What would be the benefit in using a generic drug verses a brand drug?

Money! A generic drug can be introduced to the market after the brand name drug's patent has expired. The generic drug manufacture does not have the expenses of research and development associated with bringing a new drug to market, therefore, can produce a generic drug at a substantially lower cost. A big savings which is passed on to you. Here at Seaside Marine we will recommend generic drugs whenever available saving you as much as 50%.

Why is it so important to finish the entire prescribed quantity of antibiotics when I often feel so much better half way through my prescription?

Antibiotics are one of the most effective means of fighting many types of infections. Powerful as they are, antibiotics can't do the job unless you take the full dosage at the right time and for the entire prescribed treatment time. The reason for this being, the infection may not be completely destroyed though you may feel better. This could lead to serious complications. Additionally the bacteria that caused the infection may build up a resistance to the medication first prescribed by the doctor, rendering it ineffective.

Before the advent of oral antibiotics, those with infections had to be hospitalized and given antibiotics intravenously. What an expensive inconvenience. So " follow the doctor's orders" or in medical jargon, observe "Compliance".

Here are some tips to make compliance a little easier:

• Get a clear understanding of what the antibiotic will do from your doctor or pharmacist. Understanding the drug therapy process will help keep you involved.
• Don't give up on keeping on a regular schedule because you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, follow this schedule:

  - If your supposed to take the medicine twice a day (at 12-hour intervals), take the dose you missed and then take the next dose 5 to 6 hours later.
  - If the medication is supposed to be taken 3or4 times a day (every 6 to 8 hours), you can take the dose you've missed along with the next regular dose.

Remember, the antibiotics can only help you if you take them in the proper amounts and at the right times.

• If side effects are making compliance uncomfortable, call your doctor! There are many different types of antibiotics, a different one may be prescribed to avoid or alleviate the side effects. At the very least, your doctor can offer suggestions to minimize your discomfort.
• If you are going to be away from home, carry your medication with you, if possible.

Important note regarding antibiotics:

• Some antibiotics should be taken with meals, others on an empty stomach; regardless of either of these requirements, always take with a full glass of water.
• Some medications (e.g., antacids) and alcohol can interfere with the absorption and efficacy of antibiotics. Conversely, antibiotics can interfere with oral contraceptives.
• Some people are allergic to certain types of antibiotics, please, be sure to inform your doctor of any allergies and other medications you are taking.

Can you please simply describe Hypertension?

Blood pressure is the force your blood exerts on the walls of the blood vessels. Hypertension or high blood pressure indicates that this force is too string and can put you at risk for heart attack and stroke. Some people can manage hypertension through a low fat, low sodium diet and exercise. Many also need medication.

We hear so much about stress. What exactly is stress and how do you know your experiencing stress?

Pages could be written here on stress but in a nutshell; stress is a physical and psychological reaction to change. A person under stress may have changed sleeping or eating patterns, feel fatigued, irritable, and generally anxious. If you feel you may be under stress we recommend a stress management class to help you learn coping and relaxation techniques to alleviate stress.