Archive for July, 2009

Millions of Americans take “statin” drugs, which block a substance the body needs to make cholesterol and may also help the body reabsorb cholesterol that has accumulated in the plaque on artery walls (helping to prevent further blockage of the blood vessels). Thus, statin drugs can play a very important role in preventing heart disease, stroke, and other diseases related to high cholesterol levels. At the same time, it should be pointed out that analysis of three large databases reveals that statin use has also been associated with double vision, droopy eyelids, and weakness of muscles that control eye movement. Because these potential side effects may not readily be associated with taking a cholesterol-lowering drug, the possibility warrants patients’ attention.

P.S. The group of cholesterol-lowering drugs known as “statins” include medications such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), simvastatin (Zocor), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), and rosuvastatin (Crestor).

According to a study recently conducted by researchers at Emory University, 20%-50% of patients take their medications incorrectly. Needless to say, this compliance rate is unacceptably low. To better ensure that patients are more faithful to their medication-taking regimens, physicians and pharmacists urge elderly patients, in particular, to keep track of their pill-taking schedules. One effective way to accomplish this involves using pill boxes that are labeled with the days of the week. Otherwise, patients can simply make their own “pill card.” It should include the name of the medication(s), the reason for taking it (them), instructions, and check-off boxes for morning, afternoon, evening, and night. The pill card should be kept near medications or in a visible place.
HINT: Pill cards should be reviewed periodically in the presence of the prescribing physician to make sure that the dosages are correct and the medications are still needed.

According to a study by University of California researchers, in nearly 65 percent of the cases in which physicians prescribed medication, they neglected to mention potential side effects. In 66 percent of the cases, they failed to tell patients how long to take the newly prescribed medication. Beyond that, details on how often to take the medications were missing in 42 percent of the conversations that doctors had with patients about the medications they were prescribing. With the results of this study in mind, patients are urged to get all the facts about medications from their doctors. In the event that they do not, for whatever reason, rest assured that the pharmacist has the necessary information.

HINT: Be sure to ask your physician what you should do in case you miss a dose of prescribed medication.

Since the beginning of this year, many asthma patients are likely to have become aware of a shift to a new type of “green” (environmentally friendly) inhalers. While the medicine (albuterol, which quickly opens airways during an asthma attack) contained in these inhalers remains unchanged, the gaseous component of the inhaler’s delivery system is different. Instead of using chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which damage the atmosphere’s ozone layer, all albuterol inhalers are now powered by the more eco-friendly chemical HFA (hydrofluoroalkane). Users of the new type of inhalers should know that the change in design comes at a cost, literally. The new inhalers will cost more, a price we pay for ensuring the health of the planet.

HINT: The new HFA asthma inhalers work just as well as the old models, but the medicine may taste and feel different. The pharmacist can answer any questions.

At WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC, we believe every person should be aware of the importance of proper medical dosages. In addition to prescription and over-the-counter medications, we carry nutritional and herbal supplements, sports products, and medical supplies. We are “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for all your medicine compounding and prescription needs. We now carry a new line of wigs. We even do the billing to your insurance company.

This informative column is of special help to smokers. If, after talking with your doctor, you still have questions, speak with our pharmacist here at WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC. We accept MC, Visa, Amex, Discover, and most insurance plans. Come to “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for the latest in durable medical equipment, home health equipment and supplies, mobility aids, safety devices, and aids for daily living. If you’re confined at home, ask about our free delivery service.

At WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC, we give you more than your medication. We will answer any questions you may have and offer you the advice you need on any new pharmaceutical. Conveniently located, we carry a full line of generic, brand name, and herbal medications as well as home health aids and home medical equipment. Let us show you our new line of wigs. We’ll do the billing to your insurance company. See why your neighbors and friends come to “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for their sports medicine and sports medical supply needs.

WICKAPECKO PHARMACY & MEDICAL SUPPLIES, LLC wants to remind you that some medications, whether prescription, herbal or over-the-counter, can have side effects and risks. Please take the extra care to be sure you understand the directions and use of your prescriptions. For further information, just ask our pharmacist. We accept MC, Visa, Amex, Discover, and most insurance plans. Make us “Your Neighborhood Drug Store” for your home safety needs, hot & cold therapy and incontinence products, and urological and diabetic products. We always offer free delivery.

If you are one of the millions of Americans who routinely takes herbal supplements, you should be aware that some have potentially dangerous interactions with certain prescription medications. For instance, one of the most serious herb/drug interactions involves the use of warfarin (an anticoagulant with a narrow dosage range that is often prescribed to prevent blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation) in conjunction with gingko (claimed to improve memory) or garlic tablets (claimed to improve glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure control). Either combination can prompt internal bleeding that may trigger a stroke. To limit the possibility of problems, patients are encouraged to tell their physicians and pharmacists what herbs they use.

HINT: Even though herbal preparations are often described as all-natural, they should be considered drugs by consumers.

Our population is aging, causing an unprecedented demand for senior home care products and services. A home healthcare business serves the needs of individuals who aren’t ready or willing to be involved in an institutional setting, but require some assistance to remain in the comfort and privacy of their own home. Ideally, home healthcare provides trained, insured, and bonded caregivers to seniors and disabled adults. The extent of their services is based upon the individualized needs of their clients. They are responsible for the administration, training, and management of the caregivers. They also network with referral sources. They help individuals maintain quality of life and peace of mind, and make their community a better place in which to live.

P.S. Senior home healthcare offers services such as personal care and skilled nursing.