prevention of potassium deficiency. Side effects: Drowsiness, nausea, vomiting. Senna: Indicat...[Read More] Understanding Drug Effects and Side Effects: A Focus on Common Medications
How Long Can Ferrum Iron Supplements Last at Room Temperature?
Iron supplements Hello, pharmacist. May I ask how long Ferrum iron supplements can be stored at room temperature? I have some of these iron supplements in my drawer, and I noticed that a few of them have a chocolate-like smell when I opened the package. Is this a sign of oxidatio...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Medications can generally be stored at room temperature for up to three years, provided they are stored properly, away from sunlight and moisture. 2. It is normal for Ferrum Hausmann to have a chocolate scent when opened due to the excipients; this is not a sign of oxid...[Read More] How Long Can Ferrum Iron Supplements Last at Room Temperature?
Long-Term Use of Inderal: Potential Organ Impact and Concerns
Medications Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about Inderal. If taken long-term (meaning for several years), could it cause any burden on specific organs in the body? Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The uses of Inderal include: 1. Angina, arrhythmias (supraventricular arrhythmias, ventricular tachycardia), primary and renal hypertension, migraine, control of essential tremor, and management of anxiety-related tachycardia. 2. It may mask tachycardia caused by hypoglyce...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Inderal: Potential Organ Impact and Concerns
Do Antibiotics Cause Drowsiness or Fatigue? Understanding the Effects
Antibiotics Hello, does using antibiotics cause drowsiness or a feeling of sleepiness? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The most common side effects of antibiotics are allergic reactions, which may include itching, skin redness, runny nose, and dizziness. Symptoms of drug allergy can occur within minutes to days after taking the medication, with approximately half of the allergic reactions ...[Read More] Do Antibiotics Cause Drowsiness or Fatigue? Understanding the Effects
Understanding Methylprednisolone and Other Medications: A Guide
Medication Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about the following medications: Methylprednisolone 2 mg, Bigacon 200 mg, Homogal 231 mg, and Clatine 10 mg. Thank you very much!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Methylprednisolone is used as a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effects. Delamin is used to relieve symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis and hay fever (such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching of the eyes and throat) as well as itching and ski...[Read More] Understanding Methylprednisolone and Other Medications: A Guide
Effects of Levonorgestrel on Pregnancy: Safety and Classification
Taking levonorgestrel during pregnancy? I am currently 6 weeks pregnant. I took emergency contraception on December 24, 1995, and January 7, 1996. Does this have any impact on the fetus? What pregnancy category does levonorgestrel belong to? Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Medications during pregnancy are classified into five categories. The following are the classifications for medications used by pregnant women: A - There is no evidence to suggest that it affects the fetus during early pregnancy. B - Animal studies show no harm, but th...[Read More] Effects of Levonorgestrel on Pregnancy: Safety and Classification
Understanding Melicam, Mephenoxalone, and Mydocalm: Key Insights
Medication Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about Meloxicam 7.5 mg, Mephenoxalone 200 mg, and Mydocalm 150 mg. Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Melicam is used for the symptomatic treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Side effects may include skin rash. Mephenoxalone is used to relieve pain caused by spinal or muscle spasms. Side effects may include skin rash or itching....[Read More] Understanding Melicam, Mephenoxalone, and Mydocalm: Key Insights
Potential Side Effects of Taking Zoldox and Levitra Together
Medication Consultation Hello, pharmacist: May I ask what side effects or impacts (on the liver and kidneys) might occur from taking Zoldox shortly after Levitra? I have taken both medications simultaneously a few times (with an interval of less than an hour). Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The medication Zoldox you are taking is a sleeping pill and should be used before bedtime. It is also acceptable to take it an hour later. Levitra is best used prior to sexual activity. Additionally, erythromycin (a cold medication) should not be taken simultaneously with ...[Read More] Potential Side Effects of Taking Zoldox and Levitra Together
Is Carbimazole Available in Taiwan for Thyroid Disorders?
Carbimazole is an antithyroid medication used primarily to treat hyperthyroidism, particularly in conditions such as Graves' disease Hello, doctor. I am from Malaysia and I have a thyroid condition that requires long-term medication. The doctor there prescribed me carbimazol...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Carbimazole 5mg is a medication used for hyperthyroidism, which is quite common in Taiwan and is available in almost every hospital. You can show your doctor the Malaysian version of the medication, which is also known by the brand name Neo-Thyreostat. However, during your...[Read More] Is Carbimazole Available in Taiwan for Thyroid Disorders?
Medication Safety During Pregnancy: Effects of Potence, Scanol, Noma, and MVMV
Medication Inquiry During Pregnancy Could you please advise if the medications potence2', scanol3', noma4', and MVMV have any effects on the fetus? Thank you. I am in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Medications during pregnancy are classified into five categories. The following are the classifications for medications used by pregnant women: A - There is no evidence proving that it affects the fetus during early pregnancy. B - Animal studies show no harm, but there...[Read More] Medication Safety During Pregnancy: Effects of Potence, Scanol, Noma, and MVMV
Can You Take Aspirin and Ginkgo Biloba Together? Important Considerations
Taking Aspirin Can anticoagulants and ginkgo biloba be taken together? What should be noted?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: When taking anticoagulants together with ginkgo biloba, the interaction is not classified as a level 1 interaction. However, it is important to monitor for the presence of gastric ulcers, as this may exacerbate bleeding from ulcers. If there is any eye bleeding, bruising o...[Read More] Can You Take Aspirin and Ginkgo Biloba Together? Important Considerations
Can You Drink Grapefruit Juice While Taking Cholesterol Medications?
Lipid-lowering medications Can I consume grapefruit juice while taking cholesterol-lowering medication? If my cholesterol level is 200, should I continue taking the medication?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Is it safe to consume grapefruit juice while taking cholesterol-lowering medication? I think it’s better to avoid it, as some cholesterol-lowering medications are metabolized by the liver, and grapefruit juice may increase their concentration, potentially leading to side e...[Read More] Can You Drink Grapefruit Juice While Taking Cholesterol Medications?
Risks of Stilnox: Sleepwalking and Duration of Use Explained
Sleeping pills Frequent use of the sleep medication Stilnox (zolpidem) can potentially lead to sleepwalking episodes. The duration of use should be determined by a healthcare professional, as long-term use may increase the risk of dependence and other side effects. It is importan...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: There have been reports of side effects from Stilnox, including sleepwalking, where individuals may eat a lot of food in the middle of the night and have no recollection of it the next day. However, these side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will e...[Read More] Risks of Stilnox: Sleepwalking and Duration of Use Explained
Traveling with Controlled Substances: Required Documentation and Procedures
Question Hello, pharmacist. May I ask you, if I want to take controlled substances out of the country, what kind of certification do I need from the prescribing physician? I'm not quite clear on the correct legal procedures. Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Controlled substances are classified into schedules I, II, III, and IV. If a physician prescribes an injectable medication, it can only be administered immediately in the hospital and cannot be taken home. Most oral sedatives are classified as schedule III. Cancer medicati...[Read More] Traveling with Controlled Substances: Required Documentation and Procedures
Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms from Medications like Xanax
Medications Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about what is meant by drug withdrawal. If someone has been taking a medication like Xanax for a period of time, what would the withdrawal symptoms be like? Approximately how long does it take for the concentration of the dru...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Xanax can indeed lead to addiction when used by multiple individuals. People may feel uncomfortable or strange when not taking it, and some may increase their dosage over time. Part of the addiction is physiological dependence; without the medication, individuals may exper...[Read More] Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms from Medications like Xanax
How to Verify the Authenticity of Pfizer's Medications: A Guide
Medications Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about a medication that one of my family members is taking, which is the Paxlovid tablet produced by Pfizer, as reported by the media. The hospital provided us with the medication in a blister pack, and we do not have the out...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Attached is the batch number currently in use for Norvasc at our hospital, B614056611, Exp 08 2010. The supplier for the public hospital is the vendor from the joint bidding unit, Jiu Yu Company. There are basically no issues, and we guarantee that it is supplied by the or...[Read More] How to Verify the Authenticity of Pfizer's Medications: A Guide
How to Properly Take Vitamins: Timing and Combinations Explained
How should one eat for optimal health? I currently have three types of vitamins and I'm unsure when to take them or if they can be taken together. Since I got them directly from a relative's factory, I'm not sure what the best way to take them is! 1. Vitamin E: T...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Since vitamins are organic compounds, whether they are water-soluble or fat-soluble, the best way to absorb them effectively is to consume them alongside other foods, with the ideal timing being after meals. Vitamin E is relatively non-toxic, but excessive amounts can inte...[Read More] How to Properly Take Vitamins: Timing and Combinations Explained
Understanding Medication Effects and Side Effects: A Guide for Patients
Drug Inquiry Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about the effects and side effects of the following medications: Tylenol (Acetaminophen), Metoprolol, Amprenavir, Budesonide, Lipitor (Atorvastatin), Delzicol (Mesalamine), and Plerixafor. My mother has recently experienced edema...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. The medications your mother is taking include Xitong Jiayin tablets, which are gastric medications; Maiyou, which is an antihypertensive; Anpu Nuowe tablets, also an antihypertensive; Berkey enteric-coated granules, which are used to prevent hypertension and thrombosi...[Read More] Understanding Medication Effects and Side Effects: A Guide for Patients