Author: Edward Jepson-Randall
Medical Tourism and Medication Safety: What You Must Know Before You Travel
Medical tourism saves money, but medication safety risks are often ignored. Learn how drug regulations vary by country, why your prescriptions may not work at home, and what steps to take to protect yourself before and after traveling for care.
Drug Withdrawals and Recalls: Why Medications Get Removed from the Market
Medications are pulled from the market when safety or effectiveness concerns arise. Learn why some drugs take years to be withdrawn, how the FDA’s 2023 law changed the process, and what patients can do to stay protected.
Upper Airway Stimulation: An Implant Option for Sleep Apnea When CPAP Doesn’t Work
Upper airway stimulation is a surgical implant for sleep apnea that works when CPAP fails. It stimulates the tongue nerve to keep the airway open, with high success rates and better adherence than masks.
Alcohol and Diabetes Medications: Understanding Hypoglycemia and Liver Risks
Alcohol can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar and damage the liver when taken with diabetes medications like metformin, insulin, or sulfonylureas. Learn how to recognize the risks and stay safe.
OTC Sunscreens: How SPF, Broad Spectrum, and Reapplication Really Work
Learn how SPF, broad spectrum, and reapplication actually work with OTC sunscreens. Get real advice on ingredients, what to buy, and how to avoid common mistakes that leave your skin unprotected.
First Generic Approval: Why It Matters and What It Means for Drug Prices and Access
First generic approval gives a company 180 days of exclusive rights to sell the cheapest version of a brand-name drug, triggering massive price drops and saving patients billions. Here's how it works and why it matters.
Cough and Cold Medicine Safety for All Ages: What Actually Works and What to Avoid
Many OTC cough and cold medicines don't work and can be risky, especially for kids. Learn what ingredients to avoid, what actually helps, and safer alternatives like honey and saline sprays.
Neonatal Kernicterus Risk: Sulfonamides and Other Medication Warnings
Sulfonamides and other medications can trigger kernicterus in newborns by displacing bilirubin from albumin, leading to brain damage. Learn which drugs to avoid, how risk is assessed, and what parents and providers must do to prevent this preventable condition.
Bleeding Risk from SSRIs: How Platelet Dysfunction Increases Bleeding Danger
SSRIs can increase bleeding risk by reducing serotonin in platelets, impairing clotting. Paroxetine carries the highest risk, while sertraline is safer. Avoid NSAIDs and blood thinners. Know the warning signs and talk to your doctor before surgery.
Eating Out With Diabetes: Smart Carb Choices and Portion Control
Learn how to enjoy dining out with diabetes by making smart carb choices and controlling portions. No need to skip meals-just know what to order, what to avoid, and how to ask for better options.