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Generic Drugs – What You Need to Know About Them
Without a doubt, taking medications can not only be expensive, but also confusing. In the United States, generic prescriptions are widely used, with 9 out of 10 people choosing them over a name brand. Pharmacists are a great resource to help us understand the benefits and side effects of any medication. We asked Adam Porath, PharmD, Vice President of Pharmacy at Renown Health, to answer some common questions about generic drugs. What is a generic drug? A generic drug has the same active ingredients of brand-name drugs. Brand-name drugs have a patent (special license) protecting them from competition to help the drug company recover research and development costs. When the patent expires other manufacturers are able to seek approval for a generic drug. However, the color, shape and inactive elements may be different. Per the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), a generic medicine works in the same way and provides the same clinical benefit as its brand-name version. Why do they cost less? Generic drug makers do not have the expense of costly development, research, animal and human clinical trials, marketing and advertising. This savings is passed on to the public. Also after a patent expires, several companies will compete on a generic version of a drug, further driving down prices.
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Use Caution: Mixing Over-the-Counter Medications Can Be Harmful
When you’re too sick to go to work but not sick enough for a doctor’s visit, over-the-counter medicines are a welcome relief to help alleviate that fever, runny nose or allergies. But because those medicines aren’t signed off on or managed by your doctor and pharmacist, you must be especially mindful of what you put into your body. Whenever you pop a pill, you want to ensure you’re taking the correct dosage, waiting the right amount of time before taking another dose and not mixing certain medicines. Too Much Tylenol/Acetaminophen Tylenol — or acetaminophen — is a popular pain reliever for many, but too much can be bad for your liver. “Our bodies have a finite ability to metabolize Tylenol,” says Andy Wright, clinical pharmacist at Renown Rehabilitation Hospital. “When too much builds up in the liver, it becomes toxic. In patients with medical conditions like cirrhosis of the liver or hepatitis, this could be disastrous.” Remember, acetaminophen is in more than just Tylenol and generic pain relievers. You may also see acetaminophen in flu, cold and cough medicines, like Nyquil, and some prescription medications including Norco and Percocet. Keep a list of the medications you take, and limit daily acetaminophen use to 3,000 mg per day. When you’re scanning medicine bottle contents, remember acetaminophen is also referred to as APAP, AC, acetam or paracetamol. Mixing Painkillers When you’re dealing with pain and not getting any relief, taking a different medication may seem like the easy solution. Maybe you take some Aleve — a form of naproxen — for a headache, but it isn’t working, so you switch to Motrin, an over-the-counter form of ibuprofen. Not a smart idea. Ibuprofen and naproxen along with aspirin are known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Because these medicines work in similar ways, they should never be combined or used in larger doses or more frequently than directed. Otherwise your risk of side effects can increase, which range from mild nausea to severe gastrointestinal bleeding. It’s also important to consider your family history when taking NSAIDs because, “recent studies have shown NSAIDs may have greater cardiovascular risks for people taking blood thinners or those with hypertension,” explains Andy. “A good example is ibuprofen: It has a relatively low gastrointestinal bleed risk while it has a moderate to high cardiovascular risk. The opposite is true for naproxen.” Rather than experimenting with multiple medicines, figure out which drug works best for you. You may find muscle soreness improves with aspirin, whereas when a headache hits, naproxen is best. Keep in mind that these medications aren’t always best for everyone in the family. “Aspirin in children and teens is not recommended unless under the supervision of a doctor,” Andy says. And pregnant and lactating women should generally avoid NSAIDS due to risk of birth defects and bleeding. “In both of these cases, acetaminophen or Tylenol are preferred but only if approved by an OB/GYN.” Fighting Allergies Over-the-counter antihistamines like Claritin, Zyrtec and Allegra have made fighting itchy eyes and runny noses a little easier. But these daily medicines — when taken inappropriately or in the wrong combinations — can also have an adverse effect. Similar to acetaminophen, you need to watch for antihistamines in other products. Sleep aids — like Tylenol PM and Unisom — commonly use an antihistamine known as diphenhydramine, which may increase your risk of overdose. “Combining antihistamines, or overdosing, can cause many adverse effects including dry mouth, blurred vision — even arrhythmias,” Andy says. “Only take these medications on their own.” If you’re still struggling with symptoms, you can talk to your doctor about adding an over-the-counter nasal steroid. Andy confirms the importance of closely following the directions listed on antihistamine (and all medicine) bottles. He has seen extended release nasal decongestants cause significant arrhythmias requiring medical care after a patient took the medicine with warm fluids. “The decongestant in question is designed to slowly release, but it can dissolve suddenly in the presence of warm liquids like coffee,” Andy explains. “This can cause the pill to deliver 12 to 24 hours of medication all at once.” Taking an Antidiarrheal with Calcium Calcium supplements and antidiarrheal medicines are another harmful combination. Calcium firms up your stool, but if taken with an antidiarrheal, can cause severe constipation. If you need to take an antidiarrheal, take a break from your calcium for a few days until you’re back to normal. Another consideration when taking calcium supplements or calcium-based antacids is gas. “I’ve had several patients report cases of excessive gas using Tums or calcium carbonate-based supplements.” Andy suggests instead “trying Maalox or Mylanta for indigestion and Citracal as a supplement.” Talk with Your Doctor or Pharmacist About Your Medications If over-the-counter drugs aren’t providing the relief you need, it’s time to see your doctor. And remember, for your safety it is important to keep your doctor and pharmacist up-to-date with any medications — prescribed or over-the-counter — that you are taking.
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3Dec
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Beyond Your Cancer: Thrivorship Workshop
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4Dec
This support group provides support, education, networking, and resource materials to caregivers coping with a loved one diagnosed with cancer. In effort to provide the most supportive atmosphere for those caring for loved one dealing with cancer, this group is for current cancer caregivers only. If you have lost a loved one to cancer, there are these groups available for support: Grief Support Groups in Reno If you have cancer, Renown offers the following support groups: Cancer Support Group Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Orientation Class Lymphedema Education & Risk Reduction Class * Virtual attendance is available. Link will be sent one day before meeting to email provided on registration.
Read More About Cancer Caregiver Support Group
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5Dec
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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31Oct
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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11Nov
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help reduce stress and fears while caring for your loved one going through treatment. There is relief in knowing you are not alone. This workshop includes: Identifying and talking about fears, resistance and frustrations. Creating end results to help them re-frame the discussion. Learning tools to help identify needs and wants; being able to ask for them so you can refuel and become more available to yourself and your loved ones for the long haul. Learning about the available options. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Through Your Cancer and Beyond: Caregiver Workshop
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29May
This support group provides support, education, networking, and resource materials to caregivers coping with a loved one diagnosed with cancer. In effort to provide the most supportive atmosphere for those caring for loved one dealing with cancer, this group is for current cancer caregivers only. If you have lost a loved one to cancer, there are these groups available for support: Grief Support Groups in Reno If you have cancer, Renown offers the following support groups: Cancer Support Group Men’s Prostate Cancer Support Group Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Orientation Class Lymphedema Education & Risk Reduction Class *Virtual attendance is available. Link is sent one day before the meeting to email provided on registration.
Read More About Cancer Caregiver Support Group
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8May
This class is for anyone who has undergone or is undergoing breast cancer treatment and will focus on lymphedema education and reducing the risk of its occurrence. During the class, we will review the basic anatomy of the lymphatic system and define common procedures performed during the treatment course for breast cancer that affects lymphatics. Risk reduction strategies, including compression sleeves, will be reviewed in addition to the typical presentation of early lymphedema. Finally, a brief description of Axillary Web Syndrome will also be reviewed, and basic stretches/exercises to implement if cording is present.
Read More About Lymphedema Education and Risk Reduction Class
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1Oct
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Cancer Support Virtual Workshop 3: Thrivorship – After Cancer Care
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1Oct
Renown Institute for Cancer is teaming up with Renie Anderson, a trained and certified expert in cancer treatment side effect management. Attend this workshop in person at Renown Regional or virtually via Zoom to learn mind-body techniques to help you feel more connected and joyful in life as you move beyond cancer. This workshop includes: Emphasizing the importance of identifying resistance. Moving through resistance by understanding the concepts of acceptance and surrender. Identifying goals and visions. Creating action steps to help break patterns, to help you stay in a healthier mindset and feel more calm. There is no charge to attend this class. Video enabled attendance is available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device. To receive the Zoom link to connect to this workshop, please email Renie Anderson @ renieanderson@att.net
Read More About Journey Beyond Your Cancer: Thrivorship Workshop
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10Oct
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members, survivors, and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in person and virtually. For directions to Sierra Cafe 104, please use the following link: Campus and Parking Maps | Renown Health Click on the “Renown Regional Medical Center Visitor Guide” to download the PDF map. Sierra Cafe 104 is located on the 1st Floor of the Sierra Tower past the gift shop on the right as you enter the Sierra Cafe. Video enabled attendance available. You can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). A virtual invitation with instructions on how to connect will be sent via email the Wednesday before the meeting.
Read More About Cancer Support Group
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