What is clopidogrel, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix) is an anti-platelet drug, that is, a drug that inhibits the ability of platelets to clump together as part of a blood clot. Clopidogrel prevents blood clots by irreversibly binding to the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, preventing adenosine diphosphate (ADP) from …
Read More »
What is mycophenolate mofetil? What is mycophenolate mofetil used for? Mycophenolic acid is an immunosuppressive drug. It is indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving kidney, heart, or liver transplants. mycophenolate mofetil should be used concomitantly with cyclosporine and corticosteroids. Mycophenolate mofetil is a prodrug (inactive form) of mycophenolic acid (MPA). Following oral administration, mycophenolate mofetil is …
Read More »
What is cefixime, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cefixime 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), cefprozil (Cefzil), and many injectable forms. Like other cephalosporins, cefixime stops bacteria from multiplying by preventing bacteria from forming the walls that surround …
Read More »
What is norethindrone birth control pill? Norethindrone is a progestin that is used as an oral contraceptive. What brand names are available for norethindrone birth control pill? Brand names for norethindrone oral contraceptive include: Camila Errin Heather Jencycla Nor QD Nora-BE Ortho Micronor Incassia Why is norethindrone birth control pill used? Norethindrone is used for the prevention of pregnancy. What …
Read More »
What is armodafinil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Armodafinil is an oral drug that is used to promote wakefulness. It is similar to modafinil (Provigil). Like amphetamines, armodafinil promotes wakefulness by stimuatIng the brain; however, the exact mechanism of action of armodafinil is unknown. Armodafinil may work by increasing the amount of dopamine (a chemical neurotransmitter that …
Read More »
What is albuterol and ipratropium inhaler, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Albuterol/ipratropium is a combination product consisting of two bronchodilators, albuterol (Proventil; Ventolin) and ipratropium (Atrovent) that is used in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (bronchitis and emphysema) when there is evidence of spasm (narrowing) of the airways (bronchi). Bronchodilators dilate or enlarge the airways …
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 »
Ondansetron (Zofran) vs. promethazine (Phenergan): What’s the difference? Ondansetron and promethazine are used to prevent nausea and vomiting. Promethazine is also used as an antihistamine and sedative. Brand names for ondansetron include Zofran, Zofran ODT, and Zuplenz. Brand names for promethazine include Phenergan, Phenadoz, and Promethegan. Ondansetron and promethazine belong to different drug classes. Ondansetron is an anti-nausea medication and …
Read More »
Ondansetron (Zofran) vs. palonosetron (Aloxi): What’s the difference? Ondansetron and palonosetron are anti-nausea medications used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and to prevent vomiting and nausea after surgery. Brand names for ondansetron include Zofran, Zofran ODT, and Zuplenz. A brand name for palonosetron is Aloxi. Side effects of ondansetron and palonosetron that are similar include headache, …
Read More »
What is progesterone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Progesterone is a man-made medication derived from a plant source and is identical to the female hormone, progesterone produced in the ovaries. It promotes the development of the mammary glands, causes changes in the endometrium, which lines the uterus, relaxes uterine smooth muscles, blocks ovulation within the ovaries, and …
Read More »