Saturday, July 12, 2008

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.

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ixnay's weblog

Elavil Therapy For Use in Interstitial Cystitis


Although only one drug has been FDA approved specifically for interstitial cystitis, Elmiron, treating interstitial cystitis has always been a "brand off" approach. "Brand off" is where drugs not specifically designed for the illness or disease are used because of their side effects. For example, interstitial cystitis patients are given anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, antispasmodics, pain medication, and even some antiseizure medication.

Elavil is the brand name for the drug amitriptyline. The other brand name for the drug is Endep . It is given to mental health patients to elevate mood by increasing the neurotransmitters in the brain. Typically, this drug is prescribed for more than one reason to interstitial cystitis sufferers. It is available in tablet form in the dosages of 10mg, 25 mg, 50mg, 75mg, 100mg and in 150mg.

Sleep Effects


Elavil tends to make one drowsy after taking, and therefore is typically prescribed to be taken at night before bed. For this reason it is given to interstitial cystitis sufferers to help them sleep through the night without having to wake up to go to the bathroom multiple times. Also, even if one doesn't typically get up at night, it will still give them a better night sleep and will help them feel better throughout the day because they were able to rest. According to Dr. Robert Moore (Director of Advanced Pelvic Surgery and Co-Director of Urogynecology at Atlanta Urogynecology Associates, a "low dose helps to elevate the patient's pain threshold, i.e. the level that the pain fibers fire at in the spinal cord. These nerves are super sensitive and fire very easily at very low input levels; Elavil helps to elevate these levels so they don't fire so easily at low levels."

Pain Effects


Elavil will give a slight boost to treating and dealing with pain. It isn't a pain medication, but it does "take an edge off". This makes living with interstitial cystitis a bit easier. Its sedative effects help with the pain of the bladder. It raises your pain threshold so that lower level pain isn't felt as much, and you are much more able to cope.

Warnings


There are many drug interactions with Elavil. If you are taking an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibiting drugs) you may get a high fever, convulse, or even die while on Elavil / Endep.

If you have seizures or are at risk for having a seizure, you should not take this drug.

You should not take Epinephrine (what is known as an Epipen, given to those with severe allergic reactions) while on this drug as it raises your chance of severe high blood pressure. If you have risk factors for allergies severe enough that you carry an Epipen you need to let your doctor know prior to filling this drug prescription.

You can buy Endep here

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therealmonkey's weblog

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Treximet - A New Migraine Medication


On May 16, Glaxo-Smith-Kline Pharmaceuticals, the makers of Imitrex, announced that they were releasing a new drug for the treatment of migraines. The new drug was to be called Treximet and according to the makers, was to be a vast improvement over Imitrex. Like Imitrex, it is made to be taken at the onset of a migraine, but is supposed to work faster and better to reduce migraine pain. GSK has spent several years and millions of dollars researching and "pre-marketing" Treximet in anticipation of FDA approval and product launch.

So what's the deal? Is this really better than Imitrex alone? From a strict treatment point of view, yes, the medication probably is better than Imitrex alone for a migraine. The reason for this is twofold. First of all, several years ago, Dr. Silberstein of the Jefferson Headache Center was able to demonstrate through research, that Imitrex combined with naprosyn taken at the onset of a migraine was better in treating that migraine than either drug alone. Such a combination is deemed synergistic, meaning basically that two plus two equals ten. Naprosyn is the prescription form of Aleve which is sold over the counter and is an anti-inflammatory. Once this research was confirmed, GSK began to develop a combination drug.

The second reason this drug might be better is something called RT technology. GSK has developed this and uses it currently for its Imitrex tablets. Think of it as "burst" technology as the tablet does burst apart when it begins to dissolve. This may speed absorption, and speed is of the essence when treating a bad migraine.

All treatment benefits aside, is Treximet really a great deal? Well for some, maybe not. One of the reasons a combination drug is usually developed is because the patent on the original drug is about to expire. And sure enough, that is what is happening to Imitrex this year. Unfortunately, samples of Imitrex are rapidly disappearing from doctor's offices. For those who have prescription coverage, the best answer is to ask for a prescription for naprosyn and take both pills at the onset of a migraine. Failing that you could just take two Aleve tablets with your Imitrex.

For those with no prescription coverage, hang in there! Two pharmaceutical companies who make generic drugs have announced that they will be manufacturing sumatriptan (generic Imitrex) by the end of 2008. Once that is available, it will open up the availability of the drug for millions of migraineurs who previously could not afford the drug. Even with no prescription coverage, the generic may be cheap enough to afford by paying cash. The downside to generics is, different fillers which are cheaper are used in manufacture. GSK still holds the patent on RT technology so it most probably will not be available in the generic sumatriptan.

As will all medications in the class of triptans, you cannot take these medications if you are pregnant, have uncontrolled hypertension or heart problems such as coronary artery disease. Check with your provider to be sure before taking any new medication and remember, treat early and treat fast to get rid of migraines.

You can buy Naprosyn here

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Old Grumpy Dwarf's weblog

Anticonvulsant Uses - "Off-Label" More Than "On-Label"?


Topamax is indicated (FDA approved) for the treatment of seizure disorder (epilepsy) and prophylaxis of migraine headache.

In the United States, the regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permit physicians to prescribe approved medications for other than their approved label indications. This practice is known as off-label use. Some drugs are used more frequently off-label than for their original, FDA-approved indications.

Topiramate has a long list of off-label uses.

Bipolar Disorder

The evidence that anticonvulsant agents are useful for treating bipolar disorders has prompted preliminary studies of Topamax. However, research evidence does not strongly support use of this medication as a "mood stabilizer".

Topamax lacks efficacy in the treatment of acute mania. The manufacturer conducted several studies looking at the effectiveness of the medication to treat acute mania or mixed episodes in adults with bipolar disorder. These studies showed that the drug by itself was not effective in treating bipolar symptoms.

However, some evidence, based on small studies, supports the use of Topamax in bipolar disorders in depressive phase and as adjunctive treatment. The results of the open-label study indicated that adjunctive topiramate was associated with a significant reduction of new manic and depressive episodes in patients who fail to respond completely to mood stabilizers (Lykouras L , Hatzimanolis J.; Curr Med Res Opin. 2004 Jun.) One of the advantages is that it causes most bipolar patients to either lose weight or at least not gain it.

Weight Loss

Weight loss is a common side effect of Topamax. In general, it is not considered a good choice for weight loss due to high rate of side effects, such as cognitive impairment, anxiety, memory loss or difficulty concentrating, which can make it difficult to tolerate the medication.

Several high quality studies have shown strong weight-reducing potential of Topamax. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the long-term efficacy and safety of this drug in obese patients. Topiramate therapy over the course of 1 year resulted in clinically significant weight loss. In addition, improvements were also observed in blood pressure and glucose tolerance. (Wilding J, Van Gaal L, Rissanen A., Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2004 Nov.)

Nerve Pain

Antiepileptic drugs are useful in the treatment of neuropathic pain. There are good theoretical explanations how Topiramate can alleviate neuropathic pain. It acts on neuronal transmission in at least five ways: by modulating voltage-gated sodium ion channels, potentiating gamma-aminobutyric acid inhibition, blocking excitatory glutamate neurotransmission, modulating voltage-gated calcium ion channels, and by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase.

In randomized, double-blind trial Topamax reduced pain visual analog score, worst pain intensity and sleep disruption in patients with painful diabetic neuropathy.

You can buy Topamax here

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Redwizard's weblog

Cymbalta Medication - Uses & Side Effects


Cymbalta is brand name from Eli Lilly and called duloxetine.Cymbalta is a special drug which belongs to the group of Dual Uptake Inhibitors.Cymbalta medically formulated as Duloxetine Hydrochloride is a new revolutionary antidepressent. Cymbalta is used to treat major depressive disorder. It is also used to treat pain caused by nerve damage in people with diabetes. Cymbalta is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder. The effectiveness of Cymbalta for longer-term (more than 9 weeks) use has not been systematically evaluated in clinical trials. Cymbalta targets two chemicals, serotonin and norepinephrine, that are believed to play a role in how the brain and body affect mood and pain. Cymbalta is contraindicated in anyone who has shown a sensitivity to duloxetine or any of Cymbalta's inactive ingredients. It should not be used concommitantly with an MAOI. In clinical trials, Cymbalta was associated with increased mydriasis in patients with uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma and should not be used by patients with this condition.

Cymbalta increases the risk of elevated serum transaminase. It has been associated with an increase in blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored throughout treatment. Cymbalta till now is generally not being prescribed to pregnant women. Cymbalta is a class C drug, which means that it can and will be passed onto your baby and he or she could develop medical conditions as a result. Many women become pregnant when taking Cymbalta and their doctors typically choose to take them off the drug during the third trimester, when medical complications usually arise as a result of taking this drug. Cymbalta is also known to be passed through the mothers breast milk hence doctors suggest to refrain from taking the drug while breast-feeding an infant. Cymbalta should be used with caution in patients with a history of mania or seizures. Cymbalta is used to treat depression.

Cymbalta can cause the side effects which can deteriorate your thought or reactions. If you are taking Cymbalta Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of damage to your liver. Avoid. Somnolence caused by Cymbalta. Cymbalta can cause the side effects which can deteriorate your thought or reactions. Made attention if you lead or do all that requires you to be waked up and alert. Cymbalta should be administered at a total dose of 40 mg/day (given as 20 mg BID) to 60 mg/day (given either once a day or as 30 mg BID) without regard to meals. Cymbalta is not recommended for patients with end-stage renal disease (requiring dialysis) or in severe renal impairment.

Uses of Cymbalta Medication

Cymbalta Medication use very safely. Cymbalta Medication dose use daily one. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Do not stop using Cymbalta without first talking to your doctor. Store Cymbalta at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not take the medication in larger amounts and take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or longer for your symptoms improve. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a delayed-release capsule.

Side Effects of Cymbalta Medication

Cymbalta most common side effects is Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, increased sweating, blurred vision, rash and itching and other Less Common Side Effects is Abnormal orgasm; acid or sour stomach; belching; change or problem with ejaculation; decreased interest in sex; difficulty in moving; erectile dysfunction; fear; feeling of warmth or redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest; heartburn; indigestion and joint pain. Generalized anxiety disorder is generally recognized as a chronic condition.

You can buy Cymbalta here

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Archus's weblog

Sweet Treatment From Ayurveda For Diabetes


Ayurvedic management of Diabetes depends on the strength of patient and type of diabetes he/she has. But some generalized management are mentioned below.

If the patient has sufficient strength panchakarma treatment can be started with snehana followed by vamana and virechana. Virechana can be repeated frequently. Dhanwantharam Gritham is apt for snehanam. Pizhichil is good for a week. Takradhara can also yield good results. Internal medicines that can be used are katakakhadiradi kashayam, aragvadhadi kashayam, nisadi kashayam, mehari dravakam. Apart from these ayaskriti and lodhrasavam are good.

Mehasamhari gulika, brihantmehantaka gulika, niruryadi gulika, svetagaunjadi gulika, haldi (turmeric), amalaki (gooseberry) choorna, nyagrodadhi churna, nisosiradi tailam,or eladi tailam can be added to the kashayams as the case may be. Shilajit, vasntakusumakara rasa, nag bhasma, vanga bhasma, and chandraprabha vati can be used favorably.

Hyponidd tablets, Diabecon tablets, Mehanil tablets, Glucova, Nishakatakadi qwath tablet can be used on regular basis.

Sugar in any form like rice, especially from fresh grains, potato, banana, and other such cereals and fruits are to be avoided. Fat intake should also be avoided. Tamarid and salt intake should be minimal. All bitter things are of help in general. Vegetables like bitter gourd, drumstick, patola(sponge gourd), okra (ladies finger) are good. So is neem (Azadirachta indica) and bilva (Aegle marmelos). It is also advised to decrease all food intakes by three quarters of normal. Wheat, barely and all millets are good. Some cases recover fully just with exclusively meat diet. Don't use polished grains as bryan is good for diabetes.

Shadangapaniyam or water boiled with ekanayakam (Salacia reticulate) is excellent to quench thirst in diabetics. Exercise within limits is advisable, yogic exercise, particularly matsyendra asanam is useful.

Sleep during daytime, sex, not resting after food intake and excessive labour is to be avoided.

You can buy Diabecon here

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Gnarl's weblog

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Why Erection Oils can Increase Your Sexual Pleasure and Intimacy


Will there be any woman who will complain if their partner puts erection oil on their penis? I don't think so. In fact, they would probably even help in its application. Why? I guess the answer is obvious. Erection oil does what it is named to be, to cause an erection to occur in the penis, and prolonging it until much pleasure is derived from it. It is quite common for the average man to be able to have about three rounds of sex in a night, depending on their stamina and the quality of the sexual act had. For more rounds that this, help is needed, in the form of either a pill or an oil. This will further stimulate the penis and make it stand at attention and perform with great gusto, much to the pleasure of both.

Why do men feel the need to have a longer erection? The answer to this is because females like to have a prolonged erection. A woman's pleasure is also the reason behind why men would like to have something on hand that will help them have an erection even if it is already not quite possible for them to do. As all men know, women have the privilege of having multiple orgasms. To be able to fulfill most of those orgasmic experiences, man has to learn to keep up and to keep it up. And this is where the use of the erection oil comes into play.

Imagine the sensations that you will feel as you allow her to rub the erection oil up and down your penis, as blood rushes into it, making it grow bigger, longer and harder than you never thought it possible to achieve. Imagine her applying it on you without using her hands. The pleasurable sensations that you will be feeling are already quite enough to sustain you for the rest of the night. And that is just during the application of the erection oil.

You can buy Penis Growth Oil here

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MadandAngry's weblog

Rimonabant And The USA


The day of reckoning for 2007 has now come and gone for the FDA to review the medication rimonabant. Rimonabant is also known as Acomplia in Europe and other countries and Zimulti was then name it was to have in the United States. June 13th, the FDA voted against recommending this medication to hit the USA pharmacies. What does this mean for Sanofi-Aventis and what does the future of this medication look like for the United States?

Rimonabant has been past by many European countries for the treatment of obesity. It works differently than most other diet medications as well as has some possible benefits. Basically put, Rimonabant works by blocking receptors in the brain that are responsible for food cravings. When you’re eating less, it means generally you are consuming fewer calories and thus you lose weight. Some of the other potential benefits of this drug are that it has been shown to increase the “good” cholesterol while reducing “bad” cholesterol and has shown promise for helping smokers kick the habit.

While we don’t know all that went on in the FDA meeting, we do know that some of the issues that where brought up about this medication. One of the big obstacles they had issues with was its possible psychiatric side effects including suicidal influences. The FDA panel was not satisfied with the amount of feedback they had regarding this medication. And most likely they will keep an eye on it including watching the feedback coming in from other doctors around the world. It looks likely that a 50 month trail will then determine if this medication will be accepted into the USA market, a trail that would not be complete until 2010. The FDA had been scrutinized in the past for allowing drugs to hit the USA pharmacies in what some considered a too short of a study period. I suppose with such a possible popular medication such as Acomplia, that the FDA did not want to overlook all aspects of this medication before ever accepting it in the USA.

You can buy Rimonabant here

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Boogs's weblog

Serevent Side Effects Put Serevent in Top 5 Most Dangerous Drugs


Serevent is an asthma inhalation medication, a bronchodilator, that relaxes the muscles in airways. It is preventative and not effective when taken during an asthma attack.

Possible side effects of Serevent include allergic reactions noted by breathing problems or swelling of the throat, lips, tongue or face, hives, headaches, dizziness, insomnia, tremors, sweating, nausea, and dry mouth. In many cases, Serevent users have an increased risk of dying from asthma related problems especially if they are taking anti-inflammatory medications even though the FDA first approved Serevent to supplement and not replace anti-inflammatory drugs. Furthermore, the FDA did not approve Serevent to treat acute symptoms of asthma, just basic asthma symptoms and COPD (chromic obstructive pulmonary disorder). Then in 2004 the FDA named Serevent among the top five most dangerous prescription drugs on the U.S. market.

If you or a loved one has suffered from the adverse effects of Serevent, then you may be able to file a lawsuit against GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Serevent. GlaxoSmithKline was instructed by the FDA to put a black box warning on the drug about the potential side effects, but it did not comply and has yet to add the black box warning. This is willful negligence and if it has injured you, then you should be compensated financially to repay your medical expenses, lost wages and physical and emotional suffering.

You can buy Serevent here

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Birus's weblog

Skeletal Muscle Relaxants Uses, Efficacy, and Side Effects


Skeletal muscle relaxants are a heterogeneous group of medications. As a class, they are structurally and pharmacologically diverse. Muscle relaxants are used to treat two different types of underlying conditions:


  • spasticity from upper motor neuron syndromes

  • muscular pain or spasms from peripheral musculoskeletal conditions



Although muscle relaxants have by convention been classified into one group, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only a few medications in this class for treatment of spasticity. The remainder are approved for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

Drugs classified as skeletal muscle relaxants include:


  • baclofen (Lioresal)

  • carisoprodol (Soma)

  • chlorzoxazone (Paraflex)

  • cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)

  • dantrolene (Dantrium)

  • metaxalone (Skelaxin)

  • methocarbamol (Robaxin)

  • orphenadrine (Norflex)

  • tizanidine (Zanaflex)



Muscle relaxants for treatment of spasticity

Spasticity is a state of increased muscular tone with exaggeration of the tendon reflexes. Some of the more common conditions associated with spasticity and requiring treatment include multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and poststroke syndrome. In many patients with these conditions, spasticity can be disabling and painful with a marked effect on functional ability and quality of life.

The upper motor neuron syndrome is a complex of signs and symptoms that can be associated with exaggerated cutaneous reflexes, autonomic hyperreflexia, dystonia, contractures, paresis, lack of dexterity, and fatigability. Spasticity from the upper motor neuron syndrome can result from a variety of conditions affecting the cortex or spinal cord.

Only baclofen, dantrolene, and tizanidine are approved for treatment of spasticity. There is fair evidence that baclofen and tizanidine are roughly equivalent for efficacy in patients with spasticity, but insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy of dantrolene compared to baclofen or tizanidine. Tizanidine is associated with more dry mouth and baclofen with more weakness.

Muscle relaxants for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions

Muscle spasm is defined as a sudden involuntary contraction of one or more muscle groups and is usually an acute condition associated with muscle strain (partial tear of a muscle) or sprain (partial or complete rupture of a ligament). Common musculoskeletal conditions causing tenderness and muscle spasms include fibromyalgia, tension headaches, myofascial pain syndrome, and mechanical low back pain or neck pain. If muscle spasm is present in these conditions, it is related to local factors involving the affected muscle groups.

The skeletal muscle relaxants carisoprodol, chlorzoxazone, cyclobenzaprine, metaxalone, methocarbamol, and orphenadrine are approved for treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

Clinical studies show, that cyclobenzaprine, carisoprodol, orphenadrine, and tizanidine are effective compared to placebo in patients with musculoskeletal conditions (primarily acute back or neck pain). Cyclobenzaprine has been evaluated in the most clinical trials and has consistently been found to be effective.

Efficacy

Most studies have shown the skeletal muscle relaxants to be more effective than placebo in the treatment of acute painful musculoskeletal disorders and muscle spasm, while efficacy was less consistent when treating chronic disorders. When muscle relaxants were used alone, they were not consistently superior to simple analgesics in relieving pain. When the skeletal muscle relaxants were used in combination with analgesics, pain relief is superior to either agent used alone. Studies have suggested that these drugs are effective, have tolerable side effects, and can be an adjunct in the treatment of painful musculoskeletal conditions with associated muscle spasm.

No studies have documented superior efficacy of one skeletal muscle relaxant over another.

Side Effects and Adverse reactions


  • All skeletal muscle relaxants may cause sedation (drowsiness, dizziness).

  • Baclofen may cause severe central nervous system depression with cardiovascular collapse and respiratory failure.

  • Dantrolene has a potential for hepatotoxicity. Overt hepatitis has been most frequently observed between the third and twelfth months of therapy. Risk of hepatic injury appears to be greater in women, in patients over 35 years of age and in patients taking other medications in addition to dantrolene.

  • Carisoprodol has some potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

  • Cyclobenzaprine, closely related to the tricyclic antidepressants, causes the expected lethargy and anticholinergic side effects, and may have some toxicity in overdose and in combination with other substances.

  • Tizanidine may cause low blood pressure, but this may be controlled by starting with a low dose and increasing it gradually. The drug may rarely cause liver damage.

  • Methocarbamol and chlorzoxazone may cause harmless color changes in urine - orange or reddish-purple with chlorzoxazone and purple, brown, or green with methocarbamol. The urine will return to its normal color when the patient stops taking the medicine.



You can buy Lioresal here

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Ayven's weblog

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Abstinence Assisting Medications - Are they Effective?


ANTABUSE:

Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is an "aversive," serving as a physical and psychological deterrent for someone trying to stop drinking. It does not reduce the person's craving for alcohol, nor does it treat any alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Research in Europe, where Antabuse is much more widely used than in the United States, has shown that long-term use of Antabuse is effective in helping some people stop drinking, producing abstinence rates of up to 50 percent. The longer people take Antabuse, the more effective it is, because they develop a "habit" of not drinking, which reinforces the establishment of alternative coping skills and behaviors.

While not generally recommending the use of Antabuse, some individuals find it effective and its use isn't ruled out completely. If you are contemplating it as an option, however, please read the following very carefully and discuss the possibilities with your physician.

Antabuse works by interfering with the bodyГўпїЅпїЅs usual metabolic processing of alcohol into toxic acetaldehyde then into harmless acetic acid. Because of this, a build up of acetaldehyde five or 10 times greater than normally occurs when someone drinks alcohol. These high concentrations can cause reactions that range from mild to severe, depending on how much Antabuse and how much alcohol is consumed, along with individual tolerance of the drug.

If you drink while taking Antabuse, you may experience flushing, nausea, copious vomiting, sweating, thirst, throbbing headaches, respiratory difficulty, chest pain, hyperventilation, tachycardia, and distress. Severe reactions can include respiratory depression, cardiovascular collapse, myocardial infarction, acute congestive heart failure, unconsciousness, arrhythmias, convulsions, and death.

CAMPRAL:

Campral is prescribed as a "post_abstinence" or "anti-relapse" support medication. It has no effect on cravings, withdrawal, or other early intervention discomforts. The results of European studies seem to indicate a modest positive effect - compared to placebos - after abstinence has been attained, with relapse prevention benefits lasting few months. There are no such benefits for people seeking to moderate their alcohol use.

While recommending neither for nor against Campral, informed decision making suggests, at this time, a very modest long-term benefit from Campral in widening a person's "window of opportunity" for making change.

For some individuals even a very small increase in results is enough reason to seek medical assistance. Again, individual responses to medications vary greatly and you should explore what works best for you.

Even Campral's manufacturers note that it's effectiveness is directly related to participation in ongoing counseling.

There are no magic cures, no pills, for alcohol related problems, only opportunities for change. Success involves coordinated efforts in a variety of areas over a year or more, and poor planning will always be expensive in time, money, health, and other costs.

Pick your method of treating your alcohol related concerns with care, stay focused, and seek qualified help with a personally compatable philosophy.

You can buy Antabuse here

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Boogs's weblog

The Insider's Guide To Antihistamine Clarinex


Clarinex is a medication which can be taken year-round by those who suffer from allergies. It is also effective at treating those who suffer from hives or rashes. The active ingredient in this medication is desloratadine, which is an antihistamine. This blocks the immune system's production of the natural chemical histamine, which is produced when the body becomes sensitive to something.

Clarinex is effective at treating allergy symptoms produced from contact to both indoor allergens and outdoor ones. Anything from dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores, to pollen, grass or weeds can cause allergies.

Clarinex is widely used and popular because of its non-drowsy characteristic. Many antihistamines tell users to avoid machinery or driving while taking it, but Clarinex does not. This drug was also the first to boast that grapefruit juice did not affect its absorption.

It is also safe for most people who suffer form asthma to use this medication, although it is recommended that one contacts their doctor before mixing medications of any kind. Reported side effects include dry mouth, fatigue and a sore throat.

This medication comes in many forms which are taken according to age group, severity of symptoms, and other factors. The regular Clarinex tablets relieve symptoms for up to 24 hours and are safe for ages 12 and up. Clarinex 24-hour combines the power of antihistamine and decongestant for people with seasonal rhinitis and congestion. Children as young as 6 months of age can receive relief from indoor allergies, while children 2 and over can experience relief from outdoor ones, with the bubblegum flavored Clarinex syrup.

The syrup formula can also reduce the appearance of hives in children. Because many people are unable to easily take pills or tablets, Clarinex has provided a solution. For those who need another method, Clarinex Redi-tabs melt easily in the mouth. These also provide 24-hour relief and come in a fruit flavor.

The makers of Clarinex, Shering-Plough, claim that taking this medication in the morning will relieve symptoms all the way into the next morning when one awakes. This is a benefit, since many 24-hour solutions seem to wear off while one is sleeping.

Clarinex-D is a stronger formula which does require a prescription.

This also claims to have 24-hour relief all the way through to the next day. This member of the Clarinex family is for moderate to severe allergy sufferers.

You can buy Clarinex here

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Kestra's weblog

Feldene Medication - Uses and Side Effects


Feldene is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Feldene alternative name is Piroxicam. Feldene drug that are not approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. It is works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body and reduce the pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It is is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Most important fact about Feldene is few patients on long-term therapy, Feldene can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This medication may also be used to treat other conditions including gouty arthritis, arthritis of the spine, and muscle injuries.

Feldene can also cause liver damage. Feldene has been known to damage the kidneys. Drugs such as Feldene may cause eye disturbances in some people. Feldene must not be utilised to treat pains prior to or after a CABG surgery (Coronary Artery Heart Bypass). Feldene should be taken with or after food and avoid stomach upset. The usual maximum daily dose is 20 mg. In the case of menstrual cramps, an initial dose of 40 mg is sometimes taken followed by daily doses of 20 mg for three to four days. Piroxicam suppositories are also an alternative. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. Feldene and other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.

Uses of Feldene Medication

Feldene Medication take Feldene with food or an antacid with a full glass of water. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.Never take it on an empty stomach.if you take Feldene Avoid alcohol and aspirin and If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and never take two doses at the same time. Feldene Medication Store at room temperature. Protect from light and heat.

Side Effects of Feldene Medication

Feldene common many side effects may include is abdominal pain or discomfort, anemia, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas and vomiting. This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Others common or rare side effects may include is angioedema (swelling of lips, face, tongue and throat), anxiety, asthma, belching, black stools, blood in the urine, blurred vision, bruising, colicky pain, coma and confusion.

You can buy Feldene here

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Lews_Therin's weblog

Rising Demand For Herbal and Ayurveda Products


India is the known as the birthplace of Ayurveda as the great Himalayan mountain range, which forms its northern frontier, is also the source of many herbs that are used in Ayurvedic products. In today's globalization era more and more Indians are choosing to work outside India leading to a rise in the diaspora population. The swelling population of Indians across the globe has led to the popularity of Ayurveda, which in turn has led to a rise in the demand for Herbal Products. Herbal Products, which have been made by following the principles of Ayurveda, which is a five thousand year old system of medicine.

Preparations made from Plant extracts are sought after by patients all across the globe as they have minimal side effects. However, it would be an exaggeration that ayurvedic products have no side effects. Since Ayurvedic preparations are made from plant extracts they help in healing a complication in the natural way. Popular herbs, which are used in the preparation of medicinal formulations, include Amalaki, Arjuna, Ashvagandha, Brahmi, Karela, Lasuna, Neem, Shuddha Guggulu, Shallaki, Tagara, Triphala, Tulasi etc.

In view of the rising popularity of Ayurveda, major pharmaceutical companies who until now were involved in the manufacture of allopathic drugs have forayed into this market segment. The entry of organized players has led to increased investments in Drug manufacturing, R&D and Logistics. Ayurvedic drugs are now being produced in accordance with the established principles laid down by the regulatory authorities. So patients can be assured of the safety of a drug purchased from any of these companies. Distribution and marketing has improved as companies have spotted a huge opportunity in the overseas market. Patients located in any corner of the globe can order herbal products from the online storefront set up by these companies.

Popular Herbal formulations which have acquired popularity in foreign markets include Serpina, Liv.52, Bonnisan, Reosto, Menosan, PureHands, Himplasia. Apart from medicinal formulations other preparations made from herbal extracts like Acne-n-Pimple Cream, Anti-dandruff Hair Oil, Anti-dandruff Shampoo, Anti-wrinkle Cream, Baby Cream, Baby Lotion, Baby Powder, Diaper Rash Cream, Hair Loss Cream, Muscle & Joint Rub, Nourishing Baby Oil, Sunscreen Lotion.

These days, herbal products are not only used for the treatment of humans but also for animals. Ayurvedic drugs and therapies are also being prepared to alleviate the sufferings of animals and improve their heath. Improved health of livestock leads to animal and dairy products, which are safe for human consumption.

You can buy here

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Nadya Cubillan's weblog

Day Trading Stock Symbols - How To Decipher The Cryptic Day ...


Ticking symbols refer to the letter system which are representative of the stocks. They are needed to monitor and find security info. It is useful if you are offering a quote because you might be asked to enter a symbol for the transaction. These numbers and letters contain vital security information

The tick symbol of a mutual fund is composed of five letters that end with an "X". A prime example is FMAGX which represents Fidelity Magellan fund and the VFINX represents Vanguard's Index Five Hundred fund. If this acts as the funds on the money market, three letters ending with an 'X' are used instead..

Stock symbols which are listed on the NYSE or AMEX exchanges consist of three bills of exchange, while the Nasdaq uses four letters. But 5 letters are made use of in the case of Nasdaq when the stock contains more than 1 issue of a common stock, where the fifth letter would have a defined meaning.

The 5th letterticker symbols and what they mean.

A for Class A, B for Class B, C for Class C except for the issuer of qualification, the new edition by D, E on deposits SEC is delinquent, F denotes foreign, the first of convertible bonds G, H second convertible bond , I third convertible bonds, J denotes voting, K denotes Nonvoting , various situations L.

M preferred shares of the fourth class, N the preferred shares of the third class, O on preferred shares of the second class, P denotes preferred shares of the first class, the bankruptcy proceedings Q, R designates rights, S shares of beneficial interest,T denotes rights or warrants, mutual fund X, Y denotes ADR also known as American Depository Receipt, with Z for various miscellany situations.

Some stock symbols seem funny to some of us. It can be confusing when you get these symbols from your exchange.

Some of these are - AFL.BO invest a football locker room, CHIC is a trends stock, and CRZY is a title which is very volatile, CTCO.NS your money is being sought by the city of thugs , GEEK do something to oppose CHIC Stock, DABU.NS Saturday night lives must be avoided or forgotten, BNCO.NS honest focuses on the management of a company by a person.

EMCO.NS more disadvantages on a identity is moving, FUN investing stocks is both fun and play, FUSEX explanation is not necessary, GASEX mutual fund which is fighting flatulent, GODD people investing directly on future sins, suggests careful HIT because a hit decisions could be held in inventory, HUMP forget pump and dumping of stocks regimes, ICSEX speech by saying that it is lot better to see people dead or make love in Alaska, investor or IMAN MAN with a skewed sex, INSEX fund a lot of movement.

LMNE short of a title, because it could go wrong, LUV expression of what's love got to do with it, NEB. As likes stocks, stocks MORE.BO make you sweat, MRB.SN company is need for a BS_er what is good, MRFIX adding portfolio of the fund during breaks, PNSEX mutual funds strange golden shower, RATL toy manufacturer baby SRRY apologies to the stocks invested, URI multiple personalities stock WMNXX money market funds favorite by playboys and WSob stocks are becoming hot like sushi.

A little research will tell you what these symbols really mean. . Be aware, at times these symbols may be modified and changed so do remain up to date.

You can buy Gasex here

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mook's weblog