What is cefaclor, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Cefaclor is a semi-synthetic (partially man-made) oral antibiotic in the cephalosporin family of antibiotics. The cephalosporin family includes cephalexin (Keflex), cefuroxime (Zinacef), cefpodoxime (Vantin), cefixime (Suprax), cefprozil (Cefzil) as well as many injectable antibiotics. Like other cephalosporins, cefaclor stops bacteria from multiplying by preventing bacteria from forming the walls...
Aspirin vs. Plavix (clopidogrel) Differences, Side Effects (Bleeding Risks), Benefits
Aspirin vs. Plavix (clopidogrel) quick comparison of differences Aspirin and Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) are drugs used to prevent blood clots. Aspirin and Plavix belong to different drug classes. Plavix is an anticoagulant and aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Aspirin also is used to reduce fever, and to treat pain and inflammation in the body. Side effects of Plavix...
hydroxyzine, Vistaril Uses (Anxiety) Side Effects, and Dosage
What is hydroxyzine (Vistaril)? Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties that is used to treat allergic reactions. What brand names are available for hydroxyzine? Vistaril is the brand name available for hydroxyzine in the US. Atarax and Hy-Pam25, Orgatrax brands have been discontinued and are no longer available in the US. Is hydroxyzine (Vistaril) available as...
calcitonin (Miacalcin) Hormone Injection & Nasal Spray
What is calcitonin? What is calcitonin used for? Miacalcin nasal spray is a calcitonin, indicated for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women greater than 5 years postmenopause when alternative treatments are not suitable. Fracture reduction efficacy has not been demonstrated. Limitations of Use: Due to the possible association between malignancy and calcitonin use, the need for continued therapy should be...
rosiglitazone, Avandia Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
What is rosiglitazone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Rosiglitazone is an oral drug that reduces the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It is used for treating patients with type 2 diabetes and is in a class of anti-diabetic drugs called thiazolidinediones. The other member of this class is pioglitazone (Actos). Insulin is a hormone produced...
Calcium Acetate (Phoslo): Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
What is calcium acetate, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Calcium acetate helps reduce phosphate levels in people with advanced kidney disease. People with advanced kidney failure retain phosphate leading to too much phosphate in their bodies (hyperphosphatemia). High phosphate levels cause hyperparathyroidism, which leads to abnormal bone formation and calcium deposits in tissues. Calcium acetate is a...
Ativan (lorazepam) vs. Versed (midazolam): Dosage, Side Effects
Ativan (lorazepam) vs. Versed (midazolam): What’s the difference? Ativan (lorazepam) and Versed (midazolam) are benzodiazepines used for sedation before surgical procedures and to treat insomnia. Ativan is also used to manage anxiety disorders, for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depression, to treat panic attacks, in combination with other medications to prevent nausea and vomiting...
atazanavir, Reyataz: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosage
What is atazanavir, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Atazanavir is an oral medication that is used for treating infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is in a class of drugs called protease inhibitors that also includes ritonavir (Norvir), nelfinavir (Viracept), indinavir (Crixivan) and saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase). During infection with HIV, the HIV virus multiplies...
EpiPen Side Effects, Uses, and Dosage
What is EpiPen, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? EpiPen is an auto-injectable epinephrine-containing device used for self-administration during life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Epinephrine, the medicine contained in EpiPen, is an excitatory chemical naturally made by our bodies. Epinephrine stimulates alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors found throughout the body. When injected during an allergic reaction, epinephrine works in...
Why Are Prophylactic Antibiotics Given During Head and Neck Surgery?
What are prophylactic antibiotics? Head and neck surgeries that involve the mucous membrane are particularly prone to infection, so doctors administer a strong dose of antibiotics before the procedure to head off potential infection. Prophylactic antibiotics are medications administered before most surgeries to prevent infection at the surgical site. The antibiotics protect the surgical wound from contamination by microorganisms present...