mental health

Buspar vs. Zoloft differences Buspar (buspirone) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both drugs used to treat anxiety. The main difference is that Zoloft belongs to a drug class of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), so researchers know how Zoloft works in treating anxiety. On the other hand, researchers do not know exactly how Buspar …

What are anti-anxiety (anxiolytic) drugs? Anxiolytics (also termed anti-anxiety or anti-panic drugs) are medications that are used to treat a health condition called anxiety. The type of anxiety that requires treatment is called generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This disorder causes excessive worry and anxiety, significant distress, and affects the ability for a person to function. Moreover, the symptoms of anxiety …

Alprazolam vs. diazepam quick comparison Diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax XR, Niravam) are benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety. Both are available as generic drugs. Both drugs are in the same class as other benzodiazepines including clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), and flurazepam (Dalmane). Diazepam also is used for the treatment of agitation, tremors, delirium, seizures, and hallucinations resulting from alcohol withdrawal, …

Flomax and Viagra for BPH Treatment Quick Comparison Both Flomax (generic name tamsulosin) and Viagra (generic name sildenafil) are medications prescribed to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which causes an enlarged prostate. Flomax is an alpha-blocker prescribed to treat difficulty urinating a symptom of BPH. Viagra is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE-5 inhibitor) prescribed to treat impotence, another symptom …

What is naloxone (Narcan)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Naloxone is a man-made opioid antagonist, which means that it blocks the action of opioid medications such as morphine and related drugs. Naloxone works by binding to mu-receptors in the brain that opioids use to produce their effect on pain and other symptoms. By binding to mu receptors, naloxone …

What is amitriptyline w/ perphenazine-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Perphenazine/amitriptyline is a combination of an antipsychotic and an antidepressant. Perphenazine is an antipsychotic that works in the brain and nervous system. Its exact mechanism of action is unknown. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant. It is believed that in some patients with depression, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters …

What is Cylert (pemoline), and how does it work? Cylert (pemoline) is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The brand name Cylert is no longer available in the U.S. Generic versions may be available. Cylert (pemoline) is a central nervous system stimulant. Pemoline is structurally dissimilar to the amphetamines and methylphenidate. It is …

What is methylphenidate patch, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Methylphenidate is a medication used for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It stimulates the central nervous system (CNS or brain) in a manner that is similar to amphetamines; however, its actions are milder than amphetamines. Amphetamines stimulate the brain by increasing the level of neurotransmitters, dopamine and …

What is dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Dextroamphetamine is a medication used for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. ADHD is a common disorder among children and teenagers that affects social, academic, and occupational functioning. Narcolepsy also is known as excessive daytime sleepiness, which is more common in adults. Dextroamphetamine is an amphetamine …

Mania vs. hypomania facts Readers Comments 1 Share Your Story Mania is a set of mood symptoms that includes euphoria or irritability lasting at least a week and is required to qualify for the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Hypomania is considered to be a less severe version of mania. The suicide rate for people who have had a manic episode …