Category: Medications and Supplements - Page 4

Black box warnings are the FDA's strongest safety alerts for prescription drugs, signaling serious risks like death or severe injury. Learn what they mean, how they're decided, and what to do if your medication has one.

Digoxin generics can be dangerous if bioavailability varies between brands. Even FDA-approved switches may cause toxicity or treatment failure. Learn why consistent use and regular blood monitoring are critical for safety.

Paragraph IV certifications allow generic drug makers to legally challenge brand-name patents before launch. This Hatch-Waxman Act mechanism has saved over $1.7 trillion since 1984 by accelerating generic entry and rewarding the first challenger with 180 days of exclusivity.

The 180-day exclusivity for generic drugs was meant to reward patent challengers-but authorized generics let brand-name companies undercut them. Learn how this legal loophole affects drug prices, competition, and patient access.

SSRIs can increase bleeding risk by reducing serotonin in platelets, leading to impaired clotting. Paroxetine carries the highest risk, while sertraline is safer. Learn how to assess your risk and make safer choices with your antidepressant.

Authorized generics are identical to brand-name drugs but cost less because they skip marketing and branding costs. Learn how they work, why they’re cheaper, and how to get them to save money on prescriptions.

SSRIs and clomipramine are the only FDA-approved medications proven to treat OCD effectively. Learn dosing guidelines, side effects, real-world outcomes, and when to choose one over the other.

Diphenhydramine sleep aids like Benadryl and ZzzQuil may help you fall asleep fast, but they come with serious risks-especially for older adults. Learn why doctors advise against them and what safer, more effective alternatives actually work.

Learn the latest guidelines on dental procedures while taking blood thinners. Discover when to stop or keep your medication, what procedures are safe, and how to prevent dangerous bleeding or clots.

Citalopram and escitalopram are effective antidepressants but carry QT prolongation risks at higher doses. Learn the safe limits, who's most at risk, and why escitalopram is often preferred over citalopram for heart safety.