What are Cox-2 inhibitors? Prostaglandins are made by two different enzymes, cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). The prostaglandins made by the two different enzymes have slightly different effects on the body. COX-2 inhibitors are NSAIDs that selectively block the COX-2 enzyme and not the COX-1 enzyme. Blocking this enzyme impedes the production of prostaglandins by the COX-2 which is more...
dalteparin injection (Fragmin) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is dalteparin injection, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Dalteparin is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) similar to enoxaparin (Lovenox) and tinzaparin. Dalteparin is used to treat or prevent blood clots and their complications (deep vein thrombosis or DVT and pulmonary embolism or PE). Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of blood clots in veins deep...
glycopyrrolate (Robinul): Surgery Drug Uses & Side Effects
What is glycopyrrolate, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Glycopyrrolate is a synthetic anti-cholinergic medication. Glycopyrrolate works by blocking acetylcholine activity on smooth muscles and other tissues. Acetylcholine is neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves use for communicating. Blocking of acetylcholine leads to decrease in volume and acidity of stomach secretions and decrease in pharyngeal, tracheal, and bronchial secretions....
Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) vs. Plan B (Levonorgestrel)
Birth control pills vs. Plan B: What’s the difference? Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and Plan B (levonorgestrel) are methods of birth control used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills are taken regularly to prevent pregnancy, while Plan B is emergency contraception (“the morning after pill”) used as backup contraception to prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours after unprotected...
Progesterone Gel (Crinone, Endometrin) Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is progesterone vaginal gel? What is progesterone gel used for? Intravaginal progesterone gel is used for supplementing or replacing progesterone in infertile women with progesterone deficiency who are receiving treatment utilizing assisted reproductive technology (ART).Progesterone intravaginal gel is also used for the treatment of secondary amenorrhea (absence of menses). Progesterone is a female hormone and is the principal progestational...
Clozapine (Clozaril, Fazacio ODT, Versacloz) Side Effects, Dosage
What is clozapine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Clozapine is an anti-psychotic medication that works by blocking receptors in the brain for several neurotransmitters (chemicals that nerves use to communicate with each other) including dopamine type 4 receptors, serotonin type 2 receptors, norepinephrine receptors, acetylcholine receptors, and histamine receptors. Unlike traditional anti-psychotic agents, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine)...
Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone): Birth Control Side Effects
What is medroxyprogesterone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Progestins and estrogens are the two major classes of female hormones. Medroxyprogesterone is a derivative of the naturally occurring female progestin, progesterone. Progestins are responsible for changes in the mucus and inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) during the second half (secretory phase) of the menstrual cycle. Progestins prepare...
bepridil (Vascor): Angina Drug Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What are the uses for bepridil? Bepridil is prescribed for patients with angina pectoris (heart pain) due to coronary artery disease. Vascor (bepridil hydrochloride) is indicated for the treatment of chronic stable angina (classic effort-associated angina). Because Vascor (bepridil) has caused serious ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes type ventricular tachycardia, and the occurrence of cases of agranulocytosis associated with its use (see WARNINGS), it should...
High Blood Pressure Drug List: Side Effects, Types & Names
What are the common types of high blood pressure (hypertension) medications? There are a number of types and classes of drugs available for the management and treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). Your doctor or other health care professional will prescribe a drug that fits your specific needs based on your medical condition, and any other existing health problems you...
propoxyphene/acetaminophen (Darvocet): Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is propoxyphene and acetaminophen? What is it used for? Propoxyphene and acetaminophen is indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain. It can also reduce fever. Propoxyphene is a strong narcotic pain-reliever and cough suppressant but is weaker than other narcotics such as morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone. The precise mechanism of action is not known but may involve stimulation...