Addressing Concerns About Medication for Depression Relapse
Questions from patients who are tapering off medication for recurrent depression? I am experiencing a relapse of major depression and am currently tapering my medication. However, my online research has raised more questions and fears about taking my medications. When I visit the...
Dr. Liu Huiya Reply:
Hello in the future: Congratulations on your gradual improvement in the treatment of major depressive disorder and your ability to reduce medication. It shows that you are responding well to pharmacotherapy, and your patient cooperation with the treatment has led to such results....[Read More] Addressing Concerns About Medication for Depression Relapse
Choosing the Right Sleep Aid While Taking Lexapro: A Guide
If you are taking Lexapro (an antidepressant) and experiencing insomnia, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for appropriate recommendations. They may suggest a suitable sleep aid based on your specific situation and medical history. Common options may include med...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear kuenyih: Lexapro (an antidepressant) and Sleepman are both prescription medications. Please take them as directed by your physician. It is important to communicate with your doctor about any bothersome side effects in order to achieve the intended medical outcomes. Wishing y...[Read More] Choosing the Right Sleep Aid While Taking Lexapro: A Guide
Understanding Side Effects of Neurotin and Other Medications
Side effects Hello, I took my mother to the Pain Management Department at National Taiwan University Hospital. She has a history of L4 and L5 spondylolisthesis and underwent surgery 10 years ago, during which the screws were removed due to infection, resulting in chronic pain and...
Dr. Lin Meili Reply:
Dear Guo Ke-Ling: 1. Currently, there are no documented side effects of dysgeusia associated with Neurontin (Gabapentin). 2. The antihypertensive medications that have side effects related to taste abnormalities include amiloride HCl/hydrochlorothiazide, amlodipine, and captop...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Neurotin and Other Medications
Impact of Cold Medications on Baby's Mental Health: Insights Needed
The effects of cold medicine on me - 1 Hello, Pharmacist Hou: Thank you for your reply. I understand that most of the cold medications I took are classified as Category C, which is concerning. May I ask if you noticed any mental effects on your baby after taking the medication? I...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello; I apologize for the delayed response as I thought it was regarding the original topic. I was quite anxious after taking the medication, which was Peace, and it was within the first 8 weeks of my pregnancy. I continued with my pregnancy, and my child is doing well academica...[Read More] Impact of Cold Medications on Baby's Mental Health: Insights Needed
Impact of Cold Medications on Early Pregnancy: Concerns and Insights
The effects of cold medicine on me? Dear professional pharmacists, I started my menstrual period on November 4, with a cycle of 33 days, occasionally extending to 40 days. I took cold medicine from December 8 to 14, and on December 15, a urine test confirmed my pregnancy. Howeve...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: I remembered when I was newly pregnant and took a pEACE pill, I was very anxious. I have organized the pregnancy medication categories for you: Category A: Studies have been conducted on human subjects with control groups, and there is no evidence to suggest that these m...[Read More] Impact of Cold Medications on Early Pregnancy: Concerns and Insights
Can You Split Vitamins? Understanding Dosage and Effectiveness
Can vitamins be taken in half doses? Hello, Dr. Hsu! I am currently taking a multivitamin, but I am concerned about the dosage being too high. Is it possible to cut a tablet in half for consumption? I have heard that cutting a tablet in half may damage its molecular structure, af...
Dr. Xu Yiyuan Reply:
1. YES! 2. Cutting in half does not affect its molecular structure. For example, water: the changes in the physical states of water—solid, liquid, and gas—are physical reactions and do not involve changes in molecular structure. During phase transitions, molecules gain energy, ca...[Read More] Can You Split Vitamins? Understanding Dosage and Effectiveness
Managing Pain Relief and Stomach Health: Key Considerations
Pain relievers & stomach medications Hello, Pharmacist Wu: I have hip joint issues, so my doctor prescribed Cataflam (Diclofenac) 25 mg for me, and also gave me Oxethaine (which has HC on the label) as a stomach medication. I would like to ask if I have urticaria and plan to ...
Dr. Wu Huiling Reply:
Hello! Cataflam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is effective for symptoms such as chronic rheumatoid arthritis, low back pain, peripheral neuropathy, lumbar disc herniation, and migraines, providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It may occasional...[Read More] Managing Pain Relief and Stomach Health: Key Considerations
Understanding Health Insurance Coverage for Heart Medication in Taiwan
Regarding issues related to health insurance coverage? Hello, Pharmacist Wu. I underwent bypass surgery due to a myocardial infarction at the beginning of September and am currently on medication and resting. The medications I am taking include: 1. Plavix (Clopidogrel) for the pr...
Dr. Wu Huiling Reply:
Hello! The health insurance regulations regarding Plavix are as follows: 2.1.7 Clopidogrel (such as Plavix): (90/1/1, 93/4/1, 94/8/1) 1. It is limited to patients with atherosclerotic disease who have a history of stroke, myocardial infarction, or peripheral artery disease, an...[Read More] Understanding Health Insurance Coverage for Heart Medication in Taiwan
Understanding Glycoproteins: Differences from High Proteins and Their Uses in Medicine
excuse me? Glycoproteins are molecules that consist of proteins covalently bonded to carbohydrates. They differ from high-protein substances primarily in their composition; while high-protein substances contain a larger proportion of amino acids, glycoproteins include both protei...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear Xiao Liu: Glycoproteins are physiological substances that are naturally present in the body. In mammals, many proteins are covalently bonded to carbohydrates, forming what are known as glycoproteins. These play a crucial role in communication and interaction between cells. H...[Read More] Understanding Glycoproteins: Differences from High Proteins and Their Uses in Medicine
Medication Inquiry: Availability of Naisiren at Taipei and Huilong Hospitals
Medication Inquiry 1. My mother previously received treatment at Veterans General Hospital. Due to geographical reasons, we would like to seek treatment at Taipei Hospital or Huilong Hospital. I would like to inquire whether these two hospitals use the medication "Naisiren 4...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Hello: Here are the answers to your questions. For further inquiries, please feel free to call. 1. Our hospital currently has Nexium (Esomeprazole) 40mg, which is the medication you need. As for whether Huilong Hospital has it, you may inquire with their pharmacy department. How...[Read More] Medication Inquiry: Availability of Naisiren at Taipei and Huilong Hospitals
Understanding Rosuvastatin: Uses, Precautions, and Online Resources for Patients
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate Rosuvastatin 10 mg/tablet is used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. When taking this medication, it is important to be aware of the following precautions: 1. Monitor li...
Dr. Huang Yicheng Reply:
Rosuvastatin, marketed under the brand name Crestor, is a lipid-lowering medication. It has been available in the United States for just over two years and is currently under clinical surveillance. In Taiwan, it is considered a new drug, and physicians typically prescribe it when...[Read More] Understanding Rosuvastatin: Uses, Precautions, and Online Resources for Patients
Common Medication Questions: Inderal, Antidepressants, and Storage Tips
Consultation Inquiry Hello, pharmacist. I have some questions. 1. Inderal and Prozac are classified as cardiovascular and psychiatric medications, respectively. Can they be purchased at a regular pharmacy? 2. Does storing medications in the refrigerator help extend their shelf...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello: 1. Ideral is a medication that belongs to both cardiology and psychiatry, while Prozac is classified as a psychiatric medication. Both are prescription medications and can be obtained at pharmacies, but it is best to have a physician evaluate your symptoms to adjust the ...[Read More] Common Medication Questions: Inderal, Antidepressants, and Storage Tips
Is Taking 200 Lithium Pills Fatal? Understanding the Risks
Regarding lithium salts? Ingesting 200 lithium tablets could be lethal. Lithium toxicity can lead to severe complications, including neurological damage, renal failure, and cardiac issues. The experience of dying from lithium overdose can be extremely painful and distressing due ...
Dr. Zheng Shuwen Reply:
Hello Keeper: Your message, though brief, is filled with helplessness and melancholy, which makes me anxious. Your question may seem simple, but it is not. What do you think would happen if you took 200 lithium pills? This is a result that is worth knowing; why do you ask? If tha...[Read More] Is Taking 200 Lithium Pills Fatal? Understanding the Risks
Is Carbizo Safe for Nursing Mothers?
Is Carbizo suitable for breastfeeding women? Is it suitable for women who are breastfeeding to take Carbizo?
Dr. Wu Huiling Reply:
Hello! It is recommended to take Carbimazole for thyroid treatment and to avoid breastfeeding, as breastfeeding may pose a potential risk of hypothyroidism in the infant. If breastfeeding is necessary, it is advised to monitor the infant's thyroid function every 2 to 4 weeks...[Read More] Is Carbizo Safe for Nursing Mothers?
Is Clarinase Repetab a Prescription Medication? Key Insights for Patients
Is Clarinase Repetab a prescription medication? A few weeks ago, I was diagnosed with chronic rhinitis by an otolaryngologist. After being instructed to take Clarinase Repetabs Tablets, my symptoms improved. Recently, however, my symptoms have recurred, but I am unable to obtain ...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Mr. Huang: Hello! Clarinase is classified as a prescription medication and can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription. If you urgently need this medication to manage your condition and cannot find it at a community pharmacy, you may consult the pharmacist for advice a...[Read More] Is Clarinase Repetab a Prescription Medication? Key Insights for Patients
Understanding the Differences Between Class A and Class B Medications
In Taiwan, medications are classified into different categories, such as Class A and Class B drugs. Class A drugs refer to those that are strictly controlled due to their potential for abuse or severe side effects, while Class B drugs are less restricted but still require a presc...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
The term "over-the-counter medication" refers to drugs that can be purchased and used without a physician's prescription. Over-the-counter medications can be classified into two categories: Category A and Category B. 1. Category A medications include antipyretics ...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Class A and Class B Medications
Does Felodipine Cause Leg Swelling? Solutions and Insights
Felodipine 1. Does taking Felodipine cause lower limb edema? How can it be resolved?
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Ray: Hello! Felodipine is a calcium channel blocker. Common side effects include headache, facial flushing, palpitations, fatigue, gingival hyperplasia, and gingivitis. If you experience symptoms such as swelling of the eyes, lips, or face, or edema in the lower limbs, please ret...[Read More] Does Felodipine Cause Leg Swelling? Solutions and Insights
Understanding Disulfiram (Antabuse): Key Insights and Considerations
Regarding Difuram..? Hello Pharmacist: Thank you for your response. I apologize—Difuram should be Disulfiram (Antabuse). Thank you!
Dr. Liu Huiya Reply:
Hello Tracy: Disulfiram is a medication used to prevent relapse in alcohol dependence, which is different from Librium, used as a substitute treatment during acute withdrawal. Disulfiram works by inhibiting the metabolism of alcohol in the body, leading to the accumulation of int...[Read More] Understanding Disulfiram (Antabuse): Key Insights and Considerations
Evaluating Three Popular Weight Loss Products: Safety and Effectiveness
Regarding these three medications? Hello Dr. Liao, I learned about three weight loss products through a friend's recommendation: (1) Phase 2-Carbo Intercept, a second-generation starch neutralizer, (2) ZANTREX-3, and (3) So to So Magic Mushroom. My friend had great results ...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Hello! What you mentioned is a dietary supplement and not classified as a medication, so I cannot assess the effectiveness of the product. However, upon reviewing the ingredients of ZANTREX-3, it primarily contains stimulants that may cause increased energy and reduced appetite, ...[Read More] Evaluating Three Popular Weight Loss Products: Safety and Effectiveness
Understanding the Differences Between Librium and Disulfiram for Alcoholism Treatment
Librium and Disulfiram are both medications used in the treatment of different conditions. Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is a benzodiazepine that is primarily used Hello, doctor: Could you please explain how to differentiate between Librium and Disulfiram, as both are used to trea...
Dr. Liu Huiya Reply:
Hello Tracy, I apologize! I have not been able to find any information regarding the medication "Difuram" that you mentioned. I'm not sure if the name you provided is correct. Librium is a sedative and anxiolytic medication used for the treatment of alcohol depend...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Librium and Disulfiram for Alcoholism Treatment