What do you know about the medications you take? (Weekly Topic Inspiration)

1. 81

   Simone Smithposted 12 years ago

   What do you know about the medications you take? (Weekly Topic Inspiration)
   
   Do you know anything about the medications you take- their history, side effects, alternative uses, alternatives, and level of effectiveness? If you don’t, you should!
   
   Empower yourself by researching common and important medications- and share your findings!
   
   For search-friendly title ideas, stop by the Weekly Topic Inspiration thread: http://hubpages.com/forum/topic/97371
   
   

   replyreport
2. 95

   Global-Chicaposted 12 years ago

   Are you planning on visiting a malaria risk area such as Africa? Want to learn about the disease, ways to prevent it, as well as its treatment in case you do get infected?  Then read this hub! read more

   replyreport
3. 60

   Diane Woodsonposted 12 years ago

   Quite a bit. I take lithium carbonate, I have to avoid excessive sunlight, too much or too little salt, try to eat the same amount each day. I have to drink 8 glasses or more of water, I have to avoid too much caffeine, I take synthroid, that is not as difficult, but there are lots of foods to avoid. I take vistaril, this is similar to zyrtec and is for panic disorder which I have done a HUB on. I know more than this probably and who know I may write about the other two health problems besides panic disorder. Hope this helps!

   replyreport
4. 75

   Mmargie1966posted 12 years ago

   Medications are nothing to play with.  Whether it is a prescribed medicine or over the counter, make sure your doctor AND pharmacist know what, and how much, you are taking. read more

   replyreport
5. 93

   MarleneBposted 12 years ago

   Here are nine strategies you can use at home to stop tooth pain in its tracks. I've tried all of these solutions, and I can vouch for their effectiveness. read more

   replyreport
6. 77

   rosikaposted 12 years ago

   Antibiotics can cause some side-effects and some of those can be life threatening. Adverse reaction to antibiotics should be taken seriously. read more

   replyreport
7. 91

   Kaili Bissonposted 12 years ago

   Common foods and beverages can change the intended effects of a medication in the body. Read on to learn about these sometimes dangerous food and drug interactions. read more

   replyreport
8. 91

   Kaili Bissonposted 12 years ago

   It seems we sometimes know very little until we have a bad reaction - I suppose research can only test so many different combinations of things. I am aware of interactions between certain foods and common medications, so I will research and create a new hub about that.

   replyreport
9. 68

   TDAPharmposted 12 years ago

   This is an issue I face on a daily basis, and can be a damning experience for some patients. So many times am I called upon in the hospital to figure out the medication history of my patients. Sometimes its possible with the aid of a family. Sometimes a patient may have a drug list. But often times things go missed. This could include doses and frequency of specific medications patients take on a chronic basis. More importantly, drug allergies may not be known or misunderstood. There are times
   Patients with life threatening infections state they have an allergy to the few antibiotics that may help them. Upon inspection, it was merely a rash. This is scary. Patients may take multiple medications and not know what they do or what to be aware of. And in all truth, I do not blame them. Caregivers and patients must work together to establish clear communications on there medications, such as: what is this drug for? How do I take it? What do I do if I miss a dose? What are potential side effects? What will I get out of this therapy? Ask these questions of yourself and yor providers.

   replyreport
10. 92

    cat on a soapboxposted 12 years ago

    I always research everything, especially meds that are prescribed. I am leary of new drugs w/o a solid track record and object to prescriptions that are strictly patented and high-priced. Fortunately, I don't take anything on a regular basis.

    replyreport
11. 61

    plussizepixieposted 12 years ago

    I always research medication I am prescribed online and quiz the pharmacist or doctor on potential side effects.

    replyreport
12. 94

    nifwlseirffposted 12 years ago

    Written by someone who knows sciatic pain inside and out, this article takes a detailed look at the range of medications available to treat this condition. read more

    replyreport
13. 51

    MrsU007posted 12 years ago

    yes. I know everything about what I take and what my partner takes. If I don't then I jump on line and do research before taking. Most times we are not taking medication but when we are or have to then yes I research. Interesting websites that give anyone information.

    replyreport
14. 75

    spartucusjonesposted 12 years ago

    I take coffee for my headaches. I know it has caffeine. It seems to help. I know the side effects if I don't take coffee.

    replyreport
    1. 73

       Laura in Denverposted 12 years agoin reply to this

       I understand that caffeine also enhances pain relif from aspirin. I use these two together (with food).

       replyreport
    2. 0

       bmcoll3278posted 12 years agoin reply to this

       Many studies show coffee has more good than bad effects. I have been a coffee freak for over 40 years. It is a staple at my house. So when my in-laws said it was bad I did lots of research on it.Like any thing in excess it is bad. But 4 or less cups

       replyreport
15. 74

    Susana Suarezposted 12 years ago

    MMR vaccine gives immunity to Measles, Mumps and Rubella (German measles). These are very contagious viral diseases that affect mostly children. They are transmitted airborne.
    Measles, mumps and rubella have no specific treatment; therefore, it is crucial to receive immunization against it even though side effects can occur. read more

    replyreport
16. 58

    mkrassocposted 12 years ago

    EVERY medication has side effects.  Also, most medications are meant to treat the symptoms and not the disease.  Sadly, an agency formed to protect the American people, the FDA, is greatly failing their task.  Funded by the companies they are meant to control, the FDA is not doing the research themselves, but simply going over the data given them (true or not) by the companies looking to manufacture and profit from the drugs they are self-testing.  Our medical and pharmacy schools are funded by big corporations and big pharma.  They literally write the text books.  Our doctors are no longer looking for the reason behind your illness, they are looking at your symptoms and writing prescriptions to treat those symptoms.  Saturday Night Live ran a skit years ago making fun of our "take a pill" mentality, but it's only gotten worse.  TV ads now have patients asking for medications by name, people self diagnosing and self medicating.  Doctors don't know how to cure illnesses, only cover up their side effects.  In the book, How Doctor's Think by Jerome Groupman, M.D., the author state states than on average, a doctor will have interrupted a patient describing their symptoms within 18 seconds, and many will have already jumped to a conclusion about their illness, often misdiagnosing them and merely treating the symptoms with a prescription cover up.  A book I would recommend to anyone who is taking any kind of prescription medication, is Selling Sickness: How the World's Biggest Pharmaceutical Companies are Turning Us All into Patients by Ray Moynihan and Alan Cassels.  This book was a real eye-opener for me.  When I am ill, I adjust my nutrition to help my body do what it is naturally meant to do, HEAL, and it does it quite well.  There is something wrong with a society that thinks it's okay when sleeping pills cause heart attacks and birth control pills cause cancer.  We need to fix our broken mentality that PILLS, instead of proper nutrition and exercise, can cure us.

    replyreport
17. 0

    janikonposted 12 years ago

    Some important information about mixing two of the most commonly used over-the-counter medications—Tylenol (acetaminophen) and aspirin. read more

    replyreport
18. 71

    buckleupdorothyposted 12 years ago

    I grew up in Massachusetts, had a great doctor and did occasionally get sick. However, antibiotics were definitely not the go-to panacea, and if they did enter the picture, dosage and duration were carefully monitored through prescription only. Some years later I move to Turkey and find that antibiotics are available over the counter and used to combat anything from a sore throat to the flu. So what's the right approach to this powerful medicine? read more

    replyreport
19. 68

    avorodisaposted 12 years ago

    Back pain used to be the problem of the elderly people. But nowadays when people work in offices and drive cars, back pain and spine problems have become the destiny of younger generations. The peak of exposure to back problems is between 17 and 49 years. Yet, during this period people are in their most productive age. The reason is the sitting way of life and the lack of physical activity. Bad eating habits, ecological issues, traumas, hard work also contribute to appearance of spine problems. read more

    replyreport
20. 57

    estellaeffectsposted 12 years ago

    I made a mistake which cost me life, money and my health. I was placed on medication (i had no choice) - after a years use, I was diagnosed with avascular necrosis.
    On asking how I got this disease - the doctors said it was a COMMON side effect of the steroid I was given before.
    Doctors must be cautious when providing medication. My career, life and everything has been ruined...

    replyreport
21. 77

    LoryRichposted 12 years ago

    Statins are popular cholesterol- lowering medicines. Prescription drugs like statins are supposed to make our body well. Yes, it does; however, there's also a chance (big or small?) that unwanted side effects may arise sooner or later. This hub tackles most of these side effects and suggests ways to avoid them. read more

    replyreport
22. 0

    kelleywardposted 12 years ago

    I am very interested in this topic as an RN. I wrote a pediatric drug handbook for nurses with a pharmacist and discovered just how much many people, including health professionals, do not know about the potential dangers of medication therapy.

    replyreport
23. 85

    Denise Handlonposted 12 years ago

    Rabies is a deadly virus that kills thousands of people each year.  Learn about this disease, how it is transmitted, and the vaccine that can save your life if you are infected. read more

    replyreport
24. 61

    Glosheiposted 12 years ago

    This is a good question and for me the answer is no, I have always trusted what has been prescribed to me. Perhaps I should look into it a bit further, thanks for the shove.

    replyreport
25. 76

    Nettlemereposted 12 years ago

    Medications considered are aspirin, taxol, quinine, Vinca Alkaloides, digitalis and morphine. read more

    replyreport
26. 72

    Daisy Mariposaposted 12 years ago

    Read the warnings on your prescription medicine bottle labels.
    Learn what medication-induced photosensitivity is. read more

    replyreport
27. 61

    tirelesstravelerposted 12 years ago

    People with cancer have various treatments. Everyone who has radiation has side effects In this article we will explore some possible side effects and how to cope with them. read more

    replyreport
28. 68

    larakernposted 12 years ago

    I made a hub about medication interactions between food, drinks, and other medications including herbal remedies. It is really amazing how many medications have negative side effects when taken with common very day items.

    replyreport
29. 70

    kittyjjposted 12 years ago

    Want to get rid of toothache fast?  Here you can find the best medication for toothache, the cause of a toothache, and the prevention of a toothache. read more

    replyreport
30. 60

    tabcrnaposted 12 years ago

    As a registered nurse, I have been involved with trying to help people understand that there are many medicines and vitamins that people take frequently that can prevent absorption of nutrition or even cause excessive bleeding during surgery.
    
    Many people use nonsteroidal analgesic drugs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Advil, Mobic,and many other trade names too numerous to mention) for aches and pains, headaches, arthritis, gout without realizing that these drugs can cause damage to the stomach lining in much the same way aspirin can cause ulcers. These drugs are also nephrotoxic (cause kidney damage) in frequent or larger doses. When combined with drugs like certain types of blood pressure medicines (ACE inhibitors) or diuretics, especially in the elderly, may precipitate acute renal failure.
    
    Because these drugs inhibit prostaglangin synthesis in the body, it may actually cause decreased circulation to the kidneys and water retention as well as preventing platelets from functioning well. Platelets help the blood to clot when one gets a cut but are inhibited by NSAID drugs. There are also effects upon the vascular system which I will have to do some research in order to clearly present all the dangers of using NSAIDs excessively.

    replyreport
31. 58

    Graham2jordposted 12 years ago

    I get my medications on a military base and they are constantly improving on ways of communicating about the medications I take. When I am prescribed a new medication, of course my doctor goes over the new drug with me. The pharamist takes it another step and consults me when I pick up the prescription. He/she will briefly go over the usage, dosage and if caution should be used because of another drug I'm currently taking.
    
    Along with the medication/s comes a Summary, one or more pages in length. The summary explains that the information does not assure the product to be safe, effective, or appropriate for me. That it is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advise of my doctor. This promps me to read on. The  subtitles on the summary are: Common Brand Names, Warning, Uses (what it's prescribed for), How To Use, Side Effects, Precautions, Drug Interactions, Overdose, Notes, Missed Dose, Storage.
    
    This information is extremely important because it arms you with knowledge so you will know if you are having an adverse reaction to the medication. The summary can help you keep track of your meds by placing them in a journal. One other way I find helpful in keeping track of meds, is by placing the extra sticky label from the pharmacy describing the med into a pocket address book. This way you have the actual label with dosage amount, number of miligrams, Dr. name and date. So when you visit the doctor, urgent care facility or an emergency room you have important info with you in your purse or wallet.

    replyreport
32. 71

    MsBizProposted 12 years ago

    Choosing a medication for anxiety and panic disorders can be complex. Learn about the most commonly used drugs to treat anxiety disorders and panic. read more

    replyreport
33. 72

    Doc Sonicposted 12 years ago

    The FDA assures us that generic drugs are just as safe and effective as their costlier brand name counterparts. Why, then, do prescription forms allow doctors to indicate "no substitution", meaning that the name brand drug must be used? Are generic... read more

    replyreport
34. 63

    WAHmomposted 12 years ago

    MMR vaccine or Measles-Mumps-Rubella vaccine is a combination of the measles, mumps and rubella virus which has been formulated as vaccine for children.
    
    The vaccine has a mild formulation to minimize serious side effects that could possibly be caused by a strong formulation especially for children.
    
    Measles, mumps and rubella are among the most serious diseases that have affected American children but are now in control with the introduction of the MMR vaccine. read more

    replyreport
35. 63

    WAHmomposted 12 years ago

    the mmr vaccine is very important in preventing mumps, measles and rubella complications among children. sensorineural deafness and cancer of the testicles are just some of the complications that can be avoided with mmr vaccination.
    thank you
    
    http://wahmom.hubpages.com/hub/MMR-Vacc … r-Children

    replyreport
36. 70

    kittyjjposted 12 years ago

    Want to know the best medication to get rid of that annoying caught so that you can sleep through the night?  Find out here. read more

    replyreport
37. 80

    StephanieBCrosbyposted 12 years ago

    A quasi-step-by-step guide to using reactions to drugs and supplements to determine if there are underlying medical issues, especially a rare and/or genetic disease. read more

    replyreport
38. 90

    Teresa Coppensposted 12 years ago

    Although not as prevalent as in earlier years, outbreaks of disease are still a real concern especially considering the every widening scope of contact due to air travel which brings adults and children into contact with people from areas where disease control measures are not as advanced as here in North America. Vaccinations, especially in children, are an important part of disease control as they protect children now and later as adults. read more

    replyreport
39. 85

    cardeleanposted 12 years ago

    Bug bites, rashes, dry skin?  All of these may be causing you itchy skin.  Here is a list of some common causes of itchy skin with some easy remedies. read more

    replyreport
40. 91

    rebeccamealeyposted 12 years ago

    Toe nail fungus is an embarrassing problem, especially during Summer. Many topical products have a low success rate and oral medication can interact with a number of drugs, vitamins and herbs. But with time and persistence you can rid your nails of nail fungus. read more

    replyreport
41. 64

    artist101posted 12 years ago

    I have researched this topic extensively. Most of my research has been with SSRI's. Simply because, I had so many problems with taking those drugs. The side affects are just as bad, as the ailment. There are very many useful prescription drugs. Most  are necessary, in a life or death situation. I have written a hub about SSRIs, and the alternative treatments. I hope that what I have written helps someone. I am currently researching other treatments for other common health concerns. The knowledge that has been given to us, by God, should be used with responsibility. Drugs should be researched extensively, before being put on the market. The recent findings of Cipro and Levaquin are a prime example, among many other drugs. We as consumers need to know the risks involved, so that we can make an informed decision. If that knowledge is not made available to us, how can we make an informed decision. After all, it is our lives that it affects, not the Doctors. I doubt that even they know the whole truth. There are so many different drugs that it isn't possible to know. A very useful website, Drugs.com, can help you decide. This website can check for interactions, side effects, and warnings. It is very important, to tell the pharmacist, all drugs you are allergic to, and all over the counter medication that you take. Many OTC meds interact with pharmaceuticals, and can cause problems. He or she can check this for you, but only if you tell them.

    replyreport
42. 68

    avorodisaposted 12 years ago

    "Wasser" is water in German, "elaion" means olive oil in Greek. When he saw that customers did not buy the remedy, Chesebrough changed the name. A clever marketing trick, you'd say. It was under this name, Vaseline, that the famous beauty product and remedy got famous and good-selling. It was under this name that it was patented in 1878. Since then, Vaseline has enjoyed popularity. read more

    replyreport
43. 85

    DzyMsLizzyposted 12 years ago

    There is a virtual flood of prescription drugs available to our doctors.  Do they always know what they are doing?  What about mixing drugs? Your health care may not be as good as you think. read more

    replyreport
44. 82

    Laura Schneiderposted 12 years ago

    I make sure to read the full 3-point type Patient Information (PI) sheet that is available from the FDA.gov site before taking a single pill. It takes a few hours because I'm not a doctor and have to look up many of the terms (let alone find a good magnifying glass), but my life depends on it.

    replyreport
45. 64

    afriqnetposted 12 years ago

    I am very cautious when it comes to taking medications, thanks to my Pharmacology Knowledge. I always ask the pharmacist for the written label about side effects, indications and complications of overdose for the medications I have not taken before. I always want to know the chemical ingredients then I will understand the pharmacology. I think the most important thing that you should always look out for is the Side effects and the contraindications. Never take these for granted they could be the thin line between death and life.

    replyreport
46. 65

    PatriciaTLposted 12 years ago

    There are a few things you need to know before taking Prilosec (generic name: omeprazole.) read more

    replyreport
47. 68

    Nare Anthonyposted 12 years ago

    Medication management and the drugs you should avoid. Learn about different food and medication combinations and their effects. read more

    replyreport
48. 73

    Tara McNerneyposted 12 years ago

    What does ADD/ADHD medicine do? Drugs such as Concerta or Ritalin are widely used in the United States. What effect does ADD medicine have on the brain? read more

    replyreport
49. 62

    jeshonposted 12 years ago

    I don't take any medicine without research it proparly. But even if I do so I barely take anything. I usually ignore it, If it's not a matter of life and death. Because I think most of the time we take to much pills and stuff and I don't think it's very good for us.

    replyreport
50. 95

    AliciaCposted 12 years ago

    Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. Formoterol is a bronchodilator. Both medications are useful for asthma management. read more

    replyreport