Archive for January, 2009

If you suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) and have been told that Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra are not suitable treatments, you should know that turning to herbal alternatives instead is not a good idea. Some “all-natural” products with herbal ingredients that are touted to remedy impotence actually contain unregulated versions of the pharmaceuticals found in the prescription medications. As a result, they pose the same danger to men who take nitrates to lower blood pressure and regulate heart disease as the prescription ED medications. This means that men prescribed nitrate medications are in danger of stroke and even death if they were to take Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, or one of the herbal impotency pills with similar ingredients.

 Consult with your doctor before taking any ED drugs, whether prescription or herbal. If you have further questions, speak with our pharmacist here at WICKAPECKO PHARMACY& MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC. We are focused on and committed to the health needs of our customers. Here at “Your Neighborhood Drug Store,” your home health care medical and equipment requirements are our major concern. We provide the latest and finest in mobility aids, home health equipment and supplies, and aids for daily living. 

While it’s usually not a good idea to have yourself for your doctor, recent research indicates that people with hypertension may be better able to take control of their own treatment. According to the study, patients with high blood pressure who were provided access to a pharmacist and home monitoring equipment were able to control their hypertension better than patients who underwent traditional physician care (involving several office visits per year). In fact, the self-check group was able to lower its readings about 30 points on average over the period of a year. The home-based strategy’s greater success is likely due to more frequent readings, which are reviewed by pharmacists, who evaluated them and helped patients adjust their medications accordingly

Using a blood pressure monitor at home has great benefits. To understand the readings and what they mean for you, speak with the pharmacist and staff at WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC, and receive the advice you need. Come to “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for all your home health and medical supplies and equipment. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, our pharmacist will be happy to assist you with any item you may want or need. .

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, during the most recent five-year period for which data is available, the number of people dying from accidental poisoning rose 63%, often the result of misusing prescription drugs. Opioid painkillers, sedatives, and anti-anxiety drugs seem to pose the biggest threat, but over-the-counter drugs and even some dietary supplements can cause problems if taken in excessive doses or combined with other drugs. To avoid such potentially lethal combinations, patients are advised to never double the dosage of any medication (especially a narcotic pain reliever) because it does not seem to be working. Also, patients who take antidepressants, painkillers, sedatives, or sleeping pills should ask which, if any, can be taken together.

Today’s column points out serious concerns about prescription and over-the-counter medications. The pharmacist and staff of WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC take the extra care to be sure you understand the directions and use of your prescriptions and make you aware of possible side effects. We accept MC, Visa, Amex, Discover, and most insurance plans. See why your neighbors and friends come to “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for their sports medicine and sports medical supply needs.