In Module four,
chapters five and six, we discussed prescriptions drugs, and how to be a smart
consumer in regards to them. We also explored alternative therapies, the differences
between a generic prescription and a brand name prescription.
When filling a
prescription for any drug, it is best to be very educated on the shape, nice,
texture, and flavor of a pill. This is because counterfeit pills are a concern.
Our discussion posts were predominantly about the ways to avoid using counterfeit
pills. Common ways include filling your prescription at a reputable pharmacy,
and avoid filling your prescription on the internet. But some more ways to be
sure that you are taking the right pill to treat your ailments is to be very
familiar with the pill. If you suspect that a pill that you are taking may be
counterfeit, the responsible thing to do is report it to medwatch at 1-800-332-1088.
This link provides a better understanding of some warning signs.
The topic
that I chose to write about in my discussion post was the comparison of brand
name prescription drugs versus generic prescription drugs. Brand name drug companies
run advertisements attempting to prove that their more expensive drugs are more
effective. In reality, it is just the opposite. When a drug is approved by the
FDA they are given a twenty year patent on the drug. This means
that for twenty years, only the company may sell the drug in order to regain
the profits that were put into the creation of the medication. After this
patent is up, companies may make the drug and sell under the generic name. They
must follow the same strict guideline s that the FDA sets for brand name drugs.
The drugs must have the same bio-efficiency. The same amount of active
ingredients must enter the blood-stream at the same time. But many people still
prefer the brand name drug. In our discussion, most of us differed on our own
personal preference.
We
also learned about alternative therapies. Many people use them to aid, or in
place of, traditional medicine. In the last twelve months, almost four out of
twelve people have used complimentary or alternative medicines. One of my classmates
has even used it with success, for his son’s allergies. But due to the lack of
regulation or requirements for alternative therapies, they are questionable.
Most due not directly harm a person, but because labeling can be misleading, a
person may think that they are being treating when they are actually taking a
placebo.
After reflecting
on chapters five and six, I would say that I am a smart consumer by being
diligent in my research. I avoid borrowing pills and medication from family
members and friends, and I always fill my prescriptions at the same reputable
pharmacies. I am very familiar with medications that I take regularly, and I
utilize my pharmacist. A pharmacist is there for a reason. I have seen many
people ask the associate behind the counter rather important questions. More
than not, the associate is a young person that is working for the drug store or
grocery store. They aren’t trained to answer those questions. At best, they are
attending college for pharmaceutical studies. They do not have the required license
for your inquiries. I always direct any questions that I have about the
medication to the pharmacist.
This module
has helped me to be more confident about introducing subject matter to a
discussion. I am getting confident in my knowledge of consumer health. Next
module I would like to participate more in the discussions. I have done
consistently well on my quizzes, but I would like to do better.
