What is collagenase clostridium histolyticum, and what is it used for? Xiaflex is an injectable formulation of purified collagenase derived from the bacterium, clostridium histolyticum. It is used for treating Dupuytren’s contracture. A Dupuytren’s contraction is caused by an abnormal accumulation of collagen (scar) in the tissue beneath the skin of the palm of the hand. The collagen binds the...
Cialis (tadalafil) vs. Levitra (vardenafil): ED Drug Dosage & Side Effects
Cialis (tadalafil) vs. Levitra (vardenafil): What’s the difference? Tadalafil and vardenafil are phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor used to treat impotence (the inability to attain or maintain a penile erection) Tadalafil is also used to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Brand names for tadalafil include Adcirca and Cialis. Brand names for vardenafil include Levitra and Staxyn ODT. Side effects of...
Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) vs. Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone)
Birth Control Pills vs. Depo-Provera: What’s the difference? Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone) are methods of birth control used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills are taken orally and Depo-Provera is an injection administered every 3 months. Depo-Provera is also prescribed for missed menstrual periods (amenorrhea), abnormal uterine bleeding, endometrial cancer, and renal cancer. Side effects of...
Daratumumab for Multiple Myeloma: Drug Side Effects & Warnings
Generic drug: daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj Brand name: Darzalex Faspro What is Darzalex Faspro, and how does it work? Darzalex Faspro (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) is a prescription medicine used to treat adult patients with multiple myeloma: in combination with the medicines bortezomib, melphalan and prednisone, in people with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who cannot receive a type of stem cell transplant...
Vortioxetine (Trintellix): Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is vortioxetine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Vortioxetine (Trintellix) is an antidepressant used for treating a certain type of depression known as major depressive disorder (MDD). Vortioxetine decreases the reuptake of serotonin just like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It also stimulates various serotonin receptors in the brain. The exact mechanism by which vortioxetine helps to...
Deoxycholic Acid (Kybella) Side Effects & Effectiveness
What is deoxycholic acid (Kybella)? What is Kybella used for? Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) is an injectable medication used for reducing fat in the submental region of the face (below the chin). Deoxycholic acid destroys the cell membrane of fat cells causing fat cells to die. Reducing the number of fat cells reduces fat under the chin. It should not be...
Birth Control Pills vs. Condoms: Pregnancy Prevention Methods
Birth control pills vs. condoms: What’s the difference? Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and condoms are methods of birth control used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control pills are taken orally and are used by women only. Condoms are worn externally and there are condoms for both males and females. Side effects of birth control pills that are different from condoms...
Biologics: Definition, Side Effects, Uses & Drug List
What is a biologic drug (biologics)? A biologic drug (biologics) is a product that is produced from living organisms or contain components of living organisms. Biologic drugs include a wide variety of products derived from human, animal, or microorganisms by using biotechnology. Types of biologic drugs include vaccines, blood, blood components, cells, allergens, genes, tissues, and recombinant proteins. Biologic products...
glatiramer (Copaxone, Glatopa): MS Drug Side Effects & Dosage
What is glatiramer, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Glatiramer acetate injection (glatiramer) is indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. Glatiramer's mechanism of action is not completely understood. Available data suggests that it may work by modifying immune processes by suppressing T-cells (white blood cells of the immune system) that cause inflammation...
Daliresp (roflumilast) for COPD: Dosage, Side Effects & Pregnancy Safety
What is Daliresp (roflumilast) and how is it used? Daliresp is a prescription medicine used in adults with severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to decrease the number of flare-ups or the worsening of COPD symptoms (exacerbations). Daliresp is not a bronchodilator and should not be used for treating sudden breathing problems. Your healthcare provider may give you other medicine...