Ask Your Doctor These Questions When Getting New Medication
Sometimes when patients are given new drugs, they just accept the prescription and take it to the pharmacist to get filled and be told how to use it. But often patients don’t ask their doctors the right questions, if they ask any at all, because they may not know what to ask. If you find yourself in this situation, here are questions to always keep in mind: What is the name of the medication and what is its function in treatment? It is essential that you know the name of the drug you ingest and what it is meant to do. For instance, in a situation where a person experiences a side effect, without knowing the name of the drug, it may be difficult for a medical professional to assist the patient in alleviating the discomfort. Also, if you do not know the function of the drug, how will you ever know if it is effective or not? What is the side effect profile of the drug? All drugs have side effects, and you should know what to potentially expect from taking your medication. This is important so that you can prepare for, and know what to do if, the side effect shows up. In some cases, you may need to report back to your health care provider when you experience certain side effects. How long do I take my medications? To avoid therapeutic failure or complications, you should always take the medication for the prescribed duration unless you’re told otherwise by your doctor.
Aside from these primary questions, here are a few more to consider asking your doctor or pharmacist:
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What food, drugs, and drinks should I avoid while on the medication? Can I get a generic version of the medication?
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What should I do if I miss a dose of the medication? When is the medication likely to take effect? Is the medication safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? Are there tests necessary to monitor the medication? Are there long-term risks associated with using this drug?
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To ensure that the outcome of therapy is achieved and you are safe while taking the medication, ask questions. Sometimes the drugs may not act as expected, and your only saving grace may be the knowledge you get from the doctor.
Sudoku
Vegan Spring Rolls
Nothing says spring quite like these easy-to-make vegan spring rolls!
INGREDIENTS
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1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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4 leaves cabbage, julienned
4 cloves garlic, sliced
1 oz soybean sprouts
1 onion, julienned
2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce 8 sheets spring roll pastry
2 large carrots, julienned
DIRECTIONS
1. In a wok over medium-high heat, add olive oil, vegetables, and tamari or soy sauce. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often. Set aside filling mixture. 2. Place a pastry wrapper on a flat surface and tilt it to be in the shape of a diamond. Scoop 2 tbsp of filling onto the lower corner of the wrapper. 3. Tightly roll the wrapper and fold in the left and right corners. Brush the
top corner with water and close the roll. Repeat with all wrappers. 4. In the wok, heat a generous amount of olive oil. 5. Add the rolls when hot, cooking for 1 minute or until each side is golden brown. 6. Place rolls on a paper towel to drain oil and cool before serving.
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