Every #medication, even if it’s available #OTC or online, carries the risk of potentially harmful #sideeffects. via @MedStarWHC
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strictly regulates medications sold in the U.S., but drugs manufactured in other countries and sold here or online may not carry the same level of regulation and oversight.
Topical products, such as creams or lotions, may not affect just the area being treated. Depending on the strength of the medication, the size of the affected area and how thick your skin is, these medications can cause local side effects and potentially affect the whole body, just like medications taken as pills or in other forms.
How to lower your risk
The most important advice I give my patients and that I can share with everyone is to tell your doctor about all skin products, lotions and beauty products you use, in addition to your prescription and over-the-counter medications. Write a list of all your medications and bring it with you every time you go to the doctor, or use a smartphone app to keep track of what you take. This is vital information your doctor needs.
On the flip side, it’s just as important for all doctors to ask their patients about all the medications they take, including over the counter products. If your doctor doesn’t ask, initiate the conversation. This is especially important for patients who take many medications, as we want to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
