This column is the third (and final) in the series I promised you for the subject of yeast overgrowth (Candida albicans) which can cause many diseases. Thousands of you have written and although there were many good queries, here are the two most frequently asked questions I received, along with my answer.
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Dear Readers,
Last week I answered a question for a person who kept going to the doctor and being told that nothing was wrong with her.  She did some reading and learned that her symptoms were tied to a fungus and started to self-treat.  This is part 2 in the series I promised you regarding [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
I’m 31 and the only medication I take is Camilla (birth control pills) and occasional ibuprofen for menstrual cramps.  Today, the doctor prescribed Synthroid (for my fatigue and low thyroid ) and Paxil because I cried when I told him how badly I felt.
–H.W. Miami, Florida

Answer:  Welcome to the medication merry go [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
I’m very tired and weak without my thyroid medicine.  Now, I’m concerned about the thyroid shortage and worried that there will not be medication for me. What else can I do?   M.K., Gainesville, Florida

Answer:  There will always be thyroid medication, don’t worry. While this is all getting sorted out by the manufacturers [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
You mentioned in your column that B5 has been used to help people who grind their teeth. How much vitamin B5 should be taken? Thank you.
R.B., Lodi, California
Answer: Vitamin B5, also known as pantethine and pantothenic acid, turns into Coenzyme A in the body.  The nutrient is absolutely essential for proper adrenal function, [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
I heard about a special supplement called acetyl-L-carnitine which affects memory and thinking. Could this really help?
S.W., Schaumburg, Illinois

Answer: Yes, acetyl-L-carnitine may enhance memory and thinking, but it also is used for weight loss, muscle aches and pain and fatigue. We’ll get to that later. Because our “smart” drugs for memory problems, dementia [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
I receive an injection of Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) every month. I’m not even sure why. Can you tell me what this is for?
H.H., Newark, New Jersey

Answer: The most important job for B12 is to make sure that cells in the body divide properly and carry the right gene information. This powerful “B” vitamin [...]

Dear Pharmacist,
Have you ever heard of skullcap?
D.S. Boca Raton, Florida

Answer: Yes, it’s a sleep remedy that is also known as “Mad-Dog Weed.” In a few small studies, this herb showed properties that were helpful in people who suffered a stroke. This agent is most often found in combination with other sedating herbs like valerian [...]