Osteopenia facts Decreased bone density characterizes osteopenia. Osteopenia is decreased bone density but not to the extent of osteoporosis. This decreased bone density leads to bone fragility and an increased chance of breaking a bone (fracture). Women over the age of 65 and any postmenopausal woman with risk factors for bone loss should be tested …
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What are calcium salts? How do calcium salts work? Calcium is an important mineral required for the proper functioning of many organs and tissues. Calcium is needed for the heart, skeletal muscles, and nervous system to work properly. Additionally, calcium plays an important role in blood coagulation (stops bleeding). Our bones store calcium which can be released depending on our …
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What is Simponi (golimumab)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Golimumab is an injectable synthetic (man-made) protein that binds to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) in the body and blocks the effects of TNFα in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis. As a result, the inflammation caused by these diseases and its consequences are reduced. Adalimumab …
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What is trigger finger? Trigger finger can cause any digits of the hand to lock when opening or closing. Trigger finger is a "snapping" or "locking" condition of any of the digits of the hand when opening or closing. Stenosing tenosynovitis is the medical term for trigger finger. What causes trigger finger? Local swelling from inflammation or scarring of the …
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What is tocilizumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tocilizumab is an injectable synthetic (man-made) protein that binds to interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the body and blocks the effects of IL-6 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the body's reaction to injury and is a necessary process for the repair of injury. IL-6 is a protein that the …
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What is penicillamine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Penicillamine is classified as a metal binding (chelating) agent. Penicillamine is a genetic disease that causes excessive copper to accumulate in the body. The mechanism of action of penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis is unknown but it may be related to reduction of collagen formation. (Collagen is a type of …
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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 …
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Remicade vs. Humira comparison Remicade (infliximab) and Humira (adalimumab) are both laboratory-synthesized proteins. They are different chemicals on a molecular level, but they are designed to do the same thing: block a specific immune antibody that causes inflammation in a half-dozen different autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. The side effects common to both Remicade and Humira include: headache, rash, nausea, …
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What is ixekizumab, and how does it work? Ixekizumab is an injectable biologic drug that suppresses the immune system and is used for the treatment of psoriasis. It is an antibody that binds to interleukin 17A (IL-17A), a chemical produced by cells in the body that stimulates immune reactions. Scientists believe that psoriasis is caused by an increase in the …
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What is meclofenamate, and what is it used for? Meclofenamate sodium is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain. Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea (menopause) and for the treatment of idiopathic heavy menstrual blood loss. Meclofenamate sodium is also indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of acute and chronic rheumatoid …
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