My doctor told me that I have C. difficle colitis from over use of an antibiotic. How can I treat this?

C difficile colitis is a nasty illness that commonly occurs after prolonged use of antibiotics. Your doctor will most likely start you on metronidazole or vancomycin. These drugs need to be taken by mouth and within 48 hours you will start to feel better. In the mean time drink ample water, stop use of all other antibiotics and do not take anything like Imodium. Wash hands frequently as this darn infection can easily be passed on to everyone in the family.

I am chronically constipated and have tried all sorts of laxatives, what should I do next?

Well, the one major problem with people who use laxatives all the time is that they will no longer work in future. Chronic constipation is a major problem in the population and I assume you have changed your diet, are drinking ample water and eating fiber. If you have done this, it is time to see a decent colon doctor. There are not many good solutions left for you, but surgery is one of them. Surgery for chronic constipation does work but you should think  about it as it has its own complications. Moreover, surgery is the last resort. Asides from drugs and changes in diet, there are not many more options.

Can Bystolic cause back pain?

Bystolic is a relatively new drug for control of blood pressure. The manufacturers of this drug appear to have been heavily promoting this drug but there is no evidence that it is any better than other older similar drugs. Recently the FDA had to send a cease and desist letter to the company for making unsubstantiated claims. There is also worry that the drug has many side effects. However, back pain is not one of them. The drug is known to cause headaches, dizziness and abnormal sensations in the arms and legs. 

Do not stop the drug but see your doctor first. Perhaps you should get a change in prescription for a more affordable and effective drug. In addition, let the doctor determine the cause of your back pain.

Is there any harm in taking two prilosec tablets if I miss one dose?

If you ever miss a dose of prilosec, do not make it a habit of doubling the dose the next time. While prilosec is very safe, it can be expensive to take two tablets each time you miss a dose. For maximal benefit from prilosec, take the pill at the same time every day. Prilosec capsules usually work immediately and can be taken for long periods without harm. Besides prilosec, other  ways to reduce stomach acidity include avoidance of smoking and limiting alcohol intake. 

I have been taking prilosec for several months and have noticed numbness and tingling in my hands. Is this related to the medication?

In rare cases, prilosec side effects include a sore tongue, numbness or tingling of hands or feet and severe weakness. This may be due to vitamin B12 deficiency. This side effect is usually seen if you have been taking prilosec for many months. To counter the numbness and tingling, it is recommended that you take supplements of folic acid and vitamin B12. in addition, a diet rich in vegetables may help.

I have peptic ulcer disease and take prilosec. Can this medication cause headaches?

When you buy prilosec, the pharmacist will tell you all the potential side effects of the medication. Prilosec side effects include nausea, stomach cramps, headache, diarrhea or constipation. These mild side effects do not occur in everyone and are well tolerated. However, if these symptoms persist, one must notify the physician.  The headaches are usually mild but if they persist, you may need a change in your medication.

I have recently been diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease and take prilosec. How long should I take this medication?

Prilosec is a great medication for peptic ulcer disease. It is known as omeprazole and is often used to treat reflux esophagitis and stomach upset from excess acidity. Prilosec works by decreasing the amount of acid in the stomach. Prilosec works immediately and can rapidly relieve acid symptoms like abdominal pain, heartburn, persistent coughing and difficulty sleeping.  Prilosec is often combined with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent stomach ulcers. Prilosec can be taken everyday if you have peptic ulcer disease. Today, a triple combination of medications to treat H. pylori can help cure the ulcer in 10-14 days. Prilosec is a very safe drug and can be taken as needed if you continue to have gastritis

Can I take plavix with pepcid?

When you buy plavix online, you will be told exactly how to take it. Always read the label on the package before you take plavix. Plavix is usually taken once a day with or without food. If you develop stomach upset, plavix can be taken with food. Sometimes plavix may be combined with antacids or an acid suppressing medication to avoid side effects. The dose of plavix is based on your medical condition and response. 

For maximum benefit, plavix must be taken every day at the same time. Never increase the dose of plavix without first speaking to your doctor. In most cases, plavix is started soon after a heart attack or after coronary artery stenting and continued for 3-9 months.

Can plavix cause flu like symptoms?

When you buy plavix, the pharmacist will tell you all the potential side effects of the medication. Common side effects of plavix include easy bruising, joint pain, back pain, flu like symptoms, headache, stomach pain, easy infections of the mouth and throat, and indigestion. These side effects do not occur in everyone and are usually well tolerated. However, if they persist you should tell your doctor. 

In rare cases, plavix can cause mood changes, muscle pain depression, irregular heart rate, headache, skin ulcer, cataracts, anemia, gout, nosebleeds or constipation. Like all medications, there is a small risk that plavix can induce an allergic reaction which may present with a skin rash, itching, dizziness or trouble breathing.

I have been given a prescription of plavix. Just what does it do? It is very expensive.

If you have recently had your coronary arteries dilated (ballooned) or have had a stent placed, you need to take plavix. The minimum time is 1 month but sometimes your heart doctor will make you take it for 6-9 months. Plavix is a blood thinner and widely used to treat patients with heart disease. Many doctors  order plavix prescription if you have recently suffered a heart attack or if you have had stents placed in your coronary blood vessels. Plavix prevents the stents or blood vessels from clogging up and thus improves blood flow to the heart. Often plavix is combined with aspirin for maximal benefit.

I have high blood pressure but often miss my plendil. Can I double my tablets the next day if I miss my tablets the previous day?

Absolutely not.  If you miss a dose of plendil, never double the dose at the next setting. Excess plendil can cause a severe drop in blood pressure and may cause dizziness or chest pain.

I have high blood pressure but often run out of my medications. Is it safe to take my brother’s blood pressure medication?

There are many types of medications to lower blood pressure and one should not combine them without first speaking to the doctor. The best advice is to ensure that both you and your brother take the same medication, so that if you run out of pills, you can take his instead.

I take several heart medications. Is it safe to take them all at once?

If you do take other medications, spread the dosing by at least 30 minutes. Medications can interact with each other and thus it is vital to make sure that there is adequate spacing between each pill. This is especially important if you take several types of heart medications

I have been on plendil for my high blood pressure for a few months and have become constipated. is this related to the medication?

One of the most annoying side effects of plendil is constipation. To prevent this complication drink lots of water and add fiber to your diet. In some cases, the constipation can be so severe that you may need a change in your medications.

I have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and my doctor has given me plendil. Is this an effective medication?

If you are not African American, dump your doctor because he knows little about high blood pressure. Plendil is also known as felodipine and classified as a calcium channel blockers. This class of drugs are usually more effective in African Americans and some elderly patients. The rest of the population does not seem to have a great response to these drugs. Plendil is often combined with other blood pressure medications for maximal response.

The drug works by opening your blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, plendil can reduce your risk of a stroke, heart attack and kidney failure. Besides high blood pressure, plendil is also used to treat abnormal heart rhythms, chest pain (angina) and very mild heart failure. If it is working for you, then I would not recommend stopping it. However, if your blood pressure is still high after plendil, it is time to have a chat with your doctor.

When does one see lowering of blood cholesterol after taking pravachol?

Pravastatin does not work immediately and it may take several months before you notice a change in your blood cholesterol. Because there are many types of cholesterol lowering medications, it is important not to combine them or interchange them with pravastatin. It is vital that you start some type of exercise to further help you lower blood cholesterol and lose weight while taking pravastatin. If your cholesterol levels have not dropped in 2-3 months, then the pill is not working and you may need either a higher dose or a different medication

I am 33 years old and have high cholesterol. Can I take two tablets of pravachol everyday to speed up the cholesterol lowering?

No, you cannot. When you buy pravastatin, you will be told exactly how to take it. Always read the label on the package before you take pravastatin. Pravastatin is supposed to be taken once a day with or without food. The dose of pravastatin is based on your cholesterol levels and response. Do not take grapefruit juice at the same time as pravastatin as this may lead to fluctuations in the level of the medication. If you are taking other heart medications, than space the dosing by at least 60 minutes. All individuals who take pravastatin should get regular blood work to ensure that the medication is working and that both the liver and kidney are functioning well. It is important not to change the dose of medication without talking to your doctor.

I have been taking pravachol for a few months and feel bloated all the time. Is this a side effect of the drug?

Yes, Pravastatin has a number of side effects that include stomach upset, bloating and nausea.  These mild side effects do not occur in everyone and are usually well tolerated. However, if they persist one should tell the doctor. Bloating often does not subside and you may have to take an antacid if you develop gastritis. In rare cases, pravastatin can cause muscle and joint pains. The muscle pain may start at any time and can be intense. The pain is usually from breakdown of muscle and is considered serious. If this happens, you must notify your doctor immediately. Like all medications, pravastatin can induce an allergic reaction that may present with a skin rash, itching, dizziness or trouble breathing

Are the cholesterol drugs recommended in young obese children?

Absolutely not. There is no statin drug that is recommended for use in children under the age of 12. If you do have a prescription like that, then it is time to take your doctor to court. Children do not need drugs but a change in life style, exercise and better parenting.

My doctor has prescribed me pravachol for cholesterol. Is this an effective drug?

Pravachol is also known as pravastatin and widely prescribed for people with high cholesterol. When you have high cholesterol levels, it can lead to premature development of atherosclerosis and increase your risk of developing a heart attack and stroke. Pravachol works by inhibiting an enzyme that makes cholesterol in the body. However, in order to get the maximal benefit from the medication, you must also incorporate a change in your diet and start an exercise program. By decreasing weight and lower cholesterol levels, you also decrease high blood pressure and gain better ability to control blood sugars. Pravachol is for life- so if you want to stop wasting your money on this drug, stop smoking and start walking. 

I have had a nerve injury for many months and my doctor has prescribed me lamotrigine for pain. Does it work?

Many doctors appear to be prescribing lamotrigine (lamictal) for nerve pain. Lamotrigine is actually an anti seizure drug and during the initial clinical trials the pharmaceutical company reported that patients with nerve pain did well. Well we know one thing about most drug companies – they do have a habit of lying about effectiveness of drugs.

As far as lamotrigine is concerned, most clinical trials performed independent of Drug Company reports indicate that it is useless. In the trials, there was little or no benefit from the drug. More important, Lamotrigine was also associated with severe skin rashes. The drug is also very expensive. If you have nerve pain, a better option may be pregabalin or gabapentin. Throw the lamotrigine script in the garbage as it is only a waste of money.

I have been given a prescription for cyproheptadine for my allergies; does this drug cause weight gain and dry mouth?

Cyproheptadine has many more side effects than just dry mouth and weight gain. Other side effects include dizziness, blurry vision, drowsiness, stomach upset, constipation and thick/viscus mucus. These effects are not well tolerated at all. In rare cases, Cyproheptadine may cause your heart to beat fast, cause confusion, anxiety, and difficulty urination. Since the medication can cause dizziness, it is important not to get up rapidly from a lying or seating down position. Like all medications, Cyproheptadine can also cause an allergic reaction that may present as a skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing and face swelling. The drug can also cause dense adhesions and fibrosis in your abdomen that can cause other problems. Best advice, dispose the drug and go get yourself some anti histamine.

My doctor recently gave me a prescription for cyproheptadine. Can you tell me something about this drug? I cannot find much data on it.

Cyproheptadine is a very old drug and you must be the only one in the entire world to have a prescription. In fact, your doctor must not only be very old but I doubt if he/she has kept up with medical literature. Cyproheptadine is not used in clinical medicine. There are many far better and safer drugs available. Perhaps your doctor owns a pharmacy and wants to get rid of his drug supplies from the 2^nd world war. Cyproheptadine was once used to treat allergies and certain endocrine disorders like Cushing’s syndrome. However, your doctor must be living in the dinosaurous age to write you such a script as the drug has many dangerous side effects. Best advice- throw the script, change your doctor or leave town.

How does one use Buspar?

Buspar is taken by mouth usually 2-3 times a day for anxiety. For sleep it is best taken 60 minutes prior to bedtime. Buspar is best taken on an empty stomach. Taking Buspar with food delays it actions. The medication should be swallowed and not crushed or chewed in the mouth. Individuals who have no trouble sleeping more than 7-8 hrs on a regular basis should not take Buspar. Buspar should only be taken as prescribed. If you miss a dose of Buspar, never double the dose at the next setting. Excess Buspar can cause lethargy, sedation, lethargy and can even slow down your breathing

What are common side effects of Buspar?

Mild side effects of buspar include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dry cough or blurred vision. To minimize the dizziness, one should get up slowly from a seated or lying position. Buspar should not be taken during day time as it can cause sleep. In rare cases, Buspar causes mood changes, sleep walking and depression

Long term use of Buspar has been associated with physical dependence and withdrawal reactions can occur.

In rare cases, the drug may cause an allergic reaction which may present with itchiness, unusual thirst, confusion, fast heart rate, decreased libido, skin rash, swelling of the face or mouth, fainting and difficulty breathing. 

My doctor has prescribed me buspar for my anxiety. Is this a good drug?

Buspar is a pill used to treat sleeping difficulties and anxiety. It is a very old drug and has been replaced today by the benzodiazepines. The drug can help one fall asleep faster and also allow for longer peaceful sleep. Buspar belongs to a class of drugs known as anxiolytics. The drug works on the brain and produces a calming effect. The drug is also used to treat panic attacks, sweating and alcohol withdrawal. The biggest advantage of buspar is that unlike the benzodiazepines, it does not lead to rapid development of physical dependence or addiction. The generic pills are relatively cheap

What is a safe dose of Viagra? I am a 22 year old male with impotence.

The dose of Viagra for an erection varies from 25 mg to 100 mg. if one pill does not generate an erection it is important to wait at least 2 hours before taking another pill. If the second pill does nothing, then one should not take any more pills. There are some individuals who continue to take Viagra every few hours to maintain the erection. This is not a safe practice and can easily lead to overdose. Viagra is a safe medication but at doses greater then 400-500 mg, it can cause a number of disturbing side effects. The initial symptoms and signs of an over dose generally includes intense nausea, stomach upset, an irregular or fast heart beat, dizziness or chest pain. There have also been reports of black outs when excess Viagra is ingested. 

What dose of Viagra should I buy for my impotence?

Viagra is available as a 25 and 50 mg pill. Unfortunately, not many people appear to respond to the 25 mg pill. For most men the 50 mg tablet does work, but one should try the 25 mg pill first.

The blue pill should be taken at least 15-30 minutes prior to anticipated intercourse and the effects will last up to 3 hours. If the first pill does not work, do not immediately take another pill. Sometimes the erections may be delayed by 60 minutes. Only take a second pill after 2 hours. In most men, the second pill does the trick. However, if the second pill, does not work, see your doctor. To get the best out of Viagra, do not take it with fatty foods, alcohol or other sedative medications. These substances can prevent absorption of Viagra and delay onset of erection. 

Elderly individuals who have difficulty achieving an erection may also benefit from Viagra.  However, it is recommended that elderly men always start out with the low dose pill.

Does Hydroxyzine (vistaril) help relieve generalized anxiety disorder?

Some physicians who are still practicing medicine from the 1970s and those who never keep up with current literature continue to prescribe Hydroxyzine (vistaril) for generalized anxiety. Vistaril was one of the first antihistamines developed in the 50s. It was once used as a sleeping aid and to decrease itching. It is very rarely prescribed today. As far as its effects on anxiety are concerned, the drug is absolutely crap. It should be relegated to the archives of the pharmacopoeia. As far as your doctor is concerned, you should dump him. With the currently available drugs, any doctor who prescribes Hydroxyzine today is an ignoramus baboon. Go see a real doctor and get either a benzodiazepine or an anti depressant for your anxiety

Are there any over the counter medications I can take for my bloating episodes?

Some people have frequent bloating episodes and feel miserable all day. For these people there are some over the counter medications.

BeanoTM contains enzymes that breaks down complex carbohydrates and vegetables. BeanoTM is said to decrease gas and belching but this does not always lead to a reduction in bloating. Less than 10% of individual benefit from this medication.

Other formulas to ease bloating include simethicone and activated charcoal. Both Gas X and Charcoaps are used to treat excessive gas and bloating but unfortunately do not always works. Charcoaps is hard to consume and makes most people feel worse than the bloating sensation

Some people swear that probiotics can help erase bloating. However, less than 10% of people surveyed claim that probiotics help. 

I take zomig for my migraines and have noticed that I feel quite sad afterwards. Is this related to the drug?

Sure, Zomig has several side effects including mood disturbances. The mild side effects  include dry mouth, weakness, drowsiness or dizziness. In most people these side effects are well tolerated. In rare cases, Zomig can also cause muscle pain, weakness, slurred speech, confusion, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, irregular heart rate, left arm pain, depression or a persistent cough. If these symptoms persist, one should seek immediate medical attention. Fortunately, the mood changes that you develop are reversible once you discontinue zomig. If the depression persists, then it is recommended you speak to your doctor.

I seem to get a headache every time I use Viagra. What should I do?

You have two choices- stop Viagra or take an aspirin 30 minutes beforehand and that should do the trick. Other mild side effects of Viagra include facial flushing and stomach upset- these side effects are mild and do not occur in everyone. 

Can you tell me if edegra is as effective as Viagra?

There are many generic brands of Viagra- the majority are made in china and India. Historically, pharmaceutical products made from these two countries have been found to be fakes and counterfeits. Moreover, many non-pharmaceutical online stores appear to be selling this product and most are just waiting to get your credit card number. While the product may be slightly cheaper than the real Viagra, there is no telling if it will work. Best advice, avoid such products. However, if you cannot resist the temptation of having a cheap erection, only buy a few pills at first. Note that you will have to give out your credit card number. If you do not get an erection with edegra, then you will at least get to know what it feels like to be suckered.

I have been prescribed elavil for my depression. Can you tell me if this drug can cause weight gain?

Unfortunately, almost all antidepressants cause weight gain. Other side effects of elavil include nausea, difficulty sleeping, weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating, or constipation. For dry mouth, one can suck on hard candy or drink ample water. Since elavil can cause weight gain, it is important to enter into an exercise program or eat less. In rare cases, Elavil side effects include worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, nervousness, tremors, libido and headaches. Men who take elavil often report of inability to have an erection. The only treatment for this is Viagra which helps relieve the problem in about 20% of individuals.

My doctor has prescribed me Elavil for pain. I am 31 and have had back pain for many years. Does this medication help?

Elavil is a great anti depressant medication and has been around for more than half a century. The only problem with Elavil is that it has many undesirable side effects. However, besides depression Elavil is used to treat many types of pain disorders, anxiety and is also a great sleeping pill. In children, Elavil is often administered for bed-wetting. Other off label uses of Elavil includes treatment of shingles, bulimia and neuropathic pain. As far as back pain is concerned, less than 10% of patients benefit from Elavil. Even among these, the drop rates are high because of side effects. 

You may try it for pain relief but its benefits often take several weeks. 

I have just been started on byetta for my diabetes and am consistently developing a headache. IS this a side effect of the drug?

Mild side effects of Byetta include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache or constipation. Byetta is a relatively safe drug but since it is combined with other anti diabetic drugs, low blood sugar can occur. Symptoms of low sugar include sweating, fast heart rate, abdominal pain, tremors, confusion, chills, drowsiness, fainting, headache or tingling. IF these symptoms do occur, one must immediately drink a glass of orange juice. It is recommended that all diabetics carry candy or a sugar pill. if you develop consistent headaches, you must measure your blood sugars to ensure that you do not have hypoglycemia. If your sugars are fine, and you still develop a headache, it is time to see your doctor. The only way to tell if the headaches are related is to stop the drug and seeing what happens.

I am a 47 year old type 2 diabetic and have just been started on Byetta. What is the most effective way to use this drug?

Byetta should only be taken as directed and is only for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The medication is administered as a subcutaneous injection either in the abdomen, upper arm or thigh. Byetta is injected twice a day before morning and evening meals. The drug should not be injected after a meal as it loses its effectiveness. Because of drug interaction, it is important not to combine Byetta with other drugs at the time of injection. Preferably, take the other drugs 60 minutes after the injection of Byetta. Byetta should be injected in an area where skin in not broken. Byetta comes in a pen like injectable device that is relatively easy to use. Learn how to use the device from a health care professional if you do not understand.

The dose of Byetta is based on your blood sugar and response. Byetta must be taken at the same time everyday for best results. The dose of Byetta should not be increased without first consulting with your physician.  

Does Zyprexa cause weight gain?

Unfortunately, all anti psychotic drugs do cause weight gain. Other mild side effects of zyprexa include dry mouth, cough, constipation, drowsiness and fatigue. All these side effects persists for duration of the therapy. However, the side effects are tolerable. In rare cases, Zyprexa can also cause mood changes, abnormal body movements, muscle pain, depression,  weakness, numbness or trouble walking.

To avoid weight gain, there is no great solution except eating less and walking more

I have bipolar disorder but my physician is treating me with zyprexa. Is this okay?

Even though zyprexa is approved for use in schizophrenia , it is also useful in the treatment of bipolar disorder

The drug works by restoring the chemical balance in the brain. Zyprexa can help relieve symptoms of delirium, hallucinations and paranoia in patients with schizophrenia. Zyprexa has also been used to treat agitation and paranoia in individuals with dementia and other behavior related problems. For bipolar disorder , zyprexa initially works well but because of the side effects compliance is an issue.

I have been on wellbutrin (bupropion) for my depression for a few days and yet have not seen an improvement in my mood. Do I need to change my medication?

Just be patient. Almost all anti-depressants take at least 2-4 weeks to work. You will start to see an improvement in your mood gradually. Wellbutrin is supposed to be taken 3 times a day with each dose separated by at least 6  hours. To avoid sleeping difficulties, do not take the medication close to bed time. Wellbutrin must be taken at the same time every day for several weeks or months to work. Do not change the dose of Wellbutrin without first consulting with your physician.  If after 6 weeks you see no improvement in your mood, then you may need a change in your medication. However, do speak to your doctor.

I have been started on wellbutrin (bupropion ) for my depression. Does this drug cause dry mouth?

Wellbutrin or bupropion has several side effects some of which include  nausea, dry mouth, cough, constipation, sweating, joint pain, blurred vision, strange taste or dizziness. In most cases, these symptoms subside with time. However, the dry mouth can  be treated by ample drinking water or sucking on hard candy.

In rare cases, Wellbutrin can also cause mood changes, muscle pain worsen depression, irregular heart rate, headache, or uncontrolled movements. 

Wellbutrin can also induce an allergic reaction that may present with a skin rash, itching, dizziness or trouble breathing. In such cases, one should seek immediate medical attention

I am on welbutrin (bupropion) for depression and I have heard that it prevents weight gain. Is this true?

It is true that wellbutrin does prevent weight gain, but this is only seen in less than 5% of depressed patients. More important is that this weight loss with bupropion is only seen in the first few weeks after starting the drug. Unfortunately, the weight is immediately regained over the ensuing months. There is no antidote to weight gain caused by wellbutrin except for exercise and eating less.

Are there any prescription weight loss pills that actually work?

The two available prescription diet pills that do work include meridia and orlistat. These drugs are not magic pills and must be taken for over 2-6 months to obtain weight loss. Most people can lose anywhere from 6-10 pounds in 3 months. These pills are usually recommended for men and women who are unable to achieve any type of weight loss through exercise and diet. Other criteria for these pills include a body mass index greater than 25 and presence of medical problems like diabetes or sleep apnea.

Unfortunately, these medications  work in less 20-30 percent of individuals. Common side effects of these medications include diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, abdominal cramps and greasy stools. These  pills also do not come cheap. A month’s supply can cost anywhere from $150-$300 and there is no guarantee that they will work. Best advice, walk more, eat less and stop looking for a magic bullet.

Is there a non-prescription pill for weight loss?

In fact there are two over the counter pills for weight loss. One is called Alli and the other is adipex. Adipex has been around for decades and is only for short term use. This medication can help both men and women lose weight but the problem is that regaining of weight is common if you do not make changes in your diet and life style.

Alli is “half strength” of the prescription drug, xenical, and works only if you combine it with an exercise program and changes in diet. With both  these diet pills you can expect to lose 1-3 pounds a month, but both have unpleasant side effects like dry mouth, diarrhea and greasy stools. Often individuals who take Alli soil their underclothes, which is not a very pleasant experience, especially when you are trying to look sexy and trim. Final point-both these pills only work in less than 10% of people and they are expensive

How effective is Quinine for my muscle cramps?

Quinine is a very old medication but it is quite good at relieving muscle cramps. Muscle cramps can occur at any time and can be a real pain in the rear. Most physicians really do not know what medication to give for cramps and usually end up recommending fluids and mineral replacement. Sometimes valium and or flexeril are given. However, probably the best drug for muscle cramps is quinine. Some studies have shown that a combination of theophylline with quinine is more effective than vitamin E and xylocaine injections. The recommended does of quinine for muscle cramps is about 200-500 mg/day and can be used as needed. So next time you develop cramps, ask your doctor for a quinine script. Mind you Quinine does have a few side effects like diarrhea and ringing in the ears.

Is hydroxyzine (atarax) good for my anxiety?

Hydroxyzine is an older anti-histamine and was once used as a sleeping aid and to treat symptoms of the common cold. Some older physicians do prescribe it for anxiety, primarily because it is cheap. Until recently no firm data were available on its effectiveness as an anti anxiety agent. However, analysis of studies by Cochrane Review reveals that hydroxyzine was better than the sugar pill but no better than the available benzodiazepines or SSRIs. More important-Hydroxyzine was associated with many more side effects like excess sleepiness and lethargy.

Therefore hydroxyzine can be relegated to the archives of the pharmacopeia. The drug is only useful as a sleeping aid -It is definitely not recommended as a reliable or effective drug for anxiety.

How can I prevent weight gain with risperdal (risperidone)?

Recent studies indicate that perhaps switching anti psychotic medication may help improve side effects like weight gain, blood sugar and cholesterol. Weight gain is a problem with older anti psychotics. The only way to prevent this weight gain is with lifestyle changes, diet and exercise. Now, research shows that perhaps switching to another class of anti psychotics may help. the latest studies indicate that switching to quetiapine (Seroquel) or aripiprazole (Abilify) may help some people avert weight gain. Switching the drugs does not affect the mental state or control of the psychotic symptoms. However, before you start to switch your drugs, speak to your doctor.

Many of the studies were poorly done, and were often sponsored by the drug companies. When studies are sponsored by drug companies, you only hear good news. Unscrupulous physicians have a habit of reporting everything as great and hiding all the negative data.

Is loss of libido common with Risperidol?

Yes, the majority of anti psychotic drugs can cause loss of libido. These medications lead to both a loss of sexual desire and also affect performance. There is no anti psychotic drug that does not cause loss of libido. The only option is to take a pill like Viagra to restore erectile performance. This option is only available for men. Unfortunately, Viagra does not help all individuals on anti psychotic medications. Stopping the anti psychotic is not a great option, otherwise symptoms of your schizophrenia will return.

Who should not take cialis pills?

Both adult males and even elderly men can use cialis pills. However, individuals who have diabetes, high blood pressure, a history of stroke or a previous heart attack, should not take cialis before speaking to the doctor. Moreover when you buy cialis, do tell the pharmacist if you have any allergies or take any nitrate pills. The combination of cialis with nitrates can cause dangerous lowering of blood pressure and chest pain. Cialis should only be taken as prescribed by your doctor and one should never take more than what has been prescribed. 

What are side effects of cialis?

Cialis has very similar side effects like viagra. The most common side effects of cialis include headache, nasal congestion, stomach cramps and facial flushing. These side effects are usually well tolerated and subside with time. In very rare cases, cialis may cause a prolonged painful erection. This painful erection is devoid of any sexual pleasure and one should immediately cease sexual activity and seek medical assistance.

Is there a difference between Viagra and Cialis?

While both pills work in the same way, there are some differences between Cialis and Viagra. Cialis tends to work in 15-20 minutes after ingestion whereas Viagra may take about 20-30 minutes. Another difference is that cialis is said to last longer than Viagra. With Viagra the erection tends to last 2-4 hours, whereas cialis has been reported to last 12-30 hours. This is a slight exaggeration and the truth is that cialis probably lasts 8-12 hours. Cialis is also slightly more expensive than viagra.

Both Cialis can Viagra can be taken with or without food. It is important not to take these pills with fatty food, alcohol, sedatives or other prescription drugs at the same time. 

Can one go blind after using Viagra?

All men who use Viagra should understand that while the pill is very safe it does have a few side effects. Viagra can cause a headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, dizziness or an upset stomach. These mild changes are well tolerated and often disappear with time. 

Reports of blurred or impairment of vision after use of Viagra are exaggerated and so far no link to the pill has been associated. However, Viagra can cause dizziness and chest pain, especially if you are a diabetic, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or have heart disease. Thus before you buy Viagra you must speak to a doctor to determine if the pill is safe for you.

In rare cases, Viagra can also cause a prolonged painful erection that may last hours. If this ever happens, you must stop having sex and seek immediate medical attention. Rarely, Viagra may cause decreased hearing or a ringing sensation in the ears.

Is there a medication one can take to dissolve gallstones?

Sure, there is but it sucks. This medication known as ursodeoxycholic acid (Actigall) is only useful for very small cholesterol gallstones. The medication tastes like crap and has to be taken for months or even several years to work. Actigall is made from bile acids obtained from a bear’s gallbladder. If you have been diagnosed with gallstones which do not bother you, leave them alone. If you have gallstones that have caused problems like pain and fever, then surgery may be a better option than Actigall. There are some reports where medications to dissolve gallstones have been inserted via a needle in the gallbladder. However, this is only an option for the very sick patient who is not able to tolerate surgery. All the currently available medications to dissolve gallstones only work on very small stones- for anything larger than 1 cm you will be wasting your time and money. Actigall has been around for more than 40 years and the reason people do not know about it is because it sucks.

Can Viagra increase the size of my penis?

Only if you believe in Father Christmas!  Do not believe all the B.S. on cyberspace. Many online sites that sell Viagra falsely advertise that Viagra can be enhance the penile size because it increases blood flow.

Unfortunately, Viagra does not increase size of the penis no matter how long it is consumed. The erectile ability of Viagra are transient and the medication must be consumed on a regular basis to maintain the erections. Anyone who wants to have a bigger penis by taking Viagra is only going to get a lot of disappointments. There is no pill, tablet, lotion, potion, cream, herb or paste that can increase the size the penis.

Can Viagra be used to treat any other medical disorder besides erectile failure?

Yes, the smooth muscle relaxing effects of generic Viagra also have been utilized to treat several other medical disorders besides impotence. There are some individuals who develop narrowing of blood vessels in the lung and are unable to get oxygen. These individuals with pulmonary hypertension benefit enormously from Viagra. The medication acts by generating nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessel and allows blood to flow into the lungs where it can be oxygenated. 

Viagra can also used by individuals who climb mountains and live at high altitudes. Because oxygen concentrations are low at high altitudes, Viagra acts by opening up the blood vessels in the lung and allows maximum blood to be oxygenated. However, Viagra must be taken daily to obtain the medical benefits and it can be costly.

 

Can depressed people with decreased libido benefit from Viagra?

Yes, Viagra can help some individuals with depression. Both depression and anti depressant medications can diminish libido. Thus, Viagra can help augment an erection. Unfortunately, Viagra does not work in all depressed individuals and the reason for this is unknown. Moreover, Viagra may work initially and then stop working in most individuals.

Other medical uses of Viagra include treatment for high altitude sickness. Some individuals who climb mountains or hike up hills, often develop altitude sickness which is marked by shortness of breath and cough. These individuals can benefit by taking Viagra for the duration of the trip.

Is Silagra as good as Viagra for erectile failure?

Ever since the patent on Viagra expired, a number of generic versions of Viagra have been developed- majority of these products come from India and China. 

First the fact- Indian pharmaceutical products have historically been known to contain fakes. India sells hundreds of pharmaceutical products, primarily because they are cheap-but in the majority of cases these products are worthless crap. 

Silagra is supposed to be the same as Viagra and works in the same way but is a lot cheaper. It is widely available from many online pharmacies. Unlike Viagra, you do not even need a prescription to buy silagra.

My best advice is avoid all generic products from the orient. There are countless reports on cyberspace that these pills do not live up to expectations. If you have erectile failure and want to have satisfying sex, then you will have to spend the money to get the “real deal” from an American pharmacy. Beware many British & Russian sites do sell generic Viagra and Silagra, but most of these are scam artists who only want your credit card.

My Viagra does not appear to work for impotence. Why?

Viagra is only meant for people who have erectile failure. Viagra is not an aphrodisiac and will not work if you have a psychological cause for your erectile dysfunction. 

When you take Viagra, it should start to work in about 20-45 minutes. Of course, your penis has to be stimulated-spontaneous erection does not occur with Viagra. Moreover, avoid taking Viagra with fatty foods or alcohol. Both these substances delay the onset of erection or you may not get an erection at all. Never take Viagra with other sedative medications. 

Despite all the hype, Viagra only works in about 50-70 percent of men with erectile failure.

Can I use two pills of Viagra to increase the potency of my erection?

It is safer to start with one pill and then wait at least 45-60 minutes to develop an erection. If after this time, you fail to develop an erection, then you may take another Viagra. However, if the second pill does not work, then you have either been sucked into buying some crap cheap stuff online or your erection problems can’t be fixed with a pill. 

You have to understand that Viagra only works in 70% of men. However, it has been observed that individuals who do not respond to  Viagra appear to respond to levitra or cialis. Again, a word of warning- you need to buy these pills from bona fide stores and not some scam online pharmacies.