Non-Prescription Medications Summary PDF

MODULE 1 SUMMARY: Why Use Them?  Essential for immune function, energy conversion, and cellular repair.  Used for prevention, treatment with medications, or general health. Vitamins vs. Minerals  Vitamins: Organic, break down with heat, air, or acid.  Minerals: Inorganic, maintai...

MODULE 1 SUMMARY: Why Use Them?  Essential for immune function, energy conversion, and cellular repair.  Used for prevention, treatment with medications, or general health. Vitamins vs. Minerals  Vitamins: Organic, break down with heat, air, or acid.  Minerals: Inorganic, maintain their structure. Interactions  Good: Vitamin D helps calcium absorption; Vitamin C boosts iron absorption.  Bad: Warfarin + Ginkgo = Increased bleeding risk; St. John’s Wort + Antidepressants = Excess serotonin risk. Types of Vitamins 1. Water-Soluble (B Vitamins, Vitamin C) o Absorbed in water, enter the bloodstream directly. o Excess excreted through urine. o Functions: Energy production, tissue maintenance, collagen formation. 2. Fat-Soluble (Vitamins A, D, E, K) o Absorbed with fats, stored in liver/fat tissues. o Functions: Bone health, vision protection, organ maintenance. Types of Minerals 1. Major Minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium, etc.) o Needed in larger amounts. o Functions: Water balance, bone health, protein stabilization. 2. Trace Minerals (Iron, Zinc, Fluoride, etc.) o Needed in small amounts but essential. o Functions: Oxygen transport (iron), bone strength (fluoride), immune support (zinc). MODULE 1 KEY POINTS: Feramax (Iron Supplement)  Dose: 150 mg elemental iron per capsule, taken once daily.  Safe for: Babies, children, pregnant/breastfeeding women.  Tips: Take with Vitamin C for better absorption; increase water intake to prevent constipation.  Dietary Sources: o Heme Iron (better absorbed) – meat, fish. o Non-Heme Iron (less absorbed) – cereals, beans, spinach. Vitamin D3 ("Sunshine Vitamin")  Function: Aids calcium absorption.  Recommended Dose: 400IU – 2,000IU (higher for specific conditions: 3,000IU post-chemo, 5,000IU for MS). Vitamin B12 ("Energy Vitamin")  Function: Supports red blood cell formation, nervous system, and memory.  Best Taken: In the morning.  Dose: 300 – 10,000mcg daily for deficiency.  Helps Metabolize: Proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)  Function: Antioxidant; supports cardiovascular health and cellular energy.  Use: Helps reduce muscle cramps from statin drugs.  Interactions: Blood thinners, thyroid meds, some chemotherapy drugs. Calcium Carbonate  Function: Supports bones, muscles, nervous system, and heart.  Additional Use: Acts as an antacid for heartburn/indigestion.  Best Taken: With Vitamin D, in divided doses, 1-2 hours away from other medications. Ensure Meal Replacements  Suitable For: Non-diabetics (diabetics should use Glucerna).  Consumption Options: Can be warmed, chilled, or frozen.  Storage: Use/refrigerate within 4 hours of opening; consume refrigerated product within 48 hours.  Additional Use: Can be used in cooking/baking. MODULE 2 SUMMARY: Constipation What is Constipation?  Infrequent bowel movements.  Dry, hard stools that are difficult to pass.  Fewer than 3 bowel movements per week.  Belly bloating. Common Causes of Constipation  Low-fiber diet.  Dehydration (inadequate water intake).  Lack of exercise.  Ignoring the urge to go.  Travel or changes in routine.  Medications/medical conditions (Parkinson’s, MS).  Pregnancy.  Stress. Treatment & Prevention  Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids daily.  Diet: Increase fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, prunes); reduce low-fiber foods (meat, dairy, processed foods).  Exercise: Aim for 30 minutes per day (walking, swimming, biking).  Limit dehydrating drinks: Alcohol, caffeine.  Use fiber supplements/laxatives sparingly.  Manage stress.  Go when you feel the urge. Diarrhea What is Diarrhea?  Loose, watery stools.  Occurs 3 or more times a day.  Usually short-lived (few days), but chronic diarrhea may indicate IBS or IBD. Symptoms  Loose, watery stools.  Abdominal cramps/pain.  Bloating, nausea.  Fever (infection indicator).  Blood/mucus in stool (seek medical attention). Causes  Viral infections: Norovirus (stomach flu), rotavirus.  Bacteria/Parasites: Contaminated food/water, traveler's diarrhea, C. difficile.   Medications: Antibiotics.  Lactose or food intolerance.  Surgery. Treatment  Mild cases: Over-the-counter medications (Imodium, Pepto Bismol).  Hydration: Electrolyte drinks, caffeine-free beverages, clear fluids (chicken broth).  Medication adjustments (consult healthcare provider).  Vaccines before traveling. MODULE 2 KEY POINTS: RestoraLAX (Polyethylene Glycol)  Osmotic laxative: Uses water in the body to soften stool and ease bowel movements.  For occasional constipation.  Gentle relief: No cramping, bloating, gas, or sudden urgency.  Directions: Mix with 250mL (8 oz) of hot or cold liquid, dissolve completely, and drink.  Time to effect: May take up to 24 hours to work. Senokot 8.6mg  Natural senna-based laxative for occasional constipation relief.  Covered under ODB (Ontario Drug Benefit).  Important: Take 2 hours apart from other medications (may interfere with absorption).  Not for long-term use: Can lead to a "lazy bowel" effect. Imodium (Loperamide) 2mg  Dosage: Take 2 tablets initially, then 1 tablet after each loose stool (often works after one dose).  Max daily dose: 16mg (8 tablets).  Hydration is key: Drink clear fluids, water, or unsweetened juices.  Avoid: Alcohol, milk, green vegetables, spicy or fatty foods (these can worsen diarrhea). Docusate Sodium (Stool Softener)  Time to effect: Usually works within 1 to 3 days.  Best taken: At bedtime with 8 oz of water.  Warnings: o Stop use immediately if diarrhea occurs. o Do not use for more than 1 week. o Increase fluid intake for better effectiveness. o Pregnancy: Speak with a physician before use (not usually recommended). Hydralyte – Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)  Balanced glucose & electrolytes for rapid rehydration.  May be more effective than IV fluids in some cases.  Mixing instructions: Dissolve in 200mL of drinking water. o For babies under 6 months, use cooled boiled water.  Storage: o Discard after 6 hours (if left at room temperature). o If refrigerated, discard after 24 hours. Fleet Enema (Sodium Phosphate)  Fast-acting: Works within 2-15 minutes.  Usage: For fecal impaction, rectal exams, or diagnostic procedures.  Recommended positions: o Left-side position. o Knee-chest position.  Ideal for patients 12+ who should avoid straining (e.g., post-episiotomy, hemorrhoids, or abdominal surgery). MODULE 3 SUMMARY: General Medication Safety for Children  Medications can have varied effects due to individual sensitivities.  Weight-based dosing is crucial (mg/kg), especially for infants.  Incorrect dosing can lead to serious adverse effects.  Long-term treatments require dose adjustments as the child grows. Common Medications & What to Know Type of Uses Important Notes Medication Antihistamine Runny nose, itchy May cause sleepiness, fussiness, eyes, sneezing, nervousness, or restlessness. allergic reactions Cough Medicine Loosens mucus & Not recommended for children with phlegm, relieves asthma. cough Aspirin Pain relief Never give aspirin unless prescribed due to risk of Reye’s syndrome. Hydrocortisone Treats insect bites, Avoid using on burns, infections, or Cream rashes, poison ivy broken skin. Pain & Fever Helps with fever, Acetaminophen (Tylenol) & Ibuprofen Medications headaches, body (Advil) can be alternated for fever/pain aches but should be used cautiously. Stomach Treats heartburn, gas, Dietary changes may help; some Medications constipation, diarrhea contain aspirin, which is unsafe for children. Cough & Cold Medications  Not for children under 6 years old due to risks of severe side effects.  Always check labels or consult a pediatrician. Unsafe Ingredients for Children Under 6:  Antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, promethazine)  Antitussives (Cough suppressants) (e.g., dextromethorphan)  Expectorants (e.g., guaifenesin)  Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) Safety Tips for OTC Medications  Avoid adult medications for children.  Always follow label instructions.  Be cautious of active ingredients when using multiple medications.  Talk to a doctor before giving fever medication to infants under 6 months.  Avoid chewable tablets for children under 3 years old.  Store medications out of reach of children. Proper Dosing Guidelines  Follow age & weight-based dosing.  Use provided measuring tools (dropper, syringe, dosing cup)—not household spoons.  Never increase the dose if the child’s symptoms seem worse.  Consult a doctor before alternating acetaminophen & ibuprofen to avoid overdose risks. MODULE 3 KEY POINTS: Children’s Tylenol (Acetaminophen)  First-line treatment for pain and fever.  Dosing: o Infants Tylenol: Every 4-6 hours. o Ibuprofen: Every 8 hours (Tylenol is gentler on the stomach).  Alternating dosing: If pain or fever persists, you can alternate Tylenol and Ibuprofen as they work differently.  Safety tips: o Always use an oral syringe for accurate dosing. o Never take multiple medications containing acetaminophen to avoid liver damage. o Acetaminophen is found in over 450 medications—always check labels. Thermometer & Fever Monitoring  Why check temperature? Detects fever, which signals an infection or virus.  Normal body temperature: o 98.6°F (37°C) (may fluctuate by 1°-2°F). o Typically lower in the morning, higher during the day.  Fever threshold: 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.  Methods of use: o Oral (under tongue) – for adults & children over 4 years. o Rectal – for children under 3 years (most accurate for infants). o Axillary (underarm) – less accurate but can be used.  Important: Never use an oral thermometer rectally or vice versa. Children’s Vitamins  Supports bone, teeth, and overall health.  Dosage: One daily (unless directed otherwise).  Keep out of reach of children!  Emergency: If a child ingests multiple vitamins or an entire bottle, contact a physician immediately. Calamine Lotion  Used for: Mild itch relief & drying out skin irritation.  Relieves: o Insect bites o Chickenpox o Poisonous plants o Scabies o Minor burns  Application: o Apply externally with a cotton pad/swab. o Do not ingest.  Caution: If irritation or rash develops, stop use immediately. Nix Shampoo & Comb (Lice Treatment)  For: Adults & children 2 months and older.  Application Steps: 1. Wash hair with shampoo only (no conditioner). 2. Towel dry with a clean towel. 3. Shake the bottle well and fully saturate the hair and scalp. 4. Pay special attention to behind the ears & back of the neck. 5. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water. 6. Repeat in 7 days if needed.  Aftercare: o Wash all clothing, bedding, and stuffed animals. o Remove tangles, then use a nit comb or tweezers to remove lice eggs. o Best practice: Part hair into sections and comb downward from the scalp. Children’s Advil (Ibuprofen)  Relieves fever & pain from: o Immunizations o Earaches o Colds & flu o Sore throat  Provides up to 8 hours of relief (longer than acetaminophen).  NSAID classification: Unlike acetaminophen, ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drug (NSAID).  DO NOT use if the child has: o An ulcer. o An ibuprofen allergy. o Been prescribed ASA (Aspirin) by a doctor. o Dehydration or liver problems. o A scheduled surgery (can increase bleeding risk). MODULE 4 SUMMARY: Definition of an Allergy  Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances (allergens).  Histamine is the primary chemical responsible for symptoms.  Reactions can occur immediately or hours after exposure. Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction  Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction affecting two or more body systems: o Skin: Hives, swelling (face, lips, tongue), itching, redness. o Respiratory: Wheezing, throat tightness, coughing, difficulty breathing. o Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps. o Cardiovascular: Weak pulse, dizziness, pale skin, passing out, shock. o Other: Anxiety, metallic taste, headache, uterine cramps. Common Allergy Symptoms  Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): Sneezing, runny nose, congestion, itchy/watery eyes.  Most Dangerous Symptoms: Trouble breathing (airway swelling, severe asthma) and a drop in blood pressure (dizziness, fainting). Allergies in Children  Signs in babies (0-2 years): Changes in crying, excessive drooling, spitting up, irritability, sudden sleepiness.  Young children: May describe symptoms as “funny feeling in the mouth” or “itchy tongue.”  Children with food allergies are 4x more likely to have asthma. Types of Allergies  Drug Allergy: Rare; reactions often due to drug properties, not allergy.  Food Allergy: Includes IgE-mediated allergies, non-IgE mediated allergies, and intolerances.  Insect Allergy: Stinging insects (bees, wasps, fire ants) & non-stinging (dust mites, cockroaches).  Pet Allergy: No hypoallergenic breeds exist.  Latex Allergy: Found in gloves, balloons, condoms; can be severe.  Mold Allergy: Fungi-related; present year-round.  Pollen Allergy: Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever). First-Line Therapy (Non-Anaphylaxis)  Antihistamines: Pills, liquids, nasal sprays. o Treat: Itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, allergic skin conditions (hives). o Mechanism: Blocks histamine receptors to prevent symptoms. Allergy Testing & Management   Testing: Skin tests, blood tests, lung function tests, X-rays.  No Cure, but effective treatments improve quality of life.  Complications: Eczema, sinus infections, nasal polyps, migraines, sleep disorders. Tips to Reduce Allergies  Know seasonal allergens.  Wear protective gear (hat, sunglasses, gloves, masks).  Keep windows/doors closed during allergy seasons.  Shower before bed & change clothes after being outside.  Clean weekly, use dehumidifiers, and allergy-proof bedding. MODULE 4 KEY POINTS: CLARITIN NASAL SPRAY  Dosage: 2-3 sprays per nostril, twice daily (12-hour intervals).  Precautions: Shake well before use, avoid prolonged/excessive use (may worsen congestion).  Consult a doctor if symptoms persist after 3 days. REACTINE TABLETS  Dosage: o Adults & 12+ years: 1 tablet every 24 hours. o 65+ years: Use 5mg Regular Strength or consult a doctor.  Warnings: o Do not exceed the recommended dose. o Avoid use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or with liver/kidney disease without consulting a doctor. o Keep out of reach of children. o Store at 15-30°C. BENADRYL ITCH RELIEF CREAM  Dosage: Apply 3-4 times daily (for ages 2+).  Warnings: o External use only; avoid raw/blistered skin. o Do not use on chickenpox, measles, or large areas. o Avoid contact with eyes/mucous membranes. o Discontinue if rash/burning occurs. o Do not use if allergic to diphenhydramine or with other diphenhydramine products. EPI-PEN  How to Use: o Remove blue safety cap.  o Place orange tip on outer thigh, push until it clicks. o Hold for 3 seconds. o Seek emergency medical attention immediately.  Additional Dose: If no improvement, a second dose can be given 5-15 minutes after the first, but do not exceed 2 doses in a row.  Overdose signs: Irregular heartbeat, breathing difficulty, high blood pressure. VISINE ALLERGY EYE DROPS  Dosage: 1-2 drops per eye, up to 4 times daily.  Warnings: o Do not use if you have glaucoma. o Avoid use with contact lenses. o Overuse may worsen redness. o Discontinue if symptoms persist over 72 hours. NETI-POT  Steps: 1. Fill with sterile, lukewarm saline solution. 2. Tilt head 45°, insert spout into upper nostril. 3. Pour solution; it should drain from the lower nostril. 4. Repeat for the other nostril.  Safety: o Use distilled/boiled/filtered water (avoid tap water). o Clean and dry after each use. o Do not use on infants. o Stop if stinging or ear pain occurs. MODULE 5 SUMMARY: What Are Fungi & Yeast?  Fungi are primitive plants that reproduce via spores or budding.  Types: Mold, mildew, yeast, mushrooms.  Candida is a yeast-caused fungus. Fungal Infections (Mycoses)  Caused by dermatophytes, which thrive on keratin in skin, nails, and hair.  Named based on infection site: o Tinea manus (hands) o Tinea corporis (body) o Tinea capitis (head) o Tinea unguium (nails)  Treated with antifungal drugs. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)  Common fungal infection causing peeling, flaking, redness, and itching between toes.  Prevention Tips: o Keep feet clean & dry. o Wear open sandals & cotton socks. o Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces. o Use antifungal powders/creams to prevent recurrence. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)  Caused by Candida yeast in skin & mucous membranes (groin, mouth, vagina, etc.).  Risk Factors: o Age, diabetes, pregnancy. o Hormone therapy, birth control, antibiotics. o Weak immune system, sexual activity, poor hygiene. Treatment of Fungal & Yeast Infections  Most treated with OTC antifungal agents.  Antifungal Mechanisms: 1. Destroy fungal cell membrane. 2. Interfere with nucleic acid synthesis (prevents replication). 3. Inhibit cell wall synthesis. MODULE 5 KEY POINTS: Canesten Cream (Clotrimazole) – External Use  Apply 2x daily for up to 7 days.  Symptoms should improve within 3 days; otherwise, see a doctor.   Precautions: o Wear cotton underwear, use a panty liner. o May reduce latex effectiveness (condoms, diaphragms). o Wash hands before & after application. Monistat Ovules (Miconazole)  Treats vaginal itching, burning, white discharge from yeast infections.  Insert 1 ovule nightly for 3 nights (use applicator, even during menstruation). Diflucan (Fluconazole)  Single-dose pill (1 pill, 1 day treatment).  Works for up to 7 days; symptoms improve within 24 hours and should be gone in 7 days.  Ping-pong effect: Use protection during sex to prevent reinfection between partners. Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazole)  Anti-dandruff shampoo (treats flaking, scaling, itching).  Use twice a week between regular shampoos.  Results in 2-4 weeks. Tinactin Cream (Tolnaftate)  Apply thin layer 2x daily (morning & bedtime) for 4 weeks.  Non-staining, non-stinging; helps hydrate skin.  Relieves itching, burning, cracked skin.  Wash hands before & after use. Polysporin Cream/Ointment  Used for minor cuts, scrapes, burns.  Clean area, then apply 1-3 times daily.  Speeds up healing, absorbs quickly.