Q. There is a huge difference in cost between Zocor and Lipitor for my cholesterol. Is there a big difference in the medications? Is there a generic?

A. No. Both Zocor and Liptor work the same. If one costs less for you, use that one. Just have the doctor write a new prescription for it. At this time neither has a generic.

Q. Hi, I am recently on accutane, taking 40 mg a day for two months now. I went to the dentist and he prescribed me Amoxicillin 500 mg to treat an infection.

I would like to know if it were ok to mix both medicines, would it affect the results of accutane, which has been amazing. Thank you for your attention.

A. Amoxicillin is all right to take with Accutane. The only antibiotic listed not to take are tetracyclines.

But always check with the doctor prescribing the Accutane first.

Q. I have had ringing in my ears for a number of years and I have been told there is no help. My wife read that it could be caused by medication like pravacal. I am also taking medication for scarcoidosis.

Is there any treatment or lifestyle change that would help? I am also suffering some hearing loss. I am male and 56 years of age.

A. Pravachol, according to the manufactures adverse reactions does not list ringing in the ear as a side effect.

Have you seen an Auditory specialist? This would be my only suggestion.

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