What is metronidazole cream, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Metronidazole cream is a topical preparation (applied to the skin) of the antibiotic metronidazole. It is used for reducing the swelling and redness caused by acne rosacea. The mechanism through which metronidazole cream reduces the symptoms of acne rosacea is not known. The …
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What is bicalutamide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Bicalutamide is an oral medication that is used for treating cancer of the prostate. It belongs to a class of drugs called anti-androgens which includes flutamide (Eulexin) and nilutamide (Nilandron). Androgens (an example of which is testosterone) are hormones that are produced and released by the adrenal glands. They …
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What should I know about hepatitis E (hep E) viral infection? Share Your Story Picture of Hepatitis Virus by Ingram Publishing, Medical RF.com Hepatitis E is a viral infection, which is caused by the hepatitis E virus that usually comes from dirty water. Hep E is uncommon in the U.S., Canada, Northern Europe, and Australia and very uncommon in the …
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What is memantine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Memantine is an oral medication for treating patients with Alzheimer's disease. Other medications used for Alzheimer's disease affect acetylcholine, one of the neurotransmitter chemicals that nerve cells in the brain use to communicate with one another. These drugs – galantamine (Razadyne – formerly known as Reminyl), donezepil (Aricept), rivastigmine …
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What is cilostazol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cilostazol is a medication for the treatment of intermittent claudication, a condition caused by narrowing of the arteries that supply the legs with blood. Patients with intermittent claudication develop pain when they walk because not enough oxygen-containing blood reaches the active leg muscles. Cilostazol reduces the pain of intermittent …
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What is diclofenac and misoprostol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) similar to ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), naproxen (Naprosyn), and others that is used to treat inflammation, pain, and fever. Diclofenac, like other NSAIDs works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are …
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What is amlodipine and valsartan, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Exforge is a combination of two drugs used for treating high blood pressure (hypertension), amlodipine and valsartan. The FDA approved Exforge in June 2007. Amlodipine belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. These medications block the transport of calcium into the smooth muscle cells …
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What are the uses for albendazole? Albendazole is FDA approved for the treatment of the following parasitic infections: Hydatid Disease Albendazole is used for the treatment of cystic hydatid disease of the liver, lung, and peritoneum, caused by dog tapeworm (Echinococcus granulosus) larvae. Neurocysticercosis Albendazole is used to treat parenchymal neurocysticercosis due to active lesion caused by pork tapeworm (Taenia …
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What is benzoyl peroxide? Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication used for treating acne (pimples). It is active against Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium which has been associated with acne. Why is benzoyl peroxide used? Benzoyl peroxide is used for the treatment of acne. Is benzoyl peroxide available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for benzoyl peroxide? …
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What is tamoxifen (Soltamox)? Tamoxifen is an anti-estrogen that prevents the effects of estrogens on tissues. What brand names are available for tamoxifen (Soltamox)? Soltamox is currently the only brand available for tamoxifen. Nolvadex brand has been discontinued. Is tamoxifen (Soltamox) available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for tamoxifen (Soltamox)? Yes Why is tamoxifen (Soltamox) …
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