Over-the-Counter Medication Concerns

MYFOXNY.COM - Joel L. Zive, Pharm.D., hosted a live chat about concerns about over-the-counter medications. Here are some highlights of the chat.
You can find information about Dr. Zive's pharmacy in the Bronx and the nonprofit Prescription for Hope here:

>ZIVEPHARMACY.COM

>RXFORHOPE.ORG

Q: What medications foods should not be taken with Warafin?

Dr. Zive: You should know that Warfarin is a drug that requires the patient pay attention to what they eat in the area of green, leafy vegetables. These vegetables contain Vitamin K, a vital factor in blood clotting. When you first began Warfarin your doctor evaluated your lab work and started you on a certain dose. If you are eating a different amount of green, leafy vegetables than when you first started on Warfarin you could run into a problem.

In regards to medications, always check with your doctor and pharmacist before starting new drugs. Warfarin can interact negatively with many medications. Hope this helps!

Q: Is it bad to take Zyrtec once a week to relieve allergies?

Dr. Zive: My concern with your Zyrtec question is you could be treating the symptom rather than the cause of your allergies and asthma. If you have true asthma there are medications out there that can control symptoms safely. If allergies are a component than there are medications you can take with your asthma medications to help you feel better. Consider speaking to your doctor or pharmacist for other options.

Q: What is your opinion about taking "herbal" or "natural" supplements? Are things labeled as "from the earth" safe?

Dr. Zive: These natural products have been around for a long time and people in many cultures feel comfortable using them. I have used them on myself and on my family. Yet there are aspects of these products that you should know:

1. Just because they come from the earth does not mean they will not interact with medications you are taking.
2. You should ask your pharmacist if these herbal supplements come from a reputable source. These supplements do not have the same oversight that prescription drugs undergo.
3. The data regarding their efficacy shows conflicting results and can be difficult to determine if the product claims can be met.
4. Do not be afraid to tell your doctor that you are taking these medications. Not telling your doctor could cause problems with your therapy.
5. Your healthcare provider should respect your right to use these products even if he/she does not agree with your choice. Where you need to heed his/her instructions is when taking these supplements affects your therapy.

Q: When I buy an OTC medication at my drug store, do you recommend checking in with the pharmacist to make sure everything is compatible?

Dr. Zive: According to the American Pharmacists Association, patients can choose from more than 100,000 nonprescription products and 1,000 active ingredients. This does not include herbal medications and non-FDA approved products. With all these choices you are taking the right steps in protecting your health by checking with your pharmacist.

Q: Do you recommend always using the same pharmacy and why?

Dr. Zive: Yes, because having one pharmacist will allow him or her to see the big picture with all your medications and will be able to spot any potential conflicts.