I am on furosemide and each month my potassium is low. Is there any other pill I can take instead?

Drugs like furosemide and thiazides can lower your potassium. Therefore, if you have low potassium, you may ask your doctor to switch you to the potassium sparing diuretic- like spironolactone.  However, you will still need to get your blood work checked regularly because spironolactone can increase body potassium- which can be dangerous. If you have good follow up, spironolactone is an excellent drug and also protects the heart.

Is there a generic version of Flovent?

Flovent is a steroidal inhaler used to treat both asthma and a variety of other allergic disorders. Unfortunately, there is no generic yet. However, there is budesonide, which is the generic version of Pulmicort. It also works in the same way and is a lot cheaper. Speak to your doctor about it.

Is the generic version of Zoloft just as effective for depression?

Yes, you can rest assured it is just as effective. The FDA ensures that generic brands have the same therapeutic effect as the brand name drug. Only the inactive ingredients are different. I would only recommend generics available in America. 

Outside of North America, there is little control on how generic drugs are produced. Some Oriental pharmaceutical companies have a habit of cutting corners to make profit. Therefore, that means do not buy a generic product if you travel to the Orient. Indian and China are two places where there are more fake drugs than the real thing.

Is It true that Zoloft has been associated with breast cancer?

No, to date there are no data to suggest that Zoloft can cause any type of cancer. It is a relatively safe medication.

Can Zoloft cause weight gain?

Yes, all antidepressants cause weight gain. The amount of weight gain varies. The only way to avoid the weight gain with Zoloft is to eat less and walk more. It is the rare individual that does not gain weight on Zoloft. Almost every antidepressant can cause weight gain.

I have a long history of motion sickness. I have been planning a cruise and am wondering if you can recommend something.

There are several things you can do to decrease your risk of developing motion sickness. Avoid smoking and do not eat greasy or spicy foods. Do not over indulge with any type of food.

As far as medications are concerned, you may want to try an over the counter antihistamine. Unfortunately, these medications can cause sedation and ruin you trip. The best medication is scopolamine, which is available and can last for 3 days. You can place it behind your ear and you need to start using it a few hours before the trip. 

Scopolamine is not recommended if you have asthma or have problems with urine retention