Metoprolol vs. diltiazem: What’s the difference? Metoprolol and diltiazem are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart pain (angina), and abnormal heart rhythms. Metoprolol is also used to treat congestive heart failure, hyperthyroidism, and some neurologic conditions, and to prevent migraine headaches. Brand names for metoprolol include Lopressor and Toprol XL. Brand names for diltiazem include Cardizem, Cardizem CD,...
Metoprolol vs. clonidine
Metoprolol vs. clonidine: What’s the difference? Metoprolol and clonidine are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Metoprolol is also used to treat heart pain (angina), congestive heart failure, hyperthyroidism, abnormal heart rhythms, some neurologic conditions, and to prevent migraine headaches. Brand names for metoprolol include Lopressor and Toprol XL. Brand names for clonidine include Catapres and Catapres-TTS. Metoprolol and...
Breast Lumps in Women: Symptoms, Signs, Causes, Types & Treatment
Facts you should know about breast lumps in women Picture of the anatomy of the breast Breast lumps can be caused by infections, injuries, non-cancerous growths, and cancer. Breast cancer usually causes no pain in the breast. The symptoms of breast cancer include painless breast lumps, nipple discharge, and inflammation of the skin of the breast. The chances that a...
Sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer): Uses, Ingredients & Formula
What is sodium bicarbonate? Sodium bicarbonate (Alka-Seltzer Heartburn Relief) is an alkalinizing agent (antacid) that reduces stomach acid. It is a commonly used antacid to treat heartburn, acid ingestion and upset stomach. Is sodium bicarbonate available as a generic drug? Yes. Do I need a prescription for sodium bicarbonate? No. Why is sodium bicarbonate prescribed to patients? Oral sodium bicarbonate...
How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your Body? Driving, Breastfeeding
Alcoholic Drinks Alcohol metabolism is the process by which the body breaks down and eliminates alcohol. Take a sip of alcohol and you may start to feel its effects right away. But it could take several hours or even longer for your body to fully break down that booze. Even after the breakdown is complete, alcohol can still affect how...
Tramadol vs. Vicodin (hydrocodone & acetaminophen) Side Effects
Tramadol vs. Vicodin comparison Tramadol (Ultram) and Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) are both prescription opioids and narcotics for pain, though tramadol is weaker. Vicodin is used for people with severe pain that don't experience pain relief from weaker opioids like tramadol or codeine. Vicodin is combined with acetaminophen, which is an analgesic and antipyretic and the active ingredient in Tylenol. Vicodin...
Hydralazine (Apresoline) vs. hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide)
Hydralazine vs. hydrochlorothiazide: What’s the difference? Hydralazine and hydrochlorothiazide are used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure (CHF). Hydralazine is also used to treat hypertensive crisis. Hydrochlorothiazide is also used to treat excessive fluid accumulation and swelling (edema) of the body caused by cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, corticosteroid medications, and nephrotic syndrome. A brand name for hydrochlorothiazide...
nateglinide (Starlix) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is nateglinide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Nateglinide is an oral drug used to lower blood sugar (glucose) levels in type 2 diabetes. It is in a class of drugs called meglitinides which also includes repaglinide (Prandin). Approximately 90% of patients with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs in adults and is...
Hydralazine (Apresoline) vs. clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay)
Hydralazine vs. clonidine: What’s the difference? Hydralazine and clonidine are used to treat high blood pressure. Hydralazine is also used to treat hypertensive crisis and congestive heart failure (CHF). Clonidine is also used off-label to treat alcohol withdrawal, smoking cessation, restless leg syndrome, Tourette’s syndrome, and opioid withdrawal. Hydralazine and clonidine belong to different drug classes. Hydralazine is a peripheral...
Tremors Causes, Types (Essential), Treatment & Prognosis
What are tremors? Stress or strong emotions can trigger tremors. Tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic muscle contraction leading to shaking movements in one or more parts of the body. It is a common movement disorder that most often affects the hands but can also occur in the arms, head, vocal cords, torso, and legs. Tremor may be intermittent (occurring at...