What are the uses for metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL)? Metoprolol is a beta blocker (beta-adrenergic blocking agent) used for the treatment of: High blood pressure Heart pain Congestive heart failure Hyperthyroidism Abnormal heart rhythms Some neurologic conditions. Metoprolol's off-label use is to prevent migraine headaches. Why are the uses for metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL)? Metoprolol …
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What is levothyroxine sodium, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Levothyroxine is a synthetic (man-made) version of the principle thyroid hormone, thyroxine (T4) that is made and released by the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormone increases the metabolic rate of cells of all tissues in the body. In the fetus and newborn, thyroid hormone is important for the growth …
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Dilaudid vs. Percocet quick comparison Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen) are both opioid narcotic pain relievers. Percocet has an additional non-narcotic pain reliever added (acetaminophen) which achieves greater pain relief than either drug taken separately. Both Dilaudid and Percocet are available as generic drugs. Side effects of both Dilaudid and Percocet are similar and include lightheadedness, dizziness, …
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What is carvedilol? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Carvedilol is used for treating high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It is related to labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate). Carvedilol blocks receptors of the adrenergic nervous system, the system of nerves in which adrenalin (epinephrine) is active. Nerves from the adrenergic system enter the heart and release an adrenergic chemical …
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What is lorazepam (Ativan)? How does it work? Lorazepam (Ativan) is thought that excessive activity of nerves in the brain may cause anxiety and other psychological disorders. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves in the brain use to send messages to one another that reduces the activity of nerves in the brain. It is thought that …
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What is Vicodin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain-reliever and a cough suppressant, similar to codeine. Hydrocodone blocks the receptors on nerve cells in the brain that give rise to the sensation of pain. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Acetaminophen works by elevating the threshold to pain, …
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What is sodium oxybate (Xyrem), and how does it work? Limitations of Use Xyrem may only be dispensed to patients enrolled in the Xyrem Success Program Cataplexy in Narcolepsy Xyrem (sodium oxybate) oral solution is indicated for the treatment of cataplexy in narcolepsy. Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Narcolepsy Xyrem (sodium oxybate) oral solution is indicated for the treatment of excessive …
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What is interferon beta-1b (Betaseron, Extavia), and how is it used? Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) is indicated for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis to reduce the frequency of clinical exacerbations. Patients with multiple sclerosis in whom efficacy has been demonstrated include patients who have experienced a first clinical episode and have MRI features consistent with multiple sclerosis What …
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Leishmaniasis facts Leishmaniasis is on the World Health Organization's list of "neglected tropical diseases." A parasite that spreads to humans through the bite of infected Phlebotomus sand flies causes leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis occurs in several temperate and tropical countries of Central and South America (New World), the Middle East, East Africa, and East Asia (Old World). In other regions, such as …
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What is Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil), and what is it used for? Xofluza is indicated for the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in patients 12 years of age and older who have been symptomatic for no more than 48 hours. Limitations of Use: Influenza viruses change over time, and factors such as the virus type or subtype, emergence of resistance, or …
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