Dear Pharmacist,

I’ve been fighting low- to mid-level depression for years and at the same time trying to avoid becoming dependent on anti-depressant medication. I’ve tried St. John’s wort, and it didn’t help me. Can you recommend another alternative treatment?

Question: My doctor told me I have excessive earwax buildup. My ears do get clogged up occasionally, but I never really thought of it as a big problem. After all, too much earwax isn't a disease, right?

Dear Pharmacist,

Are there certain ways to shop and ensure that I buy high-quality supplements?

Question: I am so glad to have found D-mannose and xylitol through the Tahoma Clinic Dispensary. I have started using xylitol for all of my baking and sweetening needs. My family can't tell the difference in the desserts. They are just glad that the cookies and pies are back...But I'm wondering if there is any problem in using xylitol every day? I am using the D-mannose daily in my green tea to prevent bladder problems, but I only use about 1 tsp of that.

Dear Pharmacist,

My teenage son’s dermatologist suggested Accutane (isotretinoin) for acne. I looked it up on the Internet and it scared me. Can you suggest some alternatives?

Question: I've seen the light and am restocking my medicine cabinet with natural products. What should I have on hand for fighting off colds?

Question: I remember reading several years ago about an herb that can eliminate sweet flavors. I'm interested in knowing what it is and how it works (and hoping it can help me cut down on my chocolate cravings!). Thank you!

Dear Pharmacist,

I started two new medications a few months ago, and suddenly my cholesterol is too high. It’s so bizarre because I had perfect numbers all my life, and I eat well and exercise. Can drugs raise cholesterol?

Dear Dr. Cutler,

I had been taking 5 milligrams of warfarin for some time, but stopped several weeks ago and began taking nattokinase to thin my blood. However, I recently went to the lab for a blood check and my INR was at 1.0. I need it increased to a 2.0.

What can I do to achieve this while continuing with the nattokinase?

Question: If you are allergic to antibiotics like Neosporin (or don't like to use them), what else could you use that would help heal naturally?