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Taking multiple drugs and supplements
I know that Jackie has cautioned people about the possible dangers of taking multiple drugs and supplements. I believe I have also.
Here is the word to remember:
Definition of POLYPHARMACY
: the practice of administering or using multiple medications especially concurrently (as in the treatment of a single disease or of several coexisting conditions)
"polypharmacy" Merriam-Webster.com. 2013. http://www.merriam-webster.com (31 May 2013).
Here is the word to remember:
Definition of POLYPHARMACY
: the practice of administering or using multiple medications especially concurrently (as in the treatment of a single disease or of several coexisting conditions)
"polypharmacy" Merriam-Webster.com. 2013. http://www.merriam-webster.com (31 May 2013).
@rico,
You said
"I think you may have misunderstood her comments."
I think you misunderstood/mis-read my post. I stated I was in agreement with what Jackie said. Please read the OP again. Thank you.
One of the only 'good' things about having Lyme disease is that we all become much more attentive about our treatment(s). Lymies as a group are probably more knowledgeable than the 'average' person who often, when asked what pill they're taking will reply "oh, it's small and it's pink'. LOL My next door neighbor, an intelligent woman in all other ways, has said that to me. Sigh.
So as said by Jackie, myself and others here---- take a list of ALL of your drugs/supplements/herbs to your doctor.
In fact, I've been to a couple of doctors (not llmds) who have me bring in the actual rx bottles so they can log them in 'straight from the horses mouth' so to speak.
That may be the result of too many patients, when asked to write out what meds they're taking, doses and etc will make a mistake about the dose etc.
I know that if I were a doctor that would my office policy.
You said
"I think you may have misunderstood her comments."
I think you misunderstood/mis-read my post. I stated I was in agreement with what Jackie said. Please read the OP again. Thank you.
One of the only 'good' things about having Lyme disease is that we all become much more attentive about our treatment(s). Lymies as a group are probably more knowledgeable than the 'average' person who often, when asked what pill they're taking will reply "oh, it's small and it's pink'. LOL My next door neighbor, an intelligent woman in all other ways, has said that to me. Sigh.
So as said by Jackie, myself and others here---- take a list of ALL of your drugs/supplements/herbs to your doctor.
In fact, I've been to a couple of doctors (not llmds) who have me bring in the actual rx bottles so they can log them in 'straight from the horses mouth' so to speak.
That may be the result of too many patients, when asked to write out what meds they're taking, doses and etc will make a mistake about the dose etc.
I know that if I were a doctor that would my office policy.
Yes,my LLMD has me list all my meds and supplements each visit and gives a warning if necessary. IMO I think each patient should ask their LLMD or pharmacy for these answers. Agree with Rico, would be nice to have a database but then some LLMD might think its ok and another not.
Yeah, I wish there was some database where we could just look things up.
On the magnesium, I've taken it for nearly two years. It really helps me, too. It's okay with some meds, but not others. Usually the pharmacist can answer that question, and usually if there's a significant conflict, they label the bottl.
Every time you see your doc, hopefully you bring a list of all meds and supplements. Be sure to specifically ask if there are any conflicts with any of it. Before I take anything new, I put in a call to my LLMD's office to ask if it's okay for me to take. Usually I'm taking so much already, I'm not exactly looking for more!
On the magnesium, I've taken it for nearly two years. It really helps me, too. It's okay with some meds, but not others. Usually the pharmacist can answer that question, and usually if there's a significant conflict, they label the bottl.
Every time you see your doc, hopefully you bring a list of all meds and supplements. Be sure to specifically ask if there are any conflicts with any of it. Before I take anything new, I put in a call to my LLMD's office to ask if it's okay for me to take. Usually I'm taking so much already, I'm not exactly looking for more!
I would like to see more info like what was just posted. I had no idea CO Q 10 fed Babesia.....also I take magnesium as it seems to help with my nerve and muscle cramps. I knew not to take calcium with my antibiotics ( when I was on them for 8 months. And for 28 days here and there when feeli g a relapse) but no idea that magnesium could interfere with the antibiotics. Again, more info like the one above would be great. It helps one to put a finger on why something isn't working or is.
I think you may have misunderstood her comments. I don't speak for her, but from my understanding, she has consistently cautioned people to contact their LLMD before adding in supplements. This is important advice. There are many possible conflicts out there with potential harm and it's always wise to ask the doc first.
Many LLMDs recommend numerous supplements and homeopathic remedies at a time, including mine. There's no doubt that most Lyme patients take multiple things. It takes a knowledgeable person to avoid potential conflicts.
Great examples are:
- Babesia eats coenzyme Q10. Anyone with Babs shouldn't take that supplement.
- Boluoke shouldn't be taken with Coumadin or other blood thinners.
- The "flush-free" and time release version of niacin are mostly worthless.
- Magnesium or calcium absorbs several different antibiotics and can render them ineffective when taken at the same time.
I've also learned there are a lot of "junk" brands of supplements out there. My doc has saved me money by recommending particular brands to make sure I get one that is effective.
Many LLMDs recommend numerous supplements and homeopathic remedies at a time, including mine. There's no doubt that most Lyme patients take multiple things. It takes a knowledgeable person to avoid potential conflicts.
Great examples are:
- Babesia eats coenzyme Q10. Anyone with Babs shouldn't take that supplement.
- Boluoke shouldn't be taken with Coumadin or other blood thinners.
- The "flush-free" and time release version of niacin are mostly worthless.
- Magnesium or calcium absorbs several different antibiotics and can render them ineffective when taken at the same time.
I've also learned there are a lot of "junk" brands of supplements out there. My doc has saved me money by recommending particular brands to make sure I get one that is effective.
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