Submitted Samantha Logue
SARASOTA, Fla., March 4, 2021 – As part of its virtual “Ask the Expert” program series, the Alzheimer’s Association will host “Medicine Cabinet Mayhem,” a free, educational program on March 18.
Featuring Dr. Miguel Rivera as guest speaker, the program will explore how prescription and over-the-counter medications can contribute toward cognitive impairment.
“Just because a medicine is sold over-the-counter, without a prescription, does not make it safe,” said Rivera, an adult psychiatrist in private practice in Sarasota. “It is important to educate ourselves regarding everything we put in our body – this includes our food, drinks, supplements, medications and more.”
Rivera dedicates his practice to the evaluation and management of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body, frontotemporal and other types of dementia. Also the medical director of TriYoga International, Rivera graduated from the University of Missouri School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of South Florida.
Following Rivera’s presentation, attendees of the program will also hear from dementia specialist and Alzheimer’s Association community educator Louise Gallagher to learn more about the common signs of cognitive impairment.
Bernice Pelea, program manager for the Alzheimer’s Association, noted: “There are some medications and supplements that can have negative effects on cognitive health. It’s important to share all medications and supplements you’re taking with your clinician, so then you can have a conversation about the benefits and decide what is best for you.”
Sponsored in part by Sarasota County, “Ask the Expert: Medicine Cabinet Mayhem” will begin at 11:30 a.m. EST on Thursday, March 18. To register, visit www.bit.ly/MedicineMayhem or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900.
