Health Tip: Before You Take Medication
Drug reactions and interactions between different medications are common, so it's important to speak with your doctor before you take any medication, especially one you're never taken before.
The Cleveland Clinic says you should always tell your doctor:
* If you've had any allergic reaction to a medication, food or substance.
* If you take any over-the-counter product, including medications, herbal supplements, vitamins or minerals.
* If you are, might be, or are planning to become pregnant.
* If you are breast-feeding.
* If you're on a particular diet, such as a low-sodium or low-sugar diet.
* If you have any medical condition that your doctor may not know about.
Health Tip: Pain Reliever Side Effects
Before you take a pain reliever for conditions such as headache, sinusitis, muscle or joint pain, make sure you know about the potential side effects.
The American Academy of Family Physicians says you should talk to your doctor about these potential risks of pain medications:
* Liver damage can occur in people who take large quantities of acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol), or in those who already have liver problems.
* Gastrointestinal problems -- such as ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding or upset stomach -- can occur in people who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for long periods. NSAIDs include aspirin and ibuprofen.
* Kidney damage, if NSAIDs are used frequently for long periods.
* NSAIDs may interact with medicines that people take to combat high blood pressure. NSAIDs can also elevate blood pressure on their own.
* In rare cases, people can be allergic to pain medications.
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