Medicines

The treatment of head and neck disorders involves a wide range of medical treatments.  This portion of the website is devoted to explaining the reason why certain prescription medicines are used, as well as dosages, warnings and drug interactions.  There are also explanations of nonprescription medicines with particular emphasis on the ingredients of cold and allergy remedies.  Finally, there is a section that attempts to sort out some of the information regarding antioxidants.

General Guidelines about taking medicine

As your caretaker, we have provided the following information about common medications that we prescribe.  In regard to side effects and drug interactions, do not assume that we have provided a complete list of possible side effects.  If you notice other effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist.  Alternatives are to call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166, the National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or your local poison center.

• Tell your health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Keep a current list of medicines, dosage, reason for taking it and which doctor prescribed it.
• Take medicines as prescribed.
• Create routines, such as placing medicines by your toothbrush, to improve regularity in use.
• Discuss serious medical conditions, such as glaucoma, kidney or liver disease.
• Caution during times of potential pregnancy or breast-feeding.
• Remember that your doctor has prescribed medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.  Although there are some frightening side effects associated with most medicines, most people do not suffer serious side effects.
• Remember that if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works.
• Keep all medicines away from children and pets. 
• Do not share your medications with others.
• Properly discard any medicine when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
• Tell your health care professional if you have to discontinue a medication. 
• If you have questions about your medication and when it is safe, check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.