Author: Debs Payne
Understanding Black Box Warnings on Prescription Medications
Dec 28 2025 / MedicationsBlack 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
Dec 27 2025 / Health and WellnessFiber 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
Dec 25 2025 / MedicationsProton 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
Dec 24 2025 / MedicationsThe 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
Dec 23 2025 / MedicationsThe 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
Dec 22 2025 / MedicationsMost 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
Dec 21 2025 / OncologyMelanoma 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
Dec 18 2025 / MedicationsLearn 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
Dec 17 2025 / MedicationsGeneric 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
Dec 15 2025 / MedicationsA 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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