The science behind how medicine works in our bodies
A headache? A stomach ache? It’s possible that you can treat this with some over-the-counter medicine, but how does it work? How do you know if the medicine will work? Here, we dive into how drugs work on our bodies to relieve symptoms and treat conditions such as headaches, indigestion, and even high blood pressure.
Inhaled Medicine
When you breathe in most medicines, they go to the lungs and then pass into the bloodstream. Small blood vessels carry the medicine to different parts of the body. To work properly, many medicines need to get to specific organs or body tissues. For example, inhaled asthma medicines go straight to the lungs. Some medicines can also get into the brain.Swallowed Medicines
When you swallow a pill, it doesn’t go straight to your stomach. It first has to pass through your esophagus, which is a long, thin tube that connects your throat to your stomach. The esophagus is lined with muscle that contract and push the pill down into the stomach.Medicines and Pregnancy
There are a lot of factors to consider when you're pregnant and trying to stay healthy. You have to think about what's best for you and your baby. Medicine is one of those things. But how does it work?What are side effects?
Most people have experienced side effects from taking medication at some point in their lives. But what are they, exactly? Side effects are any undesired effect that occurs as a result of taking a medication. They can be minor, like a headache or dry mouth, or more serious, like dizziness or fainting. While side effects are generally not life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable and sometimes disruptive to your daily routine.
What happens if you miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of medication, it can lead to a number of different consequences, depending on the drug. For example, if you miss a dose of blood pressure medication, you may experience a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or fainting. If you miss a dose of insulin, you may experience high blood sugar levels. In some cases, missing a dose of medication can be life-threatening.Over-the-counter meds
When you have a headache, you might reach for ibuprofen. When you have a cold, you might take acetaminophen for the fever. These medicines are called over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. OTC drugs are available without a prescription from a healthcare provider.Special considerations for medicines at home and abroad
When you’re taking medication, it’s important to be aware of both common and rare side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor. You should also keep track of how much medication you’re taking, as well as when and where you took it. This will help your doctor to make necessary adjustments to your dosage.When travelling abroad, it’s also important to research the availability of your medication in other countries. Some medications may be illegal in certain countries, so it’s important to check before you travel. You should also be aware that the same medication may have a different name in another country. And finally, don’t forget to pack enough medication for your entire trip!