What is codeine? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Codeine is a narcotic pain-reliever and cough suppressant similar to morphine and hydrocodone. Moreover, a small amount of codeine is converted to morphine in the body. The precise mechanism of action of codeine is not known; however, like morphine, codeine binds to receptors in the …

Chondromalacia patella facts Patellofemoral syndrome, or chondromalacia patella, can cause knee pain. Chondromalacia patella is the most common cause of chronic knee pain. Chondromalacia patella has also been called patellofemoral syndrome. The pain of chondromalacia patella is aggravated by activity or prolonged sitting with bent knees. Abnormal "tracking" allows the kneecap (patella) to grate over the lower end of the …

Heel spurs (calcaneal spurs) facts Heel spurs are pointed, bony outgrowths of the heel that cause soft-tissue inflammation. A heel spur is a pointed bony outgrowth of the heel bone (the calcaneus bone). The build-up of calcium deposits under the heel bone causes heel spurs. Heel spurs under the sole of the foot (plantar area) are associated with plantar fasciitis (inflammation …

What are benzodiazepines, and how do they work (mechanism of action)? Benzodiazepines are man-made medications that cause mild to severe depression of the nerves within the brain (central nervous system) and sedation (drowsiness). Seizures, anxiety, and other diseases that require benzodiazepine treatment may be caused by excessive activity of nerves in the brain. These drugs may work by enhancing the …

Vaginal pain and vulvodynia definitions and facts Illustration of Vagina Vulvodynia (vaginal pain) refers to pain in the area of the vulva and vaginal opening for which no cause can be identified. Vulvodynia is not related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The exact cause of vulvodynia is not known. Symptoms include a burning, throbbing, or aching pain that can be …

Meningococcemia facts This photo depicts purple necrotic lesions on the legs of a person who has meningococcemia. Meningococcemia is a bloodstream infection cause by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, also called meningococcus. N. meningitidis is a contagious bacterium that spreads from person to person via respiratory secretions. Initially, patients present with fever and general body aches. A rash is often present. …

Ofloxacin (Ocuflox) vs. tobramycin (Tobrex): What’s the difference? Ofloxacin and Tobramycin are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes. Other forms of ofloxacin are used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, staph infections, STDs (gonorrhea, chlamydia), urinary tract infections (UTIs), and prostate infections caused by E. coli. Ofloxacin and Tobramycin are different types of antibiotics. Ofloxacin …

Metronidazole vs. ketoconazole: What’s the difference? Metronidazole and ketoconazole are used to treat different kinds of infections. Metronidazole is used to treat parasitic infections including Giardia infections of the small intestine, amebic liver abscess, amebic dysentery, bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginal infections, and carriers of trichomonas who do not have symptoms of infection; to treat abscesses in the liver, pelvis, abdomen, and …

Tramadol vs. Vicodin comparison Tramadol (Ultram) and Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) are both prescription opioids and narcotics for pain, though tramadol is weaker. Vicodin is used for people with severe pain that don't experience pain relief from weaker opioids like tramadol or codeine. Vicodin is combined with acetaminophen, which is an analgesic and antipyretic and the active ingredient in Tylenol. Vicodin …

What is sodium bicarbonate? Sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer Heartburn Relief) is an alkalinizing agent (antacid) that reduces stomach acid. It is a commonly used antacid to treat heartburn, acid ingestion and upset stomach. Is sodium bicarbonate available as a generic drug? Yes. Do I need a prescription for sodium bicarbonate? No. Why is sodium bicarbonate prescribed to patients? Oral sodium bicarbonate …