Published September 28, 2008

Q: I’ve had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for six years, and I’ve not been able to get full control of it. My antibodies are still very high, and I’m always tired. I just don’t know what else to do, and I’ve seen a dozen doctors. Any fresh ideas? – M.C. Ocala

A: Hashimoto’s is an [...]

Dear Pharmacist,

I take Vytorin for cholesterol and I heard that this drug may increase my risk for cancer. I had to have a lumpectomy in 1996 and so my fear is that the breast cancer will return. Should I continue the Vytorin or stop it?

L.P., Washington, D.C.

ANSWER: The final [...]

Published September 13, 2008

Dear Pharmacist,

I heard you in a radio interview talking about medications and how they rob the body of vitamins. You called them “drug muggers.” You said that side effects might be avoided if we supplement properly. I take furosemide and ibuprofen. Are these meds considered “drug muggers”? If so, what vitamins do [...]

Published September 6, 2008

Dear Pharmacist,

I have had a problem with constipation for as long as I can remember. I would so love to be normal. What can I do? J.G., Lodi, CA

Answer: Constipation will make your life miserable and uncomfortable and cause painful hemorrhoids. Unless you are a sloth (which goes weekly), regular bowel function [...]