Coughs, Colds, and Flu
You’ve heard it before, but the most effective strategy to fight germs is to wash your hands regularly. Using soap and warm water is best, and alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a good alternative when away from a sink. Get plenty of rest and eat well, too. If you do get a cold, your local pharmacist can help find a cold medication to treat the symptoms that are bothering you and to avoid drug combinations that either don’t treat your symptoms or target ones you don’t have. Remember that products containing Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) are kept behind the pharmacy counter and require state-issued identification.
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January 1, 2009 
From the Pharmacy
Call First, Act Later
One of the most rewarding parts of my work as a
pharmacist is answering questions people have about their medicines. It is also one of my most frustrating jobs, especially when people call with a question about a medication that they have already taken. At that point, I’m unable to help them avoid potential drug [...]
Be Careful with Coumadin
Warfarin (Coumadin), a prescription drug used to
prevent blood clots, saves countless lives. However, many drugs and supplements (even common pain
medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen) can intensify its anti-clotting effect and put patients at risk of excessive bleeding. When Coumadin therapy is indicated, give your doctor—and your pharmacist—a comprehensive list of your prescription drugs, [...]
Shingles Solutions
An attack of shingles (caused by the reactivated
chickenpox virus, which usually stays dormant in
people who had the disease) is typified by burning pain and sensitive skin, followed by a blistering rash that takes weeks to resolve. The antiviral drugs acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir may reduce symptoms
if started within three days of getting [...]
Water Pill Basics
Water pills (called diuretics) get rid of extra fluid in the body, making it easier for the heart to pump, and help reduce blood pressure. Common diuretics: hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide and others) and furosemide (Lasix). When to take: in the morning to limit nighttime
bathroom trips. What to watch for: Some people suffer leg cramps when [...]
Allergy Relief
Don’t suffer needlessly from springtime allergy
symptoms. Taken once or twice daily, over-the-counter (OTC) products that contain the active ingredient
loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) help treat runny nose, sneezing, and itchy and watery eyes. These drugs, which may be used in combination
with OTC pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) to relieve congestion, sometimes cause a dry mouth. [...]
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