Why do people take supplements instead of or along with prescription drugs?

Answer 1

a prescription drug can only be dispensed by doctor's orders.

otc drugs are the kind you buy at the grocery store.

Answer 2

I believe 50/50. Some OTC drugs work better than Rx ones and vice versa.

For high cholesterol I was taking a statin medication - after contracting drug reactions from statins, I switched (with doctors approval) to Niacin which is an OTC item. No ill effects anymore and my cholesterol readings are improving.

Answer 3

Cost. Rx Prescription meds can be very expensive. Often times there might be a generic name that can be substituted for brand name, but not for all medications.

OTC drugs sometimes work some related issues, but are limited in strength.

Usually because self-medication doesn't involve an office visit, as much money, and they may feel that these products have less potential for side effects since they don't "require a prescription."

Answer 4

Advantages of having over the counter medication is that you don't have to go see the doctor every time you have a little sniffle or an ache or pain. There are many safe drugs which can take care of most of your everyday illnesses, such as colds, coughs, aches and pains, upset stomach and diarrhea, and Allergies.

Disadvantages of these types of drugs are not the drugs themselves - it's the people! People are horribly unobservant, and most people do not take the time to read directions so that they know how to take the medicine properly. There are many cases where people take over the counter medicines incorrectly and poison themselves.

Answer 5

People use supplements, like vitamins, minerals, and herbs, because the vitamins and minerals are needed by the body and herbs have substances in them that are useful in treating diseases. Of course, not all herbs are useful and not all are good for all diseases. People also use alternatives to prescription drugs because they usually have less side effects and less serious side effects than prescription drugs.

Taking supplements along with prescription is a bit risky. Herbs can interfere the intended action of the drug or interact in other ways with drugs. Before taking a prescription drug with an herb, always talk to a medical professional.

Answer 6

Many over-the-counter medicines are cheaper to buy from a pharmacist than it would cost to pay for an office visit and prescription. In addition, these medications have been found to be safe for use without the supervision of a clinician.

Answer 7

Drugs can mess up your mind while herbal remedies arent as risky. They don't compeltely mess with your brain's layout

Answer 8

they can`t be laced if their given over the counter. If you get them from your drug dealer off the streets, they are most likely drugged