What is cabergoline? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Cabergoline is a synthetic ergot derived medication that acts on dopamine receptors in the pituitary gland which is located at the base of the brain. Cabergoline stimulates D2 (a specific type of dopamine receptor) receptors in the anterior pituitary gland and prevents the production of the hormone prolactin. The approval...
Alprazolam (Xanax) vs. Sertraline (Zoloft): Uses & Side Effects
Alprazolam (Xanax) vs. sertraline (Zoloft): What’s the difference? Alprazolam and Sertraline are used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Sertraline is also used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Brand names for alprazolam include Xanax and Niravam. A brand name for sertraline is Zoloft. Alprazolam and sertraline belong to...
What Is Epiglottitis? vs. Croup, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
What causes epiglottis? It is important to differentiate epiglottitis from a less serious condition called croup, which presents with similar symptoms. Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening illness characterized by inflammation of the epiglottis, which is a lid-like structure that covers the opening of the windpipe or trachea. What causes epiglottis? The epiglottis works to close the windpipe when swallowing, preventing...
What Is the Most Effective Core Exercise?
The core is a collection of muscles that stabilize, rotate and move the spine. A healthy core translates into a stronger lower back and better balance. The most effective core exercises are dead bug, side plank, front plant, vertical leg crunches, flutter kicks, Russian twists and the hollow body hold and hang. The core is a collection of muscles that stabilize, rotate...
What Is the Safest Form of Bariatric Surgery?
What is bariatric surgery? There are different forms of bariatric surgery, but they all aim to shrink the stomach and sometimes affect nutrient absorption to help the patient lose weight. Bariatric surgery is an operation on the digestive system to help an obese person lose weight. The surgery restricts calorie intake by reducing the size of the stomach. Some types...
tocilizumab, Actemra Side Effects, Dosage & Uses
What is tocilizumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tocilizumab is an injectable synthetic (man-made) protein that binds to interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the body and blocks the effects of IL-6 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the body's reaction to injury and is a necessary process for the repair of injury. IL-6 is a protein that the...
What Is an Occipital Nerve Stimulation Procedure?
What is an occipital nerve stimulation procedure? Occipital nerve stimulation is a therapeutic procedure to implant an electrical device that diminishes the function of the occipital nerve (the nerve to the back of the head) with the intention of reducing daily headaches and persistent migraines. The device consists of electrodes connected with insulated leads to a pulse generator that delivers...
What to Know About Spider Bites: Identification and Symptoms
What to know about spider bites Spider bites are rarely poisonous, but you should know which spiders are dangerous. There are many species of spiders around the world such as the jumping spider, wolf spider, brown recluse, black widow, hobo spider, tarantulas, false black widow, camel spider, etc. Most spiders don’t bite unless they are threatened. Some don’t even have...
What Is a Stroboscopy Test? Applications, Types, and Complications
A doctor may order a stroboscopy test to look for causes of voice problems, such as loss of voice, hoarseness, hemoptysis, and diagnose cysts or polyps. The stroboscopy test uses a rapidly flashing light to examine the voice-box (larynx) and the vocal cords. It is a quick procedure that helps in the diagnosis of the underlying problems that may be...
Should I Weigh Myself During My Period?
If you weigh yourself during your menstrual period, there are chances that the result may be higher than your actual weight. If you weigh yourself during your menstrual period, there are chances that the result may be higher than your actual weight. It is often normal to gain around 3-5 lbs just before period. You will lose this weight in...