What is fluticasone propionate oral inhaler, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluticasone propionate is a man-made steroid of the glucocorticoid family which is related to the naturally-occurring steroid hormone, cortisol or hydrocortisone, produced by the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoid steroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions. When used as an inhaler, fluticasone travels to the …
Read More »eszopiclone (Lunesta): Sedative Side Effects & Dosage
What is eszopiclone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Eszopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine, oral, sedative drug ("sleeping pill") that is used for treating insomnia. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 50 million Americans suffer from insomnia. Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, awakening frequently during the night, waking up too early, an inability to …
Read More »estrogens conjugated (Premarin) Side Effects & Dosage
What is estrogens conjugated, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Estrogens are one of the two major classes of female hormones. (Progestins comprise the second major class). Estrogens are used primarily to treat the symptoms of menopause and states in which there is a deficiency of estrogen, for example, in women who have had their ovaries removed. Conjugated …
Read More »Lovenox (enoxaparin) for DVT Side Effects, Pregnancy, Injection
What brand names are available for enoxaparin? Lovenox Is enoxaparin available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes Do I need a prescription for enoxaparin? Yes What are the uses for enoxaparin? Lovenox is used for preventing deep vein thrombosis after abdominal surgery, or hip or knee replacement surgeries, and in patients with reduced mobility due to illness. It is …
Read More »Coumadin vs. Plavix Side Effects, Uses (AFib, Stroke) & Dosage
Coumadin vs. Plavix quick comparison of differences Coumadin (warfarin) and Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) are anticoagulant medications used to prevent blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Coumadin and Plavix also may be prescribed for people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) because AFib increases the chance of blood clots that can cause a stroke. Side effects of Coumadin and Plavix …
Read More »anastrozole (Arimidex) Side Effects, Dosage & Drug Interactions
What is anastrozole-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Anastrozole is an aromatase inhibitor, an anti-cancer medication use for the adjuvant or initial treatment of breast cancer in post-menopausal women. Estrogen causes or increases growth of certain breast cancers. Anastrozole works by blocking aromatase enzyme, which is involved in estrogen production in the body. This leads to decreased …
Read More »zolpidem, Ambien, Zolpimist, Edluar Side Effects & Dosing
What is zolpidem, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Zolpidem belongs to a class of drugs called sedatives or hypnotics. Zolpidem shares some characteristics of a family of sedatives called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anti-convulsants (anti-seizure medications), and reduce anxiety. Zolpidem has selectivity in that it has little of the muscle relaxant and anti-seizure …
Read More »Vyvanse vs. Strattera: ADHD Medication Side Effects & Dosage
Vyvanse vs. Strattera comparison Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) and Strattera (atomoxetine) are both used in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and the both work by affecting levels of certain neurotransmitters. (Neurotransmitters are chemicals that allow nerves and nerve cells to communicate with one another). Lisdexamfetamine is in the same drug class of central nervous system (CNS) stimulants as drugs like Adderall (amphetamine …
Read More »Adderall vs. Dexedrine: ADHD Drug Uses, Side Effects & Interactions
Adderall vs. Dexedrine comparison Adderall and Dexedrine are similar prescription stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) and narcolepsy. The only difference is Adderall contains two active ingredients, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, one of which is the single active ingredient in Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) For this reason, little difference exists in the effects and side effects of Adderall …
Read More »12 Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms, Causes, Treatments & Cure
What should I know about myasthenia gravis?* *This myasthenia gravis section written by Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD What is the medical definition of myasthenia gravis? Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body. The thymus may give incorrect instructions to developing immune cells, ultimately resulting …
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