July 2023 Health & Pharmacy Roundup

This month at UniversalDrugstore.com we focused on short, useful reads you can use right away. Topics range from pregnancy medication safety and morning sickness hacks to antibiotics for cancer patients, asthma education, acne and confidence, diaper-rash tips, and care for older people with HIV.

If you work from home while pregnant, our morning sickness post gives simple, practical moves: schedule calls during your lowest-nausea windows, keep bland snacks like crackers or plain toast at arm’s reach, sip small amounts of cold water or ginger tea, and set gentle alarms for quick breaks. Small routines—timed meals, a window open for fresh air, and a chair with support—make work days easier without heavy planning.

On medication safety, the valsartan-hydrochlorothiazide article explains why ARBs and ACE inhibitors are usually avoided during pregnancy and suggests safer options doctors commonly consider, such as labetalol, methyldopa, or nifedipine. It lists the right questions to ask your provider: why a drug is recommended, what fetal risks exist, and which monitoring steps are needed if a switch is made.

Antibiotics came up twice in July. One post explores the possible role of ampicillin for infections in cancer patients, noting how its action against many bacteria may help certain cases while underlining the need for careful dosing and resistance monitoring. Another piece stresses patient education for budesonide-formoterol: show inhaler technique, use a spacer when needed, track symptoms daily, and know when to seek care. Good education makes asthma meds work better.

Skin, babies, and confidence

Isotretinoin and self-esteem looks at real changes people report after severe acne clears, but it’s clear: isotretinoin needs specialist oversight. The post recommends pregnancy testing and reliable contraception for people of childbearing potential, regular follow-up for side effects, and talking through mental-health changes with your dermatologist.

The diaper-rash article points out why heavier babies may get more rashes—extra skin folds, trapped moisture, and sometimes longer diaper use. Practical steps: change diapers frequently, pat dry instead of rubbing, use barrier creams at the first sign of redness, and give short diaper-free periods to let skin breathe.

Caring for older patients with HIV

The ritonavir and aging post highlights rising needs as people with HIV live longer. Ritonavir boosts other antiretrovirals but also increases interactions through liver enzymes. The article suggests closer monitoring of lipids, glucose, and drug interactions, and coordinating care to manage comorbidities while keeping viral load suppressed.

Across the month the common thread is practical safety: ask specific questions, use simple daily habits that reduce risk, and get clear patient education. If a headline sounds like it fits your situation, read the full post for actionable steps and questions to bring to your clinician.