cold and flu

What is azithromycin (Zithromax, Z-Pak)? Azithromycin is a semi-synthetic macrolide antibiotic chemically related to erythromycin and clarithromycin (Biaxin). Azithromycin is effective against susceptible bacteria causing: Otitis media (infection of the middle ear) Tonsillitis Laryngitis Bronchitis Pneumonia Sinusitis Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections Mycobacterium avium complex Acute bacterial flare ups of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease …

Mastoiditis in children and adults definition and facts Readers Comments 8 Share Your Story Mastoiditis in adults and children is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. Mastoiditis (acute and chronic) is a bacterial infection of the mastoid cells in the mastoid bone, which is located just behind the ear. Mastoiditis can become serious if the infection spreads outside the …

What is amoxicillin? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Amoxicillin belongs to a class of antibiotics called penicillins. Other members of this class include ampicillin (Unasyn), piperacillin (Pipracil), ticarcillin (Ticar), and several others. These antibiotics all have a similar mechanism of action. They do not directly kill bacteria, but they stop bacteria from multiplying by preventing bacteria from forming …

What is a cold? What is a sinus infection (sinusitis)? Share Your Story Signs and symptoms of a sinus infection often mimic those of a cold. A cold is a common viral infection of the nose and throat that causes inflammation, runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat. Some people also develop a fever. Cold symptoms typically last about 7-11 …

How long is a cold or flu contagious? Discover how long a common cold and the flu are contagious. Both colds and the flu are contagious and are caused by viruses. However, the viruses that cause colds (for example, rhinoviruses) are not the same as those that cause the flu (influenza viruses). Although the typical incubation period for influenza is …

Got a cold and need something for a nagging cough? Some over-the-counter treatments may give you relief. Three types of medicines can ease a cough caused by a cold or bronchitis; suppressants, expectorants, and ointments you apply to your skin called topicals. What cough medicine stops a hacking cough fast? Suppressants do their job by blocking your cough reflex. Dextromethorphan …

What is zanamivir, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Zanamivir is an inhaled drug that is used for treating and preventing influenza (the "flu"). Zanamivir decreases the spread of influenza A and B viruses, the viruses responsible for the flu. It does this by blocking the action of neuraminidase, an enzyme produced by the viruses that enables the …

What is ampicillin? Ampicillin is an antibiotic used for treating bacterial infections. Is ampicillin available as a generic drug? Yes Why is ampicillin prescribed to patients? Ampicillin is used for treating infections of the middle ear, sinuses, stomach and intestines, bladder, and kidney caused by susceptible bacteria. It also is used for treating uncomplicated gonorrhea, meningitis, endocarditis and other serious …

Sore throat definition and facts Readers Comments 2 Share Your Story Picture of a Girl with Sore Throat Most sore throats are caused by viruses or mechanical causes (such as mouth breathing) and can be treated successfully at home. Sore throat symptoms include pain, burning, or scratching sensations at the back of the throat, pain when swallowing, and tenderness in …

What is pseudoephedrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used for reducing nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. Pseudoephedrine causes blood vessels in the nasal passages to shrink (vasoconstrict). Vasoconstriction reduces nasal congestion by preventing fluid from draining from blood vessels into nasal passages. Pseudoephedrine also directly stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors and …