What is narcotic analgesic-apap-caffeine-butalbital-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Butalbital/acetaminophen/caffeine is a combination product used for treating headache. Butalbital is a narcotic that depresses the central nervous system. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is the active compound in Tylenol. Acetaminophen relieves pain by elevating the pain threshold, that …

What is sennosides A&B-oral tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Senna is a natural medicine derived from the senna plant. Senna contains sennosides which acts as a stimulant laxative. It works by irritating and stimulating intestinal cells, producing contractions in intestines, water influx to the intestines and bowel movement. What brand names are available for sennosides A&B-oral …

What is risperidone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic drug that is used for treating schizophrenia, bipolar mania, and autism. Other atypical antipsychotic drugs include olanzapine (Zyprexa), quetiapine (Seroquel), ziprasidone (Geodon), aripiprazole (Abilify) and paliperidone (Invega). Atypical antipsychotics differ from typical antipsychotics because they cause a lesser degree of movement (extrapyramidal) side effects …

Dilaudid vs. Oxycodone Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and oxycodone (OxyContin, Roxicodone, Oxecta, Oxaydo, Xtampza ER, and Roxybond) are both opioid narcotic pain relievers. Oxycodone is also used as a cough suppressant, and is often available in forms combined with other non-narcotic pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or aspirin. Side effects of Dilaudid and oxycodone that are similar and include: Lightheadedness …

What is valproic acid, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Valproic acid and its derivative, divalproex, are oral drugs that are used for the treatment of convulsions, migraines and bipolar disorder. The active ingredient in both products is valproic acid. Divalproex is converted to valproic acid in the stomach. Scientists do not know the mechanism of action of …

What is clobetasol scalp solution-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Clobetasol propionate is a man-made corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). It is available as foam, shampoo, cream, gel, lotion, ointment, solution, and spray. It is similar to alclometasone (Aclovate), hydrocortisone valerate (Westcort), halobetasol (Ultravate) and several others. Topical clobetasol is used to treat certain …

Ativan vs. Xanax review Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are both members of the benzodiazepine family of drugs used mainly to treat anxiety and other psychiatric disorders. Researchers believe both Ativan and Xanax – like other benzodiazepines – work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter that helps inhibit excess brain activity. Excessive activity of nerves in the brain may …

What is vitamin A-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Oral vitamin A is used to treat vitamin A deficiency. Carotene compounds (found, for example, in egg yolk, butter and cream) are gradually converted by the body to vitamin A (retinol). Vitamin A supports growth and bone development, vision, reproduction, and development and maintenance of skin tissue. It …

Adderall vs. Ritalin quick comparison of differences Ritalin (methylphenidate) and Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) are central nervous system stimulants. Both medications are prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Both drugs have the potential to cause addiction, and patients may have withdrawal effects if they stop taking the drugs suddenly. Both Ritalin and Adderall have some common side …

Metronidazole (Flagyl) vs. azelaic acid (Finacea) similarities and differences Metronidazole and azelaic acid are antibiotics used to treat acne. Brand names for metronidazole include Flagyl and Flagyl ER and brand names for azelaic acid include Finacea and Azelex. A difference is metronidazole is taken orally and azelaic acid is used topically (on the skin). Side effects of metronidazole that are …