MyDrHank: Your Essential Pharmaceuticals Guide - Page 3

St. John’s Wort and SSRIs: The Hidden Danger of Serotonin Syndrome

St. John’s Wort and SSRIs: The Hidden Danger of Serotonin Syndrome

Mixing St. John’s Wort with SSRIs can cause serotonin syndrome-a dangerous, sometimes fatal condition. Learn why this herbal supplement isn't safe with antidepressants and what to do instead.

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Trimethoprim and Hyperkalemia: What You Need to Know About Potassium Risks

Trimethoprim and Hyperkalemia: What You Need to Know About Potassium Risks

Trimethoprim, found in Bactrim and Septra, can cause dangerous spikes in potassium levels, especially in older adults and those on blood pressure meds. Learn who's at risk, how to prevent it, and what to do if your potassium rises.

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Pruritus in Cholestasis: Bile Acid Resins and New Treatment Options

Pruritus in Cholestasis: Bile Acid Resins and New Treatment Options

Cholestatic pruritus is a severe, non-histamine-related itch caused by liver bile flow problems. Bile acid resins like cholestyramine are first-line, but new drugs like maralixibat offer better tolerance and effectiveness. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and what’s coming next.

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Direct-to-Consumer Generic Pharmacies: How Much You Really Save vs. Insurance

Direct-to-Consumer Generic Pharmacies: How Much You Really Save vs. Insurance

Direct-to-consumer pharmacies can save you hundreds on expensive generics - but for common drugs, your insurance often beats cash prices. Here’s how to know which option is right for you.

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Cystic Fibrosis: Understanding the Genetic Respiratory Disease and Breakthrough Therapies

Cystic Fibrosis: Understanding the Genetic Respiratory Disease and Breakthrough Therapies

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic respiratory disease causing thick mucus buildup in lungs and organs. New CFTR modulator therapies now treat the root cause, boosting life expectancy to over 50 years-but access and cost remain major challenges.

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Corrective Actions: How Manufacturers Fix Quality Problems

Corrective Actions: How Manufacturers Fix Quality Problems

Corrective actions in manufacturing go beyond fixing defects-they eliminate root causes to prevent recurrence. Learn how structured CAPA processes, backed by FDA and ISO standards, reduce defects, cut costs, and ensure compliance.

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Older Adults on SSRIs: How to Prevent Hyponatremia and Falls

Older Adults on SSRIs: How to Prevent Hyponatremia and Falls

SSRIs help many older adults with depression, but they raise the risk of hyponatremia and falls. Learn how to spot the signs, choose safer meds, and prevent serious complications.

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Mometasone and Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

Mometasone and Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

Mometasone is safe for most people, but certain drugs like antifungals, HIV meds, and grapefruit juice can increase steroid levels and cause serious side effects. Know the risks and how to stay safe.

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How Valsartan Helps Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes

How Valsartan Helps Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes

Valsartan is a proven medication that lowers blood pressure and significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Learn how it works, who benefits most, and what to watch for when taking it.

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Indinavir vs Alternative HIV Protease Inhibitors: Benefits, Side Effects, and Choosing the Right Drug

Indinavir vs Alternative HIV Protease Inhibitors: Benefits, Side Effects, and Choosing the Right Drug

A detailed comparison of Indinavir with newer HIV protease inhibitors, covering efficacy, side effects, dosing, and how to choose the best option.

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