What is levocarnitine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Levocarnitine (Carnitor) is a naturally occurring substance that the cells of mammals need to produce energy. It is used to treat carnitine deficiency. Carnitine is a small protein that binds to and helps transport fatty acids into the mitochondria, the site of energy production...
What is hepatitis A vaccine? What are the uses for hepatitis A vaccine? Hepatitis A vaccine (Havrix, Vaqta) is used to prevent hepatitis A, a type of liver disease that is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is usually spread when a person ingests fecal matter from contact with food, drinks, or...
Intestinal gas definition and facts A Women With Painful Intestinal Gas The intestine normally contains gas that is rapidly transmitted through the small intestine to the colon (large intestine). The amount of gas that is normally present is dependent on the effects of colonic bacteria on the undigested food that reaches the colon and the...
Anal itching (pruritus ani) definition and facts Picture of Anus Anal itching is itching around the anus. Examples of possible causes of anal itching include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis), spicy foods, and medications. Additional symptoms associated with anal itching include burning and pain if the anal skin is traumatized by scratching. The diagnosis...
What is ulcerative colitis? Readers Comments 5 Share Your Story The cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the large intestine (colon) and the rectum and sores (ulcers) on the inner lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is thought to be an autoimmune disease,...
Hoarseness facts Hoarseness or raspy voice is a symptom with a number of different causes. Hoarseness is an abnormal change in the voice. The most common cause of hoarseness is acute laryngitis. The underlying cause of hoarseness can usually be diagnosed by a health care professional based on the patient’s history and physical exam. The...
What is budesonide (Entocort EC, Uceris)? Budesonide is a synthetic (man-made) steroid of the glucocorticoid family that is used for treating Crohn’s disease. What brand names are available for budesonide? Entocort EC and Uceris are brand names for budesonide in the US. Why is budesonide (Entocort EC, Uceris) prescribed to patients? Budesonide is used for...
What is mannitol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mannitol is a naturally occurring substance that causes the body to lose water (diuresis) through osmosis. Mannitol promotes diuresis in kidneys by increasing the concentration of filtrates in the kidney and blocking reabsorption of water by kidney tubules. The FDA approved mannitol in June...
What is diarrhea? Diarrhea is characterized as loose or runny stools that happen an abnormally high number of times throughout the day. Diarrhea can be linked to autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s or functional bowel disorders like irritable bowel syndrome, but is more often a sign of food intolerance (lactose is common), viral infection, food poisoning...
What is tacrolimus? What are the uses for tacrolimus? Tacrolimus, previously known as FK506, is a macrolide immunosuppressant produced by the bacteria Streptomyces tsukubaensis. Tacrolimus is used for the prevention of rejection of transplanted kidneys, liver, or heart. It can be combined with steroids, azathioprine (Imuran Azasan) or mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept). What brand names are...