Daily Column

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am 60 years old and run 10 miles a week. I also bike 25 miles a week. I take two caplets of Osteo Bi-Flex Advanced Triple Strength with MSM and Joint Shield daily. It helps me a lot and my joints seem to benefit from it.

Is it safe to take the tablets daily or should I only take them when I feel I need to? Is it safe to take folic acid for hair loss at the same time?

DEAR READER:
To the best of my knowledge there is no interaction between Osteo Bi-Flex and folic acid; however, I recommend you speak to your pharmacist who would better know of any possible reactions.

As to taking Osteo Bi-Flex daily, I do not believe this is harmful. The main active ingredients of glucosamine and chondroitin work best if take daily because they may help restore cartilage. [Read more...]

Home remedies ease common pains

DEAR DR. GOTT: I recently read a response from a reader about castor oil rubs and grape juice with pectin.

I, too, have had 3 cortisone shots in my hip (no recommendation from my doctor for hip surgery) and so far they only offer temporary relief.

Inasmuch as I did not read your original article about the castor oil rubs and grape juice with pectin, I am very interested in knowing your instructions for such. I realize there is no guarantee that this treatment will help me but I would like to give it a try.
[Read more...]