What is efinaconazole Jublia, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Efinaconazole is a topical (applied to the skin) antifungal used for the local treatment of fungal infections of the toenails. Efinaconazole destroys fungal cells by inhibiting fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase, an enzyme required to make ergosterol, an important fungal cell wall component. Without cell …
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Digoxin vs. digitalis: What’s the difference? Digoxin and digitalis are cardiac glycosides that are derived from the same plant, the foxglove, used to treat adults with mild to moderate congestive heart failure and to treat abnormally rapid atrial rhythms (atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia). Digoxin also is used for increasing myocardial contractility in pediatric patients with heart failure. Brand …
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What is bismuth subsalicylate-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Bismuth subsalicylate (BSS) is a commonly used over the counter medicine used to treat: diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, indigestion, and heartburn. Bismuth subsalicylate is also used to prevent traveler’s diarrhea and to treat Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection as part of a quadruple-drug therapy that also includes two …
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What is calcium carbonate? Why is it used? Most people know that calcium is needed for strong bones, but it's also needed to help blood vessels and muscles contract and expand, to send messages through the nervous system, and to secrete hormones and enzymes. This is the most abundant mineral in your body and makes up 1%-2% of adult human …
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What is prochlorperazine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Prochlorperazine is an antiemetic (to control nausea and vomiting) and first generation antipsychotic agent. Prochlorperazine is one of the older first-generation piperazine phenothiazine antipsychotic medications. Examples of other phenothiazines include: fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin) chlorpromazine (Promapar, Thorazine) fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin) perphenazine, trifluoperazine (Stelazine) thioridazine (Mellaril) Although, the exact mechanism of …
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Stitches facts A picture of stitches or sutures Wounds or lacerations must be explored and thoroughly cleaned prior to closure. Stitching or suturing is considered a form of minor surgery. Suture materials vary in their composition and thickness, and the choice of the appropriate material depends upon the nature and location of the wound. Staples, Steri-Strips, Band-Aids, and skin glue …
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What is cetirizine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cetirizine is a non-sedating antihistamine that works by blocking histamine (H-1) receptors on cells. It is similar to the other second generation antihistamines loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra) and azelastine (Astelin). Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many of the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, for example, …
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What is tetanus toxoid? Tetanus toxoid is a vaccine used to provide active immunity against tetanus toxin. Tetanus or lockjaw is a serious disease that may result in death. Is tetanus toxoid available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for tetanus toxoid? No Why is tetanus toxoid prescribed to patients? The tetanus toxoid vaccine is used …
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Who discovered penicillin? In 1928, Alexander Fleming noted that mold belonging to the genus Penicillium inhibited the growth of bacteria. Fleming called this unknown antibacterial substance penicillin. Ten years later, a group at Oxford University began to investigate penicillin in laboratory mice. Penicillin was hailed as a miracle drug and saved countless lives in World War II. What are penicillin …
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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 …
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