What is tryptophan capsule, tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? L-tryptophan is an herbal supplement used for depression. Chemically it is a natural occurring amino acid obtained from plants and animals. L-tryptophan is an "essential" amino acid because humans cannot make it and must obtain L-tryptophan from food. It is converted in …
Read More »
What is selenium sulfide-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Selenium sulfide is a chemical agent commonly used for treating dandruff. It is an antifungal agent that also relieves itching, flaking, scaling, and dry skin on the scalp due to dandruff. What brand names are available for selenium sulfide-topical? Head & Shoulders, Selsun Blue, SelRx, Selsun Rx Is …
Read More »
What is ammonium lactate topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ammonium lactate is an anti-itch topical medication formulated from 12% lactic acid and ammonium hydroxide. Ammonium lactate hydrates the outermost skin layer and promotes skin moisturizing for a prolonged time. Ammonium lactate also prevents keratinization of epidermal skin layer, which keeps skin smoother and hydrated for a …
Read More »
What is nitazoxanide tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Nitazoxanide is an oral medication that prevents growth of Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum. Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum are protozoans that cause diarrhea. Nitazoxanide works by interfering with the conversion of chemicals to energy in protozoal cells. The FDA approved nitazoxanide on July 21, 2004. What brand …
Read More »
What are the uses for mirabegron? Mirabegron is a prescription medicine used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of urgency (a strong need to urinate that is difficult to control), frequency (urinating often), and leakage (accidental urination due to a sudden or uncontrollable urge) in adults. What brand names are available for mirabegron? Myrbetriq Is mirabegron available as a generic …
Read More »
What is methyl salicylate and menthol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Menthol/methylsalicylate is used as a topical analgesic. It works by first cooling the skin then warming it up, providing a topical anesthetic and analgesic action on the affected area. The cooling and warning action may interfere with transmission of pain signals through nerves. What brand names …
Read More »
What is aminophylline, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Aminophylline is a methylxanthine bronchodilator composed of theophylline (Respbid, Slo-Bid, Theo-24, Theolair) and ethylenediamine. The mechanism of action of aminophylline is not completely understood. Theophylline relaxes smooth muscle in the respiratory tract and suppresses airway stimuli. Theophylline also increases contraction of diaphragm muscles by increasing calcium uptake through chemical …
Read More »
What is fludrocortisone? What is fludrocortisone used for? Fludrocortisone is a man-made oral corticosteroid. It is derived from hydrocortisone, but is more potent than hydrocortisone. The effects of fludrocortisone including its effect on electrolyte balance and carbohydrate metabolism are stronger and prolonged in comparison to hydrocortisone. Florinef (fludrocortisone) Acetate is indicated as partial replacement therapy for primary and secondary adrenocortical …
Read More »
What is epoetin alfa? What are the uses for epoetin alfa? Epoetin alfa is a man-made, injectable drug for treating anemia associated with chronic kidney failure for people who are or will be receiving dialysis. Epoetin alfa is also used to treat anemia in individuals with HIV infection and in patients with cancer who are receiving chemotherapy. Erythropoietin is a protein …
Read More »
What is oral sorbitol? What are the uses for oral sorbitol? Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol naturally found in fruits. Its chemical properties allow it to have multiple actions within the body. Its sweetening properties allow it to be used as a low-calorie sweetener in medicinal solutions. Its hyperosmotic properties allow it to work as a laxative, drawing water into …
Read More »