Understanding the Side Effects of L-Carnitine for Weight Loss
Medication Consultation I would like to ask what side effects may be associated with the ingredient L-carnitine. Is it a weight loss component, and is it harmless?
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved levocarnitine for patients with "levocarnitine deficiency," but it has not been approved for weight loss purposes. Possible side effects may include: rash, itching, skin redness, blistering, flaking; tightness in...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of L-Carnitine for Weight Loss
How Long to Wait After Antibiotics Before Thyroid Blood Tests?
How long should one stop taking antibiotics before undergoing a blood test for thyroid function? Hello, doctor! I have been taking the antibiotic Levofloxacin 250mg for a week due to my rhinitis issue. I now need to undergo a thyroid blood test, which includes TSH, FT3, FT4, as w...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: According to the current data, Levofloxacin does not affect thyroid blood tests. If you have any further questions, you may consult the laboratory that performed your blood test or your treating physician. Wishing you good health and all the best.[Read More] How Long to Wait After Antibiotics Before Thyroid Blood Tests?
Assessing Medication Side Effects and Impact on Hemoglobin Levels for Elderly Patients
excuse me? Please provide me with the medications my mother-in-law is taking, and help me review their potential side effects and whether they may cause a decrease in her hemoglobin levels. Thank you for your response. Here are the medications my mother-in-law is using, and I app...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello Tina, Regarding the medication information you provided for your mother-in-law, I have conducted a literature review and would like to offer some insights concerning her hemoglobin decline: 1. In terms of drug side effects, aside from the rare anemia-related side effect o...[Read More] Assessing Medication Side Effects and Impact on Hemoglobin Levels for Elderly Patients
Potential Side Effects of Long-Term Use of Sleep Medications in Seniors
Long-term use of Zolpidem (commonly known as Ambien) in the elderly can lead to several side effects, including: 1. Cognitive impairment: Prolonged use may result in memory problems, confusion, and decreased alertness. 2. Increased risk of falls: Sedation can lead to dizziness a...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello Tina, The medication Suiminos may cause adverse reactions such as dyspepsia, bloating, and dizziness. While bloating is a less common side effect, it cannot be ruled out as a potential cause related to this medication. Regarding the decrease in hemoglobin levels, there is ...[Read More] Potential Side Effects of Long-Term Use of Sleep Medications in Seniors
Concerns About Medication for Skin Conditions: What You Need to Know
Regarding medication for skin diseases? I used the medication Sporanox (Itraconazole 100mg capsules) on February 13, 2009, taking 2 capsules each time until I finished the 28 capsules. This morning, I was unable to return for my follow-up appointment. During my initial consultati...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Dear FKH, I apologize for the delay in responding due to changes in my email address. This medication is an antifungal agent, and the reason your physician emphasized the importance of not interrupting the treatment is to maintain the drug concentration and to prevent the develo...[Read More] Concerns About Medication for Skin Conditions: What You Need to Know
Is Lorazepam an Anti-Anxiety Medication or a Sleep Aid?
Lorazepam Tablets I am an anxiety patient, and my doctor prescribed me "Lorazepam" tablets. Is this medication classified as an anxiolytic or a sleeping pill? Is it in the same category as other sleeping medications like Stidnos, or is it just a type of anxiolytic?
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello Steve, I apologize for the delayed response due to changes in my email account. Lorazepam has anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, and sedative effects, while Stitnos only has sedative properties. Best regards, Pharmacist at Taoyuan Rehabilitation Hospital[Read More] Is Lorazepam an Anti-Anxiety Medication or a Sleep Aid?
Medications to Avoid and Adjust for Dialysis Patients
Contraindications for Dialysis Medications What medications should dialysis patients avoid or require dosage adjustments?
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: Currently, there are tens of thousands of medications available in Taiwan, and not every medication requires dosage adjustment for patients with kidney disease. May I ask if you are taking any psychiatric medications? If so, could you please email us? We will organize the ...[Read More] Medications to Avoid and Adjust for Dialysis Patients
Can Eurodin Be Taken with Lexotan or Risperdal? A Guide to Usage and Side Effects
Can Eurodin be taken together with Lexotan? 1. Can Eurodin be taken together with Lexotan? 2. Can Eurodin be taken together with Risperdal? 3. Is Eurodin suitable for administration to patients with schizophrenia? 4. Are the side effects of psychiatric medications likely to...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: 1. Can Eurodin be taken with Lexotan? Yes, but if it is your first time taking them, be aware of the additive sedative effects of both medications. Remember not to drive or operate dangerous machinery, and avoid tasks that require concentration after taking the medicatio...[Read More] Can Eurodin Be Taken with Lexotan or Risperdal? A Guide to Usage and Side Effects
Why Is My Cheek Itching Daily for Months Without Medication?
In the absence of medication? Why have my cheeks been itchy and prickly every day for the past month or two?
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: I am not sure what medications you are taking, but if they are medications you have been on for a long time, they should not cause this situation. If you have recently started a new medication or switched medications, could you please let me know what you are currently tak...[Read More] Why Is My Cheek Itching Daily for Months Without Medication?
Can Long-Term Use of Laxatives and Diuretics Cause Recurrent Fever?
Drug side effects Dr. Liu, may I ask if long-term use of laxatives and diuretics can cause recurrent fever? Thank you.
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: The use of laxatives and diuretics will not cause recurrent fever. If there is indeed a case of recurrent fever, it may be related to urinary or kidney issues. It is advisable to visit a hospital for a thorough examination by a physician. Best wishes, Pharmacist from Taoyu...[Read More] Can Long-Term Use of Laxatives and Diuretics Cause Recurrent Fever?
Impact of SSRIs on Cancer Treatment: Insights and Concerns
Report on SSRIs Hello, Pharmacist Liu; I found a report indicating that SSRIs may interfere with cancer treatment here: www.libertytimes.com.tw/2002/new/mar/28/today-c10.htm Thank you.
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: The entire report does not indicate that antidepressants increase the risk of cancer. The study itself was limited to in vitro experiments in test tubes, and there have been no conclusions from human or even animal studies. Furthermore, this report is from 2002, and there ...[Read More] Impact of SSRIs on Cancer Treatment: Insights and Concerns
Do SSRIs Increase Cancer Risk? Understanding Lexapro and Long-Term Effects
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Hello, pharmacist: I am an anxiety disorder patient; currently, I am taking Lexapro. I read online about a study from the UK in 2002 that suggested SSRIs (such as Prozac) might inhibit the destruction of cancer cells by serotonin, p...
Dr. Liu Huijun reply Pharmacology
Hello: In the medication insert and online search results, we did not find any information regarding your statement that SSRIs inhibit the destruction of cancer cells. If possible, could you email us the relevant content or provide us with a website link? We will review it and pr...[Read More] Do SSRIs Increase Cancer Risk? Understanding Lexapro and Long-Term Effects