Archive: 2026/01

Doctors rarely prescribe brand-name drugs over generics-unless there's a real medical reason. Learn when brand-name prescriptions are necessary, why generics work for most people, and how to ask the right questions to save money without risking your health.

Insomnia affects nearly half of older adults, but traditional sleep meds like benzodiazepines increase fall and cognitive risks. Safer options include low-dose doxepin, melatonin, and ramelteon-plus CBT-I, which works better long-term.

Learn how to safely use short-term medications after surgery with clear, practical steps on labeling, communication, storage, and avoiding deadly errors. Your recovery depends on it.

Antibiotics are only effective for bacterial infections in children-not colds or viruses. Learn when they're truly needed, common side effects, how to spot real allergies, and why finishing the full course matters to prevent resistance.

First-episode psychosis is treatable-but only if caught early. Learn how coordinated specialty care and family support can restore lives, reduce relapse, and help people return to school, work, and normal life.

GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy and Zepbound can help people lose 10-20% of body weight, but come with nausea, high costs, and the risk of weight regain if stopped. Learn how they work, who benefits most, and what to expect.

Long-term opioid use can lower testosterone and disrupt menstrual cycles, leading to sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Learn how opioids affect hormones, what symptoms to watch for, and how to get proper care.

Bursitis and tendinitis are common joint problems with different causes and treatments. Learn how to tell them apart, what really works for relief, and how to prevent them from coming back.

Clinical studies show generic drugs are just as effective as brand-name drugs for most conditions. Learn what the science says about safety, cost, and when to stick with one formulation.

Generic drug shortages are caused by fragile manufacturing systems, global supply chain risks, and profit-driven market pressures that eliminate safety margins. Over 60% of shortages stem from production failures, with most active ingredients coming from just two countries.

Seborrheic dermatitis causes stubborn scalp flaking and itching, but medicated shampoos with ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or coal tar can effectively control it. Learn how to use them right and avoid common mistakes.

Learn which medications are safe to take while breastfeeding, backed by evidence from LactMed, the AAP, and CDC. Discover safe options for pain, depression, allergies, and infections - and which ones to avoid.