Pharmacists Facts
Christmas 2008
- One of the best and easiest ways to prevent the spread of common illnesses such as colds, flus and stomach ailments is to simply wash your hands. The question still remains however as to whether or not antibacterial soaps are necessary. Most research so far shows no difference in the use of regular soap versus antibacterial in the prevention of illness, so long as proper hand washing techniques are used. Use warm water, and be sure to lather soap for at least 10 seconds, remembering to get in between the fingers, backs of the hands and finger tips. Dry hands with a clean paper towel and use it to turn off the taps. Encourage all members of your family to wash their hands before eating and after coughing, sneezing or toileting. Help stop the spread of germs.
- The cold, dry winter weather can be hard on your skin. Low humidity levels rob the skin of soothing moisture, leaving it rough, itchy, dull and dry. Talk to your pharmacist about a suitable moisturizer to treat that winter itch and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier. At home, be sure to use a vaporizer or humidifier to keep air humid. Decrease the frequency and length of baths and showers and lower the water temperature. Avoid the use of perfumed or deodorant soaps and gels. Use a loofah in the shower to slough off dead skin cells. After washing, pat skin dry and apply a moisturizer. Be sure to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to moisturize from the inside. When outside, cover up the skin with gloves and scarves to protect it from the harsh, winter winds.
- Just because it’s cold outside, it doesn’t mean you should forget about the sun. When you’re out on the slopes or the trails, remember that snow reflects the sun, intensifying its effects. Continue to wear sunblock with an SPF 15 or greater on your face. A heavy moisturizer for extra protection from the harsh winter winds and dry air is a good idea as well. Sunglasses are always a necessity to protect the eyes from the intense glare from the sun’s rays off the snow. Lips are exceptionally vulnerable to sun and drying effects of winter winds. Wearing a lip balm with SPF will keep them moist and help to protect against cold sores. After coming in from your day of winter fun, be sure to apply a moisturizer to soothe the skin.
- The invention of antibiotics has probably been one of the most important medical advances of the century. However, overuse and misuse of antibiotics is leading to antibacterial resistance. When bacteria become resistant to the drugs we use to fight them, new drugs need to be created. This leads to an increase in health care costs. Using antibiotics to fight colds and flu’s that are caused primarily by viruses is not only ineffective, but it’s dangerous. There may not be effective drugs available for use when we truly need. Don’t expect an antibiotic every time you visit the doctor. If you do receive an antibiotic, be sure to take it exactly as instructed by your pharmacist. As well, it’s important to finish the prescription, even if you are feeling better after a few days. Failure to do so may lead to another infection, one that may be resistant to antibiotics.
- It’s the holiday season. Time for the office Christmas party, that large turkey dinner and maybe a little bubbly on New Year’s Eve. But before you indulge in another cocktail, you may want to check with your pharmacist first. There are a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications that don’t mix well with alcohol. Certain combinations may cause increased side effects of the medication, some may make you sick to your stomach and still others may cause increased dizziness and drowsiness. In any case, if you do have a drink or two, please don’t drink and drive…and have a safe and happy holiday season.
- Taking prescription medications is serious business. Be sure to find out all you can about your prescription before leaving the pharmacy. Your pharmacist should inform you of the name of your medication, how and when to take it and for how long. Is this something you are to take until you feel better, until the prescription is finished, or should it be repeated when the current bottle is completed?
Ask if there are any foods, drinks, other medications or activities to avoid. Your pharmacist can also explain the possible side-effects and what to do if they occur. And lastly, pharmacists are also excellent resources for lifestyle modifications to compliment your prescription drug therapy. Knowing all you can about your medications is the best way to ensure that you are getting the most from them.
- Our bodies are full of bacteria, both good and bad. Our immune system takes care of the bad ones for the most part. The good ones may be helpful in combating diarrhea and other intestinal issues such as nausea and food poisoning. Antibiotic use kills off both the bad and the good bacteria. Probiotics help to replace the good bacteria that antibiotics kill while killing the bad bacteria. Helpful bacteria or probiotics can now be found in many different supplements as well as in fortified yogurts. Although we are still uncertain as to whether or not the yogurt contains sufficient bacteria to make a difference, supplements can certainly help to ease the side effects of antibiotics such as yeast infections and diarrhea. Talk to your pharmacist about a supplement that’s appropriate for you.
- The flu virus is easily transferred from person to person by just one sneeze. Each year, thousands of Ontarians will become ill with the flu, missing school and work. Some may even die due to complications such as pneumonia. Now is the time to protect yourself by getting a flu shot. There are still plenty of clinics across the region and the flu shot is free to all Ontarians. Anyone over the age of 6 months can benefit from the flu shot, but is especially important for those with chronic illnesses or anyone working in the health care field and their family members. The flu shot does not cause the flu. Last year’s vaccine will not protect you this year. Even with the vaccine you can still get sick, but chances are it won’t be as severe. If you haven’t already done so, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your flu shot today.
- Medication non-adherence or not taking the medication prescribed is a huge concern in our society. Statistics show that people stop taking half of their medication in the first year after being diagnosed with a chronic disease, such as hypertension, high cholesterol or osteoporosis. It’s a proven fact that many people quit taking their prescriptions because they don’t think the medication is working, that it is harmful, or they just plain forget. In chronic diseases such as hypertension or high cholesterol, it is important to understand why you are taking your medication and that it needs to be taken continuously, even if you don’t feel any effects from it. Talk to your pharmacist to ensure that you understand everything about your medication.
- Warfarin is a medication used frequently to thin the blood or for heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation. Although quite a common drug, it is one that must be dosed with precise accuracy. It has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that a slight dosage change can cause a serious reaction. Too much warfarin can cause excessive bleeding; yet not enough could lead to a blood clot, which means an increased risk for a heart attack or stroke. Many medications interact with warfarin, leading to either too little or too much of the drug in the body. Filling all of your prescriptions at the same pharmacy will help your pharmacist and doctor avoid any unwanted interactions with warfarin or any prescriptions for that matter. Be aware also, that many herbal supplements and some vitamins, such as vitamin K affect the way warfarin works.
- A common way to administer medications is in the form of a transdermal patch. The patches are like band-aids with the drug inside it that is transferred through the skin into the blood stream. Patches contain medications used in smoking cessation, pain management, hormone replacement therapy and in the prevention of angina attacks. Patches must be applied properly in order to ensure the correct amount of drug is passing through the skin. They should be applied to dry skin that is free of lotions and creams, preferably a non-hairy area. Some patches can be covered with tape if they don’t stick, but check with your pharmacist first. Exposure to heat can increase drug absorption from some patches, leading to toxicity. Be sure to avoid heating pads, electric blankets, saunas and sunbathing.
12. Years ago, pharmacists prepared or compounded medicine from scratch. Technological advances have allowed the mass production of pharmaceuticals. But not every patient is the same, and not every condition is the same, leaving gaps in treatments for many patients. Using time honored techniques, coupled with today’s knowledge of therapeutic chemistry specially trained pharmacists and technicians can prepare medications in the dose or dosage form that is specific to you. Whether it’s a different flavor, a topical ointment or a different way of administering the medicine, a compounding pharmacist will work with your physician to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment. Talk to a compounding pharmacist today.
13. The most important thing a pharmacist can give is advice. If you are taking 3 or more prescription medications for a chronic condition, you are entitled to a MedsCheck. An exciting initiative in conjunction with the provincial government, the MedsCheck program entitles Ontario residents taking 3 or more prescription medications for a chronic condition to a private 30 minute consultation with a pharmacist. And, the best part is, it’s absolutely FREE! Your pharmacist will help you to manage your medications and better understand how they interact with each other and other over-the-counter medication you may be taking. For more information, visit
www.medscheck.ca or call or visit your pharmacist to book an appointment today.
- Childhood obesity is a growing concern. Over the past 30 years, the number of children diagnosed as overweight has more than doubled. Unfortunately this has also lead to an increase in diseases typically only seen in adults such as heart disease, high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes. Obesity and its complications currently cost our health care system nearly $2 billion per year. If we continue with our sedentary lifestyle coupled with a poor diet, the numbers will only sky rocket. Weight management through diet and physical activity is the key to preventing the onset of adult diseases in our children. All families should make a concerted effort to limit consumption of sweetened beverages and fast food as well as screen time. Engage the entire family in physical activity for at least 60 minutes per day and enjoy meals together as many nights of the week as possible.
- Eczema is a chronic, non-contagious inflammatory skin disorder. The main symptom is severe itching, but there can also be dry, scaly skin with swelling or even bleeding in severe cases. Eczema affects nearly a quarter of the population and its incidence seems to be on the rise and it seems to be more common in those with a family history of eczema, allergies or asthma. The symptoms can be increased by excessive showering or the use of detergents or perfumes. Your doctor may prescribe a topical corticosteroid or other creams to help treat the itchy rash. Oral medication is typically reserved for more severe cases. Be sure to avoid the triggers that cause reactions such as strong soaps, perfumes, dust mites or other allergens. Antihistamines can be helpful in controlling the itching. As well their drowsy side effect may aid in getting a good night’s sleep.
Pharmacists’ Facts are brought to you by Stuart Ellis IDA Pharmacy, 169 Hurontario Street, Collingwood. Owner/Pharmacist Lesley Paul is a Certified Menopause Educator, specializing in women’s health issues and specialty compounding. Feel free to call (445-4711) or stop by for more information on all of your health care needs. Or check us out at www.stuartellispharmacy.com
Pharmacists’ Facts is designed to keep you up-to-date on important health information and provide you with the tools and motivation needed for a healthier lifestyle. Community pharmacists are leading experts on medications and are here to answer any medication related questions. The content herein is in no way intended as medical advice on individual health problems. Such information should be obtained from your own pharmacist or physician.