Is Insulin Use Justified for Non-Diabetics in Steroid Treatment?
Administering insulin without having diabetes? My mother is hospitalized due to lung issues. She receives corticosteroids before meals and has high blood pressure after eating, for which she is given insulin. Is this reasonable?
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
The appropriateness of medication use should be evaluated based on the patient's various test results and the physician's diagnosis. It is recommended to discuss this with the attending physician.[Read More] Is Insulin Use Justified for Non-Diabetics in Steroid Treatment?
Understanding Medication Interactions and Kidney Safety for Caregivers
Drug interactions I am a novice caregiver and would like to understand if my father's medications are duplicated. Additionally, my father underwent a nephrectomy for stage zero renal cell carcinoma 20 years ago (no chemotherapy required and he has fully recovered). I would l...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. The medications your father is taking include those for diabetes, prostate issues, gout, and hypertension. After checking for drug interactions, there are no significant interactions identified; however, NIMODIPINE and GRAPEFRUIT JUICE may lead to increased bioavailabil...[Read More] Understanding Medication Interactions and Kidney Safety for Caregivers
Can You Drink Coffee While Taking Tropicamide and Other Medications?
Coffee, mydriatics Can I take tropicamide 5mg while on Duasma HFA 200 (budesonide 200), Allegra (fexofenadine), and Hexoline tablets 0.5mg? Is it okay to drink coffee? I only thought about the oral medications, thank you for reminding me to also consider eye drops. I'm feeli...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. Asthma medications should be avoided in combination with the antifungal drug etoconazole or other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If they must be used together, the dosing times of the interacting medications should be spaced as far apart as possible. 2. Allegra may cause dro...[Read More] Can You Drink Coffee While Taking Tropicamide and Other Medications?
Medication Timing: Can You Take Allegra, Duasma, and Supplements Together?
Medication Timing You are currently taking Allegra (fexofenadine), Duasma HFA (budesonide 200), and Hexoline tablets (0.5 mg) twice daily. Additionally, you are taking two iron supplements daily, containing 10 mg of iron, 1 μg of vitamin B12, and 70 μg of folic acid. You are inqu...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: The medications you are taking for allergies, runny nose, bronchodilation, and asthma do not interact with the iron, folic acid, and lutein you plan to take, so there is no concern. However, please pay special attention to the following when using asthma medications: 1. Be...[Read More] Medication Timing: Can You Take Allegra, Duasma, and Supplements Together?
Does Hepatitis B Vaccine Affect Birth Control Pill Effectiveness?
Administration of hepatitis B vaccine and oral contraceptives? I have been taking oral contraceptives for almost a month now, but recently I received the last dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. I am concerned whether getting vaccinated will affect the effectiveness of the contracep...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
There are no drug interactions between the hepatitis B vaccine and oral contraceptives; they do not affect each other's efficacy or cause adverse reactions. You can rest assured![Read More] Does Hepatitis B Vaccine Affect Birth Control Pill Effectiveness?
Potential Interactions Between Diabetes Medication and Glucosamine
Diabetes medications and Metformin? Hello: Recently, my mother started taking the diabetes medication Glucofit F.C. Tab 500mg, one tablet after breakfast and one after dinner. However, she has been experiencing pain near her knee, and someone recommended that Alpha-lipoic acid co...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
After investigation, it has been confirmed that the diabetes medication Glucofit F.C. Tab and riboflavin (vitamin B2) do not interact with each other, and they can be used safely together.[Read More] Potential Interactions Between Diabetes Medication and Glucosamine
Are These Medications Banned in Sports? A Guide for Athletes
Performance-enhancing drugs Hello, I apologize for the inconvenience. I would like to inquire whether the following medications are considered banned substances in sports and their duration of effect, as my friend, who is an athlete, has a competition next month. Will these medic...
Dr. Chen Yuemei Reply:
Hello: 1. Regarding the medication you inquired about, Pseudoephedrine is classified as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). If the concentration in urine exceeds 150 mcg/ml, it is considered a banned substance. 2. According to the pharmacokinetics of Ps...[Read More] Are These Medications Banned in Sports? A Guide for Athletes
Understanding Colchicine: Uses, Side Effects, and Dietary Considerations
Medication Consultation Hello, I would like to ask about colchicine, which is a medication used to treat gout. However, my mentor does not have gout, so why would a doctor prescribe colchicine? Does this medication have other therapeutic uses? Additionally, my mentor experiences ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. Colchicine is a medication used to treat gout, which can reduce the production of uric acid by white blood cells and alleviate pain during acute attacks. Administering an adequate dose at the onset of an attack yields the best results. 2. Other uses of colchicine inc...[Read More] Understanding Colchicine: Uses, Side Effects, and Dietary Considerations
Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Interact with Cold Medications?
Is there any interaction between emergency contraceptive pills and cold medications? Hello, Doctor: I took cold medicine yesterday at 12:50 PM, which contained the following ingredients: (1) B.B CAPSULE 300MG (B.B. Capsule), (2) DEGITON F.C. TABLETS 400MG (Rode's Pain Relief...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
1. The medication you are using does not interact with the contraceptive pill. 2. It is advisable to take the medication with a large amount of water to facilitate drug absorption.[Read More] Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Interact with Cold Medications?
Understanding Medication Use for an Elderly Relative's Mental Health
I would like to understand my mother-in-law's medication usage? Consulting a physician: My mother-in-law is currently 82 years old. She previously received treatment at the Tzu Chi Hospital in Tanzi for mental health issues. Two years ago, other family members transferred he...
Dr. Gu Zhenting Reply:
1. Indications for each medication are as follows: 1. Quetiapine: Used for the treatment of schizophrenia, depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, manic episodes, and mixed episodes. It can be used as an adjunct treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) patients who do ...[Read More] Understanding Medication Use for an Elderly Relative's Mental Health
Do Modafinil and Birth Control Pills Interact? A Doctor's Insight
Is there a conflict between the use of Plan B (emergency contraceptive) and regular contraceptive pills? Dear Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with narcolepsy, and my doctor prescribed me Modafinil (10 mg per tablet). I am currently taking Orlistat. I would like to know if there...
Dr. Liu Huiya Reply:
Hello: Currently, there are no medical reports indicating any interactions between the medications you are using, Althea and Yaz. If your physician considers prescribing Provera in the future, this medication may slightly reduce the efficacy of Yaz. It is recommended to switch to...[Read More] Do Modafinil and Birth Control Pills Interact? A Doctor's Insight
Potential Drug Interactions Between Cancer Medication and Cialis
Cancer Eradication Tablets Long-term use of cancer treatment medications, such as chemotherapy agents, in conjunction with sildenafil (commonly known as Viagra) may lead to potential drug interactions. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate the specific ...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. After investigation, there are no drug interactions between Erbitux (cetuximab) and Viagra (sildenafil), but they should not be taken with grapefruit juice or cola. Co-administration with alcohol may increase the risk of hypotension. 2. Patients taking Viagra must n...[Read More] Potential Drug Interactions Between Cancer Medication and Cialis
Medications for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Effects on Infants
Medications for breastfeeding? I am currently a breastfeeding mother. Yesterday, I went to the hospital due to severe abdominal pain, and today I was discharged. The doctor believes it is due to excessive fecal matter accumulated in the first half of the colon, so they prescribed...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Hello: Regarding the use of pain relief tablets and magnesium oxide tablets in breastfeeding women, the data indicates that they can be used during lactation. However, for the use of Sifrol (Pramipexole) coated tablets in breastfeeding women, the data suggests that the risks cann...[Read More] Medications for Breastfeeding Moms: Safety and Effects on Infants
Understanding Medication Side Effects: Sleep Issues and Heart Rate Concerns
Drug side effects Hello, Doctor. Recently, I have been taking a medication called Mindray (思維佳). Although I am also on a medication for "heart rhythm," I have been experiencing noticeable and rapid heartbeats before falling asleep, which makes it difficult for me to set...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Hello: Patients taking MindPro may experience palpitations as a side effect in over 16% of cases. If this side effect negatively impacts your quality of life, please return to your doctor for advice on how to manage it. This will ensure you receive professional guidance and avoid...[Read More] Understanding Medication Side Effects: Sleep Issues and Heart Rate Concerns
Understanding Drug Interactions: Valdoxan and Remeron at Bedtime
Medication consultation for Fan Duo Shan and Le Huo You? Is there a potential interaction when taking two antidepressants, Valdoxan 25mg and Remeron 30mg, at the same time before bed?
Dr. Liu Huiya Reply:
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that there are drug interactions between the two medications. Taking them together before bedtime can also promote sleep. If any other discomforting symptoms persist, please return to the clinic and inform your physician.[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Valdoxan and Remeron at Bedtime
Interactions Between Warfarin and Astaxanthin-DX: What You Need to Know
Warfarin and Aspirin-DX My mother takes Warfarin daily and has recently been experiencing back pain. She is considering taking Astaxanthin-DX. I would like to know if the vitamin E contained in it will interact with Warfarin.
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Vitamin E may increase the risk of bleeding associated with Warfarin. Please be cautious of side effects during the medication period and inform your physician.[Read More] Interactions Between Warfarin and Astaxanthin-DX: What You Need to Know
Drug Interactions with Sulphasalazine: Safety Concerns with Cold Medications and Herbal Remedies
Drug interactions, medication consultation, Sulphasalazine? Hello, I have been taking Sulphasalazine 1g twice daily for ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to know if this medication has any interactions with common cold medications, vitamin C, or Fangfeng Tongsheng San. Additio...
Dr. Chen Yuemei Reply:
Hello: 1. Regarding drug interactions with Sulfasalazine, literature indicates that it may interact with NSAIDs commonly found in cold medications (which serve to reduce fever, relieve pain, and provide anti-inflammatory effects), potentially increasing the risk of gastrointest...[Read More] Drug Interactions with Sulphasalazine: Safety Concerns with Cold Medications and Herbal Remedies
Consultation on Drug Interactions for Stomach Ulcer Treatment
Consultation on Drug Interactions for Peptic Ulcer Medications Hello, I was recently diagnosed with a gastric ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I am currently taking one tablet of Pantoprazole daily and have not yet started treatment for Helicobacter pylori. A few...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: The medications you are taking are antibiotics for inflammation, pain relief, stomach medications, and enzymes. Having a simple medication for a runny nose is fine for short-term use and should not cause a gastric ulcer. Antibiotics should be taken for at least 7 days. I a...[Read More] Consultation on Drug Interactions for Stomach Ulcer Treatment
Can I Use Allergy Medications with NSAIDs for Pain Relief?
For allergies to NSAIDs such as Panadol, can antihistamines like Allegra or Zyrtec be used for allergy relief? I have been allergic to painkillers since childhood, and my mother has the same issue. Every time I take pain medication, my eyes swell and become itchy. Recently, I had...
Dr. Chen Yuemei Reply:
Hello: 1. The mechanisms of action for NSAIDs and acetaminophen (active ingredient: Acetaminophen) are different. NSAIDs are more likely to cause allergic reactions, while allergic reactions to acetaminophen are less common. Since some medications are combination products conta...[Read More] Can I Use Allergy Medications with NSAIDs for Pain Relief?
Understanding Drug-Food Interactions: Safety Tips for Common Medications
Drug-food interactions inquiry? Hello, I would like to inquire about the following information from other hospitals. Due to concerns for life safety, could you please help confirm if this is accurate? Thank you. Currently, I am taking Plavix (clopidogrel), Crestor (rosuvastatin),...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Hello: Certain components in food can indeed interfere with drug metabolism. For example, the concomitant use of Clopidogrel (Plavix) and grapefruit can reduce the active metabolite of Plavix, leading to decreased efficacy and potentially increasing the risk of thrombosis. Regard...[Read More] Understanding Drug-Food Interactions: Safety Tips for Common Medications