What is metolazone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Metolazone is a diuretic ("water pill") used in the treatment of high blood pressure and fluid accumulation. It works by blocking salt and fluid retention by the kidneys, thereby increasing urinary output of salt and water (diuresis). Although it is not a true thiazide, …
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What is mannitol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mannitol is a naturally occurring substance that causes the body to lose water (diuresis) through osmosis. Mannitol promotes diuresis in kidneys by increasing the concentration of filtrates in the kidney and blocking reabsorption of water by kidney tubules. The FDA approved mannitol in June 1964. What brand names are …
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What is atovaquone-proguanil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Atovaquone and proguanil is an anti-malarial medication. Atovaquone blocks mitochondrial electron transfer and thereby the production of energy for use by the parasites. Proguanil is metabolized into its active metabolite, cycloguanil, which blocks dihydrofolate reductase and enzymes required for making pyrimidine which is a chemical needed for production of …
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What is triamcinolone acetonide nasal inhaler-spray, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid. It is administered either as an oral metered-dose inhaler for the treatment of asthma (Azmacort), as a topical preparation for the skin (Kenalog; Aristocort) or as a nasal spray (Nasacort AQ) for relieving symptoms of rhinitis. Corticosteroids are naturally …
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What is rivaroxaban, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Xarelto is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner) that is used to prevent and treat blood clots. Blood clots formed in the heart are dangerous since they can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Similarly, blood clots formed in the legs or lungs can be equally life threatening …
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What is vardenafil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Vardenafil is an oral drug that is used to treat impotence, the inability to attain or maintain a penile erection. It has a mechanism of action that is similar to sildenafil (Viagra), and tadalafil (Cialis). Penile erection is caused by the engorgement of the penis with blood. This engorgement …
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What is sulindac, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Sulindac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used for treating pain, fever, and inflammation. Other NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen) as well as others. They work by reducing the levels of prostaglandins, chemicals that are produced by the body and are responsible for pain, …
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What is meropenem injection, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Meropenem is an injectable carbapenem antibiotic. It is similar to impenem and cilastin (Primaxin). Meropenem prevents bacteria from forming the walls that surround them. The walls are necessary to protect bacteria from their environment and to keep the contents of the bacterial cell together. Bacteria cannot survive without …
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What are the uses for propafenone? Propafenone is an anti-arrhythmic agent approved for use in patients with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia. Propafenone is also effective in suppressing the recurrence of atrial fibrillation and supra-ventricular tachycardia once normal sinus rhythm has been restored. Propafenone is at least as effective as any other type I agent in converting atrial …
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What is budesonide (Entocort EC, Uceris)? Budesonide is a synthetic (man-made) steroid of the glucocorticoid family that is used for treating Crohn’s disease. What brand names are available for budesonide? Entocort EC and Uceris are brand names for budesonide in the US. Why is budesonide (Entocort EC, Uceris) prescribed to patients? Budesonide is used for the treatment of mild-to-moderately-active Crohn’s …
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