Medline Central

Lexapro ® is the brand name in the United States for Escitalopram which is a medication that acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI. It is typically used as an antidepressant to treat depression associated with mood disorders although also may be used in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder and anxiety. In Canada and Europe, the drug is marketed under the name Cipralex® by Lundbeck Canada, Inc.

Critics have argued that Lexapro, and the subsequent marketing campaign to persuade mental health professionals to prescribe it, is a cynical ploy to promote sales of a virtually identical but considerably more expensive drug. In defense of the new drug, Lundbeck has claimed that the drug has additional benefits over the older drug and other antidepressant drugs on the market, mainly better tolerability.

Some people discontinuing use of Lexapro report extremely vivid nightmares while others report that they feel as though they’re intoxicated while awake. Emotionally, those experiencing withdrawal often feel like they are on the verge of tears for no particular reason, have little self-worth, and thoughts of self- harm.

Other studies suggest that the incidence rate of withdrawal symptoms are mild and comparable to that of placebo, citing Lexapro as very well tolerated.

Disclaimer
The information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice. Talk to your doctor for more information about Lexapro.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Fosamax ® is a bisphosphonate drug used for osteoporosis and several other bone diseases. It is marketed alone as well as in combination with vitamin D under the name Fosavance.

Side-effects
GI tract: most prominent are harmless side effects such as mild nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, or obstipation. A severe side effect is an ulceration of the esophagus caused by alendronate, which may require hospitalization and intensive treatment. Gastric and duodenal ulceration.

General: infrequent cases of skin rash, rarely manifesting as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, eye problems (uveitis, scleritis) and generalized muscle, joint, and bone pain (rarely severe) have been seen. In laboratory tests decreased calcium and phosphate values may be obtained but reflect action of the drug and are harmless.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw, a recognised side-effect of bisphosphonates.

Dosage
Prophylaxis of osteoporosis in women: 5-10mg daily or 35-70mg weekly.

Therapy of osteoporosis in women and men : 10mg daily or 70mg weekly.

Osteoporosis under corticosteroids: 5mg daily or 35mg weekly in men and premenopausal women or those receiving concomitant HRT. In postmenopausal women not receiving HRT the recommended dose is 10mg daily or 70mg weekly.

Paget’s Disease: 40mg daily for 6 months.

The drug is to be taken only upon rising for the day with plenty of water. Stand, walk or sit 30 minutes afterwards to avoid esophageal damage. At least 30 minutes should be waited before meals or other beverages than water are taken in.

Interactions
Milk, diet and drugs containing high amounts of calcium, magnesium or aluminium (antacids): the resorption of alendronate is decreased. At least half an hour should pass after intake of alendronate before taking the supplement or drug.

Highly active vitamin D analogues or fluorides: no data is available. Concomitant treatment should be avoided.

The additional beneficial effect of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) with estrogens/progestins or raloxifene in postmenopausal women remains to be elucidated, but no interactions have been seen. The combination is therefore possible.

Intravenous ranitidine increases the oral bioavailability of alendronate. No clinical consequences are known.

The combination of NSAIDS and alendroate increases the risk of gastric ulcers. Both these drugs have the potential to irritate the upper gastro-intestinal mucosa.

Does Merck have a patent on this drug?

Yes, but the patent is set to expire in 2008 and Merck has lost a series of appeals to block a generic version of the drug from being certified by the US FDA.

Now you can understand why there’s a growing interest in Fosamax. When people start looking for more information about Fosamax, you’ll be in a position to inform them with facts.

Disclaimer - Disclaimer: The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to your doctor to learn more about Fosamax.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

As a narcotic analgesic, Methadone is a synthetic pain reliever used to treat various conditions and relieve pain, as well as treating the addiction of heroin in users. Methadone is comparable to the characteristics and effects of morphine; in fact, it is extremely similar in the way it acts, as well. The major difference is that Methadone is introduced gradually and its action is mild upon onset. This prevents the patient from feeling euphoric or high when taking the medication.

The dosage will be determined based on various aspects including their tolerance level and their weight. For example, as the patient’s cravings for heroin decreases the dosage of Methadone is decreased as well. However, even though Methadone is used to treat addictions, some addicts choose to use the drug as a way to get their fix. As a result, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has defined Methadone as a Schedule II drug.

There are three forms of Methadone, injection, tablets, and oral solutions. It is made with the active ingredient called Methadone hydrochloride. Dosage is set again by weight and addiction to heroin, however, no person should exceed the maximum daily recommendation of 100 milligrams. The drug is used to curb the effects of withdrawal symptoms that occur when a user quits using heroin.

There are several side effects that can come with using Methadone. It is important that your physician monitors the use of Methadone closely and that any changes be reported immediately to him or her for evaluation. Some short-term side effects of this drug could include vomiting, restlessness, slowed breathing, nausea, pupil contraction, itchy skin, constipation, severe sweating, sexual dysfunction, and even death.

Methadone could also have long-term use side effects that include respiration or lung problems. Women could also have specific side effects that may lead to lapsing menstrual cycles or changes. Furthermore, women could experience complications in pregnancy if the dosage levels are reduced while the woman is pregnant.

In general, the risks of these side effects can be reduced by keeping in close contact with a physician and having them monitor the use. Illegal uses of Methadone have been identified as causes for death among abusers. Because people have no real idea of the effects of Methadone, overdosing by abusers is on the rise. If not carefully monitored by a physician a Methadone patient could become addicted to the drug, which would lead to tolerance and addiction. This would all subsequently lead to withdrawal symptoms when the dose is decreased or stopped. Be sure to keep all appointments with your doctor, while taking Methadone and report any changes immediately.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Methadone.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

The FDA is not always thorough in their approval of drugs or herbs! They don’t always make sure that pharmaceutical and herbal supplement companies perform thorough studies. They often let them rush to put their products on the market. Consequently this results in the banning of products later on. Such was the case with Ephedra.

Ephedra is a botanical that has many uses and purposes in the medicinal field. There are more uses for ephedra available today, however, science has not yet developed it into its full potential. Science, herbs and medication do go hand in hand when combined properly. To eliminate any of these would be a major mistake. To invest in further development is a wise thing to consider especially when the future of our health is at stake.

Any medicine, scientific drug, natural or man made or herb that causes a rapid heartbeat is a risky substance for the body. This is the primary reason the FDA placed a ban on Ephedra in the first place. Now that we have established some basics, let’s take a further look at what the FDA did regarding Ephedra and why?

Lets look at Ephedra through the eyes of the Consumer Advisory Board and the US Food and Drug Administration, FDA. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises consumers to stop using any dietary supplements containing ephedra. In order to protect consumers, the FDA published a final ruling on April 12, 2004 that bans the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids. This was the active ingredient in Ephedra.

After careful review of evidence about the risks and benefits of Ephedra in supplements, the FDA did find that these particular supplements present an unreasonable risk of illness and or injury to the consumers. The information showed little evidence of Ephedra’s effectiveness, except in short-term weightloss use. This evidence also confirmed that this substance raises blood pressure and stresses the heart. The increased risk of heart problems and the risk of strokes negates any benefits of short-term weightloss.

This information is correct and very much on target to help and prevent heart as well as nervous system conditions. So we can see how the FDA does intervene and take action against botanicals that can have harmful effects on the body when consumed, especially in high quantities.

Ephedra and its uses need to be reconsidered. What its purpose is. What it can safely be used for. And most importantly, what it should not be used for. These issues and more are currently being addressed with research.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Ephedra.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Ambien, a prescription drug, is the brand name for zolpidem that is used to help treat insomnia. Ambien is a sleeping pill in a specific classification of drugs known as hypnotics or sedatives.

Studies show that insomnia is caused by an imbalance of chemicals in your brain. Ambien works to induce relaxation and sleep in the patient. It is usually prescribed to those who have sleep problems such as inability to sleep, waking too early or waking several times during the night. Generally, Ambien is only prescribed for use seven to ten days. Long-term use is not recommended. The use of Ambien should be closely monitored by a physician.

There are some things to take into consideration when taking Ambien. First, it is important that the drug be taken exactly as your doctor has directed. It should also be taken with a full glass of water and only take right before bedtime.

Since the drug works relatively fast, it is important that you do not take it until just before you get into bed for the night. It quickly makes you drowsy and you could hurt yourself by falling.

Ambien should also be taken only if you are able to devote at least eight hours to sleep. Otherwise, you will still be drowsy upon waking and will be defeating the purpose of taking the medication.

If you are taking Ambien for prolonged periods, such as over two weeks, you should not abruptly stop taking it. If you do, you may begin to experience withdrawal symptoms.

If you have a history of kidney or liver disease or have any type of respiratory disease such as bronchitis, asthma or emphysema, you should let your doctor know prior to taking Ambien.

Some of the side effects that could occur when taking Ambien follow in the next paragraph. For those who are 60 years old or older, you carry a higher risk of experiencing these side effects.

Some potential side effects of Ambien include drowsiness, headache, clumsiness or dizziness. You could experience nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or constipation as well. Depression, pain or aches in the muscle, abnormal or vivid dreams or memory loss could also occur as a result taking Ambien.

More serious side affects could include an allergic reaction resulting in breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, tongue or lips or closing of the throat. Abnormal behavior, confusion or hallucinations are also serious side effects of Ambien.

When taking Ambien, it should not be mixed with any other drugs, prescription or over the counter drugs that could cause drowsiness. Ambien is extremely habit forming and should be used with extreme caution. Talk to your physician before stopping this medication.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Ambien.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Nexium has come as a wonderful relief in treating heartburn in acid reflux disorders. Acids are released in the stomach for digestion of food. When some of this acid persistently flows back into the food tube, the esophagus, its lining get damaged leading to a condition known as erosive esophagitis. You suffer from persistent heartburn. Changing diets also do not help. Just one pill a day of Nexium can relieve you of the pain and agony of severe and continuous heartburn.

Nexium generically is esomeprazole magnesium and is available as a Delayed- Release capsule for oral administration. If you are having typical heartburn symptoms on 2 or more days per week in spite of treatment and diet change, you need to consult a doctor to find out whether you are suffering from acid reflux disease. Only a Doctor can confirm whether the lining of your esophagus has been damaged due to back flow of stomach acids in this food pipe for frequent relaxes of the lower esophageal sphincter. If this lining has been eroded, you have the condition known as erosive esophagitis and your heartburn is due to this cause.

Nexium administration can heal these erosions in the esophagus in 4 to 8 weeks. However, results may vary depending on your age and extent of damage. Nexium therapy is often associated with minor side effects. Over 8500 patients in the United States and over 6500 patients in Europe and Canada underwent clinical trials to ascertain the safety of Nexium. Near about 3000 patients were studied in long-term trials. The tolerance, both in short-term and long-term trials were found to be fairly satisfactory. Nexium was administered in various doses in patients with confirmed erosive esophagitis. For all dosage levels, some headache (+/- 1%) was reported. The intensity varied according to the level of the dose. Very mild diarrhea was also noticed but it had no relation with dosage level. Some nausea, flatulence, abdominal pain and dry mouth symptoms were reported in the trials. However, similar symptoms also appear in patients on omeprazole medication for stomach disorders.

Marketed by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and is well indicated for the treatment of heartburn in erosive esophagitis and other symptoms associated with GERD. It suppresses gastric acid secretion in the stomach by blocking the final step in acid production. Nexium can also be prescribed with antibiotics for eradication of H.Pylori that reduces the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence. A very recent study conducted with more than 1000 patients with erosive esophagitis show Nexium (esomeprazole) to be more effective in healing the disorder than lansoprazole (Prevacid). Results of this study has been published in July, 2006 issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. According to Dr. Kenneth DeVault, MD, Director of Gastrointestinal Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida, and the lead study investigator, “Esomeprazole therapy was able to control both mucosal damage and reflux symptoms” in healing the erosions in the esophagus.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Nexium.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Sinusitis occurs when any number of the sinus linings become inflamed. Typically this results in a patient that has suffered from allergies or a cold for more than a two week period. There are several symptoms of sinusitis but the most common include tooth pain, nasal congestion, headache, facial congestion, postnasal drip, or facial pain. People can suffer from sinusitis because of the common cold, viral infections, bacterial infections, air pressure, temperature changes, misuse, or overuse of nasal decongestants, swimming, diving, smoking, or even consumption of alcohol.

To treat sinusitis, or many other types of bacterial ailments, your physician may prescribe Levaquin. Levaquin works to kill the different bacteria that infect the sinuses. However, if a virus is affecting the sinuses, Levquin will not work. It, like all other antibiotics on the market, cannot work to eliminate viruses.

Leviquin comes in two different medication forms, tablets and oral solutions. Each has strengths from 250 mg to 750 mg. Furthermore, it is a one daily treatment that should be regulated at the same time daily. Antibiotics work best when kept at a constant level throughout the body. Therefore, when taking Levaquin, you should do so at the same time every day and keep plenty of fluids in your body at all times. So if you take your medication at 8:00 am one day, the very next day you should take it at 8:00 am as well, and keep doing so until the medication course is completed.

Any person, who is allergic to quinolones, should avoid taking Levaquin. There have been instances of allergic reactions in some people taking quinolones, which includes Levaquin, that have been extremely serious and sometimes fatal. It is not recommended that you take levaquin while you are nursing or pregnant, as studies have not shown the effects on an unborn child. Furthermore, Levaquin is only for adult and not for use by children.

As with any medication, Levaquin has possible side effects from mild to serious. Some of the mild and most common side effects of the drug include nausea, itching, diarrhea, dizziness, abdominal pain, vaginitis, rash, and flatulence.

Some more serious side effects include peripheral neuropathy which has side effects that include pain, tingling, burning, weakness, and numbness. Any person experiencing these side affects should crease taking Levaquin immediate and call their physician right away.

Further serious side effects could include tendon ruptures within the Achilles, hand, or shoulder tendons. These have side effects that includes swelling and pain. If you experience these side effects, you should report them to your physician immediately.

For those with diabetes, if you should experience low blood sugar, shakiness, sweating, or lightheadedness you should contact your physician immediately and cease taking Levaquin.

Other serious side effects of Levaquin could include sunburns, sun blisters, convulsions, and tremors. If you experience anxiety, restlessness, confusion, lightheadedness, paranoia, hallucinations, nightmares, depression, suicidal thoughts, insomnia, or suicidal acts, you should consult with your physician.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Levaquin.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Lortab is classified as a narcotic analgesic, which contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen, and generally prescribed as a pain reliever to those who suffer from severe or moderate levels of pain. It is important that you are informed and educated on all possible aspects when it comes to Lortab. For instance, the pain reliever is extremely addictive so it is really important that you do not take any more of this medication than prescribed by your doctor. Taking Lortab for longer or for more than prescribed could result in very unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you do stop taking the medicine.

It is of the ut most importance that you avoid alcohol at all times while taking this prescription medication. Lortab and alcohol combined are a lethal combination. The two combined can lead to high instances of dizziness and drowsiness already caused by Lortab. On the same note, you should avoid other medication that causes sleepiness when taking Lortab, or the effects could be increased.

Constipation could also result from taking Lortab. You can lessen these instances by ensuring you drink at least eight full glasses of water daily and increase your consumption of fiber.

Any person who has or has had a history of Addison’s disease, head injury, gallbladder disease, epilepsy, seizures, hypothyroidism, prostate enlargement, urinary issues, asthma, liver disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, or drug abuse, should avoid Lortab or be closely monitored by a physician when taking this pain reliever.

If you even suspect you might be pregnant or become pregnant, talk to your doctor. This medication may cause some serious problems for an unborn baby.

Not unlike all types of medication, Lortab has some common and serious side effects to those taking the pain reliever. Common, and less serious side effects of Lortab may include less desire to have sex, lessened urination, itchiness, sweating, twitching muscles, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dizziness, decrease in appetite, vomiting, nausea, dry mouth or constipation.

Serious side effects of Lortab require immediate care from a doctor right away. Some serious side effects include unusual bruising, unusual bleeding, and unusual fatigue, yellow of eyes, yellowing of skin, unconsciousness, severe dizziness, severe weakness, clammy skin, cold skin, seizures, weak or slowed breathing or symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Patients, who have been prescribed an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) such as Parnate, Nardil, or Marplan, should not take Lortab within fourteen days of taking these medications. If taken earlier, this could result in very dangerous and serious side effects. It is for this reason, that you should make your doctor fully aware of any and all medication (prescribed or over the counter) you are taking as well as herbs, minerals, or vitamins prior to prescribing Lortab to relieve your pain.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Lortab.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

An allergy is a reaction by the body when the body ingests certain substances such as pollen and other triggers. The body’s immune system usually works very well to protect itself against foreign agents. When it comes to allergens, the body needs a little help.

Anyone who suffers from the endless sneezing attacks, watery eyes and itchy skin would do just about anything to alleviate the symptoms of allergie. For some, allergies are life long, and for others they are seasonal, and still for others, diet related.

The familiar tickle in the back of the throat, or the tightening in the chest signal the start of the allergy season, which used to mean the long months of agony for those who suffer from severe allergies.

It used to be that at the first sign of allergy season, on a lovely spring day, people who had severe allergies would shut themselves up behind closed windows fearing what would undoubtedly happen if he or she stepped out of the door. In the United States alone, there are over thirty five million allergy sufferers. Fifteen million of those sufferer’s are children. People who suffer from allergies are known to be pre-disposed to the allergens.

Since Allegra was introduced to the market millions of people’s allergy symptoms have been relieved with little or no side effects.
Ranging from slight headaches to drowsiness. Allergy sufferers can again enjoy the outdoors without the fear of an allergy attack.

Allegra or Fexofenadine is a prescription antihistamine that alleviates allergy symptoms of allergies during critical seasons. It is non-sedating medication, with almost no side effects, making it the perfect medicine to take anytime of the day.

Allegra works by blocking the histamines that the body produces that cause symptoms such as runny nose, itchy watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and a number of other symptoms of allergies.

There are a few different types of Allegra, each available in different strengths; each designed to last up to twenty-four hours. Only your doctor can prescribe the correct dosage. Allegra also comes as an injection, which lasts longer than the tablets. Understandably, most people however prefer to take the tablets.

Although you will notice the results within an hour after taking Allegra, the medicine gradually builds up in your system, so it is important to take the dosage as it prescribed.

Allegra was created for those who have seasonal allergies. It is gentle enough for children ages 6 and older to take. Allegra for children come in either liquid or a tablet that is three times smaller than the adult tablets.

Although no one medicine works on every ailment, Allegra does alleviate the majority of allergy symptoms.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about Allegra.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.

Concerta, a brand name for the drug Methylphenidate, is an amphetamine-like prescription stimulant commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD in children and adults.

Other brand names include Ritalin, Ritalina, Metadate, Methylin and Rubifen. Concerta is also one of the primary drugs used to treat symptoms of traumatic brain injury and the daytime drowsiness symptoms of narcolepsy and chronic fatigue syndrome.

This drug and was initially prescribed as a treatment for depression, chronic fatigue, and narcolepsy, among other ailments. Beginning in the 1960s, it was used to treat children with ADHD, known at the time as hyperactivity or minimal brain dysfunction.

Today Concerta is a popular medication prescribed to treat ADHD around the world. According to most estimates, more than 75 percent of prescriptions containing Methylphenidate are written for children. Boys being about four times as likely to take Concerta as girls.

Concerta is a central nervous system stimulant. It has a “calming” effect on many children who have ADHD, reducing impulsive behavior and the tendency to “act out”, and helps them concentrate on schoolwork and other tasks. Adults who have ADHD often find that Concerta increases their ability to focus on tasks and organize their lives.

Concerta has been found to have a lower incidence of side-effects compared to dextroamphetamine, a less commonly prescribed medication. When prescribed at the correct dosage, Concerta is usually well-tolerated by patients.

Some consider the treatment of children with stimulant medication to be controversial since the number of children taking them has increased dramatically over the years. However, criticism that Concerta and other brand name drugs that contain methylphenidate are over prescribed may be unfounded. The incidence of ADHD is believed to be between three and five percent of the population, while the number of children in America taking Concerta and Ritalin is estimated at one to two percent.

Some have argued that prescription of stimulant medications sets children up for future addictions. However, recent research suggests that boys with ADHD who are treated with stimulants like Concerta are actually less likely to abuse drugs including alcohol later in life.

As long-term use of Concerta and other drugs that contain methylphenidate was relatively uncommon before the 1990s. The long-term neurological effects were not well researched. In a 2005 study, no “clinically significant” effects on growth, vital signs, tics, or laboratory tests including urinalysis, hematology/complete blood counts, electrolytes, and liver function tests were observed after 2 years of treatment.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Concerta or any other medication containing Methylphenidate.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather’s articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.