Does Doxycycline Cause Irreversible Side Effects After Four Months?
Does doxycycline have irreversible side effects? Will stopping doxycycline after four months of use cause any drug-related side effects? Will it affect male fertility or cause infertility?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Xiao: 1. DOXYCYCLINE is an antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and is effective against most Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. 2. Side effects: Patients with photosensitivity should avoid direct sunlight during treatment with this medication....[Read More] Does Doxycycline Cause Irreversible Side Effects After Four Months?
Prescription Coverage for Nutritional Deficiencies in Taiwan
Prescription reimbursement issues with health insurance? Hello Dr. Hou, I have been experiencing long-term muscle and nerve pain in my shoulders and neck. I visited an orthopedic doctor and took anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants, but they haven't been very e...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. He: Vitamin B12 deficiency can occasionally occur in individuals using the diabetes medication metformin. A blood test can determine if there is a deficiency. Vegetarians are most likely to experience deficiencies in vitamins B1 and B12 due to dietary issues. If supplem...[Read More] Prescription Coverage for Nutritional Deficiencies in Taiwan
Does Taking Vitamin B2 Always Result in Yellow Urine? Understanding the Variations
Does taking B-complex vitamins that contain riboflavin (vitamin B2) always result in yellow urine? Hello, it is normal for urine to appear yellow after consuming B-complex vitamins that contain riboflavin (vitamin B2). If there is no yellow discoloration in the urine, is that con...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Sang Sang: 1. The B vitamins include a total of eight water-soluble vitamins: B1, B2, niacin, B6, folate, B12, pantothenic acid, and biotin. The most prominent yellow vitamin among the B group is vitamin B2 (also known as riboflavin), which exhibits a strong yellow-green ...[Read More] Does Taking Vitamin B2 Always Result in Yellow Urine? Understanding the Variations
Can Your Family Use Moisturizers While on Anticoagulants?
Anticoagulants Hello, doctor. A family member is taking anticoagulant medication due to pulmonary embolism. Recently, they have experienced dry skin with slight peeling. I would like to ask if it is safe to use lotions such as Australian sheep oil (with evening primrose oil), she...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Xiao Qi: 1. Anticoagulant medications can be affected by herbal medicines, such as ginkgo biloba, angelica, salvia miltiorrhiza, or other herbs with blood-activating and stasis-resolving effects, which may enhance the effects of anticoagulants. On the other hand, ginseng...[Read More] Can Your Family Use Moisturizers While on Anticoagulants?
Understanding High-Dose Iron Supplements: Benefits and Precautions
100 mg of iron I previously had anemia and took iron prescribed by my doctor, but after finishing the treatment, I didn't return for follow-up visits. Occasionally, when I felt unwell, I would buy over-the-counter iron supplements and took them intermittently to avoid side e...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. The iron supplement you mentioned is ferrous iron. When comparing ferrous (Fe²⁺) and ferric (Fe³⁺) iron, ferrous iron has better absorption but a higher likelihood of causing gastrointestinal discomfort, and it is more affected by food (co-administration with food can...[Read More] Understanding High-Dose Iron Supplements: Benefits and Precautions
How to Properly Take Your Medications: Timing and Interactions Explained
Dosage and Administration of Medication Hello Dr. Hou, may I ask whether Yuli Shufen tablets should be taken before or after meals? I took Jing An Ning tablets before bed; can I take Yuli Shufen tablets at the same time, or should I space them out for a certain duration? Thank yo...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
1. Uliberone tablets: The most common side effects are drowsiness and lightheadedness (dizziness). It is advisable to take this medication after meals to minimize side effects. 2. Xanax (Alprazolam) and Uliberone tablets both belong to the benzodiazepine class of anxiolytics. I...[Read More] How to Properly Take Your Medications: Timing and Interactions Explained
Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of PEP Treatment?
Drug interactions I am currently taking PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) medication, and recently I twisted my ankle and took some painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. Will this affect the efficacy of the PEP medication?
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Ze: 1. TRIUMEQ F.C. TAB (Abacavir + Dolutegravir + Lamivudine) is a combination medication that is contraindicated in the following patients: 1. Patients with the HLA-B*5701 allele should not use this medication, as there is a risk of hypersensitivity reaction, par...[Read More] Do Pain Relievers Affect the Efficacy of PEP Treatment?
Can I Take Cold Medicine While on Blood Thinners? Key Considerations
Recently, I underwent a catheterization and took a medication called "Baoshuantong" (a traditional Chinese medicine for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis I would like to ask about my recent situation. I had surgery and am currently taking a medicatio...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Mastet Sugar: 1. Hello, the medications you are taking do not have any interactions. The combination of Plavix with PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), especially Omeprazole (Losec), can significantly reduce the antithrombotic effect of Plavix by up to 47%. Even if administered 12 hou...[Read More] Can I Take Cold Medicine While on Blood Thinners? Key Considerations
Long-Term Effects of Lutein and Fish Oil on Liver and Kidney Health
Medication consultation Hello, I have been undergoing traditional Chinese medicine treatment for floaters for a month and am also taking lutein and fish oil. I would like to know if long-term use of these supplements could put a strain on my liver and kidneys. I am concerned abou...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Lutein supplementation typically requires about 6 months. Lutein is a fat-soluble nutrient, and it is recommended to take it after breakfast for better absorption. Taking it in the evening may increase the burden on the liver. Please do not exceed 6 mg per day. It is also ...[Read More] Long-Term Effects of Lutein and Fish Oil on Liver and Kidney Health
Is Licorice Acid in Toothpaste Causing My Allergic Reaction?
Questions about Glycyrrhizin Acid? I am certain that after using toothpaste containing glycyrrhizinic acid, I experienced a sensation of heat throughout my body. Is this an allergic reaction? Could there be more severe side effects? Thank you.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: The toothpaste containing Glycyrrhetinic Acid is designed for the treatment of periodontal disease and gingivitis. It is also available in Medicated ointments. Glycyrrhetinic Acid (甘草次酸) acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to alleviate inflammation, reduce itching,...[Read More] Is Licorice Acid in Toothpaste Causing My Allergic Reaction?
Concerns About Vitamin Overdose: Guidance from a Pharmacist
Could you please ask your question again? I apologize for bothering you again, Pharmacist Hou. I didn't clarify last time. During the day, I took two Vitamin EX Strength tablets, which are endorsed by Tseng Kuo-cheng. In the evening, I also purchased San Duo Hao Shu Ning sup...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Tsai: The vitamin exB6 and B12 content is relatively high, while the main ingredient of Hoshuning is L-tryptophan, and the amounts of B6 and B12 are very small, likely not exceeding safe limits. Perhaps you can take vitamin ex in the morning instead of both morning and ...[Read More] Concerns About Vitamin Overdose: Guidance from a Pharmacist
Understanding Vitamin B Overdose: Risks and Recommendations
Vitamin B complex Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you about something. I have been taking epilepsy medication to help with anxiety and sleep for five to six years, and sometimes I experience muscle pain. I also bought a dietary supplement to help with sleep. During the day...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 can enhance the efficacy of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, particularly when used in conjunction with analgesics to reduce the inflammatory phase and decrease the need for anti-inflammatory pain relievers. 2. Vitamin B6 helps m...[Read More] Understanding Vitamin B Overdose: Risks and Recommendations
Interactions Between Pilocarpine and Sleep Medications: What You Need to Know
The interaction between dry eye syndrome and sleep medications? Hello, doctor. I have Sjögren's syndrome, which causes dry mouth, and I also suffer from chronic insomnia. I would like to know if taking Pilocarpine (Salagen) 5 mg and SMILON (an antidepressant) 30 mg together ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Peter: 1. Salagen has many uses; in addition to treating glaucoma, it can also treat dry mouth caused by immune system disorders, increasing saliva flow. The effectiveness of pilocarpine may be reduced when used in conjunction with beta-blockers for hypertension, and ther...[Read More] Interactions Between Pilocarpine and Sleep Medications: What You Need to Know
Essential Medication Consultation: Addressing Sleep, Calcium, and Epilepsy Concerns
Medication Consultation Hello, Pharmacist Hou. I have three questions to ask: 1. Previously, the doctor at the insomnia clinic prescribed calcium supplements for me, but now when I go to Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, they haven't prescribed calcium for me. Can I b...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello Mr. Tsai: 1. Calcium supplements come in various forms, such as Calcium Citrate. Its function is to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women. It is suitable for adults, pregnant women, women before and after menopause, the elderly, and patients...[Read More] Essential Medication Consultation: Addressing Sleep, Calcium, and Epilepsy Concerns
Are Breast Enhancement Supplements Safe? A Look at Ingredients and Risks
Medication consultation I would like to inquire about the breast enhancement product called "Aishen Bobo." Are its ingredients harmful to the human body or do they have side effects? I saw news reports stating that breast enhancement products should not be taken indiscr...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: There are many breast enhancement products, and I found that many of them are health supplements. Magnesium stearate is a lubricant, while borage oil powder may not be effective enough for breast enhancement and should be monitored for potential side effects and liver func...[Read More] Are Breast Enhancement Supplements Safe? A Look at Ingredients and Risks
Understanding the Side Effects of Steroid Creams: What You Need to Know
Side effects of steroid use? Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask about the use of the steroid cream (Clobetasol) that I've been applying for two weeks, followed by a break of 4 to 5 days. I have been using it for almost a week now, reducing the frequency to once a day (pr...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
1. Ingredients of Xianlis: FLUMETHASONE PIVALATE; SALICYLIC ACID. Salicylic acid has a keratolytic effect, which promotes the penetration of Flumethasone pivalate into the skin, making it suitable for use in severe keratinization disorders, tinea, and sclerotic skin lesions. (1) ...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Steroid Creams: What You Need to Know
Understanding Your Medications: Sleep Aids and Circulation Issues
Medication consultation Hello, pharmacist. I originally got my insomnia medication from a clinic, but since it's too far, I switched to getting my medication from Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, which is closer to home. At the clinic, I mentioned to the doctor that s...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Mecobalamin (MECOBALAMIN) is indicated for vitamin B12 deficiency, improving nucleic acid and protein metabolism in nerve cells, repairing nerve tissue, and alleviating abnormal sensory and motor disturbances. 2. Flunarizine (復腦通) is indicated for nausea, dizziness, ...[Read More] Understanding Your Medications: Sleep Aids and Circulation Issues
Understanding the Proper Use of Antibiotic Ointments for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Antibiotic ointment Hello, Pharmacist Hou: I have seborrheic dermatitis on my face. After discussing with my doctor about not wanting to use corticosteroid ointments long-term, I was prescribed two ointments: Jishou Cream and Bikeduo Cream. I'm not sure if I misheard or misu...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Xiaoya: 1. Seborrheic dermatitis is treated with corticosteroids primarily for their anti-inflammatory effects. Topical hydrocortisone cream is one of the main glucocorticoids produced by the adrenal cortex. It participates in the synthesis and metabolism of various subst...[Read More] Understanding the Proper Use of Antibiotic Ointments for Seborrheic Dermatitis
Concerns About Taking Wellbutrin: Effects on Sexual Health and Fertility
Questions about taking Prozac? Dear Doctor, I have obsessive-compulsive disorder and have been taking 2 capsules of Paxil (the green and beige capsules) in the morning and 2 in the evening for several years. I noticed on the medication packaging that one of the side effects is de...
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello: Side effects of Wellbutrin (Bupropion): 1. Common: headache, tension, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, diarrhea. 2. Occasionally: rash, urticaria, and others including fever, lymphadenopathy, proteinuria, mild elevation of transaminases, drowsiness, fatigue, tremors, dizziness, ...[Read More] Concerns About Taking Wellbutrin: Effects on Sexual Health and Fertility
Impact of Sleep Medications on Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Medications During Pregnancy / Drug Side Effects Before pregnancy, I used to take "Fumian" to help with sleep issues when I couldn't fall asleep. I would like to know if this medication has any effects during pregnancy.
Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology
Hello, Miss Michelle: 1. The active ingredient in the medication Zolpidem, which is used to aid sleep, may cause serious central nervous system side effects, particularly sleepwalking, as well as varying degrees of discomfort such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, headaches, me...[Read More] Impact of Sleep Medications on Pregnancy: What You Need to Know