Safe Medication Use for Children: Key Considerations and Guidelines
Safe Medication Use in Children Hello, Pharmacist Liao: Thank you very much for your previous assistance; it was very helpful. I have another question. I would like to inquire about the (Liamobol Pediatric Suppository), which seems to be a newly launched medication. Question 1:...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Hello: 1. "Limaobole Children's Suppository" is classified as an "over-the-counter medication," while "Non-inflammatory Suppository" is classified as a "prescription medication." According to regulations, prescription medications req...[Read More] Safe Medication Use for Children: Key Considerations and Guidelines
Can I Get a Year’s Supply of Thyroid Medication While Abroad?
Issues with Thyroid Medication Dispensing Hello, Doctor. I have congenital hypothyroidism and take Levothyroxine daily. I currently have blood tests every six months at a major hospital, and my condition has been stable each year. During each check-up, I receive a six-month suppl...
Dr. Zheng Shuwen Reply:
Hello, user: Currently, the regulations for continuous prescriptions under the National Health Insurance state that if you are planning to travel abroad for more than two months, returning to offshore islands, serving as a crew member on international shipping routes, or if you a...[Read More] Can I Get a Year’s Supply of Thyroid Medication While Abroad?
Understanding Drug Interactions: Finasteride, Ginkgo Biloba, and Minoxidil
Medication issues Hello, does Methylcobalamin (1000 mcg), Ginkgo Biloba extract (120 mg), and topical Minoxidil have any interactions? How long before or after meals should Methylcobalamin (1000 mcg) and Ginkgo Biloba extract (120 mg) be taken, or is it better to take them with m...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
1. Methylcobalamin (1000 mcg), Ginkgo biloba extract (120 mg), and topical minoxidil for hair growth do not have any interaction issues. 2. Methylcobalamin (1000 mcg) and Ginkgo biloba extract (120 mg) are not significantly affected by food, and there are generally no specific ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Finasteride, Ginkgo Biloba, and Minoxidil
Comparing Micobalance and Jarrow Formula: Efficacy of Methylcobalamin Supplements
Mikobor issues Is there a difference in efficacy between MicoB and regular dietary supplements containing methylcobalamin, such as Jarrow Formulas methylcobalamin? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Kunyi Reply:
Hello Sir: 1. Methycobal is indicated for peripheral nerve disorders. The drug license number is 029630 issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. 2. Methylcobalamin supplements (such as Jarrow Formulas Methylcobalamin) are classified as dietary supplements and cannot clai...[Read More] Comparing Micobalance and Jarrow Formula: Efficacy of Methylcobalamin Supplements
Understanding Medication for Stomach Inflammation After Endoscopy
Could you please provide more context or specify your question regarding medication? Hello, pharmacist. I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy yesterday, and I'm feeling quite uncomfortable. The results showed that I do not have gastroesophageal reflux disease, but I do h...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Mr. Tsai: 1. (Gastric Lizard Membrane-Coated Tablets) Indications: The drug acts by blocking H2 receptors on gastric mucosal parietal cells, inhibiting gastric acid secretion, and demonstrating healing effects on gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and gastritis. It is indic...[Read More] Understanding Medication for Stomach Inflammation After Endoscopy
Understanding the Interaction Between Cox2 Pain Relievers and PPI Use
The use of COX-2 inhibitors for pain relief and the administration of PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitors) such as Pantoprazole should be carefully managed? Dear Pharmacist, Due to the long-term need for pain relief, the doctor prescribed Bone Agile 7.5 mg. Previously, I took general an...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Mr. Lee: 1. Celecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve the symptoms and signs of osteoarthritis and to alleviate symptoms of adult rheumatoid arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, and is less likely to...[Read More] Understanding the Interaction Between Cox2 Pain Relievers and PPI Use
Pain Management and Health Insurance Coverage Issues in Taiwan
Pain management and health insurance reimbursement issues? Hello, pharmacist: I am a patient with bone metastasis from breast cancer, currently only receiving pain management. I previously consulted a physician online for treatment recommendations, and the physician suggested the...
Dr. Liao Huiling Reply:
Hello! Regarding the regulations on the use of medications covered by the National Health Insurance, I recommend that you contact the National Health Insurance Administration directly to clarify your many questions.[Read More] Pain Management and Health Insurance Coverage Issues in Taiwan
Can Oral Isotretinoin and Hepatitis Medication Be Taken Together?
Can oral isotretinoin be taken together with liver protective medications? Hello, Pharmacist Hou: I am currently taking two medications, oral isotretinoin and Liv52, for a long-term condition (I am a hepatitis carrier, and my liver enzyme levels are around 100, indicating inflam...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin, 1. The use of isotretinoin may lead to adverse reactions such as elevated liver transaminases, triglycerides, or cholesterol, as well as potential teratogenic effects. Liver function should be assessed before treatment and one month after starting therapy, followe...[Read More] Can Oral Isotretinoin and Hepatitis Medication Be Taken Together?
Where to Find Adult Chickenpox Vaccines in Taiwan Hospitals?
Adult varicella vaccine Hello, I would like to inquire about which hospitals in Taiwan offer the adult self-paid varicella vaccine. If the scope is too broad, could you please specify which hospitals in Yunlin County and Kaohsiung City provide the adult self-paid varicella vaccin...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: I sincerely apologize for the delay in my response as I was out of the country and had an agent assist you. It seems there was an issue with the internet connection. I apologize once again. The cost for the adult self-paid varicella vaccine is NT$2,160 per ampule....[Read More] Where to Find Adult Chickenpox Vaccines in Taiwan Hospitals?
Understanding Cosmetic Licensing and Regulations in Taiwan: Key Questions Answered
Cosmetic license or registration number? I apologize, but I would like to ask the following questions: 1. Is there a statement that "this product is exempt from application according to the announcement by the Department of Health in May 1998"? 2. Are all current cosmet...
Dr. Zeng Biru Reply:
1. "For citation purposes, our institution does not sell or dispense cosmetic products. According to the document from the Department of Health, Drug No. 87031871 issued in May 1998, the importation or manufacturing of general cosmetics that do not contain medical or toxic s...[Read More] Understanding Cosmetic Licensing and Regulations in Taiwan: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Trichloroacetic Acid: Uses, Risks, and Availability
Trichloroacetic acid is a chemical compound that has medical applications, particularly in dermatology. It is commonly used as a chemical peel agent for the treatment of various skin conditions, including warts, acne scars, and actinic keratosis. Its ability to remove the outer l...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello Mr. Wang: 1. Trichloroacetic acid is a corrosive organic acid that can rapidly penetrate tissues, causing damage to the gastrointestinal tract and acidosis, rather than toxicity. Prolonged skin contact (such as over one hour) can result in a burning sensation, pain, and in...[Read More] Understanding Trichloroacetic Acid: Uses, Risks, and Availability
Are Wholesome Supplements Food or Medicine? Understanding Regulations
Is it food or medicine!? Hello, I would like to ask whether the products "Ke Bu + Iron" and "Ke Bu + Zinc" produced by Wyeth in Taiwan are classified as food or medicine? I see that there are people reselling them online. Is that permissible? If there are any ...
Dr. Huang Shenggang Reply:
The products "Ke Bu + Iron" and "Ke Bu + Zinc" produced by Wyeth in Taiwan are prescription medications (to be taken as directed by a physician, pharmacist, or licensed pharmacist). They should be purchased from qualified pharmacies, and please do not buy medi...[Read More] Are Wholesome Supplements Food or Medicine? Understanding Regulations
Understanding Durogesic: Fentanyl Patch for Chronic Pain Management
Fentanyl transdermal patch (Durogesic) Where can I obtain or purchase Durogesic (Fentanyl Transdermal System)? Is it suitable for patients with long-term chronic pain? Durogesic was launched in Taiwan this year, but it has been available in the United States since 1991. Currently...
Dr. Lin Meili Reply:
Dear Xiao-Yin, Hello! According to the regulations published by the Bureau of Controlled Drugs under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the following applies: 1. Fentanyl transdermal patches (Durogesic) are classified as Schedule II controlled substances (based on their potent...[Read More] Understanding Durogesic: Fentanyl Patch for Chronic Pain Management
Understanding Prescription Clarity: Are All Medications Listed?
Physician's medication issues Shouldn't the medications prescribed by the doctor list all the drugs on the medication bag? Because six months ago, I visited an obstetrician when I was one month pregnant, and I found out that the fetal heartbeat had stopped at the second...
Dr. Huang Yicheng Reply:
The Physician Act, Pharmacist Act, National Health Insurance Medical Regulations, and Good Dispensing Practices all stipulate specific labeling requirements for pharmaceutical packaging. For example, Article 14 of the Physician Act states that when a physician dispenses medicatio...[Read More] Understanding Prescription Clarity: Are All Medications Listed?
Can General Clinics Legally Sell Medication? A Patient's Concern
Can general primary care clinics sell medications? Doctor Chen, I saw a physician at a small clinic selling sleeping pills to the public. Is this a violation of health insurance regulations, as clinics are not allowed to sell medication? Should I report that doctor? The physician...
Dr. Chen Mengxuan Reply:
Physicians must prescribe controlled substances (such as sedatives) based on the patient's medical condition, and the management of controlled substances must comply with the Controlled Drugs Management Regulations. In other words, if the physician at the clinic is willing t...[Read More] Can General Clinics Legally Sell Medication? A Patient's Concern
Is Oxandrolone Available in Taiwan? Understanding Its Legal Status
Inquiry about rare medications? Is OXANDROLONE available for purchase in Taiwan? Is it considered a controlled substance?
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear Xiao Lin: This medication has related formulations (products on the market) abroad, and there are certain regulations for medical use. It is classified as a controlled substance and is used for the treatment of osteoporosis, male hypogonadism, post-surgical recovery, trauma,...[Read More] Is Oxandrolone Available in Taiwan? Understanding Its Legal Status
Is This Vitamin B Complex Safe for Those with Liver Issues?
excuse me? Hello, I have poor liver function and purchased a bottle of Vitamin B complex from San Tuo Shi Co., Ltd. at a Taiwan Sugar hypermarket, which contains 180 capsules for only 245 TWD. However, the capsules are brightly colored red and claim to contain lycopene, but I can...
Dr. Huang Yicheng Reply:
If there is no health department registration number, the product is classified as food and must be made using legally sourced food ingredients by qualified manufacturers before being marketed. The manufacturers are responsible for self-management, ensuring that the hygiene, safe...[Read More] Is This Vitamin B Complex Safe for Those with Liver Issues?
Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Turtle Essence for Health
Regarding turtle essence? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about the effects of turtle essence. I recently started taking turtle essence based on a friend's recommendation, and I heard that it is very beneficial for health. My friend's skin issues, constipation, and c...
Dr. Huang Yicheng Reply:
The shell of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) and the Asian soft-shelled turtle (Amyda cartilaginea), which belong to the Trionychidae family, has a salty taste and a slightly cold nature. It contains nutrients such as collagen, mucopolysaccharides, various a...[Read More] Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Turtle Essence for Health
Understanding Prescription Issues: Why Are Drug Details Often Missing?
Prescription medication issues? Hello, pharmacist. I would like to ask you a few questions. When we usually go for a consultation and then pick up our medication at the pharmacy, the receipt typically lists the names of the medications. However, I notice that large hospitals prov...
Dr. Wang Lifen Reply:
Hello, Miss Cat: Question 1: General clinics do not list detailed names and uses, etc. According to the regulations of the Department of Health, the printed medication bag must comply with the "mandatory labeling items," which include 13 items: patient’s name, gender, ...[Read More] Understanding Prescription Issues: Why Are Drug Details Often Missing?
Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Whey Protein for Health
Please inquire about the benefits of whey protein? My sister suffers from insomnia and emotional instability. Although she is on medication, a friend has strongly recommended "whey protein," claiming that this supplement can enhance the immune system, boost resistance, ...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear Yu-Zai: Regarding your issues with insomnia and mental instability, it is important to determine whether these conditions are classified as specific medical disorders by a physician. In general, in addition to medication, psychological support from family and friends, as wel...[Read More] Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Whey Protein for Health