Medication costs aren't set in stone. Recent findings published in the June issue of Consumer Reports show that the costs of medications can vary widely from store to store, even within the same chain of stores.

One hundred and sixty three pharmacies nationwide were contacted and asked the costs for three-month supplies of four common medications: Detrol, Plavix, Levoxyl, and a generic osteoporosis medication. The costs varied greatly -- Detrol ranged from $365-$551, Plavix from $382-$541, Levoxyl from $29-$85, and the osteoporosis medication from $124-$306. While some bigger chains, such as Costco, did prove to have the lowest prices overall, many small pharmacies were competitive.

As consumers, it's important to shop around. However, a good relationship with your pharmacist is also important. And, there are benefits to having one pharmacy that knows your prescriptions and can help detect potential problems.

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Should pharmacists be able to sell prescription drugs -- but without a doctor's prescription? The FDA is considering (for a reported fourth time) to allow this across national pharmacies.

Those drugs designated by a newer "behind the counter" designation would be available to those who ask, but would not be able to be sold 'over the counter' like many drugs are today.

It's another attempt at pharmaceutical companies wanting more sales in light of massive problems in that industry, and it's at the expense of patient health if you ask my opinion. But then again, corporate greed has never stopped the FDA from making ludicrous moves before.

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While it's mostly an issue for older adults, mixing medications and taking too many different types at one time is a concern for everyone. Even if you're in close contact with your doctor there is still a significant risk to your health if you're on more than a couple different meds -- drugs are getting so complicated these days human error is inevitable when it comes to remembering, and predicting, side-effects and drug interactions.

How many meds are you or your loved ones currently taking? Are you aware of and watchful of potential side-effects and are you absolutely sure you need them all? When it comes to your health you are your own best ally, so educate yourself and be involved.

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If you don't think that people want a bright cheery smile, then do a quick google search on your computer with the phrase "Teeth Whitening" and you will find almost 3 million website to visit. Teeth whitening is the number one requested dental cosmetic service these days and not just in the dentist's office. Americans spend more than a billion dollars on over-the-counter teeth-whitening products annually.

Factors to consider before bleaching or whitening your teeth are age, gum disease, and sensitivity. Teeth whitening is also not recommended in pregnant or lactating women. Some more important factors to know is that teeth whitening is not suitable for all types of teeth and you can over do it. Whitening will not help people with tetracycline staining stains and darkness in their teeth. If you have fillings in the front teeth the fillings will not change but the teeth will leaving you with patchy looking teeth. There have been cases where people have turned their teeth blue because they've gone past the point of using it regularly and they're using it way too much. It is important to follow the instructions on the packaging. With so many products on the market how do you choose what works best for you. You can always ask your friendly pharmacist and research which products are backed by the American Dental Association.

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