What are desmopressin tabs? What is desmopressin used for? Desmopressin is a man-made analogue of vasopressin which is the body's natural anti-diuretic hormone released by the pituitary. It works by increasing water permeability in renal tubular cells, which decreases urine volume and increases urine concentration. In people with diabetes insipidus due to trauma or surgery …

What is hepatitis b vaccine-injection, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Hepatitis B vaccines (Recombivax HB, Engerix-B) are used to prevent hepatitis B infection, a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is easily spread through contact with blood or other fluids of an infected person. People may also become infected from touching …

What is topical clindamycin? Clindamycin is an antibiotic used for treating several infections. It is effective against several types of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Propionibacterium acnes. Why is topical clindamycin prescribed to patients? Clindamycin topical (for application to the skin) is available as gels, foam, lotion, solution, and swab for treating acne. What brand …

What is verapamil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Verapamil belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which includes amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia) as well as others. These medications block the movement of calcium into the muscle cells of the coronary arteries (the arteries supplying the heart with blood) as …

What are oral caffeine tablets, and how do they work (mechanism of action)? Caffeine acts as a stimulant of the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase, just like theophylline and aminophylline. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to increased formation of the proteins which causes release of stimulating chemical signals known as neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters bind to various sites in the …

What is antipyrine and benzocaine otic (Auralgan, Aurodex – discontinued)? Antipyrine/benzocaine is a combination product used for cleaning the ear canal and for treating middle ear infections. It reduces pressure, congestion, inflammation, pain, and discomfort in the ear. What brand names are available for antipyrine and benzocaine otic (Auralgan, Aurodex – discontinued)? On July, 2, 2015 the FDA asked all …

What is dong quai (Angelica sinensis)? What is dong quai used for? Dong quai is a plant and the root is used as a natural medicine to treat several conditions. Dong quai has some effects of estrogen and it may affect other hormones in the body. Dong quai also contain coumarins, which give it blood thinning effects in the body. …

What is aluminum hydrochloride, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Aluminum hydrochloride is an astringent used in over-the-counter deodorants and antiperspirants. It is a powerful antiperspirant used for treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Aluminum hydrochloride works by reducing the activity of sweat glands and may also shrink sweat glands. What brand names are available for aluminum hydrochloride? Drisol, Certain …

Klonopin (clonazepam) vs. Xanax (alprazolam) review Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) belong to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are medications that cause drowsiness (sedation) and inhibition of nerve signals within the brain (central nervous system or CNS). They also are used for sedation during surgery. Both Klonopin and Xanax are prescribed to treat anxiety. Symptoms of anxiety include: …

What is isotretinoin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Isotretinoin is an oral drug used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. Acne is caused by inflammation of the skin. It primarily affects teenagers, but it also affects adults. Severe acne causes permanent scarring of the skin. The inflammation is caused in part by an increased secretion …