breast cancer

What is calcitriol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Calcitriol is a synthetic (man-made) active form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). It is used to treat and prevent low levels of calcium in the blood of patients who have kidney disease or problems with their parathyroid gland, the gland that controls the amount of …

What is eflornithine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Eflornithine is the first topical drug (used on the skin) for the treatment of unwanted facial and chin hair. It does not remove the hair but rather slows its growth. The cells surrounding the base of each hair (called the hair follicle) undergo rapid growth and maturation as they …

What is imipramine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Imipramine is an antidepressant medication of the tricyclic class. Medications in this class are often referred to as tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs. Depression is defined as an all-pervasive sense of sadness and gloom. In patients with depression, abnormal levels of chemicals in the brain (called neurotransmitters) may be the …

What is Primsol (trimethoprim) and how does it work? Primsol is a synthetic (man-made) antibiotic that interferes with the production of tetrahydrofolic acid, a chemical that is necessary in order for bacteria and human cells to produce proteins. Trimethoprim inhibits production of tetrahydrofolic acid by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for making tetrahydrofolic acid from dihydrofolic acid. Primsol inhibits the bacterial …

What is Rozerem, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ramelteon is an oral drug that promotes falling asleep and is used for treating insomnia. It acts by stimulating receptors for melatonin in the brain. Melatonin and its receptors control the circadian rhythm of the body which controls the sleep/wake cycle. Unlike many drugs used for treating insomnia, ramelteon …

What is dutaseride? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Dutasteride is a medication used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) also known as an enlarged prostate. Dutasteride belongs to a class of medication called 5-alpa reductase inhibitors. Male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is primarily responsible for development and enlargement of the prostate gland. Testosterone is converted into DHT …

What is chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tussionex is a combination of an antihistamine that blocks allergic reactions and reduces the production of mucus (chlorpheniramine), and a narcotic that relieves pain and cough (hydrocodone). Tussionex is a liquid that slowly releases the chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone after it is ingested. What brand names are available …

What is dextrose solution-intravenous, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Dextrose monohydrate is sterile intravenous solution for fluid replenishment. Intravenous administration of dextrose solution provides a source of water and glucose ( sugar), giving patients fluid and energy. What brand names are available for dextrose solution-intravenous? N/A Is dextrose solution-intravenous available as a generic drug? Yes Do I …

What is mifepristone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mifepristone is a synthetic steroid with antiprogesterone and antiglucocorticoid effects. It is used for terminating pregnancy and treating people with Cushing syndrome. Progesterone is a female hormone and the principal progestational hormone. Progesterone prepares the uterus (the womb) to receive and sustain the fertilized egg andis an important hormone …

What is trimipramine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) in the same family as amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor; Aventyl), and desipramine (Norpramin). Trimipramine works by raising the brain's level of norepinephrine (a neurotransmitter) to more normal levels. It also has anti-cholinergic actions (opposing the effects of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine) which …