What is pantoprazole (Protonix)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Pantoprazole is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class include lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec) and rabeprazole (Aciphex). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of …
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What is a balance disorder? SThe bony labyrinth inside the ear is how you sense balance. Disorders of this organ lead to dizziness and vertigo, among other symptoms. A balance disorder is a condition that makes you feel unsteady or dizzy, as if you are moving, spinning, or floating, even though you are standing still or lying down. Balance disorders …
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What are wisdom teeth? Wisdom teeth refer to any of the four third molars that grow in after puberty. Wisdom tooth is another name for any one of four third molars found in the permanent dentition (adult teeth). These teeth are the last or most posterior teeth in the dental arch. Although most people have wisdom teeth, it is possible …
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What is high blood pressure (hypertension)? Readers Comments 36 Share Your Story Regular blood pressure monitoring is a necessary part of treating hypertension. High blood pressure or hypertension, means high pressure (tension) in the arteries. Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the pumping heart to all the tissues and organs of the body. High blood pressure does not mean …
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What is motion sickness (sea sickness, car sickness, altitude sickness)? Readers Comments 4 Share Your Story Motion sickness symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and cold sweats. Motion sickness is the feeling you get when the motion you sense with your inner ear is different from the motion you visualize. It is a common condition that occurs in some people …
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Peyronie’s disease definition and facts Peyronie’s disease is a condition in which scar tissue develops inside the penis. Peyronie's disease is the development of scar tissue inside the penis that results in abnormal curvature of the penis. The exact cause of Peyronie's disease is not known; however, research has suggested these agents as possible causes of plaque or scar formation …
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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 for osteopenia or osteoporosis. The …
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What is Dymista? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Dymista is a prescription nasal spray used to treat symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the lining of the nose) such as runny nose, stuffy nose, itching, and sneezing. Dymista contains two medicines, azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate, which are also available individually as nasal sprays. In Dymista, azelastine …
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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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