Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) vs. carisoprodol (Soma): What’s the difference? Cyclobenzaprine and carisoprodol are muscle relaxants used with rest and physical therapy for short-term relief of muscle spasms associated with acute painful muscle and skeletal conditions. Brand names for cyclobenzaprine include Flexeril, Amrix, and Fexmid. A brand name for carisoprodol is Soma. Side effects of cyclobenzaprine and...
What is arnica (Arnica montana)-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Arnica montana is a homeopathic topical pain relief agent. Its mechanism of action is not well known. Arnica preparations have shown wound healing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain relieving properties. Arnica’s actions may be due to two chemicals called helenalin and dihyrdohelenalin. These...
Metformin vs. Insulin Metformin and insulin are used to treat diabetes. A difference is metformin is used to treat only type 2 diabetes, while insulin may be used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Metformin is also used to treat polycystic ovaries and weight gain due to medications used for treating psychoses....
What is oral passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)? What are the uses for oral passion flower? Passion flower is a plant used for making medicine to treat several conditions. Passion flower may have effects that are similar to benzodiazepines (for example diazepam [Valium]) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs (for example, selegiline). Passion flower has calming,...
What are the differences between Prilosec and Zantac? Prilosec (omeprazole) and Zantac (ranitidine) are used for the treatment of conditions such as ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) caused by stomach acid. Both drugs work in different ways to reduce stomach acid. Prilosec and Zantac are both available over-the-counter (OTC). Prilosec is a proton pump...
What is Lactated Ringer’s solution, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Lactated Ringer's is a sterile solution for fluid and electrolyte replenishment. It restores fluid and electrolyte balances, produces diuresis, and acts as alkalizing agent (reduces acidity). The FDA approved Ringer's solution in plastic containers in 1971. What brand names are available for...
What is promethazine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Promethazine is a phenothiazine in the same drug class as chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and trifluoperazine (Stelazine). However, unlike the other drugs in this class, promethazine is not used as an anti-psychotic. It used as an anti-histamine, sedative, and antiemetic (anti-nausea). The body releases histamine during...
What facts should I know about drug interactions? Whenever two or more drugs are being taken, there is a chance that there will be an interaction among the drugs. The interaction may increase or decrease the effectiveness of the drugs or their side effects. The likelihood of drug interactions increases as the number of drugs...
Lyrica (pregabalin) vs. Topamax (topiramate) similarities and differences Lyrica (pregabalin) and Topamax (topiramate) are anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) used to prevent epileptic seizures. Lyrica is also used to treat neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. Topamax is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Side effects of Lyrica and Topamax that...
Lyrica (pregabalin) vs. Cymbalta (duloxetine) Lyrica (pregabalin) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) are used to treat neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia, and fibromyalgia. Lyrica is also used in combination with other drugs to treat partial onset seizures in adults. Cymbalta is also used to treat depression and anxiety disorder. Lyrica and Cymbalta...