Minneapolis, Minnesota – A pharmacist in Minnesota is raising awareness about the dangerous side effects of commonly prescribed medications, following the discovery that a popular asthma drug has been linked to suicidal thoughts. According to HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, who works at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, medications like Singulair, Adderall, Chantix, and certain antibiotics require careful consideration due to their potential risks.
Singulair, a medication taken by millions of people including children, has been associated with instances of suicide and suicide attempts. Ngo-Hamilton expresses concerns about the harsh side effects of other widely prescribed drugs, such as Adderall, which can lead to increases in blood pressure, heart issues, and insomnia. Additionally, prescription drugs like Chantix, used for smoking cessation, have been linked to psychiatric side effects, including suicidal thoughts.
One major area of concern for Ngo-Hamilton is the overprescribing of antibiotics, which can contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs. Ngo-Hamilton emphasizes the importance of evaluating whether an antibiotic prescription is truly necessary to avoid fueling the growing problem of drug-resistant infections. She states that the misuse of antibiotics can have devastating consequences, leading to millions of deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections.
Furthermore, the pharmacist warns about the risks associated with opioids, highlighting the potential for addiction, respiratory issues, and other serious side effects. She stresses the importance of pharmacists and healthcare providers carefully assessing patients before prescribing these powerful medications to ensure appropriateness and safety.
In addition, Ngo-Hamilton urges caution when dispensing stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, particularly to teenagers and young adults. These medications, commonly used to treat ADHD, have become popular among students and partygoers. Ngo-Hamilton underscores the need for thorough patient evaluations to determine genuine medical need and avoid misuse of stimulants for non-medical purposes.
Overall, Ngo-Hamilton’s insights shed light on the potential risks associated with commonly prescribed medications, urging healthcare providers to prioritize patient safety and thorough evaluation before prescribing these drugs. Through her expertise and experience, she aims to raise awareness about the importance of informed and responsible prescribing practices to protect patient health.