What are warts? Share Your Story A wart is growth on the outer layer of the skin or the epidermis that is caused by a virus. The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes common and genital warts by contact with the skin or sexual contact with another person. Genital warts are an STD, while common warts are …
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What are NSAIDs and how do they work? Prostaglandins are a family of chemicals that are produced by the cells of the body and have several important functions. They promote inflammation that is necessary for healing, but also results in pain, and fever; support the blood clotting function of platelets; and protect the lining of the stomach from the damaging …
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What is prednisone, and how does it work? Prednisone is an oral, synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid (steroid) used for suppressing the immune system and inflammation. It has effects similar to other corticosteroids such as: triamcinolone (Kenacort) methylprednisolone (Medrol) prednisolone (Prelone) dexamethasone (Decadron) These synthetic corticosteroids mimic the action of cortisol (hydrocortisone), the naturally-occurring corticosteroid produced in the body by the adrenal …
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What is clonazepam, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Clonazepam is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Clonazepam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells …
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What is cefdinir? Cefdinir is a semi-synthetic (partially man-made) oral antibiotic in the cephalosporin family of antibiotics. The cephalosporin family includes: cephalexin (Keflex) cefaclor (Ceclor) cefuroxime (Zinacef) cefpodoxime (Vantin) cefixime (Suprax), cefprozil (Cefzil) Many injectable antibiotics What brand names are available for cefdinir? Omnicef brand has been discontinued and there are no other brand names available for cefdinir available in …
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What are beta blockers and how do they work? Beta blockers, also known as beta-adrenergic blocking agents, are drugs that block norepinephrine and epinephrine (adrenaline) from binding to beta receptors on nerves. Norepinephrine and epinephrine are produced by nerves throughout the body as well as by the adrenal gland. They serve as neurotransmitters (chemicals that nerves use to communicate with …
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What are oral antihistamines? The term, antihistamine generally is used for medications used to treat various symptoms believed to be caused by histamine, for example, as part of the common cold, including: Congestion Runny nose Sneezing Itchy throat Hives Skin rashes Itching Itchy or watery eyes (A second type of antihistamine is used primarily for suppressing acid production in the …
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What is naproxen, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Naproxen belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other members of this class include ibuprofen (Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen) and several others. These drugs are used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. They work by reducing the levels of …
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What is intertrigo? Itching in the skin by iStock Intertrigo is painful and itchy skin inflammation that occurs between skin folds, such as in the groin, buttocks, or between fat folds. Sometimes, bacteria can infect this irritated skin, worsening inflammation. Losing weight and applying various topical remedies – especially before gym workouts, jogging, or other exercises – can reduce the …
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What is anemia? Anemia describes a condition in which you have a low red blood cell count and low hemoglobin levels. This is a serious condition as red blood cells and hemoglobin carry oxygen to all your cells, allowing them to burn energy. If you’re anemic, you’ll likely feel fatigued and short of breath, lacking physical stamina. You may develop …
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