medicines from Mexico

[mtnmom]

We have a growing Hispanic population as do many areas. Occasionally Hispanic pts will come in to the ER and recite the names of medicines that they are taking that are probably OTC meds from Mexico - but it is tough to know what they are exactly unless there is a knowledgeable translator involved, and telephone interpreters are often not familiar with drug names, at least in my experience.

Is there any type of reference available online or in print regarding these types of meds (like a Mexican drug guide of sorts)?

[suzanne4, RN]

Most of the medications down there actually have the US name on them. Your patients may be using the Spanish pronunciation of the word. Remember that most medications are bought without a prescription in Mexico; examples are antibiotics, birth contral pills, blood pressure medication, etc. Prescriptions are usually only needed for narcotics, sleeping pills, sedatives, etc.

[moonshadeau, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN, APN, NP, CNS]

Remember also that if they did not recieve the meds at a pharmacy and prescribed by a doctor--they may not be the real deal. I once took care of a patient who was taking something like a PPI and because it was cheaper to buy it in Mexico, he did and ended up with an ulcer in the mean time. At the hospital they analyzed his pills, no active ingredients. The meds were counterfit. Not saying they all are, but always a possiblity.

[stevierae]

Remember also that if they did not recieve the meds at a pharmacy and prescribed by a doctor--they may not be the real deal. I once took care of a patient who was taking something like a PPI and because it was cheaper to buy it in Mexico, he did and ended up with an ulcer in the mean time. At the hospital they analyzed his pills, no active ingredients. The meds were counterfit. Not saying they all are, but always a possiblity.

Wow, moonshadeau, what an adorable baby pictured as your avatar! Is he yours? He looks to be about----what--9 months? Little cutie!

[z's playa]

Great question. I had a hell of a time when I was down in Mexico. I know a few names such as Ketorolaco, Buscapena, morphina but thats it. I'll look into that for you unless someone else beats me to it.

Z :)

[mommatrauma, RN]

I found a few PDR sites and mexico drug sites however they are all written in spanish, so not that helpful...still looking though...

[sgent]

I found a few PDR sites and mexico drug sites however they are all written in spanish, so not that helpful...still looking though...

If you can get access, used MD Consult (you can get access free through MerckMedicus). If the patient can spell the name of the drug, you put it into the "drug search" screen, and up will pop the monograph. Its got all foreign names in the system.

[duwah]

Poisen control will often help you identify drugs. Or sometimes I just google them.

[caroladybelle, BSN, RN]

You can also purchase chemo drugs OTC in Mexico.