GRAEDONS | People's Pharmacy Reader recommends Medicare Plan D

Q. You recently had a question from someone who didn't take any prescription drugs. He wanted to know if he should sign up for Medicare Plan D. Your advice was abysmal.
You discouraged him by writing, "paying a monthly premium for years could add up." This applies to any insurance. I am advising my pharmacy customers to treat Medicare D like insurance and sign up now rather than later.
Those who take prescriptions should choose a plan that covers more of their drugs rather than the cheapest one.
A. We goofed. Many readers pointed out that it is important for seniors to sign up by May 15, 2006, to avoid a monthly penalty. Premiums will increase by 1 percent a month for every month a person delays after the deadline.
People who are not currently taking expensive medicines may want to sign up for the least-expensive plan they can find. If circumstances change and they need pricey prescriptions later, they can opt for a more appropriate plan at that time.
Q. Using Aleve or Tylenol seems to increase my blood pressure. Does aspirin have the same effect? I need something to help with sinus headaches but don't want to continue raising my blood pressure.
A. There is growing recognition that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may elevate blood pressure in susceptible individuals. Aleve (naproxen) belongs in this class of pain relievers.
Regular use of acetaminophen (the ingredient in Tylenol) has been linked to a greater risk of hypertension in postmenopausal women (Hypertension, September 2005).
Aspirin does not raise blood pressure or increase the risk of other cardiovascular complications. It can, however, cause digestive-tract upset or ulcers.
Q. I started Synthroid to treat a thyroid problem a month ago. Within days I was irritable, had tremendous headaches and needed naps every other day. I also began to have wild tremors and flutters in my chest.
Now I am concerned about taking this drug. I've read that a simple blood test may not be enough to guide treatment. Any information you can offer would be appreciated.
A. Your symptoms suggest you could be getting too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms such as heart palpitations, hand tremors, weakness, fatigue and irritability are classic for excess thyroid.
Getting the thyroid dose right is a little like walking a tightrope: too little and you feel tired, weak, clumsy and depressed. Heart failure can also be a consequence. Too much thyroid can make you feel wired and weaken bones. We are sending you our Guide to Thyroid Hormones, which provides more detail on symptoms, thyroid testing and treatment options. Anyone who would like a copy may download it from our Web site (www.peoplespharmacy.com) or send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. T-4, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.
& copy; 2005, King Features Syndicate Inc.