Medication Interactions

Ali Ghahary, a family doctor from Vancouver, British Columbia, often prescribes medications to patients in effort to cure or prevent diseases, as well as in effort to ease symptoms of certain illnesses. 

The medications in which a physician will prescribe a patient range in variety. They include (but are not limited to) medications to treat over or under-active thyroid (also known as hypo or hyperactive thyroid), anti-emetics to treat nausea, pain relievers to treat inflammation, as well as inhaled corticosteroids to treat asthma, nasal sprays to treat allergies, and medications to treat heart disease and diabetes.

In order to determine whether or not a medication is appropriate for the patient, Dr. Ali Ghahary will take into account the patient’s medical history as well as any medication allergies. While many medications do come with risks, your doctor has deemed that the benefit of taking the medication is much greater.

Upon filling a prescription, it is crucial to follow the exact dosing instructions as outlined by your physician. Taking too little or too much of a medication can result in the worsening of your medical condition or overdose – and your body may even become immune to some medications if not taken properly.

If you are taking multiple medications, Dr. Ali Ghahary says it is important for patients to be aware of any potential interactions that can occur as a result of taking more than one drug. For example, certain antibiotics can increase levels of the anticonvulsant medication known as Tegretol (Carbamazepine). Warfarin, an anticoagulant (blood thinner) used in conjecture with NSAIDs (Naproxen, Advil), could lead to an increased risk of internal bleeding with serious complications; and anti-depressants used in conjecture with sleeping or allergy medications may lead to increased drowsiness and possible agitation. 

If you are concerned about any potential medication interactions, visit Drugs.com There, you will find their Drug Interactions Checker in addition to finding out more information about the medications in which you have been prescribed. If you have questions about your medications, you can always reach out to a physician or pharmacist. 

Dr. Ali Ghahary is more than happy to answer any questions you might have, and is available to see walk-in patients at Brentwood Medical Clinic every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. For Dr. Ghahary’s walk-in schedule, visit his website at www.alighahary.ca.