Dear Pharmacist, I’ve been fighting low- to mid-level depression for years and at the same time trying to avoid becoming dependent on anti-depressant medication. I’ve tried St. John’s wort, and it didn’t help me. Can you recommend another alternative treatment? --D.C. Gainesville, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, Are there certain ways to shop and ensure that I buy high-quality supplements? --J.J. Boynton Beach, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, My teenage son’s dermatologist suggested Accutane (isotretinoin) for acne. I looked it up on the Internet and it scared me. Can you suggest some alternatives? --B.A., Orlando, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, I started two new medications a few months ago, and suddenly my cholesterol is too high. It’s so bizarre because I had perfect numbers all my life, and I eat well and exercise. Can drugs raise cholesterol? --J.G. Breckenridge, Colorado

Dear Pharmacist, Is it safe for me to take calcium supplements? You said on facebook that they might increase heart problems. Why is that? --.N.R., Seattle, Washington

Dear Pharmacist, My cholesterol is high, and my doctor is giving me 3 months before putting me on a statin, which I don’t want to do. Can you a natural solution? --C.H., Gainesville, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, I take four different medications for blood pressure in the morning. The labels all say, “Take once daily.” Is that the best way to take them? I only ask because I bought a blood pressure monitor and I test myself, and my blood pressure is great all day and rises by nightfall. --D.F., Hollywood, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, My dad used to eat almonds all the time, he said it helped with his headaches and joint pain. I inherited this condition, lucky me... and I’m not sure if they work or not but I eat them once a week. Is there any medicinal truth to the almond folklore? --C.P., Portland, Oregon

Dear Pharmacist, I have been experiencing what my cardiologist calls “benign” arrhythmias for 2 years. They come and go, and I am unable to link them to any activities, foods or medicines. We’ve tried digoxin and beta blockers, which didn’t work. He says he can fix them with ablation and a pacemaker or just leave them alone for now. Sometimes they make me lightheaded and I get frightened. Do you think I should do the procedure? --S.C., Denver, Colorado

Dear Pharmacist, I’m plagued by urinary tract infections (UTIs) and I hate the side effects of the Septra antibiotic that I take daily. I’ve heard that drinking cranberry juice cocktail can help. Should I try that? --B.K., New York City