Author: Christian Longpré - Page 4

Polypharmacy-taking five or more medications-can lead to dangerous interactions, falls, and hospitalizations. Learn the top risky combos, use the Beers Criteria, and follow a simple checklist to protect your health.

Learn which antihistamines are safe during pregnancy and which to avoid. Get clear guidance on loratadine, cetirizine, chlorpheniramine, and what to do about decongestants and nasal sprays.

Antihistamines like loratadine and cetirizine are generally safe for people with high blood pressure, but products with decongestants like pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure. Learn which ones to avoid and how to monitor your readings safely.

Medications affect people differently due to genetics, age, and other factors. Learn why some people have severe side effects while others don’t-and what you can do about it.

Bone turnover markers like PINP and β-CTX-I provide fast, early feedback on osteoporosis treatment response-showing results in weeks, not years. Learn how they work, who should get tested, and why they're changing bone health care.

First-generation antihistamines like Benadryl can dangerously interact with sleep aids, anxiety meds, and alcohol, increasing risks of falls, confusion, and breathing problems. Switching to second-generation options like Claritin or Zyrtec is safer and just as effective.

Ordering medication from abroad may save money, but it puts your life at risk. Counterfeit drugs are widespread, often deadly, and nearly impossible to spot. Learn how to protect yourself and avoid dangerous fake medicines.

Generic drug quality issues stem from manufacturing flaws in overseas plants, leading to ineffective or dangerous medications. Learn how cGMP violations, poor oversight, and cost-cutting put patient safety at risk - and what you can do about it.

Cirrhosis is advanced liver scarring that can lead to liver failure. Learn how it develops, how it's diagnosed, why it's irreversible, and when a transplant becomes the only option. Early detection can save your liver.

IVIG therapy uses donated antibodies to calm autoimmune attacks. It works fast, is safe for pregnant women, and helps conditions like CIDP and ITP - but costs thousands and requires frequent infusions.

Learn when common medication side effects typically start based on drug class-from hours to months after taking them. Know what’s normal, what’s delayed, and when to act.

Hepatic encephalopathy causes confusion due to liver failure and ammonia buildup. Lactulose is the primary treatment, reducing symptoms by flushing out toxins. Prevention includes diet, avoiding triggers, and consistent medication. Learn how to manage and prevent episodes.