Are These Supplements Food or Drugs? Daily Dosage Recommendations
L-Glutamine L-Glutamine, L-Arginine, L-Phenylalanine, L-Theanine, BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acids), and L-Lysine are generally classified as dietary supplements rather than pharmaceuticals. The recommended daily dosages can vary based on individual needs, health conditions, an...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Ms. Oliver: 1. L-Glutamine should not be used by individuals taking antiepileptic medications, as glutamine can affect the brain's chemical balance, thereby influencing the efficacy of the medications. The medications include: phenobarbital, primidone, valproic acid,...[Read More] Are These Supplements Food or Drugs? Daily Dosage Recommendations
Can You Take Acetaminophen with Blood Pressure Medication Before Vaccination?
Paracetamol and blood pressure medications? If you are taking long-term blood pressure medication, Amlodipine 5mg, and are planning to receive a vaccine, it is generally safe to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief or fever management. However, it is always best to consul...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Snow: Long-term use of blood pressure medication and acetaminophen is not related. Do not take acetaminophen before getting vaccinated; you can take it after the vaccination if you have a fever. Avoid excessive exercise and make sure to rest well. Wishing you peace, joy, a...[Read More] Can You Take Acetaminophen with Blood Pressure Medication Before Vaccination?
Can Hypertension Patients Safely Use Birth Control Pills for Menstrual Regulation?
Is it recommended for patients with hypertension to take oral contraceptives for menstrual regulation? Hello Doctor: I am currently taking "Daiichi Sankyo's Amlodipine 20mg" for hypertension, as well as "Cardio 25mg." I previously experienced irregular me...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Dear Mrs. Yang, 1. Mesitron: Desogestrel and 0.020 mg of Ethinyl Estradiol 2. Shiton: Norethisterone 3. Clomiphene: Clomiphene 4. Isimon Film-Coated Tablets 0.625 mg: Conjugated Estrogens 5. Conlona Film: Estradiol 2 mg + Norethisterone Acetate 6. Olmetec FC Tab 20 mg: Used to t...[Read More] Can Hypertension Patients Safely Use Birth Control Pills for Menstrual Regulation?
Potential Interactions Between Emergency Contraceptives and Hot Drinks
Emergency contraceptive pills and hot beverages? Hello, I am currently taking the contraceptive pill containing Drospirenone 3.0 mg and Ethinylestradiol 0.030 mg. If I simultaneously take the cold medication containing Acetaminophen 500 mg, Caffeine Anhydrous 25 mg, Phenylephrine...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, ma'am: 1. I sincerely apologize for not responding to your question earlier. I noticed your inquiry in my inbox a few days ago, and since it was somewhat similar to a previous question, I mistakenly thought I had already replied. It wasn't until I received a no...[Read More] Potential Interactions Between Emergency Contraceptives and Hot Drinks
Do Antidepressants Interact with Birth Control Pills?
Do antidepressants and premedication interact with each other? Hello, pharmacist: I have been taking antidepressant medications for a long time, specifically "Yuli Shupan" tablets containing Fludiazepam 0.25mg and "Liyou Moyi" tablets containing Escitalopram 1...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Ms. Han: Fludiazepam 0.25mg + Escitalopram 10mg + Drospirenone 3mg + Ethinylestradiol 0.02mg do not have any interactions. It is important to take the antidepressant medication regularly and not to stop it suddenly. In a few days, the New Year will be here. Wishing you a jo...[Read More] Do Antidepressants Interact with Birth Control Pills?
Can You Take Doxycycline with B Vitamins and Lutein Together?
Can doxycycline, B vitamins, and lutein be taken together? The dermatologist prescribed doxycycline 100 mg to be taken after breakfast and dinner, one capsule each time. Can the dietary supplements, including Laitrim B complex + C and Laitrim lutein, be taken together?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, sir: Can doxycycline, vitamin B complex, and lutein be taken together? There are no interactions between the medications, but vitamin C and doxycycline may slightly reduce the anti-inflammatory effects of the antibiotic. However, I believe this is a minor impact. Lutein fr...[Read More] Can You Take Doxycycline with B Vitamins and Lutein Together?
Interactions Between Antifungal Medications and Pain Relievers: What You Need to Know
Drug interactions between antifungal medications for onychomycosis and analgesics? I am currently taking Terbinafine oral tablets to treat onychomycosis. If I also want to take the pain reliever "Yongsheng" Naproxen, will there be any issues? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Lamisil (Terbinafine) for nail fungus does not interact with Naproxen; however, concurrent use of Terbinafine and caffeine may increase adverse effects of caffeine, such as headache, agitation, insomnia, and diuresis. Additionally, liver function tests should be conducted ...[Read More] Interactions Between Antifungal Medications and Pain Relievers: What You Need to Know
Combining Medications: Can I Take Qianyoujie with Antacids?
Combination of Qianyou medication? Recently, due to a relapse of depression, my doctor prescribed me with Cymbalta, one capsule in the morning and one in the evening. I would like to ask if I can take it with a gastric mucosal protectant since it has strong side effects and makes...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, regarding Cymbalta® (duloxetine) side effects: nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, and decreased appetite can be quite challenging, but not everyone experiences them. It's advisable to discuss with your physician how to manage these side effects if you encoun...[Read More] Combining Medications: Can I Take Qianyoujie with Antacids?
Concerns About Medication Use During Early Pregnancy: Impact on Baby
Medications during pregnancy Hello, pharmacist: I am a bit worried about taking medication prescribed by a dermatologist during the early stages of my pregnancy. I would like to know if it could affect my baby. The medications include: CLINDAMYCIN CAP 15, ZINGA (ZINC), and OXETHA...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Ms. Chen: It is great that you are particularly cautious about taking any medications during pregnancy. First, let me introduce you to the pregnancy categories for medications: - Category A: Safe - Category B: Probably safe - Category C: Use with caution (the effects on...[Read More] Concerns About Medication Use During Early Pregnancy: Impact on Baby
Understanding Drug Interactions: A Guide for Anxiety and Pain Management
Drug interactions Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question. I am currently experiencing anxiety and physical pain, and I take the following medications at night: Mirtazapine, Clonazepam, Midazolam, Lorazepam, Estazolam, Diclofenac Sodium, and Vitamin E. Could there be an...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Chen: The first five medications you are taking are all for tension, anxiety, and sleep, which should be prescribed by a psychiatrist. These medications, along with pain relievers and Vitamin E, are classified as having a level 3 drug interaction, which can cause centra...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: A Guide for Anxiety and Pain Management
Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Menstrual Cycle Changes
Emergency contraceptive pill Your girlfriend has an average menstrual cycle of 27 days. She had protected intercourse on June 19 and took an emergency contraceptive pill. Her period started on June 26, which is within the expected time frame. However, since her previous period wa...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Hou: Your girlfriend had her menstrual period on June 26 after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, which is normal. Her previous period was on May 21, resulting in a 36-day cycle, indicating that her menstrual cycle is not very regular, as the typical cycle is arou...[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Menstrual Cycle Changes
Interactions Between Birth Control Pills and Hemorrhoid Medications
The interaction between emergency contraceptive pills and hemorrhoid medications? I apologize, but I am currently taking the contraceptive pill Yaz on a long-term basis. However, I have recently been experiencing issues with hemorrhoids. I would like to know if taking Zhengji Hem...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Ms. Chen, 1. The components of the emergency contraceptive pill are: Drospirenone 3mg and Ethinyl estradiol 0.02mg. 2. The ingredients of the hemorrhoid relief pill include: Sophora japonica flower, Coptis chinensis, Scutellaria baicalensis, Paeonia lactiflora, Rehmannia g...[Read More] Interactions Between Birth Control Pills and Hemorrhoid Medications
Understanding Steroid Ointments for Children's Ear Itching: A Guide
Steroid ointment Hello, pharmacist: My child often scratches his ears. I have been applying more natural ointments, such as Zi Cao ointment or Zi Yun ointment, which have had mixed results. Today, my mother applied Fu Run Kang ointment on him. Does it contain steroids? Can we con...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Ms. Lin: Fucoinolone Acetonide in Skin Moisture Care is a medium-potency steroid. I believe that children's skin is very delicate, and it is best not to apply ointments without knowing the cause of any viral infection, as it can easily worsen the condition. It would be...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Ointments for Children's Ear Itching: A Guide
Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?
Interactions between emergency contraceptive pills and analgesics? Is there any interaction between Yaz (an oral contraceptive) and 500 mg of mefenamic acid that could reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, ttakiuyu: 1. There is no known interaction between Yaz (Drospirenone 3mg + Ethinyl estradiol 0.02mg) and 500mg Mefenamic Acid. However, concurrent use of caffeine and combination contraceptives may result in enhanced CNS stimulation, so it is advisable not to take them tog...[Read More] Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?
Timing and Effectiveness of Propafenone for Anxiety-Induced Symptoms
Propafenone I recently experienced increased heart rate and trembling due to anxiety before a presentation, and I took propafenone. However, I found that it did not alleviate my heart rate or trembling, and the shaking was still quite significant. I would like to ask the doctor f...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, 1. Propafenone is an antiarrhythmic medication that exhibits membrane-stabilizing properties and sodium channel blocking effects. Side effects of Propafenone include dizziness, cardiac conduction abnormalities, palpitations, visual disturbances, vertigo, fatigue, and ort...[Read More] Timing and Effectiveness of Propafenone for Anxiety-Induced Symptoms
Do Probiotics Affect the Efficacy of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Antibiotics?
Medications and Probiotics for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about drug interactions. I am currently taking medications for pelvic inflammatory disease: Lydacillin, Metrozole Oral, and suppositories. Will taking lactobacillus probiotics a...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Ebbly: 1. Lactobacillus can aid in digestion, while the Bacillus genus (spore-forming bacteria) exhibits resistance to clindamycin and metronidazole. Most probiotics are resistant to metronidazole, particularly metronidazole itself. Therefore, if you are regularly taking ...[Read More] Do Probiotics Affect the Efficacy of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Antibiotics?
Potential Risks of Overusing Birth Control Pills: What You Need to Know
Overdose of contraceptive pills? Hello, doctor. There are several days in a month when I mistakenly think I haven't taken my birth control pill after I've already taken it, which causes me to panic and take an extra one. I have a backup pack of birth control pills, so I...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Miss: 1. Drospirenone 3mg/ethinyl estradiol 0.03 is a 21-tablet single dosage form. If you forget to take a contraceptive pill, you should take it as soon as you remember. If you miss one day, take two pills the next day at your regular time. If you miss two days, take t...[Read More] Potential Risks of Overusing Birth Control Pills: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Missing Birth Control Pills and Irregular Bleeding
Take more birth control pills? Hello Doctor, my period started on March 30th, and I have been taking my medication on time every day. On April 7th, I realized I missed one pill, so I took two pills instead. However, when I was about to take another pill, it seemed like I misplace...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Amelia: 1. The design of oral contraceptives is to maintain a state of infertility in women by influencing the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body (preventing ovulation and increasing cervical mucus). 2. If you remember to take the missed pill within 12 hour...[Read More] Concerns About Missing Birth Control Pills and Irregular Bleeding
Managing Doxycycline Side Effects and Allergic Reactions: What You Need to Know
Doxycycline side effects / drug allergies Hello, pharmacist. I recently visited a dermatologist for acne treatment (it's my first time taking antibiotics; I haven't taken any medication for over five years). The doctor prescribed Doxycycline 100 mg/capsule, to be taken ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Miss Yang, The side effects of taking doxycycline include photosensitivity, so it is advisable to avoid direct sunlight during treatment. Other dermatologic side effects may include erythema multiforme, dermatitis, as well as gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiti...[Read More] Managing Doxycycline Side Effects and Allergic Reactions: What You Need to Know
Understanding Pre-Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness
Emergency contraceptive pill If you start taking the contraceptive pill about a week before ovulation, is that effective enough? When is it most effective for contraception? Do I need to take emergency contraception as well? Thank you!
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Tiffany: To effectively suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis for reliable contraception, it is essential to take the birth control pill continuously for 7 days without interruption. Starting the pill a week before your ovulation period may not provide adequate c...[Read More] Understanding Pre-Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness