by Sandra Aylward, B.Sc. (Pharm)
Q I’ve heard that echinacea is good for colds and flu. Does it work?
A Yes. Research has shown that echinacea can help your immune system fight back against colds, especially if treatment is started as soon as symptoms develop. Taking echinacea may mean that your cold gets better sooner. Echinacea may not be a good choice for people with certain medical conditions, however. Check with your Lawtons pharmacist to see if echinacea can work for you.
Q What does a MedicAlert® bracelet do for me?
A The bracelet is just the beginning of this unique service. The fee you pay when you join the MedicAlert® program (a registered charity) gives you the bracelet (or necklace), which can instantly transmit important medical information to health care providers in an emergency. Most hospital emergency staff have been trained to look for a MedicAlert® identifier. In addition, MedicAlert® maintains a complete confidential health file, which can be made available to those treating you via a 24-hour toll-free telephone number engraved on your bracelet. Your MedicAlert® lifetime membership allows you to update your health file at any time.
For more information, call MedicAlert® at 1-800-668-1507. Information is also available from your pharmacist.
Q As a woman over 50, how much calcium do I need and how can I get it?
A We need calcium throughout our lives to build and maintain good bones. The recommendation for calcium intake in women after menopause (who are not taking estrogen) is 1,500 mg per day. If you are taking estrogen, you need 1,000 mg per day. Dairy products are the best source for calcium in your diet; one cup of milk will give you 300 mg of calcium. As a general rule, you need to have a dairy product or other calcium-rich food with every meal and snack to get the calcium you require. A dietician can help you to assess your dietary calcium intake. If you think that you are unable to get the calcium you need from diet alone, talk to your pharmacist about choosing a calcium supplement product.
Lawtons pharmacists have developed a one-hour program which includes the latest information on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women, available to clubs and organizations, free of charge.
Q I have been on one of the new antidepressant drugs for 10 days, and I am feeling tired during the day, although I’m sleeping well at night. I also get hot and cold flashes and the “shakes”. Are these normal reactions?
A The good news is that, although the symptoms you describe may be caused by the drug, they often go away after you have been on the medication a little longer. You should report your experiences to your pharmacist, who can discuss your dosing schedule and other factors which may play a part in managing side effects, and help you to decide if a change is needed and if you should see your doctor. Remember that relief of symptoms of depression may take several weeks, and treatment may need to last a number of months to ensure the condition does not return once medication is stopped. Talk to your pharmacist about your drug-related concerns.
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