FamilyDoctor.org: Your Guide to Pharmaceuticals - Page 3

Benzodiazepines in the Elderly: Risks and Safer Alternatives

Benzodiazepines in the Elderly: Risks and Safer Alternatives

Benzodiazepines pose serious risks for seniors including falls, memory loss, and dementia. Safer alternatives like CBT-I, SSRIs, and ramelteon offer effective, long-term relief without the dangers. Learn why experts now recommend avoiding these drugs and how to transition safely.

PCI vs. CABG: Which Coronary Revascularization Option Is Right for You?

PCI vs. CABG: Which Coronary Revascularization Option Is Right for You?

PCI and CABG are two proven treatments for blocked heart arteries. Learn how doctors decide which one is right for you based on diabetes, blockage complexity, and long-term outcomes.

OTC Sleep Aids: What They Really Do, Side Effects, and How Long You Should Use Them

OTC Sleep Aids: What They Really Do, Side Effects, and How Long You Should Use Them

OTC sleep aids like diphenhydramine and melatonin offer minimal sleep benefits but carry serious risks including dementia, falls, and rebound insomnia. Learn safe limits and better alternatives.

Generic Drug Interactions: How Digital Consultation Tools Keep You Safe

Generic Drug Interactions: How Digital Consultation Tools Keep You Safe

Digital tools can help you avoid dangerous interactions between generic drugs, but not all apps are equal. Learn which ones actually work, what they miss, and how to stay safe when buying meds online.

Antitrust Issues in Generic Substitution: How Pharma Tactics Block Cheaper Drugs

Antitrust Issues in Generic Substitution: How Pharma Tactics Block Cheaper Drugs

Big pharma uses legal tricks like product hopping and REMS abuse to block cheaper generics. These tactics cost patients billions and undermine state substitution laws designed to save money.

Pediatric Safety Networks: How Collaborative Research Tracks Side Effects in Children

Pediatric Safety Networks: How Collaborative Research Tracks Side Effects in Children

Pediatric safety networks bring together hospitals and communities to track side effects in children more effectively than ever before. These collaborative systems catch rare reactions, improve treatments, and prevent harm before it spreads.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve Compression and Treatment Options

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve Compression and Treatment Options

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common nerve compression disorder causing numbness and weakness in the hand. Early treatment with splints, exercises, or injections can prevent permanent damage-and surgery is highly effective when needed.

Questions to Ask About Your Prescription Label at the Pharmacy

Questions to Ask About Your Prescription Label at the Pharmacy

Learn the essential questions to ask at the pharmacy to avoid dangerous medication errors. Know what’s on your prescription label and how to verify it for safety.

When Pharmacists Should Flag Problematic Generic Medications

When Pharmacists Should Flag Problematic Generic Medications

Pharmacists play a critical role in catching problematic generic medications that can cause therapeutic failure or adverse effects. Learn when and how to flag unsafe substitutions, especially with narrow therapeutic index drugs.

Panic Attack Action Plan: Breathing, Grounding, and Medication Techniques That Work

Panic Attack Action Plan: Breathing, Grounding, and Medication Techniques That Work

Learn how to manage panic attacks with proven breathing, grounding, and medication strategies. This action plan helps reduce frequency, shorten episodes, and regain control during panic moments.

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In my latest blog post, I dive into the underrated world of sodium as a dietary supplement. Surprisingly, despite its negative reputation, our bodies need sodium for a variety of critical functions such as maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle contractions. However, it's all about balance and moderation. Overconsumption can cause health issues, but adequate amounts can be beneficial. Check out the post to learn more about why sodium might be the supplement you need to try today.

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve Compression and Treatment Options

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common nerve compression disorder causing numbness and weakness in the hand. Early treatment with splints, exercises, or injections can prevent permanent damage-and surgery is highly effective when needed.

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Questions to Ask About Your Prescription Label at the Pharmacy

Learn the essential questions to ask at the pharmacy to avoid dangerous medication errors. Know what’s on your prescription label and how to verify it for safety.

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Discover where to find free or low-cost medications at community clinics if you're uninsured or underinsured. Learn how FQHCs, free clinics, and pharmaceutical programs help people afford essential prescriptions.

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