What is diphenoxylate and atropine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Lomotil is a combination of two drugs, diphenoxylate and atropine. It is used to treat acute diarrhea (diarrhea of limited duration). Diphenoxylate is a man-made narcotic chemically related to meperidine (Demerol). Like other narcotics, diphenoxylate reduces diarrhea by interfering with the propulsion …
Read More »
What is Carafate (sucralfate)? Carafate is a unique oral drug that is used for treating ulcers of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Is Carafate (sucralfate) available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for Carafate (sucralfate)? Yes What are the uses for Carafate (sucralfate)? Carafate is used for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and to prevent recurrent …
Read More »
What is lansoprazole, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Lansoprazole is in a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPI) which block the production of acid by the stomach. Other drugs in the same class include rabeprazole (Aciphex), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), and esomeprazole (Nexium). Proton pump inhibitors are used for the treatment of conditions such as …
Read More »
What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is characterized as loose or runny stools that happen an abnormally high number of times throughout the day. Diarrhea can be linked to autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s or functional bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome, but is more often a sign of food intolerance (lactose is common), viral infection, food poisoning or other infectious diseases of …
Read More »
What should you know about jaundice in newborns and babies? Jaundice is the yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes and the whites of the eyes (sclerae) caused by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood (hyperbilirubinemia). The term jaundice is derived from the French word jaune, which means yellow. Jaundice is not technically a disease, but rather it is …
Read More »
What is cirrhosis of the liver? Liver cirrhosis results from disease or chemical-induced injuries to the liver over a sustained period. As the injuries kill liver cells, your body attempts to rebuild the damage. In the process, the existing cells are inflamed and scar tissue results, compromising the structure of the liver and hampering its function. Your liver may become …
Read More »
What is hydrocortisone-rectal cream, ointment, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Hydrocortisone is a natural corticosteroid produced by the adrenal glands that are located adjacent to the kidneys. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory properties and are used in a wide variety of inflammatory conditions such as: arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of …
Read More »
What is Lactobacillus acidophilus? Lactobacillus acidophilus is an acid producing bacteria that is available in dietary supplements to restore the normal intestinal flora. What brand names are available for Lactobacillus acidophilus? Bacid, Culturelle, Dofus, Flora-Q, Floranex, Kala, Lactinex, Lacto-Bifidus, Lacto-Key, Lacto-Pectin, Lacto-TriBlend, Lactobacillus acidophilys and Bulgaricus, Megaophilus, MoreDophilus, Probiotica, RisaQuad, Superdophilus Do I need a prescription for Lactobacillus acidophilus? No …
Read More »
What is sennosides A&B-oral tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Senna is a natural medicine derived from the senna plant. Senna contains sennosides which acts as a stimulant laxative. It works by irritating and stimulating intestinal cells, producing contractions in intestines, water influx to the intestines and bowel movement. What brand names are available for sennosides A&B-oral …
Read More »
Fact on metronidazole vs. vancomycin Metronidazole and vancomycin are antibiotics used to treat Clostridium difficile diarrhea. Brand names for metronidazole include Flagyl and Flagyl ER and a brand name for vancomycin is Vancocin HCL. Side effects of metronidazole and vancomycin that are similar include nausea, headache, flushing and skin redness, stomach/abdominal cramps or pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Side effects of …
Read More »