Dear Suzy,
I’ve had fibromyalgia for the last 8 years, and I take Lyrica, Hydrocodone and citalopram for medicine. My local pharmacist said those are used to treat pain and depression but I want to make sure with you. And also, I’d like to know what natural alternatives I have. —S.D., Gainesville, Florida
Dear Pharmacist,
I take loratadine all spring because of my allergies to pollen and grass. Is that the best antihistamine and are there natural ones? — S.M., Orlando, Florida
Dear Readers,
I’ve written before about “fountain of youth” hot spring waters which are super rich in minerals and sulfur compounds. These substances penetrate the skin and relieve muscle aches/spasms, arthritis and skin rashes…
Dear Pharmacist,
You’ve said that if you have twitches, leg cramps, spasms or heart arrhythmias that you could be deficient in acid. What does this mean? I am taking an acid pill myself for reflux.
– L.B. Las Vegas, Nevada
Dear Pharmacist,
I just became a pharmacist and started reading your syndicated column. Your emphasis is usually centered around the benefits of vitamins, minerals or alternative treatments, as compared to prescription medications. Why don’t you recommend more of our gold standard pharmaceuticals which are FDA approved, unlike nutritional supplements? –JK, Gainesville, Florida
Dear Pharmacist
I have erectile dysfunction and routinely take Viagra. Is it safe and do you have a natural recommendation?
– L.B., Sacramento, California
“Dear Pharmacist, My brother, father, and uncle all died of a heart attack in their early 50’s so I’m getting nervous. How can I help
Dear Pharmacist,
After years of hiking without many problems, I began experiencing pain near my ankle and heel. My doctor diagnosed “Achilles tendonitis” and prescribed medicine which did reduce pain and swelling. I’m still worried I’ll not be able to hike again. What natural remedies keep this at bay? – J.S. Boulder, CO
Dear Pharmacist,
I heard your lecture on free “The Gluten Summit” last week and was shocked to find out I take gluten every day in my medicine, and I’m a Celiac. Can you write more about this food additive? –P.M., Austin, Texas
Dear Pharmacist,
I want to get healthy this year. I have all sorts of problems that plague me and curious to know if you were my “doctor” what labs would you have me do to uncover the root cause? –A. C., Newark, New Jersey
Dear Pharmacist,
I saw your facebook post on iodine and have hypothyroidism. I”m convinced I’m deficient, tell me more about deficiency and how to feel better? –E.P., Scottsdale, Arizona
Dear Pharmacist,
I was in a car accident. I’ve been taking medicine for my muscle aches and pain, but once the drug wears off, my pain returns. What are the best prescription muscle relaxers, and are there natural alternatives? –K.B., Los Angeles
Dear Pharmacist,
I really need your help because I am now up to 14 medications for the following problems: High cholesterol, heart disease, pre-diabetes, cataracts, arrhythmias, allergies, memory problems and enlarged prostate (BPH). The medications make me sick and sleepy. The reason I am writing to you is because you always have a fresh perspective. Can you help me get off these medications?
– C.P. Kansas City, Kansas
Dear Pharmacist
What does it mean when it says “take on an empty stomach” or “take with food” because I never adhere to those warnings and I’m still alive. Does it really matter? —J.J., Denver, CO
Dear Pharmacist,
I recently read a magazine article that discussed the health benefits of glutathione, and I was shocked at how many there are. Do you recommend this supplement for everyone? – L.S. Orlando, FL
Certain name brands, including physician-formulated brands, work extremely hard to keep their products free of common allergens, including gluten. I can’t vouch for every single product for every category, but there are companies worth paying extra for because they are “cleaner” in terms of common allergens, binder, fillers and other excipients. Among the best are:
Dear Pharmacist,
I have fibromyalgia, uterine fibroids, fibrocystic breasts and endometriosis. I fired my old doctor, because I wasn’t getting any better. My new doctor prescribed bio-identical hormones, iodine tablets, and a strong multi-vitamin. I’m eating ground flax seeds thanks to your recent column. Am I missing something? I’m still uncomfortable. –E.W. Sacramento, CA
Dear Pharmacist,
I am 90 pounds overweight and just began taking the medication Orlistat. Is there another drug that works better than this? Are there any supplements you recommend? – J.M., Dallas, Texas
Copyright 2025 | Suzy Cohen, America’s Pharmacist® & Dear Pharmacist, Inc. | All Rights Reserved
Affiliate Disclosure
