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Non-drug treatments and therapies Archive

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Oral side effects of common medications

Many common medications can affect oral health, causing issues like dry mouth, taste changes, gum swelling, mouth sores, or thrush. Patients should check side effects on medication labels, report persistent symptoms, review medications annually, and keep up with regular dental visits.

Is your medication killing your sex drive?

Low libido can include both less desire for and less satisfaction with sex. A variety of medications can dampen sex drive by altering hormone levels or nerve signals, dulling sensation in the genitals, or triggering fatigue or mood changes. They include some antidepressants, cardiovascular drugs, antihistamines, antiseizure drugs, opioids, chemotherapy, hormone blockers, oral contraceptives, and fertility drugs. People whose medications affect their libido can ask their doctor to adjust the dose or timing or substitute another drug without sexual side effects.

Is MRI contrast dye safe?

MRI contrast dye is widely used and considered safe. It helps highlight blood vessels, tumors, and other structures to improve diagnostic accuracy. Rarely, contrast dye can trigger a serious condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in people with advanced kidney disease.

What are the long-term risks of taking the biologic treatment Humira?

Humira can control autoimmune disease, such as psoriatic arthritis. But it also alters immune defenses. Learn about infection, cancer, and other potential long‑term risks.

Could switching from Zoloft to generic sertraline explain weight gain?

Switching from a brand-name antidepressant to a generic can raise questions about side effect changes such as weight gain.

GLP-1 drugs may lower odds of developing substance use disorders

A 2026 study suggests that people who take GLP-1 drugs—prescribed for diabetes and weight loss—are less likely to develop a substance use disorder. Among people who already have addiction, use of a GLP-1 was linked with fewer complications such as overdose and death.

Why can side effects continue after you stop a medication?

Side effects from a stopped medicine can linger even after the drug is cleared. Find out what determines recovery time and when to seek help.

Weaning off a GLP-1? Tips for the transition

Research suggests that people who stop taking GLP-1 weight-loss drugs typically regain all the weight they lost in under two years. To sustain their progress, these people should eat more protein, fiber, and healthy fats; eat on a consistent schedule; exercise; and prioritize sleep.

Can I replace potassium pills with potassium-rich food if I am taking a diuretic?

Diuretics can drain your body of potassium, but pills aren't the only source. Learn whether food swaps are safe and why lab monitoring still matters.

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