What is dong quai (Angelica sinensis)? What is dong quai used for? Dong quai is a plant and the root is used as a natural medicine to treat several conditions. Dong quai has some effects of estrogen and it may affect other hormones in the body. Dong quai also contain coumarins, which give it blood thinning effects in the body....
antipyrine/benzocaine (Auralgan, Aurodex) Side Effects and Dosage
What is antipyrine and benzocaine otic (Auralgan, Aurodex – discontinued)? Antipyrine/benzocaine is a combination product used for cleaning the ear canal and for treating middle ear infections. It reduces pressure, congestion, inflammation, pain, and discomfort in the ear. What brand names are available for antipyrine and benzocaine otic (Auralgan, Aurodex – discontinued)? On July, 2, 2015 the FDA asked all...
Caffeine Pills (Enerjets, No Doz, Vivarin): Side Effects & Dosage
What are oral caffeine tablets, and how do they work (mechanism of action)? Caffeine acts as a stimulant of the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase, just like theophylline and aminophylline. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to increased formation of the proteins which causes release of stimulating chemical signals known as neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters bind to various sites in the...
verapamil, Calan, Verelan: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosage
What is verapamil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Verapamil belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which includes amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia) as well as others. These medications block the movement of calcium into the muscle cells of the coronary arteries (the arteries supplying the heart with blood) as...
Aluminum Hydrochloride Deodorant Side Effects & Dosage
What is aluminum hydrochloride, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Aluminum hydrochloride is an astringent used in over-the-counter deodorants and antiperspirants. It is a powerful antiperspirant used for treating hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). Aluminum hydrochloride works by reducing the activity of sweat glands and may also shrink sweat glands. What brand names are available for aluminum hydrochloride? Drisol, Certain...
Isotretinoin (Accutane): Acne Prescription Side Effects & Dosage
What is isotretinoin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Isotretinoin is an oral drug used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. Acne is caused by inflammation of the skin. It primarily affects teenagers, but it also affects adults. Severe acne causes permanent scarring of the skin. The inflammation is caused in part by an increased secretion...
Wormwood: Supplement Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is wormwood? What is wormwood used for? Artemisia absinthium is shrubby plant; the flowers and leaves are used for medicine and flavoring for alcoholic drinks. Artemisia absinthium oil contains thujones which can stimulate the nervous system. Artemisia absinthium is promoted for treating digestive problems and worm infections. Individuals should consult their doctor before taking Artemisia absinthium compounds. Is wormwood...
passion flower (Passiflora incarnata): Herb Side Effects
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, sleep inducing, and muscle spasm...
telmisartan, Micardis: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing
What is telmisartan, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Telmisartan is a member of a family of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which includes losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), irbesartan (Avapro), and candesartan (Atacand). Angiotensin, formed in the blood by the action of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), is a powerful chemical that attaches to angiotensin receptors found in...
Ondansetron (Zofran): Anti-Nausea Drug Side Effects & Interactions
What is ondansetron oral disintegrating tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ondansetron is an anti-nausea medication most often used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Chemotherapy agents increase secretion of serotonin which stimulates serotonin (5-HT3) receptors in the brain, causing nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron works by selectively blocking serotonin (5-HT3) receptors, reducing the effect of...