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