Globe Syndicate
for release January 3, 2003
The Sandwich Generation . . . Helping Your Aging Parents
by Carol Abaya, M.A.
Are you juggling doing errands for your aging parents, your children, yourself
and working at the same time? Are you tired, stressed out and upset that your
once vibrant parent is now frail and needy?
Do you feel alone? Rest assured you are not alone! The Sandwich Generation is
dedicated to the 50 million Americans who may have elder/parent care concerns
and/or responsibilities.
MIXING AND MATCHING DRUGS AND HERBALS CAN BE DEADLY
Question: For years I've taken vitamins and herbal supplements. I recently had a
stroke. The doctor has prescribed medicine and says I should stop the
supplements. I don't want to do this, but my children are nagging me.
Answer: Work closely with your doctor to identify those supplements that may
prevent the prescription medicine from working properly. Also look at foods that
can neutralize the effect of anticoagulants, which are given to prevent more
strokes.
For example, ginkgo may exaggerate the body's response to anticoagulants. It can
also cause spontaneous internal bleeding. Ginseng can decrease effectiveness of
certain drugs. And believe it or not, asparagus, spinach and broccoli can
neutralize anticoagulants. These are high in Vitamin K, which promotes blood
clotting which can cause strokes.
A new FDA alert is that the popular herbal supplement Kava can harm the liver.
While the liver damage is rare, it is severe when it occurs.
DRUG COSTS: Letters continue to come in about the high cost of drugs. There are
two basic ways to save.
• Use generic drugs. Cost is as much as 50% less and the active ingredients must
be the same.
• Look into drug discount programs. Together Rx represents a number of top drug
companies. Website - www.together-rx.com.
Pfizer has its own discount card at 1-800-717-6005 or www.pfizerforliving.com.
Eli Lilly can be reached at 1-877-795-4559 or web www.lillyanswrs.com.
With AARP Medigap insurance, you have access to their drug plan at
1-800-439-4457.
QUESTIONS TO ASK. Whenever you visit your doctor you should take a pad and pen
with you. Take careful notes or have someone come with you to take notes. Often
it's difficult to remember everything.
When you are given a new medicine, be sure and ask the doctor the following.
1. What's the name of the drug you're prescribing?
2. Is a less expensive generic version of this drug available?
3. How much will I be taking and how many times a day?
4. What time of day is best to take the medication? Should it be taken with food
or without?
5. Does the medication need refrigeration?
6. What side effects, if any, might I experience? What should I do if they
occur?
7. Is it safe to take this drug with other drugs or supplements? Can I drink
alcohol while I am on this medication?
8. What do I do if I miss a dose?
9. How long will I be taking the drug?
10. Do I need to finish the entire dosage you're prescribing for me? What do I
do if I feel better before that?
VACATION MEDICINE: The cold of winter means many seniors go south. If you are
going for several weeks, take sufficient medicine for the whole time you'll be
away. Bring extra prescription orders from you doctor in case of loss. If for
several months take a month's supply plus prescription orders. Carry them with
you; don't put in luggage.
* * *
Do you have a question? Send it in. Although letters cannot be answered
individually, appropriate letters will be answered in this column whenever
possible. Letters may be edited. Send letters to Ms. Carol Abaya, c/o
Name\Address of YOUR newspaper (or mail direct to her at PO Box 132,Wickatunk,
NJ 07765-0132) or contact her through her web site: thesandwichgeneration.com.
Carol Abaya is an international-award-winning journalist and creator of the
unique magazine The Sandwich Generation: You & Your Aging Parents.
NOTES TO EDITORS: text = 490 words; other material = 160 words
We would appreciate it if you would include the "Globe Syndicate" bug at the end
of the column.
©2003 by Globe Syndicate, all rights reserved.