Monday, June 30, 2008

Depression: Zyban, Wellbutrin


Both Zyban and Wellbutrin are brand name prescription drugs that contain the same active ingredient, which is Bupropion. Bupropion can be used both as an antidepressant, and as an aid to giving up smoking.

As an antidepressant, it is sold under the brand names Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL. It is used to treat major depression and also seasonal affective disorder or SAD as well as some other conditions. No one really understands exactly how it works, but its beneficial effects are due to its ability to inhibit the reuptake of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, and to a much lesser extent, serotonin, which results in an increase of these chemicals in the brain. These chemicals have an impact on our moods and so by increasing the levels of these important neurotransmitters, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

As a smoking cessation aid under the brand name Zyban, it appears to work by reducing nicotine cravings and the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. It also helps to prevent the unwanted weight gain which often accompanies stopping smoking. One thing to remember when taking Zyban is that it is important to take it earlier in the day to help prevent insomnia at night and if two doses are taken one must be taken eight hours after the first so the first one should be taken on waking.

As with all medications there are certain factors to be considered before taking Bupropion, particularly any potential side effects and contraindications, which can have an impact on whether it is an appropriate treatment for you or not.

Bupropion

If you are prescribed Wellbutrin or Zyban it is essential that you tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking as there are a number of other drugs and substances that can interact with Bupropion and this includes prescription drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins and over the counter preparations like cough medicines etc.

You should also tell your doctor if you drink a lot of alcohol, coffee or other drinks containing caffeine, if you smoke or use illegal drugs, if you are taking sedatives, or MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), or any other drug containing Bupropion, and if you suffer from any medical complaint. In particular your doctor should be fully aware if you suffer or have ever suffered from any of the following conditions as Bupropion may not be suitable or may only be advisable at a reduced dose:


• Epilepsy


• Eating disorders


• Cerebral tumours


• Kidney failure


• Liver failure


• Alcoholism


• A head injury or trauma


• Insomnia


• An allergic reaction to Bupropion


• Diabetes


• Suicidal thoughts


• Tourettes syndrome


• Heart disease



You should also inform your doctor if you are currently pregnant or are trying to conceive or if you are breastfeeding or if you are due to undergo surgery or any other treatment in the near future.

Side effects

Some side effects are more common than others and there are some that are more serious than others. Side effects associated with Bupropion can include:


• Dry mouth


• Changes in taste


• Insomnia


• Headache


• Constipation


• Nausea


• Tremor


• Agitation


• Dizziness


• Increased sweating


• Weight loss


• Mania, hallucinations


• Seizures


• Irritability


• Depression


• Anxiety


• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations


• Chest pain


• Abdominal pain


• Rash and eczema, hives


• Raised blood pressure


• Difficulty breathing or wheezing


• Confusion


• Blurred vision


• Fatigue


• Loss of interest in sex


• Swelling of face, tongue and throat


You should tell your doctor immediately if you experience any dramatic changes in mood or behaviour, particularly if you feel depressed or have suicidal thoughts and if you are feeling overly agitated, hostile, anxious or hyperactive, and if you are having any trouble sleeping.

You should also seek urgent medical attention if you have trouble breathing, if your face, tongue and throat start to swell, if you have a convulsion, if you experience rapid or irregular heartbeats or if you develop hives or severe skin eruptions.

Other important points

Both Zyban and Wellbutrin should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This means you mustn't increase or decrease your dose unless your doctor tells you to; in particular, don't suddenly stop taking the medication as this can have serious side effects. If you happen to forget to take one, take it as soon as you remember again unless it is nearly time for you to take the next dose, if this is the case then just take the next dose as normal, and don't bother taking the one you forgot.

It is important to note that drinking a lot of alcohol and taking some other medications once you begin to take Bupropion can increase the risk of seizures and other side effects, as can starting or indeed abruptly stopping alcohol, and any other medications, including stopping to take Bupropion, so it isn't advisable to make any changes whatsoever without first seeking medical advice.

You can buy Zyban here

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Nadya Cubillan's weblog

Grapefruit Juice: The Hidden Dangers Of Drug Interaction


Grapefruit juice is one of the healthiest foods around, right?

A cup of unsweetened white grapefruit juice has only 100 calories, no fat, more than 100% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C, and it’s got a zingy taste that can really get you moving in the morning.

However, grapefruit juice (including the juice found in your morning grapefruit half) can interact with certain medications, leading to potentially serious consequences.

Which medications does grapefruit juice interact with?

Grapefruit juice can interact with many different drugs that people take to maintain their health. If you eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice, you should ask your prescribing health care provider and pharmacist about any drugs that you’re currently taking and ask again whether new drugs interact with grapefruit juice. The list below contains some of the drugs that interact with grapefruit juice. This is not a complete list, so if you’re a grapefruit fan, check with your doctor before starting any medication.

* Valium (diazepam): This drug is used to treat certain seizure disorders and anxiety.

* Norvasc (amlodipine): This is one of the drugs called a “calcium channel blocker.” It is used to treat angina (chest pain related to malfunctioning arteries around the heart). Grapefruit juice interacts with many of the calcium channel blockers

* Pravachol (pravastatin): Like several of the “statin” drugs used to lower cholesterol, grapefruit juice can change the effectiveness of this product

* Cordarone (Amiodarone): This drug is used to treat “arrhythmias” – to correct irregular heart beat patterns.

What Are The Symptoms of These Interactions?

Use of any of these drugs while taking grapefruit juice can lead to serious complications. For example, the following have been observed in the interaction of each of the drugs above with grapefruit juice:

* Valium (diazepam): Grapefruit juice can cause you to feel sedated and might make it harder for you to control your muscular movements; driving can be dangerous

* Norvasc (amlodipine): Grapefruit interacts with several of the calcium channel blockers to provide a very fast heartrate (“tachycardia”) and/or a drop in blood pressure to below safe levels (“hypotension.”

* Pravachol (pravastatin): The statin drugs can interact with grapefruit juice to cause muscle toxicities, symptoms of which include muscle weakness, aches and shaking

* Cordarone (Amiodarone): Ironically, mixing this drug with grapefruit juice can cause an increase in the very condition it is intended to treat - arrhythmias

What Causes These Potentially Dangerous Interactions?

How can something as seemingly harmless as grapefruit juice affect the medications you take? It has to do with a special enzyme in your intestines and liver that help you absorb many oral drugs and then excrete them when you’re done with the drug.

When a physician prescribes a specific dose of drug (for example, one pill of 50 mg), she works on the assumption that given the size of your body, you will absorb the drug into your body at a certain rate and excrete it at a certain rate. Enzymes in your gastrointestinal (or GI) tract bring food and oral medications into your body. Grapefruit juice seems to affect both the rate of the drug coming into your body and how quickly it is removed. The end result can be an overdose of the drug) even if you’re taking the correct dosage for your size.

What Can I Do To Avoid Dangerous Drug Interactions?

If you are on medications that interact with grapefruit juices, avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice. Spacing out the drugs and the juice (for example, taking your medication at night and having grapefruit for breakfast) will NOT solve the problem; the grapefruit juice effect remains even after you’ve stopped having it. If you like the health benefits of grapefruit, or just miss that morning zing, think about moving to other fruits such as tomatoes (a single can has just 41 calories and more than 70% of the vitamin C for the day) or oranges.

Kharasch, E. “Influence of hepatic and intestinal cytochrome P4503A activity on the acute disposition and effects of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate,“ Anesthesiology, Volume 101, issue 3, pages 729-737, 2004

Maskalyk, J., “Grapefruit juice: potential drug interactions,” Canadian Medical Association Journal, Volume 167 issue 3, p 279-80, 2002

Shapiro, L, “Drug interactions: Proteins, pumps, and P-450s,” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 47, issue 4, pages 467-84, 2002

You can buy Norvasc here

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Mazakari Maelstrom's weblog

Flonase Bad Breath Side Effect


Feeling a bit congested in the nose? Or can’t breathe at all? The reason may be an inflammation of or infection in your sinuses, causing a condition called sinusitis. Other symptoms include coughing, sneezing, feelings of tiredness, aches, and constant low fever.

Because the signs are so much the same as a cold, people with sinusitis often mistake their condition for colds. But later, when the medicines they’ve been taking for treating the symptoms of colds don’t seem to work, they go to the doctor who then examines them and tells them that they have sinusitis.

How does Sinusitis work?

To answer that question, we must first look into what the sinuses are. They are actually hollow cavities within the skull, surrounding the nose. Each of us has four sinuses: the frontal sinuses over the eyes in the brow area, maxillary sinuses inside each cheekbone, ethmoid sinuses just behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes, and sphenoid sinuses behind the ethmoids in the upper region of the nose and behind the eyes.

These sinuses have a mucus lining that continue on to the nasal passages. The mucus helps keep the air that passes from the nose to the nasal passages clean and clear and dehumidified. When you have a cold, the cause of that is a viral infection in the nasal passages. As a result, more mucus is secreted by the mucus lining as more white blood cells are sent to fight the viruses in the infected area. This leads to swelling of the mucus lining, causing inflammation which then becomes the precursor of sinusitis.

Full-blown sinusitis causes blockage of the nasal passages, obstructing drainage and causing post nasal drips. Because of the blockage, the excess mucus produced is trapped inside the nasal passages where they accumulate and turn foul, leading to bad breath side effect. In addition, the trapped mucus due to sinusitis can become breeding grounds for bacteria that cause bad breath side effect.

The worst thing about this bad breath side effect is that you don’t usually notice it since the infection has caused your sense of smell to become off. This bad breath side effect of sinusitis could very well be an embarrassing situation waiting to happen. Why allow it to happen?

How to treat Sinusitis?

The good news is that bad breath side effect of sinusitis may be treated by simply treating the sinusitis itself. And there are dozens of different over the counter nasal decongestants and antihistamines that will more than do their job of stopping sinusitis. These drugs act by relieving congestion and drying up excess mucus. However, in doing this, some of these drugs may also inadvertently cause bad breath side effect since dryness in the mouth is one of the most frequent causes of bad breath.

Drugs like Flonase are different, however. Flonase, generic name flonase floticasone, is a steroid based prescription nasal spray that treats sinusitis but does not have a bad breath side effect. Flonase has been used by many patients with sinusitis with good results. Using Flonase on a regular basis produces best results since it may take several weeks for the medication to give maximum effect.

You can buy Flonase here

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ZetaOrionis's weblog

Israel, Iran, and Purim


I am a Christian-Zionist, but I am able to learn from anybody who shares the plain truth; glean principles from both secular and religious, Christian or not, and make the most of it in my spiritual life, so help me God.

Mind you, I don't go looking around in other religions for the record, but I do subscribe to the following Jewish Bible lessons that come out in time for Sabbath eve each week and enjoy them immensely as they offer greater insight into the Hebrew wording and bring that week's scriptural passages to life, vividly relevant, like Herbert Armstrong's Plain Truth magazine used to look at world events in the light of Bible prophecy. Those were the days.

I also enjoy the Jewish/Israel educational email services of
href="http://www.rb.org.il">Root and Branch Association
, based in Jerusalem, whose president, Aryeh Gallin, I've been blessed to know and appreciate. I used to attend many of the Root and Branch lectures he offered when I sojourned in Jerusalem before being unjustly deported. Another story, another time.

As an Israelite, descended from the tribes of Joseph and Judah, recognizing the Israelite origins of the West as taught by Brit-Am Israel, I celebrate the victory of our Jewish brethren over their sworn enemies, whether past or present, and know the victory comes from our gracious God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

May the day come soon when Joseph and Judah are reunited as "One Nation Under God," a truly "United Kingdom," in the Promised Land of ISRAEL, delivered from our vicious enemies and out of the bloody mouth of the brute European beast soon to devour the nations and rip apart the world as we know it.

YESHIVAT HARA'AYON HAYEHUDI (Yeshiva of the Jewish Idea)


Jerusalem, Israel


HaRav Yehuda Kroizer SHLIT"A, Rosh Yeshiva (Yeshiva dean)

PARSHAT TETZAVEH (Sabbath reading)


11 Adar, 5766/10-11 March, 2006

PURIM 5766 - AND STILL GOING STRONG!

Some weeks ago the president of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, while denying that a Holocaust against the Jews took place during World War 2, stated that there was indeed a holocaust which took place in Iran some 2000 years ago, in which the Jews killed thousands of people, and to this day still celebrate year in and year out with singing and drinking. He was, of course, talking about the story of Purim.

Some might indeed mistakenly come to the conclusion that all killing is a bad thing. In fact, we find even among fellow liberal Jews, that the holiday of Purim can make them blush and feel uncomfortable, for here we find the Jews celebrating the downfall of their enemies after killing some 75,000 of them. Now how un-Jewish is that?

There is, then, in this world good and evil, and they are not the same - and Woe to one who mixes up the two! Take, for instance, the example during World War 2, when Germany bombed England and England bombed Germany. Both bombed, but surely, every sane person knows that one was pure evil and one was fighting for good.

Hashem has created good as well as evil in this world, and it is our job to complete creation and eliminate evil from the world. Amalek and his physical and spiritual heirs must ultimately be wiped off the face of the earth, as King David said: I hate all those who hate You (Hashem). King David himself had killed thousands, as the Book of Samuel tell us: Saul with his hundreds and David with his thousands. Still, all whom King David killed were looked upon as a sacrifice before Hashem, for David had eliminated evil from this world, thereby making it a better place.

Today we are witnessing, throughout the world and in Israel, the mercy of fools; those taking pity on the wicked - such behavior is not good, but evil. How clearer a signal could Hashem have sent us than the Hamas landslide victory? Now it is clear for all to see that there are no innocent bystanders among the Arabs living here in Israel. Clearly, the great majority of them want to see Israel destroyed, as was made clear by them in their elections. It is high time for Israel to act accordingly and stop playing around, claiming that there are innocents in the area and moderates to work with. Clearly the law must be the same for all of them.

And still, we see the nations of the world continuing to explain away the Hamas victory, even as the Arabs have learned to use the great tool of democracy to their advantage. They (the nations) too, are guilty of taking pity on the wicked, and surely this, too, will backfire on them in the end. As nation after nation invites Hamas to visit, and the European Union and the U.S. continues to pour millions of dollars in the PA, which of course will go to continuing their terror campaign.

So, it really is too bad that the beloved president Ahmadinejad of Iran does not understand the difference between one who comes to kill, and one who kills defending himself. For history repeats itself so often. And if he comes, like so many before him, against the Jewish State - he and his people will be the ones to fall. It is worth recalling the strange last words uttered by one of the leading Nazis, who was hung after Nuremberg trials: "PurimFest 1945".

So take note, cruel and harsh world: Purim is still going strong for the Jewish people!

With love of Israel,

Levi Chazen

You can buy Purim here

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Kaydis's weblog

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Read This Report if You Are Considering Medication to Treat Your ...


Cardizem is a medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. Cardizem is a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels allowing blood to pass more freely thereby reducing blood pressure.

It should be taken whole, never crushed or chewed, and should be taken at the same time every day with a full glass of water. You should not stop taking Cardizem suddenly as it may make your condition worse. Even if you feel well do not stop taking it unless directed to do so by your doctor.

If you are pregnant do not take Cardizem as it can cause harm to your unborn child. This is excreted in breast milk, therefore nursing mothers are encouraged to not use Cardizem.

As with any prescription medications, side effects may occur. It can effect your thinking and reactions, therefore do not drive or do anything that requires you to be alert until you see how you react to Cardizem. Make sure to tell your doctor of any other medications you are taking including non-prescription medications and herbal supplements. if you are allergic to any drugs be sure to let your doctor know. It is very important that your doctor know of any medical conditions that you have including kidney disease, liver disease, or congestive heart failure as it may not be the best choice for you.

While on Cardizem treatment your blood pressure will need to be monitored on a regular basis. Your doctor may adjust your dosage of it depending on these results. Your doctor may also recommend kidney and liver function testing while on or before prescribing Cardizem. This may be the right choice for treating your hypertension but remember only you and your doctor can determine if Cardizem is right for you.

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Kaydis's weblog

The Best Male Enlargement Patch - Why Patches Are in and Pills Are Out


The male enlargement patch is the most modern all natural method these days and has been developed for ease of use and convenience. They are the most discreet solution that will go with you anywhere, in the home, on business or on your vocations. Read on to learn exactly how this penis enhancement system is designed to work.

Male enhancement patches are a product that men can wear without anyone asking any questions. This product is the easiest of all enlargement methods that you simply will not need to worry or ask any questions yourself! This is very unlike the majority of other enlargement methods that are more complicated for example, having to take pills at regular intervals throughout the day, working out how to attach devices to your manhood without causing any pain or injury. Getting your head around too many exercises is tiresome, although some of these exercises can be easier to understand if you follow a professional program.

The penis patch is one of the newest forms of penis enlargement on the market, and already, the results are outstanding. In comparison to the pill there appears to be quite noticeable difference in results.

By using 100% natural penis enhancement patches rather than oral pills you will experience 4 major benefits:

1. Using enlargement patches is easier than remembering to take pills several times a day. You just place the patch close to the penis. You replace the male enlargement patch every three days.

2. The problem with using pills is that your body can not absorb all of the nutrients at once and most will go right through your system. Penis enhancement patches overcome this by providing you with a sustained release throughout the day.

3. The ingredients in the patch enters the bloodstream directly through the skin. This method of delivery is different to pills where the ingredients must first through the digestive system. Thus these natural products work much faster than pills resulting in noticeable penis growth in 1-2 weeks.

4. Male enhancement patches gives permanent penis enlargement results, unlike pills, provided you do a couple of really simple enlarging exercises leading patch manufacturers recommend in addition.

These fast acting natural products have been clinically tried and tested and it is now medically proven that this effortless method can dramatically enlarge a small or average small penis. You can now actually enlarge your penile length and girth to sizes you previously thought were impossible!

You can buy Penis Growth Patch here

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Syria's weblog

Friday, June 27, 2008

Finding The Best Cold Sore Medication - Abreva Vs Prescription ...


The internet offers mixed reviews on many of the dozens of cold sore medications on the market today, ranging from statements like "my cold sore was gone in two hours" to "this stuff made it worse!" Some cold sore medications obviously have a better track record than others, but it can be difficult to find the perfect remedy for that annoying and embarrassing cold sore. The biggest factor that will contribute to the effectiveness of your chosen cold sore remedy is noting the stage at which the cold sore has developed when the first treatment is applied to the site. Any cold sore sufferer knows that the best way to treat a cold sore is to nip it in the bud as soon as possible. Once blisters begin to form, you may be out of luck if you are not using the right cold sore medication. I am a frequent cold sore sufferer who has tried almost every home remedy and cold sore medication on the market. In this article I am going to compare two of the most popular cold sore medications: Abreva, the only FDA approved over the counter medication and Zovirax, an FDA approved prescription medication.

Abreva:

Abreva can be purchased in almost any drug-store for $16-$20. Right off the bat, it is important to note that you won't get much for what you pay. The medicine is in a tiny 2 gram (.07 ounce) tube that is barely an inch long. I have seen many good (and many bad) reviews of Abreva, and my opinion falls somewhere in-between. Healing a cold sore quickly with Abreva is hit-or-miss. I have learned that if I liberally apply Abreva almost every hour as soon as I feel any burning or tingling, it does help tremendously and there is 90% chance that I will avoid a full blown breakout. Often, if caught at that stage, the blisters will simply not develop. However, if I don't have any when the tingling begins, or I wake up to find that the blisters have already begun to form, the cold sore will generally run its course, lasting 9-10 days regardless of how much I continue to apply. It really is important to apply Abreva immediately upon feeling any tingling or pain. Even an hour can make a big difference.

Zovirax (Aciclovir):

Let me just say that I absolutely love Zovirax and I regret all the years I suffered with cold sores, spending hours researching home remedies and over-the-counter products, when a simple call to the doctor for a prescription was the answer. It is truly a life-saver when it comes to cold sores. Whether it is applied at the first signs of a cold sore or even after bumps and blisters have begun to form, it will zap my cold sore in 24-48 hours. In addition, it does not "dry out" the cold sores which many medications do; shrinking the blisters, but leaving a very hard scab that cracks and bleeds. Zovirax also has something in it to relieve pain and itching. In most cases, if Zovirax is applied during the tingling stage the cold sore does not develop (like Abreva). If it is applied after blisters have formed, it shrinks the blisters overnight and relieves all the redness and irritation surrounding the sore. I have never had a cold sore for more than three days when using Zovirax. The one down-side to using this medication is the cost. A 5 gram tube of Zovirax retails at about $120.00 and is subject to a higher co-pay with insurance because there is no generic equivalent available yet.

For a complete list of FDA approved cold sore medications and at home remedies that work, please visit www.ColdSoreAdvice.com

You can buy Zovirax here

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Praestat's weblog

What Your Doctor May Not Have Explained About Seizure Meds


Depakote comes in both tablet and capsule type. Mainly used for treating many kinds of seizures and convulsions. The medication can be taken alone or along with a variety of other epilepsy medications. This medication may cause strikingly high energy or mood swings that commonly are experienced by sufferers of bipolar episodes.

Pros:

Proven to be productive for a wide spectra of bipolar and epileptic problems. Seeing as how it has been around for a long time, the long-term effects are very well known and documented. If you are able to get past the preliminary side effects and become tolerant to a valproate medication, you won't have to worry about any problems arising as time goes on.

An Interesting Tidbit Your Doctor May Have Neglected To Mention

Ingesting Depakote (divalproex sodium) with food will lower a lot of the gastrointestinal quirks. This is nice. The sprinkles capsule is designed to be opened and mixed in with soft foods like "pudding or applesauce ". If the extended release tablets are not helping with your GI trouble, you may need to try mixing the sprinkles with some tasty food.

Tested Over And Over

This drug (divalproex sodium) has been tested with every single antacid on the planet, because, Depakote bothers the stomach so much. Thank god for this, you can take antacids and this medication together. But...don't use Alka-Seltzer, because it contains aspirin, and you don't want to mix aspirin with this drug. [stomach]

Treatment Risks

You need to be cautious however, when using Depakote as it could lead to liver damage. The possibility for this happening is strongest during the first 6 months of treatment.

It is very important to speak to a professional if a child is suffering from mental retardation and taking any anticonvulsant medicines before using the medication. The risks of liver damage will decrease with age. Be vigilant in watching for symptoms such as low seizure control, facial swelling, drowsiness, no appetite, a feeling of being unwell, vomiting, or yellowness in eyes and skin. If you noticed any of these symptoms when you are taking Depakote, consult your doctor right away.

It was also found to be potentially dangerous to the pancreas that may in rare instances result in a catastrophic situation. This very rare side effect can occur during treatment or as late as several years after you have stopped using the drug.

What to look for:

Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, are symptoms alerting you of harm to the pancreas from the drug.

How Should I Take Depakote?

You should not chew or crush the tablets. They should be taken with liquid and swallowed. It also has a special covering to ward off an upset stomach. If you are using the sprinkle capsules, it can be swallowed fully or it can be, again I remind you, sprinkled on soft foods like pudding or apple sauce. It should be consumed with no delay and should never be chewed.

Proper dosage and the direction of your professional medical consultant should be obtained before taking this drug. Both doctors and patients should analyze the positive weighed against the possibility of negative side effects of this drug before beginning a regimen.

You can buy Depakote here

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Nadya Cubillan's weblog

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Creams For Stretch Marks


Stretch marks are a normal part of puberty for most girls and guys. They are generally associated with pregnancy, obesity, and can develop during rapid muscle growth from body building. It is a common condition that does not cause any significant medical problems but can be of cosmetic concern for some people. They are the result of the rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth (e.g. puberty) or weight gain (e.g. pregnancy), and anabolic steroid use. Men and women can get them on several areas of their bodies, including the abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms or lower back.

They can also occur from prolonged use of oral or topical corticosteroids. Stretching of the skin may cause a tingling or itchy sensation. They occur in about 50-90 of pregnant women.

They can appear anywhere on the body. Most common places are the abdomen (especially near the belly-button), breasts, upper arms, underarms, thighs (both inner and outer), hips, and buttocks. They are usually several centimetres long and 1-10 mm wide. Those caused by corticosteroid use or Cushing's syndrome are often larger and wider. The glucocorticoid hormones responsible for the development of stretch marks affect the epidermis by preventing the fibroblasts from forming collagen and elastin fibers, necessary to keep rapidly growing skin taut. There are plenty over-the-counter treatments for stretch marks. StretchNil is a unique herbal preparation that has been specifically created for the prevention or minimization.

Collagen creams claim (maintain property or right) that they will improve. Some cream manufacturers claim the best results are reach a goal

on recent stretch marks; however, few studies exist to support these claims. Cocoa butter cream, which is available from pharmacies, is often recommended to soften scars, so might be worth a try. Some cream manufacturers claim the best results are achieved on recent stretch marks; however, few studies exist to support these claims. These creams should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Biological Oils (Rose Hip Oil or Emu Oil), Plant Oils, Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter do become better the lipid content of the skin, embellish water retention, and soften the skin texture for a while.

You can buy here

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chakkorsis's weblog

Are Medications for the Treatment of Enlarged Prostate (Benign ...


Alpha adrenergic receptor blocker medications, including doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), alfuzosin (Uroxatral), and terazosin (Hytrin), cause a relaxation of prostate smooth muscle and increase urine flow (Lepor et al 1996; McConnell et al 2003). The FDA has approved all of these medications for the treatment of BPH, with the exception of Minipress. Minipress is a medication that has been on the market for the treatment of hypertension for many years; your doctor has the right to prescribe it for you "off label" for the treatment of BPH if he or she thinks it is indicated. There are no current plans to obtain an indication for Minipress for the treatment of BPH, since it has been off patent for many years. All of the alpha adrenergic receptor blocker medications have similar side effects including dizziness, postural hypotension, and fatigue. The potential benefit from relief of BPH symptoms is usually worth the side effects of these medications. However, Uroxatral should not be used in patients with liver problems and causes cardiac effects (lengthening of the Q-T interval).

Tamsulosin (Flomax) is a selective blocker of the ±-1A adrenergic receptor that has fewer side effects than the other alpha-blockers because it is more selective to the ±-1A adrenergic receptor than the other drugs reviewed above. The other alpha blockers block adrenergic receptors in both the heart and the brain as well as in the prostate. For this reason they can block the smooth muscles in the blood vessels in these areas and cause the blood vessels to dilate. This changes blood flow in the brain, with associated dizziness, fatigue, or the possibility of passing out if you stand up too quickly (postural hypotension). Since Flomax is more specific to the adrenergic receptors in the prostate, it has fewer of these side effects.

5±-reductase inhibitors include drugs like finasteride (Proscar). One of the most important factors contributing to BPH is the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT normally stimulates prostate tissue in adolescent males, which leads to the ability to produce semen and therefore become fertile. In later age, however, DHT can stimulate prostate tissue in a counter-productive way. Proscar inhibits the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT, 5±-reductase, thereby reducing DHT levels as much as 80%. This is associated with a decrease in prostate volume of 20%, since this hormone stimulates prostate tissue growth. Side effects include decreased libido, impotence and ejaculatory disorder. Dutasteride (Duagen) blocks both types 1 and 2 5±-reductase and has a similar side effect profile as finasteride.

In the PROscar Safety Plus Efficacy Canadian Two Year Study (PROSPECT), 613 men with moderate BPH symptoms were started on a two year treatment course with Proscar or placebo (Nickel et al 1996). Finasteride resulted in a statistically significant reduction in symptom scores compared to placebo, with a baseline score of 15.8 the difference between finasteride and placebo was only 0.4, not a very big difference. There was about a 10% increase in urinary flow rates. Over twice as many (15.8%) of finasteride patients developed impotence as patients on placebo (6.3%). In a study comparing finasteride to the alpha blocker terazosin and placebo, 1229 were randomized to blinded treatment for one year. Change in symptom scores were 2.6 for placebo, 3.2 for finasteride, 6.1 for terazosin, and 6.2 for terazosin and finasteride.(Lepor et al 1996) Similar improvements were seen with urine flow, with greater increases in urine flow for terazosin. Finasteride was no better than placebo, while terazosin was statistically significantly better than both finasteride and placebo. Impotence was higher with finasteride (9%) than placebo (5%) or terazosin (6%). Another study looking at the long term effects of these drugs studied 3047 patients for five years on placebo, doxazosin (alpha blocker), finasteride, or combination therapy. The outcome was a four point increase in BPH symptom score, urinary retention or incontinence. Doxazosin reduced progression by 39% and finasteride by 34% compared to placebo (both statistically significant) (McConnell et al 2003). Combination therapy was even better (66% reduction) and was associated with a reduction in the need for surgery, as was finasteride alone.

Based on these findings I recommend the use of the alpha blockers initially (doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), alfuzosin (Uroxatral), and terazosin (Hytrin) and Flomax) with addition of Proscar or Duagen depending on symptom response and side effects. Talk it over with your doctor.

Lepor H, Williford WO, Barry MJ (1996): The efficacy of terazosin, finasteride, or both in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Study Group. New England Journal of Medicine 335:533-539.

McConnell JD, Roehrborn CG, Bautista OM (2003): The long-term effect of doxazosin, finasteride, and combination therapy on the clinical progression of benign prostatic hyperplasia. New England Journal of Medicine 349:2387-2398.

Nickel JC, Fradet Y, Boake RC, Pommerville PJ, Perreault JP, Afridi SK (1996): Efficacy and safety of finasteride therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: results of a 2-year randomized controlled trial (the PROSPECT study). PROscar Safety Plus Efficacy Canadian Two year Study. Canadian Medical Association Journal 348:602-606.

You can buy Proscar here

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Lonagan's weblog

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Review


Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly prescribed categories of drugs worldwide in the treatment of pain and inflammation in many conditions.

NSAIDs are used primarily to treat inflammation, mild to moderate pain, and fever. Specific uses include the treatment of headaches, arthritis, sports injuries, and menstrual cramps. Aspirin is used to inhibit the clotting of blood and prevent strokes and heart attacks in individuals at high risk. NSAIDs also are included in many cold and allergy preparations. Two drugs in this category, ibuprofen and naproxen, also reduce fever.

Uses

NSAIDs are usually indicated for the treatment of acute or chronic conditions where pain and inflammation are present. These drugs also are effective in some neuropathic pain syndromes when used with other analgesics. NSAIDs are generally indicated for the symptomatic relief of the following conditions:


  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Acute gout

  • Inflammatory arthropathies (e.g. ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, Reiter's syndrome)

  • Dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation)

  • Headache and migraine

  • Postoperative pain

  • Mild-to-moderate pain due to inflammation and tissue injury

  • Back pain and sciatica.

  • Sprains, strains, and rheumatism.

  • Dental pain.

  • Pain from kidney stones (renal colic).

  • To reduce fever

  • Other painful conditions, especially where there is inflammation.




Drugs In The Class

There are several different types of NSAIDs:


  • Salicylates: aspirin (Ascriptin, Bayer, Ecotrin), diflunisal (Dolobid, Diflunisal Tablets), salsalate (Argesic SA, Disalcid, Salflex, Salsitab, Mono Gesic)

  • Arylalkanoic acids: diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), indomethacin (Indocin)

  • 2-Arylpropionic acids (profens): ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), ketoprofen (Orudis, Oruvail), naproxen (Naprosyn, Alleve), carprofen

  • Pyrroles: ketorolac (Toradol)

  • Enolic acids (oxicams): piroxicam (Feldene), meloxicam (Mobic)

  • Sulphonanilides: nimesulide

  • Napthylalkanones: nabumetone (Relafen)




Mechanism Of Action

NSAIDs work by suppressing the production of fatty acids called prostaglandins that cause inflammation and pain. They do this by blocking the action of an enzyme, cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme is responsible for converting precursor acids into prostaglandins.

In the periphery NSAIDs work by decreasing the sensitivity of the nociceptor to painful stimuli induced by heat, trauma, or inflammation. In the central nervous system, they are thought to function as antihyperalgesics and block the increased transmission of repetitive incoming signals to higher centers. In effect, they modulate perception of pain caused by repetitive stimulation from the periphery.

Differences Between NSAIDs

NSAIDs vary in their potency, duration of action, and the way in which they are eliminated from the body. Another important difference is their ability to cause ulcers and promote bleeding. The more an NSAID blocks Cox-1, the greater is its tendency to cause ulcers and promote bleeding.

Choice of NSAID for chronic and disabling inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis is governed by age, diagnosis, degree of severity, relative gastrointestinal safety, tolerability, and relative efficacy in the given clinical situation. It is a common misconception that all NSAIDs are therapeutically equally efficacious and any one of them could be used for the given indication. Use of multiple NSAIDs should be discouraged. An agent with comparatively less gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like ibuprofen and diclofenac should be preferred in place of indomethacin, piroxicam, or naproxen, which are more gastrotoxic. In conditions where diagnosis is uncertain, the medicine should be empirically chosen and given for a week or so and if the response is adequate it should be continued until side effects mandate its withdrawal. Ankylosing spondylitis responds better to a particular NSAID like indomethacin. It is probably related to its stronger inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.

Aspirin is a unique NSAID, not only because of its many uses, but because it is the only NSAID that is able to inhibit the clotting of blood for a prolonged period (4 to 7 days). This prolonged effect of aspirin makes it an ideal drug for preventing the blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. Most other NSAIDs inhibit the clotting of blood for only a few hours.

The major NSAIDs of potency comparable to opioids are diclofenac and ketorolac. Moderate postoperative pain, for example, may be managed using these agents. The overall analgesic effect of 30 mg of ketorolac is equivalent to that of 6 to 12 mg of morphine. Efficacy has been demonstrated for postsurgical pain including oral, orthopedic, gynecologic, and abdominal procedures. Efficacy for acute musculoskeletal pain has also been shown. Ketorolac causes ulcers more frequently than any other NSAID and is, therefore, not used for more than five days.

Naproxen provides effective relief in acute traumatic injury and for acute pain associated with migraine, tension headache, postoperative pain, postpartum pain, pain consequent to various gynecologic procedures, and the pain of dysmenorrhea.

Possible Side Effects

NSAIDs are associated with a number of side effects. The two main adverse drug reactions, associated with NSAIDs relate to gastrointestinal effects and renal effects of the agents. These effects are dose-dependent, and in many cases severe enough to pose the risk of ulcer perforation, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and death, limiting the use of NSAID therapy.


  • Gastrointestinal adverse reactions. The most common risk of NSAIDs is that they can cause ulcers and other problems in your esophagus, stomach, or small intestine. Common gastrointestinal side effects include: nausea, dyspepsia, vomiting, diarrhea, gastric ulceration/bleeding. Risk of ulceration increases with duration of therapy, and with higher doses. To help protect the stomach, NSAIDs should always be taken with food or directly after a meal.

  • High Blood Pressure and Kidney Damage. NSAIDs reduce the blood flow to the kidneys, which makes them work more slowly. When your kidneys are not working well, fluid builds up in your body. The more fluid in your bloodstream, the higher your blood pressure. If you take NSAIDs in high doses, the reduced blood flow can permanently damage your kidneys.

  • Allergic Reactions. NSAIDs can also cause extreme allergic reactions. People with asthma are at a higher risk for experiencing serious allergic reaction to NSAIDs. Many specialists recommend that people who have asthma stay away from any NSAID, especially if they have sinus problems or nasal polyps.




Use of aspirin in children and teenagers with chicken pox or influenza has been associated with the development of Reyes's syndrome. Therefore, aspirin and nonaspirin salicylates (e.g. salsalate) should not be used in children and teenagers with suspected or confirmed chicken pox or influenza.

Indomethacin, ketoprofen and piroxicam appear to have the highest prevalence of gastrointestinal adverse drug reactions, while ibuprofen (lower doses) and diclofenac appear to have lower rates.

Serious side effects are especially likely with one nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, phenylbutazone. Patients of age 40 and over are especially at risk of side effects from this drug, and the likelihood of serious side effects increases with age.

Precautions And Contraindications

NSAIDs cannot be used in the following cases:


  • Allergy to aspirin or any NSAID

  • Aspirin should not be used under the age of 16 years

  • During pregnancy

  • During breast feeding

  • On blood thinning agents (anticoagulants)

  • Suffering from a defect of the blood clotting system (coagulation)

  • Active peptic ulcer




Cost

Numerous NSAIDs are available as generics: diclofenac, etodolac, fenoprofen, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, meclofenamate, naproxen, piroxicam, sulindac, and tolmetin. Only meloxicam (brand name: Mobic), nabumetone (Relafen), and oxaprozin (Daypro) are available by brand name only. Generic medications may be an equally effective and less expensive treatment option.


Conclusions

All NSAIDs are similarly effective. The choice of which NSAID to try first is usually empiric. If one doesn't provide adequate pain control, try switching to another. All NSAIDS when used chronically can be associated with the development of ulcers. Differences in adverse effects seem to exist between different NSAIDs. Follow with your doctor closely and watch for signs or symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding such as stomach pain and blood in the stools. Some NSAIDs are available in extended-release formulations that require less frequent dosing.

You can buy Mobic here

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HafhandBludson's weblog

Rogaine Side Effects - A Comprehensive Checklist


For potential users of Rogaine, side effects may not seem that serious. This is supported by the fact that Rogaine started out as a prescription only medication but since 1996 when the license came up for renewal, the FDA accepted the recommendation of an advisory committee that Rogaine be made available over the counter.

For the majority of users Rogaine side effects may be limited to an itchy scalp and skin irritation. However, if an individual is already receiving medication or has other medical conditions a closer look is advised to make sure Rogaine side effects do not create more serious health problems.

Here is a list of possible Rogaine side effects:

Adverse scalp conditions:


  • irritation

  • redness

  • dryness

  • flaking



Some users find a good anti-dandruff shampoo alleviates the problem. Users of Rogaine Extra Strength (5%) may wish to have a supply of the standard Rogaine (2%) and alternate them during the daily application. For example, the 2% could be used in the morning and the 5% at night.

Changes in blood pressure resulting in:


  • increased heartbeat

  • chest pains

  • headaches

  • fainting

  • breathing difficulties



Rogaine contains the drug Minoxidil which was originally prescribed to lower blood pressure in patients suffering with high blood pressure. As Minoxidil relaxes blood vessels to make blood circulation easier a small number of users may find it affects them in the ways described above.

In such cases it is advisable to stop using the medication and consult with your medical practitioner.

Increased hair loss

It may seem strange that one of the Rogaine side effects is hair loss seeing the medication is intended to halt hair loss and promote new growth.

It is understandable however when you realize that Rogaine causes changes in the hair follicle so that weaker hairs are discarded before making way for new hairs to grow.

This hair shedding process should not last long. If it goes beyond a month seek medical advice from your doctor.

Greasy hair

Propylene Glycol was used in the original formulation which made hair greasy and sticky and difficult to manage. As the hair may already have been thin, making it heavy with Rogaine made it appear even thinner!

However, Rogaine Foam recently came on the market and this seems to address the problem. Rogaine Foam is only for men so women have to persevere with the 2% version, although this doesn't cause the hair to be as greasy as the extra strength 5% version.

It is important for potential users to realize when evaluating Rogaine side effects that a long term commitment is needed when using this medication. Perseverance is needed and some recommend using it for six months or so before coming to a conclusion on whether it is working for you or not. A twice daily application is very important.

So Rogaine side effects may only result in some scalp irritation for a majority of users. In other cases, effects on blood circulation may make it advisable not to try this hair loss treatment option. If in doubt, discuss the Rogaine side effects which concern you with your medical practitioner.

You can buy Rogaine here

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Kestra's weblog