People's Pharmacy

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Don't Mix Motrin And Tylenol In Tykes

Posting Date: 04/22/2002

We are sending you our new Guide to Grapefruit Interactions with a complete list of medicines that interact with this food. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped, self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. J-91, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.

Q. In a recent answer to a laxative addict, you suggested psyllium (Fiberall, Metamucil, Per Diem Fiber, etc.) as an approach to easing constipation. But you left out a patient-friendly solution.

When you mention Metamucil, most people automatically think of an unpalatable powder mixed with water. But Metamucil also makes wafers that are outstanding. I don't take them for constipation, because I've never had that problem. I eat them on the instructions of the doctor who gave me a colonoscopy. They're delicious (apple-crisp and cinnamon flavors) and I think people would happily get more fiber in their diets if they knew about the wafers.

A. Thanks for the tip. Metamucil wafers contain as much psyllium as an ordinary dose of psyllium powder. This fiber is not only effective against constipation, but also helps control cholesterol.

Q. I just found some left over sunscreen from last summer. Is it safe to use it again this year?

A. Check the expiration date on the label. Most sunscreens are good for a couple years even if stored at relatively high temperature, as in a glove compartment or trunk.

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org.Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).