Tag Archives: breast cancer

What is fluticasone propionate-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The naturally-occurring corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the immune response. Similar drugs include betamethasone dipropionate (Diprolene), …

What is esterified estrogens, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Esterified estrogens are a mixture of several estrogens, a type of female hormone. Estrogens cause growth and development of female sex organs and the maintenance of sex characteristics, including growth of underarm and pubic hair and shaping of body contours and skeleton. Estrogens also increase secretions from the …

What is esterified estrogens and methyltestosterone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Esterified estrogens are a mixture of related estrogens. Estrogens, when taken alone or in combination with a progestin, have been shown to reduce the risk for hip fracture due to osteoporosis by 25% as well as the risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction) and stroke by …

What is hydrocortisone-rectal cream, ointment, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Hydrocortisone is a natural corticosteroid produced by the adrenal glands that are located adjacent to the kidneys. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory properties and are used in a wide variety of inflammatory conditions such as: arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of …

What is estrogens conjugated, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Estrogens are one of the two major classes of female hormones. (Progestins comprise the second major class). Estrogens are used primarily to treat the symptoms of menopause and states in which there is a deficiency of estrogen, for example, in women who have had their ovaries removed. Conjugated …

What is eszopiclone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Eszopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine, oral, sedative drug ("sleeping pill") that is used for treating insomnia. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 50 million Americans suffer from insomnia. Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, awakening frequently during the night, waking up too early, an inability to …

What brand names are available for enoxaparin? Lovenox Is enoxaparin available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes Do I need a prescription for enoxaparin? Yes What are the uses for enoxaparin? Lovenox is used for preventing deep vein thrombosis after abdominal surgery, or hip or knee replacement surgeries, and in patients with reduced mobility due to illness. It is …

What should I know about myasthenia gravis?* *This myasthenia gravis section written by Charles Patrick Davis, MD, PhD What is the medical definition of myasthenia gravis? Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body. The thymus may give incorrect instructions to developing immune cells, ultimately resulting …

Coumadin vs. Plavix quick comparison of differences Coumadin (warfarin) and Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) are anticoagulant medications used to prevent blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Coumadin and Plavix also may be prescribed for people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) because AFib increases the chance of blood clots that can cause a stroke. Side effects of Coumadin and Plavix …

Lexapro vs. Effexor Lexapro (escitalopram) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are antidepressants used for treatment of major depression. Lexapro is also used to treat anxiety in adults. The brand name Effexor has been discontinued in the U.S. It is available in generic form. Lexapro belongs to the drug class selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) while Effexor is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine …