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 …
Read More »Klonopin vs Xanax: Benzodiazepine Side Effects, Withdrawal & Dosage
Klonopin (clonazepam) vs. Xanax (alprazolam) review Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) belong to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are medications that cause drowsiness (sedation) and inhibition of nerve signals within the brain (central nervous system or CNS). They also are used for sedation during surgery. Both Klonopin and Xanax are prescribed to treat anxiety. Symptoms of anxiety include: …
Read More »Isotretinoin (Accutane): Acne Prescription Side Effects & Dosage
What is isotretinoin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Isotretinoin is an oral drug used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. Acne is caused by inflammation of the skin. It primarily affects teenagers, but it also affects adults. Severe acne causes permanent scarring of the skin. The inflammation is caused in part by an increased secretion …
Read More »Wormwood: Supplement Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
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 …
Read More »Tofacitinib Citrate (Xeljanz) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is Tofacitinib citrate (Xeljanz)? What is Xeljanz used for? Tofacitinib is an oral drug used for treating rheumatoid arthritis. It belongs to a class of drugs called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAKs are enzymes (proteins) that regulate chemical signaling pathways that control biologic processes such as blood formation and the immune response that causes the pain, tenderness and swelling …
Read More »Timolol Ophthalmic (Timoptic) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is timolol ophthalmic solution, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Timolol is a beta-adrenergic blocking agent. Like other beta-adrenergic blocking agents, it mainly blocks the action of the sympathetic (adrenergic) nervous system, for example, on the heart. In addition to its effect on the heart, timolol causes a reduction of the pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure). …
Read More »repaglinide (Prandin) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is repaglinide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Repaglinide is an oral medication for lowering blood sugar (glucose) in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It is in a class of drugs for treating diabetes type 2 called meglitinides that are chemically unlike other anti-diabetic medications. Nateglinide (Starlix), is another currently available meglitinide. Approximately 90% of patients with …
Read More »Trental (Pentoxifylline, Pentoxil) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is Trental? Pentoxifylline is an oral drug used for treating symptoms of intermittent claudication caused by peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Why is Trental prescribed to patients? Pentoxifylline is used for the treatment of intermittent claudication caused by peripheral arterial disease. Is Trental available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for Trental? Yes What are the …
Read More »Niacin (Niacor): Supplement Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is niacin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Niacin (nicotinic acid, vitamin B3) is a part of the normal diet that is essential to various chemical reactions in the body. It is used medically to treat individuals with deficiency of niacin. Advanced deficiency of niacin can lead to a condition called pellagra in which individuals develop diarrhea, …
Read More »Mometasone Furoate (Nasonex) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is mometasone furoate, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mometasone furoate is a synthetic (man-made) steroid hormone in the glucocorticoid family of steroid hormones that is used for the treatment of nasal allergy. The naturally occurring glucocorticoid hormone is cortisol or hydrocortisone which is produced in the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoid hormones are potent reducers of inflammation (anti-inflammatory). …
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