So glad you stopped by and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
Friday Quote
Category: Celebrate Life
Why You Need To Read The Prescribing Information On Your Medications
Last Thursday I started a new medication for my kidneys, Myrbetriq and I’ll use their website to discuss what I find most important in their Prescribing Information. Before starting the medication, I go to their website to read all the side effects, when to call the doctor, when to go to the hospital and take a quick look at the Clinical Trials to see how many people drop out of the trial and what for. Another reason to look at trial information is to see who many were in the trial.
If you want to know all the information, there is plenty to read. I’ve read enough about Clinical Trials to know where to go to find the information I want. To read the entire or some of what Prescribing Information looks like, click here.
Areas I look at on the Prescribing Information.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Increases in Blood Pressure: Can increase blood pressure in adult or
pediatric patients. Periodically monitor blood pressure, especially in
hypertensive patients. MYRBETRIQ/MYRBETRIQ Granules are not
recommended in patients with severe uncontrolled hypertension. (5.1)
• Urinary Retention in Patients With Bladder Outlet Obstruction and in
Patients Taking Muscarinic Antagonist Drugs for Overactive Bladder:
Administer with caution in these patients because of risk of urinary
retention. (5.2)
• Angioedema: Angioedema of the face, lips, tongue, and/or larynx has
been reported with mirabegron. (5.3, 6.2)
ADVERSE REACTIONS
Most commonly reported adverse reactions with MYRBETRIQ
monotherapy in adult patients with OAB (> 2% and > placebo) were
hypertension, nasopharyngitis, urinary tract infection, and headache.
(6.1)
• Most commonly reported adverse reactions with MYRBETRIQ, in
combination with solifenacin succinate in adult patients with OAB
(> 2% and > placebo and > comparator), were dry mouth, urinary tract
infection, constipation, and tachycardia. (6.1)
• Most commonly reported adverse reactions with
MYRBETRIQ/MYRBETRIQ Granules in pediatric patients with NDO
(≥ 3%) were UTI, nasopharyngitis, constipation, and headache. (6.1)
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
The most frequent adverse events (0.2%) leading to discontinuation in Studies 1, 2, and 3 for the 25 mg or 50 mg dose were nausea, headache, hypertension, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and tachycardia.
Atrial fibrillation (0.2%) and prostate cancer (0.1%) were reported as serious adverse events by more than 1 patient and at
a rate greater than placebo.
I hope you take the time to look at one of your medication’s Prescribing Information. You may be surprised by what you read.
Please watch this short video to learn more about FDA product labeling
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9irTyi8s5Q]
Melinda
References:
https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/oncology-center-excellence/how-do-i-use-prescription-drug-labeling
Wordless Wednesday *Yellow Rose of Texas
I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.
Yellow Rose of Texas
Melinda
Happy Valentines Day
I remember in middle school we gave those little cards to each other and in high school you could buy a Valentine’s message and it was delivered to your chosen one during the day. That was a lot of fun, it was a chance to express your feelings to your friends.
In the past, I’ve had great Valentine’s dinners and all the fanfare when I was younger. Now, my husband and I buy each other a card and I will get a big bouquet of roses. That’s the perfect low-key way to celebrate our special day.
Valentine’s is the perfect day for self-care, and relaxing.
Happy Valentine’s to everyone!
Melinda
Help Ukraine *Support Locals By Buying Their Products
If you’re looking to support a local business in Ukraine, Etsy.com has many sellers from Ukraine.
I bought two handmade chair pads made on antique looms. Fortunately, this couple is far from fighting and living in the mountains and lovingly taking care of their sheep.
WovenWoolArt on Etsy is the shop I love. I’m also viewing the clothes made by the couple in Kosiv, Ukraine.
The shipping is high, but you must remember it’s coming from a country at war. It’s a miracle that anyone can find a mail station. She’s also generous with discounts on shipping if you buy more than one item.
I pray the fighting doesn’t wipe them out, they shared their concerns including the need for more weapons from America.
Let’s help the locals make a living during the war, they need all the support possible and the American people can help them.
Melinda
Meet Griffy, She’s A Daddy’s Girl
I was looking for a Brussels Griffon without the high price. There is a small but awesome no-kill shelter nearby, and I had talked to about wanting a Brussels Griffon and it wasn’t long before we met Griffy.
She was living on the streets pregnant, fortunately, an employee at Dallas Animal Control sent her to the shelter in Plano. The day I picked her up, she had just said goodbye to her babies and the foster mother. I know she must have been in shock, losing her babies and leaving her foster care and in a new house.
She took a lot of training, arguing about who’s the boss, and she didn’t want much petting but we now have the calmest dog except when she sees the UPS or any large truck going by the house. Her best buddy is her brother Jett whom you met the other day.
Giffy is a daddy’s girl, he walks her every day and takes both dogs to the park. When she started sleeping by me it was a total shock. I love her so much.
I’ve shown you, my children, show me yours in the comment section.
Melinda
The Self-Care Gift I Bought For Myself
On Saturday I was looking for items to up my self-care routine and found these beautiful preserved pink roses in a box. They are on my bookcase near my chair, I get to see them all day. Self-care isn’t just a hot bath or foot massage, it can be something that brings you joy.
My husband will buy roses and a card which only lasts so long. I love fresh flowers, the preserved roses are there to enjoy all day.
The flowers are beautiful pink roses and they can last up to 3 years. WOW! They look great in the round black box. These were only $30, I’m worth more than that!
Melinda
Things I’m Loving *Babies, Children’s, And Teen Products
Here are a few products I’m loving with right now. I hope you find a product to add to your household or self-care routine. The list may also give you ideas for a surprise for friends, and family. All products were found on Amazon.
EUDEMON Child Safety Heat-Resistant Oven Door Lock
Oven Front Lock for Kids Easy to Install, Use 3M Adhesive, No Screws or Drill and easy to install. This lock will keep curious children by not allowing them to get burned.
Bath Spout Cover, Children’s Faucet Extender
Covers Baby Bathroom Tub Protects for Kids, Bathtub Spout Cover for Baby Kids Toddlers Protection Accessories Baby Safety During Bathing Time.
12 PCS Furniture Anchors for baby-proofing
Tip Child Safety Cabinet Straps to Help Furniture Secure to Wall Baby Proof Anchoring Kit for Shelf & Dresser to Protect Toddler
Proactiv 3-Step Acne Treatment
Benzoyl Peroxide Face Wash, Repairing Acne Spot Treatment for Face and Body, Exfoliating Toner – 30-Day Complete Acne Skin Care Kit
Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush for Adults & Kids Hair
Detangler Brush for Natural, Curly, Straight, Wet or Dry Hair – Hairbrush for Men & Women, Little Girl Hair Accessories, Turquoise
Bluetooth Speaker with Lights, Wireless Charging Speaker
Best Birthday Gift Ideas Teenage, Applicable for Bedroom/Teen Girl Gifts/Please use The Original Adapter(5W Wireless Charging)
Mulberry Silk Pillow Cases Standard Size Silk Pillowcase with Zipper
Soft Breathable Smooth Cooling Satin Silk Pillow Covers for Sleeping for Hair and Skin (Lavender,20″X 26″) Silk pillowcases are great gifts. They keep the oil off your face and hair.
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-Damon Ashworth Psychology
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog of Damon Ashworth Psychology.
Damon Ashworth Psychology
Damon is back working as a Clinical Psychologist in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia after volunteering as a Mental Health Specialist in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Damon’s new book ‘Deliberately Better Sleep’ is now for sale as a paperback and as an e-book as of February 13th, 2023:
It can be purchased at booktopia.com.au.
I love his site, the posts are medical but don’t sound clinical. His writing ability is enviable.
You must visit Damon’s site, there is a topic on his blog that will interest you.
Melinda
Golf for Fitness Improves Your Lifestyle
Golf is an incredibly popular sport that offers a variety of benefits for those who choose to play. Not only can golf offer physical fitness and an improved lifestyle, but it also provides the chance to organize a tournament. Have you considered organizing or taking part in a san diego golf tournament, for instance? This is something worth looking into as a great part of the world to enjoy a game of golf.
We shall discuss in this article the many advantages of golf, touching on the fitness side and how it helps many live a more fulfilling life. Then we can get more serious and talk about golfing tournaments. These can be run by a golf club, be on a world scale, or simply a friendly one that we organize for family members, friends, or work associates. So, let’s talk more about golf.
How Golf Keeps Us Fit and Improves Our Lifestyle
Golf is a great way to get in shape and stay active. It’s a low-impact sport that can be done at any time of the day while helping golfers improve their golf swing. What’s more, golf encourages golfers to walk around the course, instead of using motorized golf carts. This helps golfers stay active while experiencing the fresh air and outdoors.
In addition to physical fitness benefits, golf can also help improve golfers’ mental health. The game of golf requires a lot of focus and concentration, which has been shown to reduce stress levels and relieve anxiety. Golfers have reported feeling calmer and more relaxed after golfing.
What Golfers Enjoy About Golf Courses
Golfers can enjoy all these advantages as they learn techniques, practice on courses, and compete with other golfers in tournaments. This comes with the opportunity to stay active while having fun or feeling competitive at the same time.
Furthermore, golf can provide great networking opportunities when organizing or participating in tournaments. Whether you’re looking for some extra exercise or just want a change of pace from your everyday routine, golf has something for everyone. Golf is a sport that encourages a diverse range of ages to its game.
Golf Tournaments
Arranging golf tournaments can be a great way to build relationships within a golfing community. With golf being so popular, there are numerous golf courses one can join. A tournament can also be used as an excellent marketing opportunity to generate media exposure and attract new golfers.
Competitions can be open to all golfers, or members of golf clubs could organize private tournaments. Whichever type you choose to run, it can be a great way to build camaraderie between golfers and also allow golfers from all over the world a chance to compete. It’s important to remember that a tournament takes time and money to organize, so make sure you’re prepared for the task.
If you are winning games, why not see if there is a chance you might be able to turn professional and enter the bigger tournaments on the world stage? Achieving this can be a combination of talent, practice, commitment, opportunity, and a willingness to travel. It helps when we have a supportive team behind us.
Golf is an excellent sport that offers a variety of benefits, including enhanced physical fitness and improved lifestyles. For golfers looking to take their game further, the tournament provides a great platform to get together with competitors locally, nationally, or globally. Golf clubs and courses provide the location for all levels. The sport provides plenty of opportunities for players to stay active while having fun and building life-long relationships with fellow golfers. So what are you waiting for? Get involved today!
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Meet My Shadow
We adopted Jet from Operation Kindness, they are so nice and truly take care of animals. There is a large outside area where the dogs can lounge and play, a huge cat room, and the dogs are walked every day.
We didn’t want a baby, but that’s exactly what we did. It was during the pandemic and dogs were being adopted as soon as they came in. After weeks of looking, I fell in love with Jet. Little did I know we would be my shadow.
Melinda
Deep Thoughts
In this fast-paced social media world, finding the time to look within or back in time can be difficult. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!
Bella Grace Field Guide by Stampington
Just Pondering
What was one perfect moment from today?
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-Fleetwood Mac – Go Your Own Way (Official Music Video) My Fav Band!!!
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m so glad you’ve joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Friday Quote
I’m glad you stopped by today and hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
Just Pondering
What is currently filling up your heart?
Melinda
Just Pondering
…what sights from nature never fail to take your breath away?
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday *Streets Of Tokyo
I’m so glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday. Thanks for stopping by.
Melinda
Monday Thoughts
What are all the things you’d never change about yourself?
Melinda
Just Pondering
Our mornings often set the stage for how the rest of your day will go.
What’s one thing you can do each morning to ensure you’re starting your day on a good note?
For me it’s coffee!
Melinda
Do You Take Anti-Psychotic Medication? Beware!
Have you heard of Tardive Dyskinesia? If you take anti-psychiotic medication you can get this life-changing side-effect at any time. Tardive Dyskinesia is a serious side effect of taking anti-psychotic medication.
I have a process when taking a new medication, I have to get information from the manufacturer with an emphasis on side effects and when to call the doctor or go to the hospital.
When your Psychiatrist or any doctor talks to you about any medication, make the doctor discuss the side effects before you leave the office, which is their job, at least get a valid site to check each medication. I’m not a doctor and this is not medical advice.
Before using the medication, I go to the drug manufacturer’s site to see the Prescribing Information and review all the side effects. Also, make sure what drugs can’t be used together. This is extremely important, the outcome of taking medication with one that doesn’t play nice is asking for trouble.
You may want to read the results of Clinical Trials to see how many dropped out of the Trial, why they dropped out, and all the side effects including the serious side effects, sometimes called Adverse Events.
“The movement disorders include akathisia, dystonia, buccolingual stereotypy, myoclonus, chorea, tics, and other abnormal involuntary movements, which are commonly caused by the long-term use of typical antipsychotics.”
Which parts of the body does Tardive Dsykensia affect?
Arms
Feet
Face ( Mine is in the mouth)
Your Body
Click here for the complete list.
If your Tardive Dyskinesia is in your mouth, I encourage you to get a mouth guard from the dentist to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Unfortunately, once you get Tardive Dyskinesia you can’t take anti-psychotics anymore. If you experience any side effects such as involuntary movements. Call your doctor immediately. They may need to tweak the medication protocol to keep you balanced.
There are currently two medications for Tardive Dyskinesia, Astuda and Ingrezza. I took Ingrezza for months but the side effects were too much. I’m not willing to go through that again.
Would you like me to write about Prescribing Information?
Melinda
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3709416/
Blogger Highlight-Midwest Mary
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog of Midwest Mary.
Midwest Mary
My works are backed by a master’s degree in Pastoral Theology, decades of professional writing, and credible research. I’m an award-winning author of twelve books, newspaper articles, magazines, and marketing materials. I write with you in mind presenting topics of need and interest in a warm, conversational style covering a variety of topics, especially ones of personal experience including travel, nature, poetry, spirituality, caregiving, and grieving.
She’s a great writer, I know you’ll love her blog.
Melinda
Just Pondering
Gluten-Free Lemon Cayenne Elixir
Keep your entire family well year-round with the elixir. Kristin said this elixir seems to keep her immune system running at its best. This is so easy to make.
Recipe from Kristin Cavallari’s cookbook True Comfort.
Ingredients
Juice of 1 lemon
1 1/4 inch thick slice of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. raw honey
How To Make
In a small saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of water with the lemon juice, ginger, cayenne, and honey.
Warm the mixture over medium heat, whisking until it combines and reaches your desired temperature.
Drink right away.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Glutin-Free Reishi Latte
Recipe from Kristin Cavallari’s cookbook True Comfort
Reishi is a mushroom that has many health benefits including boosting the immune system and fighting fatigue. The He Shou Wu powder is an herbal remedy used to promote healthy aging.
Ingredients
1 cup almond milk
3/4 tsp. reishi powder
1/2 tsp. He Shou Wu powder
1 tsp. raw cacao powder
1 tsp. virgin coconut oil
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. pure maple syrup
1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 or 2 shots of brewed espresso
Pinch of Himalayan salt
How To Make
In a small saucepan, whisk the almond milk with the reishi, He Shou, and cacao powders.
Stir in the coconut oil, cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla, espresso, and salt.
Place the pan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the latte simmers, 5 minutes.
Serve right away.
Serves 1
Enjoy!
Melinda
#Weekend Music Share-Bon Jovi -Livin’ On A Prayer * Let’s Rock!!
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m so glad you’ve joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Friday Quote
I’m glad you stopped by and hope to see you soon.
This is the greatest quote!
Melinda
Things I’m Loving-Men’s Products
Here are a few products I’m loving with right now. I hope you find a product to add to your household or self-care routine. The list may also give you ideas for a surprise for friends or family, All products were found on Amazon. They make my life so simple!
Pruning Your Eyebrows
It’s common for men to get their brows trimmed if there out of control. You can do it yourself if you have a good eye.
Harry’s Face Wash
Face Wash – Face Cleanser for Men, 5.1 Fl Oz (Pack of 3) Package may vary
15.3 Fl Oz (Pack of 3)
Harry is one of the high-end face products for men and they are highly rated.
Body Prescriptions
Mahogany
1.32 Pound (Pack of 1)
Carhartt
Carhartt is known as a brand that last for many years. They also have many colors to pick from.
Ivivfu
2PCS Nesting Grill Baskets with Handle (11.2″ x 3.9″) Grilli
We grill every weekend and this basket will allow me to cook more veggies. You can cook almost anything and it will cut down on the mess.
Men need self-care, everyone needs self-care, it’s a small amount of time for you to relax and destress. I think men run when they hear self-care as it’s only for women. Self-care may look different for men but it’s just as important.
Melinda
Just Pondering
From Bella Grace by Stampington
What’s one place you’ve always wanted to go?
What sites do you want to see and what things do you want to do?
Melinda
Life Before Chronic Illness
Sometimes I find myself reflecting on my younger days, when I had a thriving career with a start-up company and making 6 figures. I was living high on the hog, as they say, I took several vacations a year, wore designer clothes, and had a nice selection of expensive jewelry.
Every once in a while I see that person in me but she’s really gone. My life changed significantly after being diagnosed with Lyme Disease, most weeks I didn’t even get out of bed, taking my IV Antibiotic Therapy bedside.
The contrast to who I am today is the total opposite of my working years. I no longer wear business clothes, or make-up, make sales calls, and no longer have the remains from that time. I don’t need them. I sold all of my jewelry including my Rolex and tried to peacefully move forward.
I’ve had some valuable lessons, some came with age, and others from lessons learned. When I was younger and riding high, I thought the good times would never end. I also placed value on items, which is no way to live. After I stripped away all the money and the finer things it could buy, I realized that it was not what I needed to make me happy. I’ve learned the value of saving money.
Today happiness is simple, it is focused on my husband retiring while taking care of my medical needs. Lately, I’ve been spending the majority of the day in bed due to pain and fatigue. A great day is when I’m up, clear-headed, and enjoying my family.
Do I miss myself from the past? Sure I do at times but would not trade it for who I am today?
I’m centered, know who I am, confident in my choices, and accept this is life with a chronic illness.
How do you reconcile your past life before chronic illness?
Melinda
lookingforthelight.blog 