Medicines, when taken correctly, can cure diseases, but when taken incorrectly, they can be fatal. The safety of medication is closely related to each individual, and one can easily fall into a "trap" if not careful. Have you fallen into any common medication misconceptions?
1. Using non-pharmaceutical products as medicine
When people get sick, especially with chronic or private illnesses, they may seek various non-pharmaceutical products due to slow improvement in their condition. Under the influence of others or exaggerated advertising, you may unconsciously buy a bunch of non-pharmaceutical products to take.
The difference between pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products is as follows: pharmaceutical products have approval numbers on their packaging, labels, and instructions, such as a registration number starting with H (or Z.S.J.B.F) followed by 8 digits. Another type is hospital preparations, which are also pharmaceutical products but are not sold in the market or other hospitals. Pharmaceutical products have specific effects and therapeutic purposes, while non-pharmaceutical products are exaggerated and have no substantial effect on treating diseases. They can delay treatment and even harm public health.
2. Using cola, coffee, fruit juice, tea, etc., to take medication
When taking medication, people often choose convenience and may use various beverages as substitutes when there is no plain water available. However, this can have harmful effects. Cola contains cocaine, and coffee contains caffeine, both of which stimulate the central nervous system and increase gastric acid secretion. Fresh fruit juices, especially those containing fruit acids, can cause premature degradation and dissolution of many medications, which hinders their absorption in the small intestine. Tea contains a large amount of tannin, which can interact with proteins, alkaloids, and metal ions in medications.
3. Believing that antibiotics can treat any cold or fever
A cold is usually a respiratory infection caused by a virus, including common colds and influenza. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, headache, fatigue, and sneezing. Colds usually resolve on their own, typically lasting 5-7 days for common colds and 7-10 days for influenza. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and should not be used unless there is a bacterial infection in addition to the virus, under the guidance of a physician.
4. Adjusting medication dosage based on self-perceived symptom changes
During the course of treatment, frequent changes in medication, arbitrary dosage adjustments, or even self-discontinuation can often delay or worsen the condition. For example, adjusting the dosage of antihypertensive medication on one's own can easily damage the elasticity of blood vessel walls and endanger one's health.
5. Storing medications in places easily accessible to children
Improper storage of medications without considering the safety of children can lead to accidental ingestion. In recent years, there have been cases of children accidentally ingesting medications. Family medications should be kept out of reach of children, and if accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical help immediately.
6. Believing that over-the-counter medications have no adverse reactions
Blindly trusting over-the-counter medications overlooks their side effects. Over-the-counter medications have relatively higher safety compared to prescription medications, with clear indications stated in the instructions and lower occurrence of adverse reactions. However, this does not mean that they are entirely without side effects. Some medications can cause severe adverse reactions in a few individuals, and even lead to death.
7. Ignoring the addictive nature of medications
Repeated use of addictive medications can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Withdrawal symptoms may occur after discontinuation, such as fatigue, yawning, tearing, runny nose, sweating, body aches, insomnia, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, muscle spasms, seizures, and even shock may occur. Pharmacists remind us that within the normal and reasonable range, medications can effectively control diseases. It is important to take medications according to the doctor's prescription or the instructions, and avoid repeatedly increasing the dosage to prevent addiction.
8. Fear of medication harming the fetus, resulting in refusal to take medication during pregnancy
Not all medications are contraindicated during pregnancy. Medications have different safety classifications for the fetus, such as categories A/B/C/D. Choosing medications with good safety profiles will not harm the fetus. Being overly cautious can harm the mother and the child.
9. Believing that traditional Chinese medicine has no side effects
Many people believe that traditional Chinese medicine is safe and without toxic side effects, but this is a one-sided understanding. Medications are always a double-edged sword, and traditional Chinese medicine is no exception.
10. Believing that the more types of medication taken, the better the therapeutic effect
Many people believe that taking multiple medications simultaneously can enhance the therapeutic effect and accelerate recovery. However, this is a misconception. The more types of medications taken, the higher the likelihood of adverse reactions.
