This is an email, shared with permission: Dr. Usen, I wanted to write this message to thank you for your outstanding support over the last year or so, on my weight-loss journey… and, perhaps, more importantly, to help other patients who might benefit from hearing the experience of someone who lost more than 70 pounds … Continue reading A patient’s weight loss experience with Zepbound
What should you do if you get a sunburn?
The best treatment for sunburn is preventing it in the first place. Many people don't realize that sunburn is caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun—not by how hot it feels outside. That means you can get a sunburn on a cool day or even when it's cloudy. The closer you are to the … Continue reading What should you do if you get a sunburn?
Spring Allergy Season is almost here
In the Northeastern part of the US, "allergy season" begins in the middle of March, with trees being the first to send pollen into the air. For those of you who traditionally suffer with Spring allergies, now is the time to start using steroid nasal sprays. It is best to suppress inflammation and congestion before … Continue reading Spring Allergy Season is almost here
Which patients gets what preventive services and when?
There are many organizations that help doctors provide preventive care. The US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a group of volunteers who review and simplify recommendations from these organizations. When your doctor suggests a study or treatment, it is often based on the guidelines from the USPSTF. Patients often want to know why certain … Continue reading Which patients gets what preventive services and when?
Over the counter cough and cold medicines
There are many products available to help people get through the seemingly endless string of respiratory infections out there. Trying to figure out which treatment is best is confusing because there are so many different medicines and combinations. While there are many name brand and generics, below is a list of the true chemical names … Continue reading Over the counter cough and cold medicines
Female sexual medicines
Almost everyone has heard of Viagra for male sexual dysfunction, but most people are not aware that female sexual health medicines also exist: Filbanserin (Addyi) - FDA-approved for hypoactive (low) sexual desire disorder. This is not a hormone. It works on neurotransmitters in the brain. It is a daily pill. People who take it need … Continue reading Female sexual medicines
Oral GLP-1 Medicines
The FDA recently approved a pill version of Wegovy. This is the same molecule (Semaglutide) as is found in the injectable forms of Wegovy and Ozempic as well as the Rybelsus pill. Eli Lilly has a similar medicine in the pipeline. All of these medicines work to lower blood sugar and promote weight loss. All … Continue reading Oral GLP-1 Medicines
Why do I have to remember the three words?
If you are over 65, the last time that were in for an annual exam, you probably were asked to remember three words and say them back. You may also have been asked to draw a clock. If you’re under 65, ask a family member. This exercise is the Mini-Cog, which is a very brief … Continue reading Why do I have to remember the three words?
The Vaccine Schedule (according to Dr. Joshua Usen) Part 2
Hepatitis A - Hepatitis A is a viral illness that can infect the liver. Hep A can come from contact with unsafe water, raw sewage and by eating food that has the virus in it. It is very commonly found in other countries, so travelers can be exposed. Hep A is often responsible for the … Continue reading The Vaccine Schedule (according to Dr. Joshua Usen) Part 2
Changes to Medicare Part D Out-of-pocket expenses
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has brought changes to how much people may have to pay for their prescriptions. Admittedly, it is complicated. Below is a link with information directly from the federal government. 2026 Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Cost Changes Key points: There are three phases: Deductible - patient has to pay for … Continue reading Changes to Medicare Part D Out-of-pocket expenses
DR JOSHUA USEN 