What is fluticasone propionate-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The naturally-occurring corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the immune response. Similar drugs include betamethasone dipropionate (Diprolene), clobetasol propionate (Temovate), halobetasol propionate...
Cipro vs. Levaquin: Differences between Uses & Strength
Cipro (ciprofloxacin) vs. Levaquin (levofloaxacin) quick comparison Cipro (ciprofloxacin) and Levaquin (levofloxacin) are antibiotics that belong to a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Cipro and Levaquin are used to treat infections of the lungs, airways, skin, bones, and joints caused by susceptible bacteria. Both drugs are also used to...
What Are Barbiturates? Examples, Effects & Examples
What are barbiturates? Barbiturates are central nervous depressants. They reduce the activity of nerves causing muscle relaxation. They can reduce heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. All barbiturates affect gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter (chemical) that nerves use to communicate with one another. For what conditions are barbiturates prescribed? Barbiturates are medications used for treating headaches, insomnia, and seizures. Barbiturates...
Lemon Balm: Uses, Side Effects, and Benefits of Melissa officinalis
What is lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Lemon balm is a plant used as an herbal supplement. It may have antiviral activity against some viruses, for example, the herpes virus as well as calming effects. It active compounds in lemon balm are caffeic acid and tannins. What are the uses for lemon balm? Lemon...
Oral Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) Side Effects & Dosage
What is cyanocobalamin tablets, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cyanocobalamin or vitamin B12 is an essential B-vitamin that is classified as a water-soluble vitamin. Food sources of vitamin B12 include fish, shellfish, meats, and dairy products. Vitamin B12 is necessary for growth, reproduction of cells (for example, production of red blood cells, and the production of myelin...
Biorphen (phenylephrine hydrochloride): Side Effects & Warnings
Generic drug: phenylephrine hydrochloride Brand name: Biorphen What is Biorphen (phenylephrine hydrochloride), and how does it work? Biorphen (phenylephrine hydrochloride) is an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist used to treat clinically important low blood pressure (hypotension) resulting primarily from vasodilation in the setting of anesthesia. What are the side effects of Biorphen? Side effects of Biorphen include: nausea, vomiting, and headache...
Coumadin vs. Plavix Side Effects, Uses (AFib, Stroke) & Dosage
Coumadin vs. Plavix quick comparison of differences Coumadin (warfarin) and Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) are anticoagulant medications used to prevent blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Coumadin and Plavix also may be prescribed for people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) because AFib increases the chance of blood clots that can cause a stroke. Side effects of Coumadin and Plavix...
Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone): Benefits and Side Effects
What is coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone, ubidecarenone)-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is naturally produced in the body and is present in the heart, kidney, pancreas, and liver. It is a fat soluble antioxidant and an important chemical used in oxidative respiration for the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain both of which...
Betapace (sotalol) for Arrhythmias: Side Effects & Interactions
Generic drug: sotalol Brand name: Betapace What is Betapace (sotalol), and how does it work? Betapace (sotalol) is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of arrhythmias. Betapace may be used alone or with other medications. Betapace belongs to a class of drugs called Antidysrhythmics, II; Antidysrhythmics, III; Beta-Blockers, Nonselective. What are the side effects of Betapace? WARNING LIFE...
triamcinolone acetonide, Oralone Dental Paste Side Effects
What is triamcinolone dental? How is triamcinolone dental used? Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% dental paste is a prescription medicine used to treat painful lesions in the mouth. Triamcinolone is commonly used in various conditions and is available in oral, nasal, injectable, topical, ophthalmic injection, and spray preparations. Triamcinolone was first approved by the FDA in 1957. Like other corticosteroids, triamcinolone has...