ND’s Top 7 Favorite Pharmaceuticals

As a naturopathic doctor, my primary focus is helping people achieve better health through lifestyle changes and natural medicine. Diet, exercise, and holistic treatments form the foundation of my practice. However, there are times when I prescribe pharmaceutical medicines to support the healing process. The key is using them thoughtfully, as part of a broader, holistic plan. When combined with natural remedies, these medications can offer valuable support in promoting overall health and well-being.

Topical Diclofenac

Topical Diclofenac is an anti-inflammatory cream that can be applied directly to sore joints, tendons, or muscles. This option can reduce the need for systemic pain drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, both of which can have side effects when used long-term. Diclofenac can be compounded to include medications for nerve pain, making it a versatile tool for managing discomfort while working on healing the underlying tissue.

Metformin

Metformin is a common blood sugar lowering medication that works by improving the body’s response to insulin. While diet and exercise are critical to managing blood sugar levels, Metformin can provide a significant boost for some patients. Beyond its role in diabetes management, emerging research suggests that Metformin may have broader health benefits, including potential roles in cancer prevention and cognitive health.

Vaginal Estrogen

For postmenopausal women, vaginal dryness is a common and often uncomfortable issue. While special moisturizers can offer some relief, topical or vaginal estrogen is the most effective way to treat this condition. Used in moderation vaginal estrogen is considered very safe.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

In the right context, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can be a safe and effective option for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. The understanding of hormone replacement has evolved significantly over the years. Current research suggests that BHRT, in the right person, in the right form, not only alleviates symptoms like hot flashes but may also offer benefits for long-term cognitive and bone health.

Enteric Coated Digestive Enzymes (Cotazym 20)

Prescription digestive enzymes, like Cotazym 20, can be very helpful for some individuals struggling with bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or other digestive issues. These enzymes augment the enzymes the pancreas produces which break down food. What makes Cotazym 20 particularly useful is its enteric coating, which protects the enzymes from being destroyed by stomach acid, allowing them to work more effectively in the intestines where they’re needed. This targeted support can make a significant difference in digestive health for people who need it.

Rifaximin

As a naturopathic doctor, I generally avoid antibiotics unless necessary because of their impact on the intestinal microbiome, a key factor in overall health. However, Rifaximin is an exception. This antibiotic is used to treat certain cases of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, particularly those involving diarrhea caused by Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). Uniquely, Rifaximin primarily works only in the small intestine, preserving the microbiome in the large intestine. Plus, 97% is eliminated through the colon, meaning it poses minimal risk to the liver and kidneys, and doesn’t cause yeast infections or other common antibiotic side effects. As part of a comprehensive program it can be a very helpful for people with IBS.

Low Dose Naltrexone

This medication is a very exciting addition to my toolkit when helping people with complex, chronic diseases like Long Covid, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, autoimmune disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and more. It gently tricks the body into activating its own immune balancing mechanisms, and helps reduce neuro-inflammation. Studies show demonstrable benefits for Inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and more. It’s relatively safe and expensive. 

 

While pharmaceuticals like these are never my only treatment option, they can serve as valuable tools in a comprehensive health plan. When used wisely and alongside lifestyle changes and natural therapies, they can give patients the extra support they need to achieve their health goals. The beauty of a naturopathic approach is in finding the balance between all available options—natural and pharmaceutical—working together for the best possible outcome.

 

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician practicing in downtown Courtenay since 1997. www.getwellhere.com 250 897-0235a

Top 4 Hormone Replacement Myths

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has long been a topic of debate and confusion, especially for menopausal women exploring their treatment options. Despite its potential to offer significant relief from menopausal symptoms and more, several myths persist, often deterring women from seeking the benefits it can provide. With 27 years of experience as a naturopathic doctor who prescribes HRT, I’ve witnessed substantial advancements in our understanding of this important treatment. Let’s clarify these common misconceptions.

Myth 1: HRT Causes Cancer

One of the most pervasive myths about HRT is its association with cancer, particularly breast cancer. This concern primarily stems from findings of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study in 2002, which reported a slight increased risk of breast cancer in women using combined estrogen-progestin therapy. However, subsequent analyses and studies have shown that the risk is more nuanced. The study used outdated forms of HRT, such as horse estrogen and synthetic progesterone. Now we use bioidentical hormones, which have been shown to be much safer. Also, the study participants had an average age of 65 when they started HRT. Now, we know that the safest window for starting HRT is withing 10 years of a woman’s menopause or before age 60. A family history of breast cancer is not a contraindication.

Myth 2: HRT is Only for Severe Symptoms

Another common misconception is that HRT is only necessary for women with severe menopausal symptoms. While it is true that HRT can provide substantial relief for those experiencing significant symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood swings and insomnia, it can also benefit women with mild to moderate symptoms. Additionally, HRT has been shown to offer long-term health benefits, such as reducing the risk of osteoporosis and age related cognitive decline, if started early.

Myth 3: HRT Will Make You Gain Weight

A widespread concern among menopausal women is that HRT will lead to significant weight gain. However, research does not support this claim. While menopause itself is associated with changes in body composition and fat distribution, HRT has not been definitively linked to weight gain. In fact, some studies suggest that HRT may help mitigate the abdominal fat accumulation often seen during menopause.

Myth 4: HRT is Risky for Women with a History of Blood Clots

Many women with a history of blood clots or a family history of clotting disorders believe they cannot safely use estrogen therapy. While it is true that traditional oral estrogen HRT can increase the risk of blood clots, there are alternative delivery methods that pose less risk. Transdermal estrogen, which is delivered through the skin via patches, gels, or creams, has been shown to have a lower risk of blood clots compared to oral formulations. As always, it is crucial for women to discuss their medical history and individual risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine the safest and most effective form of HRT for their needs.

While myths and misconceptions about HRT persist, it is important for women to seek accurate information and consult with their healthcare providers. HRT can be a valuable tool in managing menopausal symptoms and improving quality of life in the long term. By dispelling these myths, we can empower women to make informed decisions about their health during menopause.

 

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician practicing in downtown Courtenay. www.getwellhere.com  250 897-0235

 

Ride the Wave: Mastering Urge Surfing

Navigating the journey to better health requires strategies to handle the inevitable cravings and temptations that arise. As a naturopathic physician, I’ve witnessed many individuals set off on the path to improved well-being, only to be sidetracked by the siren call of these urges. Whether it’s the lure of a late-night snack, the temptation to skip a workout, or the irresistible draw of sugary treats, sticking to health goals can feel like riding a rollercoaster. However, I want to introduce you to an effective technique that can help you stay on track: urge surfing.

Urge surfing is about learning to ride out your cravings like a pro surfer riding the waves. It’s a mindfulness technique that helps you observe and manage your urges without giving in to them. It empowers us to pause, acknowledge the urge, and consciously choose how to respond, rather than succumbing to impulsive eating behaviors. Here’s how you can master the art of urge surfing and stay committed to your health goals.

The first step to urge surfing is to become aware of the urge. When you feel a craving creeping in, take a moment to acknowledge it. Say to yourself, “I feel the urge to eat that chocolate bar” or “I feel like skipping my workout today.” Naming the urge helps bring it into your conscious awareness, making it easier to manage.

Next, take a few moments to observe the urge. What does it feel like? Is it a tightness in your chest, a rumbling in your stomach, or a restless feeling in your body? Observe the urge without judgment or resistance. Imagine you are a scientist studying the sensation. This detachment helps reduce the urge’s power over you.

Now comes the part – riding the wave. Urges, like waves, rise and fall. They start small, build up, peak, and then eventually subside. When you feel an urge, imagine you are a surfer riding a wave. Breathe deeply and stay with the sensation as it intensifies. Remind yourself that it will pass. The key is not to fight the urge or give in to it, but to ride it out.

While riding the wave, it can be helpful to refocus your attention on something else. Engage in a different activity that can distract you from the urge. Go for a walk, read a book, practice a hobby, or chat with a friend. Shifting your focus helps the urge to fade away more quickly.

Once the urge has passed, take a moment to reflect on your success. Celebrate your victory, no matter how small it may seem. Each time you successfully ride out an urge, you strengthen your ability to resist future temptations. This builds confidence and reinforces your commitment to your health goals.

Like any skill, urge surfing takes practice. The more you do it, the better you’ll become. Remember, it’s normal to have cravings and feel tempted. What matters is how you respond to them. With compassionate self-reflection, you can learn from the times when you slip up. By practicing the art of urge surfing, you can better stay on track with your health goals and enjoy the journey towards a healthier, happier you. Next time you feel an urge coming on, grab your mental surfboard and ride that wave. Your future self will thank you. Stay healthy and happy surfing.

 

Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND is a naturopathic physician practicing in downtown Courtenay. 250 897-0235 or www.getwellhere.com