Thyroid

T,

I can respond to your question in two parts.  Your first question you will need to consult your physician.

The answer to the second question is “yes.”  If you have a thyroidectomy, you will need to be on replacement medication for the rest of your life.

Your friend,

Clyde

HYPERTENSION

Question:

I would like to know what diet is right for a person that has hypertension.

WS

Response:

People trying to control hypertension are often advised to DECREASE their sodium, INCREASE potassium, watch their calories, and maintain reasonable weight.

These are great questions to refer to the Teresa the Dietitian on this website.

Your friend Clyde the pharmacist

Side effects of Furosemide

Question:

I am 35 today. i know or at least I feel that I am to young to have high blood pressure. I am also over weight. besides losing weight, do you know of any other nutritional or natural pathic remedies that I can do to help to regulate my blood pressure in addition to taking furosemide.

T

Clyde’s Response:

Decreasing your sodium intake is an obvious start.  The internet has a lot to offer.  Go to WebMD and search “Hypertension: The DASH Diet”.  You can also google “Homeopathic Remedies for Hypertension”.

Your friend Clyde the Pharmacist

Side effects of Furosemide

Question:

Has there ever been any reports or interactions that you are familiar with that show the side affects of taking furosemide? Is one of those reactions (side affects) heightened anxiety or anxiety attacks?

T.

Response:

Here is a small clip from WebMD regarding the side effects of Furosemide:

“Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, blurred vision, loss of appetite, stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.”

To read more click on the link below:

http://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-8043-FUROSEMIDE+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5512&drugname=Furosemide+Oral

Your friend Clyde the Pharmacist

Generic cost vs. Brand Name cost

Question:

If there is not that much difference in generic drugs and name brand drugs why is there such a difference in price?

Marilyn

Clyde’s response:

The brand name drugs have to go through costly research and clinical trials to show that the drug is safe and effective for its marketed purpose.  The next step is human trials which is even more costly.  Finally the drug is approved and marketed to the public.

The generic drugs just have to show that it’s absorbed in the same rate and delivers the same active ingredients as the brand name drug which is coming off patent.  The generic drug company does not have to go through all the costs associated with clinical and human trials.  This is one of the main reasons why there is a difference between the costs of generics versus brand name drugs.

Your friend Clyde the Pharmacist