Marijuana/CBD Archive

Drug ads appear everywhere in the US, but how do highly promoted new medications stack up against other available treatments? Aside from cost –– including billions spent on marketing –– there may also be health implications.

Cannabis is legal in a growing number of states for adult recreational or medical use, or both. As access expands, here's what to know about safely purchasing and using cannabis products.

People on blood pressure drugs should take them at whatever time is most convenient for them and minimizes any side effects.

Using recreational drugs—including methamphetamine, opiates, cocaine, or cannabis—may increase a person's risk for atrial fibrillation.

A 2022 study found that antidepressant use during pregnancy is not associated with problems in children's future brain health or behavior patterns. The medications were not linked to conditions such as autism, ADHD, or problems in speech, language, learning, and coordination.

The new year is a good time for people to take a good look at their medication regimens and consider if they need to make any changes. That could mean talking to a doctor or pharmacist to see if all the drugs in a regimen are still necessary. Or it could mean looking for ways to save money on prescriptions — perhaps using an online pharmacy (which might have cheaper prices) or applying for a drug manufacturer's patient assistance program. Other things to consider are ways to become more organized about taking medications reliably, such as using an automatic pill dispenser.

A fever is the immune system's response to an infection or invader. Most fevers drop after people take over-the-counter medications. People should call a doctor if their fever reaches 103° F and go to an emergency room if it reaches 105°.

Treating pain is the most common reason offered by the millions of Americans who use products that contain cannabinoids. However, there's good evidence that a placebo provides very similar pain relief. But why?

A 2022 study found a 31% reduction in Americans' use of prescription sleep aids from 2013 to 2018. The drop-off was even sharper among people 80 and older, who were 86% less likely to use FDA-approved sleep drugs by the end of the study period.

Women are twice as likely as men to develop plantar fasciitis, the most common cause of chronic heel pain. Pain is worst in the morning and eases over the course of the day. Older adults, some athletes, and people who are overweight or obese are likelier to develop plantar fasciitis. Mainstay treatments include stretches, medication, night splints, and supportive shoes. Emerging treatments include injections of botulinum toxin (Botox), platelet-rich plasma, or fat.