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Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

Will 100mg of voltaren-xr, taken daily, stop me from losing weight? If so is there another drug that can be taken that will give the same results?

I was recently told I had hyperthyroidism, yet my Doctor said I should be losing weight. Instead, I have gained 40 pounds for no apparent reason. Is this possible? I am baffled.

The doctor has put my son on Ritalin for attention disorder. What are the long term negative effects of Ritalin?

Can you tell me if Penicilin expires? I realize you are supposed to take entire prescription at time it is provided but what if it was a false alarm and prescription provided for what was thought to be Strep Throat but turned out not to be. Can it be used next time if strep throat is diagnosed (3 to 4 months away)?

Can the long-time use of Synthroid cause blindness? Can it be prevented?

I would like to know the serious effects of penicillin.

Will 100mg of voltaren-xr, taken daily, stop me from losing weight? If so is there another drug that can be taken that will give the same results?

This drug, like any other medication, can have side effects. If you have been losing weight, this should be discussed with your physician. There may be other reasons than the use of Voltaren-XR causing your weight loss. Your age, medical history are factors that your physician should consider in prescribing this medication. I suggest that you discuss this problem with him/her.

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I was recently told I had hyperthyroidism, yet my Doctor said I should be losing weight. Instead, I have gained 40 pounds for no apparent reason. Is this possible? I am baffled.

It is difficult to determine why you are gaining weight while being hyperthyroid. There are advantages and disadvantages with thyroid therapy. What is important is close monitoring by your physician of the drugs administered and the signs and symptoms you demonstrate. Your physician would be the one to consult with since he knows all the specifics of your case and can prescribe appropriate treatment or need for additional work up.

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The doctor has put my son on Ritalin for attention disorder. What are the long term negative effects of Ritalin?

There are several side effects, all of which are dependent on the dose and length of therapy, and the physical and mental history of the child. All this must be taken under consideration by the treating physician. Close monitoring by the physician of the drug therapy and signs and symptoms that develop in the child.

In children, you can have anorexia, abdominal pain, weight loss (chronic use), fast heartbeat and insomnia. It is important that you be observant and discuss any concerns or questions you may have with the child's physician.

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Can you tell me if Penicilin expires? I realize you are supposed to take entire prescription at time it is provided but what if it was a false alarm and prescription provided for what was thought to be Strep Throat but turned out not to be. Can it be used next time if strep throat is diagnosed (3 to 4 months away)?

All prescription medications and most over-the-counter medications have an expiration date on the container, bottle or box. Definitely do not use past expiration dates and do not use left-over pills without consulting with your physician.

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Can the long-time use of Synthroid cause blindness? Can it be prevented?

If this drug is used judiciously and under the direction of a physician, there should be no concern. It should be used with caution in patients who have cardiovascular disorders, diabetes or adrenal disease because it can aggravate the intensity of their symptoms. You should notify your doctor if you experience any symptoms out of the ordinary. He/she would best answer your concerns since your physician knows your medical history.

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I would like to know the serious effects of penicillin.

An allergic reaction could occur. The patient may become resistant to frequent use of the drug, and caution should be used when prescribing penicillin for a pregnant woman. This drug should be used in accordance with the instructions given by the prescribing physician. Report any symptoms that occur while taking the drug to your physician.

Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.

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