About Dr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D. Expertise I can answer a broad range of questions related to community pharmacy practice. My particular
interests include childrens` health and safe medication use for seniors. As the mother of two small children, I am quite knowledgable on many parenting issues from how to handle
a baby with colic to how to get kids to take their medicine. With regards to medication use in seniors, I can answer questions about adverse effects, drugs to generally avoid
in that population, and disease management issues.
Experience I entered the world of pharmacy as a technician for approximately six years. I then went on to receive my Doctor of Pharmacy degree and now work for the Federal Government as an outpatient pharmacist.
Publications Drug Topics Feb.2006 edition ("Why a Kiddie Corner Makes Sense"),
I also recently submitted an article to Pharmacy Times entitled "How to Help Parents Cope With Colic" which is scheduled for publication in the near future.
Education/Credentials B.S. Biology (Old Dominion University 1997)
Pharm.D.(Virginia Commonwealth University 2002)
Question I am allergic to codeine; swelling,short of breath, itching. My dentist RX hydrocodone apap 5mg/500mg.for pain. Should I take it for the pain? I am very scared to get a reaction. Please Help
Answer Hi Linda,
There is a small chance (about 10%) that if you are allergic to codeine you could be allergic to hydrocodone.
If you have ever taken Lorcet or Vicodin before (both have hydrocodone) then you should not have any problems. If not, then you need to be prepared that you could have the same reaction and have some Benadryl on hand, etc. in case of a reaction.
So, the choice is yours. You can either wait until tomorrow to ask your dentist to change your prescription to another class of drugs or, if you are in severe pain, you can take your prescription using precaution.