What is telaprevir, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Telaprevir is a man-made antiviral medication that targets hepatitis C virus (HCV). Similar drugs include simeprevir (Olysio) and boceprevir (Victrelis). These drugs are called direct-acting antiviral agents because they act directly on hepatitis C virus. They block the replication of hepatitis C virus in human cells by binding to...
Turnera diffusa (Damiana): Facts About Side Effects
What is damiana (Turnera diffusa)-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Turnera diffusa is a natural herbal supplement. The exact mechanism of how Turnera diffusa works is not known. Turnera diffusa is believed to have stimulant, antidepressant, mood improving, libido enhancing, euphoric, and nervous system restorative properties. Individuals should consult their doctor before taking Turnera diffusa compounds. What...
valdecoxib, Bextra: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing
What brand names are available for valdecoxib? This drug has been discontinued. Brand name: Bextra
Tacrine: Side Effects and Dosing
What is tacrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tacrine is an oral medication used to treat patients with Alzheimer's disease. Tacrine is in a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors that also includes rivastigmine (Exelon), donepezil (Aricept), and galantamine (Razadyne – formerly Reminyl). Cholinesterase inhibitors inhibit (block) the action of acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme responsible for the destruction...
teriflunomide (Aubagio): Facts About Drug Side Effects
What is teriflunomide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Teriflunomide is an oral immunomodulatory agent used for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It inhibits dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an enzyme used to make pyrimidine which is used to build DNA. The exact mechanism of action of teriflunomide in the treatment of MS is unknown....
Urokinase (Kinlytic) side effects and uses
What is urokinase-injection, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Urokinase is a thrombolytic medication made from human neonatal kidney cells. Urokinase is an enzyme (protein) that disrupts the clotting cycle and breaks down blood clots lodged in the lungs in people with pulmonary embolism. The FDA approved urokinase under the brand name Kinlytic in 2007. Is urokinase-injection available...
Dilaudid vs. Fentanyl Strength Comparison for Pain, Dosage & Uses
Dilaudid (hydromorphone) vs. fentanyl quick comparison of differences Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and fentanyl are opioid narcotic pain-relievers used to manage pain in individuals whose pain its severe enough that it requires 24/7, long-term opioid treatment. Side effects of Dilaudid and fentanyl that are similar include: Lightheadedness Dizziness Drowsiness Nausea Vomiting Constipation Itching Headache Rash Weight loss A serious side effect...
dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Dextrostat, ProCentra): Dosing
What is dextroamphetamine-oral capsule, tablet, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Dextroamphetamine is a medication used for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. ADHD is a common disorder among children and teenagers that affects social, academic, and occupational functioning. Narcolepsy also is known as excessive daytime sleepiness, which is more common in adults. Dextroamphetamine is an amphetamine...
astemizole (Hismanal): Drug Side Effects and Dosing
What brand names are available for astemizole? Hismanal
rofecoxib (Vioxx): Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing
What is rofecoxib, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Rofecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat pain, particularly the pain of osteoarthritis and menstrual cramps. Prostaglandins are chemicals that are important in promoting inflammation and its signs–pain, fever, swelling and tenderness. Rofecoxib blocks the enzyme that makes prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase- 2) and thereby reduces...