medications

Metoprolol vs. atenolol: What’s the difference? Metoprolol and atenolol are beta-blockers used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart pain (angina), congestive heart failure, hyperthyroidism, abnormal heart rhythms, and some neurologic conditions. Metoprolol is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Brand names for metoprolol include Lopressor and Toprol XL. A brand name for atenolol is …

Hydroxyzine vs. hydralazine: What’s the difference? Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties that is used to treat itching caused by various allergic reactions. Hydroxyzine is also used to treat anxiety and tension, to induce sedation prior to or after anesthesia, and to treat nausea, vomiting, and alcohol withdrawal. Hydralazine is used to treat hypertension (high blood …

Hydroxyzine vs. Valium: What’s the difference? Hydroxyzine and Valium (diazepam) are used to treat anxiety and alcohol withdrawal. Hydroxyzine is also used to treat itching caused by various allergic reactions, to induce sedation prior to or after anesthesia, and to treat nausea and vomiting. Valium is also used to treat seizures, for relief of muscle spasms in some neurological diseases, …

What is lidocaine w/prilocaine cream, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Lidocaine and prilocaine is a topical anesthetic cream. Lidocaine and prilocaine enter through the skin and block pain receptors in nerve endings. Lidocaine and prilocaine reduce conduction of nerve impulses by interrupting the transfer of sodium ions across the membranes of nerve cells. This results in a …

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 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 bupivicaine injection, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Bupivacaine is a local anesthetic that is similar to lidocaine and mepivacaine (amide type). Bupivacaine, like other local anesthetics reduces the flow of sodium in and out of nerves. This decreases the initiation and transfer of nerve signals in the area in which the drug is applied. This …

What is arnica (Arnica montana)-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Arnica montana is a homeopathic topical pain relief agent. Its mechanism of action is not well known. Arnica preparations have shown wound healing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain relieving properties. Arnica’s actions may be due to two chemicals called helenalin and dihyrdohelenalin. These chemicals may modify the action …

What facts should I know about drug interactions? Whenever two or more drugs are being taken, there is a chance that there will be an interaction among the drugs. The interaction may increase or decrease the effectiveness of the drugs or their side effects. The likelihood of drug interactions increases as the number of drugs being taken increases. Therefore, people …

What is sodium chloride solution-intravenous, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Our body cells are bathed in a watery fluid that contains primary sodium and chloride ions. These molecules play a vital role in maintaining proper fluid balance and keeping our tissues hydrated. Additionally, sodium is involved in many cell processes such as muscle contraction, transmission of nerve …