What is fentanyl, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fentanyl is a strong, synthetic (man-made) narcotic that is similar to morphine. A 0.1 mg dose of fentanyl is approximately equal to 10 mg of morphine administered by intramuscular injection. Fentanyl stimulates receptors on nerves in the brain to increase the threshold to pain …
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What is oral bromocriptine? Bromocriptine belongs to a class of medication called anticholinergics that work by blocking a certain natural substance (acetylcholine). This helps decrease muscle stiffness, sweating, and the production of saliva, and helps improve walking ability in people with Parkinson's disease. Anticholinergics such as bromocriptine can stop severe muscle spasms of the back, neck, and eyes that are …
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Amoxicillin (Moxatag) vs. azithromycin (Zithromax): What’s the difference? Amoxicillin and azithromycin are antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections of the middle ear, tonsils, throat, larynx (laryngitis), bronchi (bronchitis), lungs (pneumonia), urinary tract, skin, and some sexually transmitted diseases. Amoxicillin and azithromycin are different types of antibiotics. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic and azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic. Brand names of …
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What is rubella virus vaccine? What is it used for? The rubella vaccine is a live vaccine (Meruvax II) that is used to prevent rubella infection (German measles). Rubella is a highly contagious disease that is caused by a virus. In children, the disease is usually mild with fever and a rash. However, rubella is especially dangerous during pregnancy as …
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What is midazolam injection? How does midazolam work? Midazolam is a drug used for sedation. It is in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. It is thought that excessive activity of nerves in the brain may cause anxiety and other psychological disorders. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is …
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What is measles, mumps, rubella vaccine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is given as a single injection to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella. Measles, mumps, and rubella are serious diseases. Measles infection is caused by the measles virus. It causes rash, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and fever. It can …
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What is aluminum hydrochloride, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Aluminum hydrochloride is an astringent used in over-the-counter deodorants and antiperspirants. It is a powerful antiperspirant used for treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Aluminum hydrochloride works by reducing the activity of sweat glands and may also shrink sweat glands. What brand names are available for aluminum hydrochloride? Drisol, Certain …
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What are desmopressin tabs? What is desmopressin used for? Desmopressin is a man-made analogue of vasopressin which is the body's natural anti-diuretic hormone released by the pituitary. It works by increasing water permeability in renal tubular cells, which decreases urine volume and increases urine concentration. In people with diabetes insipidus due to trauma or surgery in the pituitary region of …
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What is wormwood? What is wormwood used for? Artemisia absinthium is shrubby plant; the flowers and leaves are used for medicine and flavoring for alcoholic drinks. Artemisia absinthium oil contains thujones which can stimulate the nervous system. Artemisia absinthium is promoted for treating digestive problems and worm infections. Individuals should consult their doctor before taking Artemisia absinthium compounds. Is wormwood …
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What is pramlintide? What is pramlintide used for? Pramlintide is an injectable drug that lowers the level of sugar (glucose) in blood. It is used for treating type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Pramlintide is a synthetic (man-made) hormone that resembles human amylin. Amylin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and released into the blood after meals …
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