What is the difference between cetirizine and loratadine? Cetirizine and loratadine are non-sedating antihistamines used to treat symptoms of allergic reaction such as symptoms of seasonal hay fever (allergic rhinitis) such as sneezing, runny nose, red/watery/itchy eyes, hives, and allergic skin rash. Brand names for Cetirizine include Zyrtec, Zyrtec Allergy, and Zyrtec Hives Relief. Brand …
Read More »breast cancer
Compare Celexa vs. Cymbalta Side Effects (Weight Gain) and Uses
Celexa (citalopram) vs. Cymbalta (duloxetine) quick comparison of differences Celexa (citalopram) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) are antidepressants used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Celexa and Cymbalta are not the same type of antidepressant (they do not have the same mechanism of action). Celexa belongs to a drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and Cymbalta belongs to a drug …
Read More »Compare Cymbalta vs. Wellbutrin Side Effects, Uses and Dosage
Cymbalt vs. Wellbutrin quick comparison of differences Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Wellbutrin (bupropion) are antidepressants. Cymbalta and Wellbutrin belong to different drug classes. Cymbalta is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and Wellbutrin belongs to the aminoketone class. Cymbalta is prescribed for the treatment of pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, chronic musculoskeletal pain, depression, and general anxiety …
Read More »Cholinesterase Inhibitors for Alzheimer’s, Side Effects, and Uses
What are cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs)? How do they work? Cholinesterase inhibitors or acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are medications that prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the body. Cholinesterase inhibitors block the action of acetylcholinesterase. Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine to an inactive form. This reduces nerve cell communications in your body that use acetylcholine to help transmit cell to …
Read More »Pacemaker of the Heart: Surgery, Precautions & Procedure
Pacemaker definition and facts* A pacemaker is a small device that's placed in the chest or abdomen to help control abnormal heart rhythms. This device uses low-energy electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. Pacemakers are used to treat arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are problems with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the …
Read More »fluticasone (Flonase) Side Effects, OTC, Directions, and Abuse
What is fluticasone? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluticasone is a man-made corticosteroid. The exact mechanism of action of fluticasone is not known; however, it stimulates glucocorticoid receptors in humans that produces a potent anti-inflammatory response. Fluticasone also works on multiple cells and mediators that are responsible for the inflammatory symptoms of allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, etc). …
Read More »Amoxicillin vs. Augmentin Comparison of Side Effects (Alcohol), Dosage, Uses
Amoxicillin (amox-clav) vs. Augmentin comparison of differences Amoxicillin and Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate, amox-clav) are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections including sinusitis, pneumonia, ear infections, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, and infections of the skin. Amoxicillin and Augmentin both belong to the penicillin drug class. A difference is that Augmentin is a combination medication that also contains clavulanic acid in addition to …
Read More »Dilaudid vs. Fentanyl Strength Comparison for Pain, Dosage & Uses
Dilaudid (hydromorphone) vs. fentanyl quick comparison of differences Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and fentanyl are opioid narcotic pain-relievers used to manage pain in individuals whose pain its severe enough that it requires 24/7, long-term opioid treatment. Side effects of Dilaudid and fentanyl that are similar include: Lightheadedness Dizziness Drowsiness Nausea Vomiting Constipation Itching Headache Rash Weight loss A serious side effect …
Read More »Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid) Side Effects, Dosage, Alcohol
What is Augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanic acid)? How does it work? Augmentin contains amoxicillin and clavulanic acid. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic of the penicillin type. It is effective against some bacteria such as H. influenzae, N. gonorrhea, E. coli, Pneumococci, Streptococci, and certain strains of Staphylococci. Chemically, it is closely related to penicillin and ampicillin. Amoxicillin stops bacteria from multiplying …
Read More »Heart Attack vs. Stroke: Which is Worse? Similarities & Differences
What is a heart attack? What is a stroke? Are they the same? Share Your Story If you think either you or someone near you is having either a heart attack or stroke, you should call 911 immediately, even if you are not sure. What is a heart attack? Heart attack occurs when sudden damage and/or death occurs to a …
Read More »