Author: Debs Payne

Understanding Black Box Warnings on Prescription Medications

Understanding Black Box Warnings on Prescription Medications

Dec 28 2025 / Medications

Black box warnings are the FDA's strongest safety alert for prescription drugs, signaling serious or life-threatening risks. Learn what they mean, why they're added, and how to respond without panic.

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Fiber Supplements and Medications: How to Time Them Right to Avoid Absorption Problems

Fiber Supplements and Medications: How to Time Them Right to Avoid Absorption Problems

Dec 27 2025 / Health and Wellness

Fiber supplements can block medication absorption, reducing effectiveness by up to 50%. Learn the safe timing rules for psyllium, levothyroxine, warfarin, and other common drugs to avoid dangerous interactions.

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Proton Pump Inhibitors with Antiplatelets: How to Reduce GI Bleed Risk Without Compromising Heart Protection

Proton Pump Inhibitors with Antiplatelets: How to Reduce GI Bleed Risk Without Compromising Heart Protection

Dec 25 2025 / Medications

Proton pump inhibitors reduce GI bleeding risk in patients on dual antiplatelet therapy, but not all PPIs are equal. Learn which ones protect your stomach without weakening heart protection, who needs them, and how long to take them.

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Import Alerts: How the FDA Blocks Drugs from Non-Compliant Manufacturers

Import Alerts: How the FDA Blocks Drugs from Non-Compliant Manufacturers

Dec 24 2025 / Medications

The FDA uses Import Alerts to block drugs from non-compliant manufacturers, especially targeting unsafe GLP-1 APIs. Learn how the Green List, Red List, and automatic detention system protect U.S. patients and reshape global drug supply chains.

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DSCSA Track-and-Trace: How It Stops Counterfeit Drugs Before They Reach You

DSCSA Track-and-Trace: How It Stops Counterfeit Drugs Before They Reach You

Dec 23 2025 / Medications

The DSCSA track-and-trace system uses unique serial numbers and electronic verification to stop counterfeit drugs before they reach patients. Learn how it works, who must comply, and why it's the most powerful drug safety system in U.S. history.

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Nocebo Effect and Statin Side Effects: Why Your Symptoms Might Not Be From the Drug

Nocebo Effect and Statin Side Effects: Why Your Symptoms Might Not Be From the Drug

Dec 22 2025 / Medications

Most statin side effects aren't caused by the drug-they're caused by fear. Learn how the nocebo effect tricks your body into feeling pain, and how 90% of symptoms disappear even without the medication.

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Melanoma: How Early Detection and Immunotherapy Are Saving Lives

Melanoma: How Early Detection and Immunotherapy Are Saving Lives

Dec 21 2025 / Oncology

Melanoma survival rates jump from 32% to 99% when caught early. Learn how AI skin scanners, wearable patches, and modern immunotherapy are changing outcomes-and what you can do right now to protect yourself.

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How to Read Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling on Drugs: A Clear Guide to the FDA’s New System

How to Read Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling on Drugs: A Clear Guide to the FDA’s New System

Dec 18 2025 / Medications

Learn how to read the FDA's updated pregnancy and lactation drug labels that replaced outdated letter categories. Get clear guidance on understanding risks, breastfeeding safety, and what to ask your doctor.

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Generic Medications: How They Save Patients Money Without Compromising Care

Generic Medications: How They Save Patients Money Without Compromising Care

Dec 17 2025 / Medications

Generic medications save patients up to 85% on prescription costs without sacrificing effectiveness. Learn how they work, why they're safe, and how to get them for less than $5 a month.

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Doctor's Letter for Controlled Substances During International Travel: What You Need to Know

Doctor's Letter for Controlled Substances During International Travel: What You Need to Know

Dec 15 2025 / Medications

A doctor's letter for controlled substances is required for international travel with medications like Adderall, Xanax, or oxycodone. Learn what must be included, which countries have strict rules, and how to avoid detention at customs.

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