By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Sleep News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — If you spend a lot of nights watching the clock instead of sleeping, new research suggests you may need to be as concerned about your heart health as you are about lost shut-eye. People with genetic variants linked to insomnia have […]
What is Intermezzo? What is zolpidem used for? Intermezzo contains a low dose of zolpidem, the same active ingredient in Ambien. Zolpidem belongs to a class of drugs called sedatives or hypnotics. Zolpidem shares some characteristics of a family of sedatives called benzodiazepines which includes diazepam (Valium). Benzodiazepines cause sedation, muscle relaxation, act as anticonvulsants […]
Latest Sleep News FRIDAY, Aug. 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Early to bed and early to rise? In its extreme form, this tendency is more common than previously believed, according to a new study. Going to sleep at 8 p.m. and waking up as early as 4 a.m. is called advanced sleep phase. It was […]
(HealthDay News) — A nap can improve mood, performance and alertness, says Mayo Clinic. But sleeping at the wrong time or for too long can backfire. Latest Sleep News Mayo suggests the best way to nap: Keep naps between 10 and 20 minutes. Take naps in early afternoon. Nap in a quiet, dark place with […]
What are benzodiazepines, and how do they work (mechanism of action)? Benzodiazepines are man-made medications that cause mild to severe depression of the nerves within the brain (central nervous system) and sedation (drowsiness). Seizures, anxiety, and other diseases that require benzodiazepine treatment may be caused by excessive activity of nerves in the brain. These drugs […]
What is zaleplon, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Zaleplon is a hypnotic (a medication that induces sleep) that is used for treating insomnia. It is chemically unrelated to the benzodiazepine class of medications for sleep, for example, lorazepam (Ativan), oxazepam (Serax), flurazepam (Dalmane), triazolam (Halcion), and temazepam (Restoril), but it has similar […]
Latest Sleep News WEDNESDAY, Aug. 7, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Kids may be sleeping in to rest up for the upcoming school year, but there are some big questions keeping experts up at night. Is lack of sleep among adolescents paving the way for future health problems? Are school bells ringing too early […]
What are oral caffeine tablets, and how do they work (mechanism of action)? Caffeine acts as a stimulant of the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase, just like theophylline and aminophylline. Inhibiting this enzyme leads to increased formation of the proteins which causes release of stimulating chemical signals known as neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters bind […]
By Alan MozesHealthDay Reporter Latest Sleep News THURSDAY, July 25, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Here’s a win-win for all those bath lovers who struggle with poor sleep: New research suggests a soak in the tub before bedtime may shorten the time it takes to fall asleep. A well-timed warm bath, or even a warm shower, […]
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Sleep News WEDNESDAY, July 10, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Most people consider their bed a safe haven, but new research suggests your body heat might trigger the release of potentially harmful chemicals from your mattress. Mattresses are known to release minute amounts of gaseous chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). […]
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
23August
2019
Research clearly shows that increasing physical activity, regardless of intensity, relates to a significantly lower risk of dying. Even light exercise, such as walking, can make a difference. Even taking a simple walk can make a difference to a person’s longevity. Researchers came to this conclusion after analyzing data from published research that had involved the use of wearable trackers to measure the physical activity in adults who were middle-aged and older. A recent BMJ paper gives a full account of the systematic review and meta-analysis. The analysis also reveals that sitting for more than 9.5 hours per day is linked to a significantly higher risk of early death. The findings largely confirm those of previous studies on links between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and longevity. According to the researchers, most health guidelines about minimum levels of exercise have relied mainly on studies that used self-reported levels of activity. The researchers note that their new investigation is significant because they only included those studies that measured physical activity using accelerometers. These wearable movement sensors can track the amount and intensity of activity during waking hours. Sedentary behavior and light exercise The team also wanted to clarify the effect of sedentary […]
23August
2019
As 5G wireless technology is slowly making its way across the globe, many government agencies and organizations advise that there is no reason to be alarmed about the effects of radiofrequency waves on our health. But some experts strongly disagree. Why do some people believe that 5G technology may harm our health? The term 5G refers to the fifth generation of mobile technology. With promises of faster browsing, streaming, and download speeds, as well as better connectivity, 5G may seem like a natural evolution for our increasingly tech-reliant society. But beyond allowing us to stream the latest movies, 5G has been designed to increase capacity and reduce latency, which is the time that it takes for devices to communicate with each other. For integrated applications, such as robotics, self-driving cars, and medical devices, these changes will play a big part in how quickly we adopt technology into our everyday lives. The mainstay of 5G technology will be the use of higher-frequency bandwidths, right across the radiofrequency spectrum. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission has auctioned off the first bandwidth — 28 gigahertz (GHz) — that will form the 5G network, with higher bandwidth auctions scheduled for later this […]
23August
2019
A new study followed adults from their mid-30s into their early 70s. It shows an association between blood pressure changes in early adulthood and midlife and brain changes at the endpoint of the study. At what age should we start monitoring people’s blood pressure? High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease. With around 15–20% of our blood going to the brain, the National Institute of Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), explain that “the blood flow that keeps the brain healthy can, if reduced or blocked, harm this essential organ.” A recent study, which Medical News Today featured earlier this month, indicates that intensive blood pressure treatment in mid-life — or lowering of systolic blood pressure to below 120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) — is linked to fewer white matter lesions in the brain in later life. White matter lesions are a sign of blood vessel damage in the brain and are a hallmark sign of aging and a risk factor for cognitive decline. In the United Kingdom, routine blood pressure monitoring starts around 40 years of age. Yet, researchers from University College London in the […]
23August
2019
New research dispels the prevalent notion that glucose drives inflammation in obesity-related type 2 diabetes. The findings may explain why so many treatments to prevent complications in type 2 diabetes have failed. Researchers used cell culture experiments to reveal that defects in the cells’ mitochondria, along with exposure to certain types of fats, drive inflammation in type 2 diabetes. Chronic inflammation is the root cause of many of diabetes‘ complications, including cardiovascular and kidney disease. Until now, the scientific consensus has been that glucose drives inflammation in type 2 diabetes. But new research counters this popular notion and points instead to high levels of lipids and defects in mitochondria — the tiny energy-reducing organelles inside cells. Barbara Nikolajczyk from the Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences at the University of Kentucky Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center in Lexington is the lead author of the new study. Nikolajczyk and her team started from the hypothesis that immune cells from people with type 2 diabetes would produce energy by breaking down glucose through the process of glycolysis. Glycolysis is a series of reactions that turn glucose into energy. Other types of inflammation also rely on this process. However, the results of the new […]
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
22August
2019
Whether the words of a story come from listening or reading, it appears that the brain activates the same areas to represent their semantics, or meaning, according to new research. Reading books and ‘listening’ to them activate the same brain areas. Using detailed brain scans, scientists at the University of California (UC), Berkeley, have created interactive 3D semantic maps that can accurately predict which parts of the brain will respond to particular categories of words. When they compared the semantic brain maps for listening and reading, the researchers found that they were almost identical. It appears that the brain’s representation of meaning does not depend on which sense acquires the words that convey it. A recent Journal of Neuroscience paper describes how the team came to this conclusion. The findings yield fresh insights into the complex brain activity of comprehension. They should also improve the understanding of language processing difficulties such as dyslexia. “At a time when more people are absorbing information via audiobooks, podcasts, and even audio texts,” says lead study author Fatma Deniz, a postdoctoral researcher in neuroscience at UC, Berkeley, “our study shows that, whether they’re listening to or reading the same materials, they are processing semantic […]
22August
2019
Scientists used data from more than 1.6 million people to link insomnia genes to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke but not atrial fibrillation. Does insomnia contribute to heart disease, or is heart disease a contributing factor for insomnia? Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with stroke coming in at number five. Maintaining a healthy heart is central to preventing heart or cardiovascular disease (CVD), and our sleep is part of this strategy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise that “most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night.” But what links sleep to our hearts? Experts have previously identified associations between poor sleep and heart disease. Earlier this year, Medical News Today featured a study that identified a significantly greater risk of death from heart disease in people who had high blood pressure together with insomnia and stress. So, what can another study add to the picture? Most population studies look for associations, but they cannot pinpoint cause and effect. While it may make sense to many people that poor sleep causes poor heart health, there is little data to confirm which is the chicken and […]
22August
2019
New research examines the link between maternal consumption of fluoridated water and lower IQs in their children. New research explores the possible developmental effects of fluoridated tap water. According to recent estimates, 66% of all United States residents receive fluoridated water through their taps. Adding fluoride to drinking water has been a public health practice for decades, with the main purpose of preventing tooth decay and preserving oral health. However, recently, there have been concerns about the safety of fluoride. Previous observational studies have found an association between exposure to fluoridated drinking water and lower intelligence scores in children. Furthermore, fluoride can cross the placenta, and it tends to accumulate in brain areas responsible for learning and memory. So, researchers — many from York University, in Toronto, Canada — have wondered whether a mother’s exposure to fluoridated tap water during pregnancy affects her offspring’s intelligence scores. Rivka Green, from York University’s Faculty of Health, is the lead author of the new study, which appears in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. The possible effects of fluoride in water Green and colleagues explain the motivation for their research, saying that while previous observational studies have found a link between drinking fluoridated water and […]
22August
2019
Despite its prevalence, scientists do not know why some people develop chronic pain. A new study approaches this question from all angles, exploring the role of money and the mind. Chronic pain affects more than 20% of adults in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chronic pain affects around 1 in 5 adults in the United States. Almost half of these people report that pain frequently limits their day-to-day activities. Scientists have linked chronic pain to opioid addiction, anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life, among other things. Over the years, researchers have attempted to understand chronic pain by approaching it from different angles. For instance, some have explored the sociological aspects of chronic pain, searching for societal risk factors such as lower income or employment status. Others have looked at the role of psychological traits. For instance, according to the authors of the latest study, some older studies have concluded that catastrophizing about pain and fear of pain are both “strong predictors of chronic pain.” In fact, the authors explain that many now consider psychological factors “better predictors of chronic pain disability than the actual injury itself.” However, few studies attempt to mesh […]
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
Fly bites can cause symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling. Fly bites differ depending on the type of fly. Learn more about fly bites here.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
21August
2019
Scientists have identified gene variants that appear able to alter the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by changing levels of a protein that is present in cerebrospinal fluid. A new study focuses on the variants of a single gene and their role in promoting Alzheimer’s. In a recent Science Translational Medicine paper, the international team describes how variants in the MS4A4A gene influence the risk of both early and late onset Alzheimer’s disease. The gene variants alter levels of a protein called TREM2, which helps the brain to clear away excess amyloid and tau. Toxic buildup of excess amyloid and tau proteins in the brain are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is a disease that impairs communications in the brain as it damages nerve cells, or neurons, and the connections between them. As the disease progresses, more and more neurons stop working and die. “The findings point to a new therapeutic strategy,” says co-senior study author of the latest study Carlos Cruchaga, Ph.D., a professor of psychiatry and director of the NeuroGenomics and Informatics Group at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. Changes in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease begins in parts of the brain that […]
21August
2019
“I feel like I’m being poisoned.” I will never forget the night I told my parents that I thought my breast implants were the cause of a decade’s worth of unexplained medical phenomena. The toxic effects of this unexplained condition affected my whole life. What started as a sudden onset of panic attacks 7 years ago transformed into a laundry list of debilitating mental and physical ailments that I was forced to cope with daily. The day before my explant surgery, I tallied 49 symptoms that I was actively experiencing. I had received misdiagnoses of mental health conditions, such as panic disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and most recently, bipolar disorder. I struggled with bouts of extreme insomnia, where I wouldn’t sleep at all for 2 to 3 days on end. Doctors had prescribed pretty much every combination of SSRIs, benzos, stimulants, and sleep medications on the market. The slew of debilitating side effects from these drugs landed me in the ER too many times to count. Physically, I experienced an onset of sudden food intolerances and allergies that caused digestive issues, such as acid reflux, GERD, and gastritis. I lived with symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as joint pain, […]
21August
2019
New research examines the effects of a few puffs of nicotine-free electronic cigarettes on endothelial function, a measure of blood vessel health. New research examines the short term effects of vaping nicotine-free e-cigarettes. As more and more people are trying to quit smoking, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are gaining popularity. According to the latest estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 12% of adults in the United States have tried e-cigarettes at least once in their lives, and almost 4% of U.S. adults use e-cigarettes on a regular basis. Advertisers promote e-cigarettes as a “more healthful” or less harmful alternative to conventional tobacco-based cigarettes. However, the long term health implications of prolonged e-cigarette use require more research. E-cigarettes typically use electric heating to deliver nicotine through aerosolization of an e-liquid. Some studies have questioned the safety of e-cigarettes, or “vaping,” but what are the effects of vaping nicotine-free e-cigarettes? New research, appearing in the journal Radiology, investigates this issue. Alessandra Caporale, a postdoctoral researcher in the Laboratory for Structural, Physiologic, and Functional Imaging at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, is the lead author of the study. Studying the short term effects of vaping Caporale and […]
21August
2019
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 hormone. Progestational hormones prepare the uterus (the womb) to receive and sustain the fertilized egg. Progesterone promotes the development of the mammary glands, causes changes in the endometrium, which lines the uterus, relaxes uterine smooth muscles, blocks ovulation within the ovaries, and maintains pregnancy. The FDA approved progesterone intravaginal gel in July 1997. What brand names are available for progesterone gel? Crinone, Endometrin Is progesterone gel available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for progesterone gel? Yes What are the side effects of progesterone gel? Crinone (progesterone) gel is a bioadhesive vaginal gel contained in single-use, one-piece polyethylene vaginal applicators. Crinone is indicated as treatment for infertile women with progesterone deficiency and women with secondary amenorrhea. Crinone is available as a generic drug. Common side effects of Crinone include: bloating, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, tired feeling, […]
21August
2019
Latest Pregnancy News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Pregnant women with lower concentrations of the trace mineral manganese or higher amounts of the metal cadmium in their blood may be more likely to develop preeclampsia, according to a new study. Preeclampsia is a leading contributor to illness and death for women during and immediately following pregnancy. There are very few ways to prevent the blood pressure-related condition, which has increased in the United States by 25% over the past two decades. In the new study published Tuesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers looked at a database of 1,274 Boston-area women who provided blood samples 24-72 hours after giving birth. Nine percent of the women had developed preeclampsia, according to their medical records. Researchers checked red blood cells for five types of trace minerals and heavy metals previously linked with preeclampsia. They found only two had significant associations: manganese and cadmium. Higher levels of manganese were associated with lower risk for preeclampsia. For cadmium, the higher the level, the higher the risk for preeclampsia. The association remained for both elements even after researchers adjusted for race, smoking status and other factors. No links […]
21August
2019
Latest Pregnancy News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A concerning number of U.S. women are exposed to the MRI contrast agent gadolinium early in pregnancy, a new study reveals. In many cases, this exposure occurs before women know they’re pregnant. The researchers said their findings underscore the need for effective pregnancy screening measures before using gadolinium, which can cross the placenta and enter fetal circulation. The “dye” is used in nearly half of MRI exams in the United States to make organs and tissue more visible on the resulting images. But its safety in pregnant women is unclear, and its use during pregnancy is not recommended unless it’s crucial to the health of the mother or fetus. Research about the possible risk to fetuses has been inconsistent. In this study, data on nearly 4.7 million live births in the United States between 2006 and 2017 found that gadolinium exposure occurred in one in 860 of those pregnancies. Most occurred during MRIs of the head, although researchers also reported a noteworthy number of pelvic and abdominal MRIs. Nearly three-quarters of exposures occurred during the first trimester, according to the study published Aug. 20 in the journal Radiology. “Unintended fetal […]
21August
2019
What is gabapentin enacarbil? How is gabapentin enacarbil used? Gabapentin enacarbil is used for treating restless leg syndrome (RLS) and postherpetic neuralgia. It is a prodrug of the anticonvulsant gabapentin, which means it is first converted to gabapentin in the body before it can have its effects. The mechanism of action of gabapentin in treating restless leg syndrome (RLS) or postherpatic neuralgia is not known. Gabapentin structurally resembles the neurotransmitter, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). (A neurotransmitter is a chemical that nerves use to communicate with one another.) It is possible that this similarity is related to gabapentin’s mechanism of action. In animal models used for testing the anti-seizure and anti-pain (analgesic) activities of drugs, gabapentin prevents seizures and reduces pain-related responses. The FDA approved gabapentin enacarbil in April 2011. What brand names are available for gabapentin enacarbil? Horizant, Gralise, Neurontin Is gabapentin enacarbil available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for gabapentin enacarbil? Yes What are the side effects of gabapentin enacarbil? The most common side effects of gabapentin enacarbil are: Gabapentin enacarbil may cause significant driving impairment. Fluid retention, hostility, nausea and vomiting also occur. Other adverse events associated with gabapentin enacarbil include: Gabapentin enacarbil […]
21August
2019
By Amy NortonHealthDay Reporter Latest Mental Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — As air quality declines, the prevalence of mental health conditions may rise, a large, new study suggests. Looking at data on millions of people in the United States and Denmark, researchers found correlations between air pollution exposure and rates of certain psychiatric disorders. In both countries, poorer air quality was linked to a slightly heightened risk of bipolar disorder. And in Denmark — where childhood data was available — people who were exposed to polluted air in the first 10 years of life had increased risks of depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. The big caveat: None of that proves air pollution is to blame. “These are only correlations,” said Dr. John Ioannidis, a professor of medicine at Stanford University in California. “Inherently, data like these will never give you conclusive answers.” Ioannidis wrote an editorial published with the study Aug. 20 in the journal PLOS Biology. At this point, he said, the findings are an “interesting observation” that can spur more research. “If there really is a link, that would be very important,” Ioannidis said. Andrey Rzhetsky, senior researcher on the study, agreed that the […]
21August
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Mental Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — “Red flag” laws that allow police to take guns away from people who’ve threatened mass shootings are designed to save lives, but do they? A small, preliminary study suggests they do. The analysis of 21 different incidents found that none of the threatened shootings occurred after people reported the threat to law enforcement and police confiscated the guns from the potential perpetrator. “While we can’t prove the orders were the things that prevented these shootings, none of them occurred,” said lead researcher Dr. Garen Wintemute. He is director of the violence prevention research program at the University of California, Davis. “The next time something like this happens, I would be recommending get the order and get the guns out of the situation.” The finding comes not a moment too soon. Over the course of a single weekend in early August, two mass shootings in two American cities occurred within 24 hours of each other. In El Paso, Texas, 22 people were killed and 24 were injured in a Walmart store, while nine people were killed and 27 people were injured in a Dayton, Ohio, bar. […]
21August
2019
What is butorphanol? What is butorphanol used for? Butorphanol is a synthetic opioid narcotic pain reliever. It prevents pain in a similar way as morphine (MS Contin), hydrocodone (Zohydro), oxycodone (Oxycontin), and other opioids. Like other opioids, it stimulates receptors in the brain to increase the threshold to pain (the amount of stimulation it takes to feel pain) and reduce the perception of pain (the perceived importance of the pain). The FDA approved butorphanol in August 1978. What brand names are available for butorphanol? Stadol Is butorphanol available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for butorphanol? Yes What are the side effects of butorphanol? The most frequent adverse reactions include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and nasal congestion and insomnia with the nasal preparation. Patients may also experience palpitations, flushing, anxiety, confusion, euphoria, headache, nervousness, tingling sensation in limbs, cold/clammy skin, sweating, itchiness, anorexia, constipation, stomach pain, dry mouth, tremor, weakness, blurred vision, ringing in ears, and difficulty breathing. Butorphanol is habit forming. Mental and physical dependence can occur when used long-term. SLIDESHOW Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Exercises Slideshow: Joint-Friendly Fitness Routines See Slideshow What is the dosage for butorphanol? The initial dose for adults is based on […]
21August
2019
What is the hepatitis B/hepatitis A vaccine and what is it for? Hepatitis A/B vaccine is a man-made combination vaccine containing inactivated hepatitis A virus strain and non-infectious hepatitis B virus surface antigen. Inactive Hepatitis A virus combined with hepatitis B antigens stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against hepatitis A and B virus infections. The FDA approved hepatitis A/B vaccine in May 2001. What brand names are available for hepatitis B/hepatitis A vaccine? Twinrix Is hepatitis B/hepatitis A vaccine available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for hepatitis B/hepatitis A vaccine? Yes What is the dosage for hepatitis B/hepatitis A vaccine? Adults of 18 years of age or older: Standard dosing: Standard dosing schedule consists of 3 doses of 1 ml each. Administer 1 ml, intramuscularly on deltoid muscle, at 0, 1, and 6 months. Accelerated dosing: Accelerated dosing schedule consists 4 doses of 1 ml each. Administer 1 ml intramuscularly into the deltoid muscle on days 0, 7, and 21 to 30, followed by a 4th dose at month 12. Safe and effective use of hepatitis A/B vaccine in patients younger than 18 years of age has not been established. Which drugs or […]
21August
2019
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Aug. 21, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Asian heart failure patients who also have type 2 diabetes can develop changes in the structure of their heart and are at increased risk for hospitalizations and premature death, a new study finds. Diabetes is on the rise worldwide, and it’s common for patients to have both diabetes and heart failure. There has been extensive research into the combination among Western patients, but less is known about its effect on Asian people. To learn more, an international team examined data from about 6,200 heart failure patients enrolled in the ASIAN-HF study. The analysis found that having both type 2 diabetes and heart failure was associated with structural abnormalities in the heart; increased risk of heart-related re-hospitalizations and/or death within one year; and poorer quality of life. More than 40% of patients studied had diabetes, with the highest rates in Singapore and Hong Kong, the investigators found. The study was published online Aug. 21 in the Journal of the American Heart Association. “Primary prevention strategies and tailored treatment options are needed to tackle this twin scourge of diseases,” study co-author Jonathan Yap said in a journal news release. He’s a consultant […]
21August
2019
By Steven ReinbergHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — When you stop smoking, your heart starts to rebound right away, but a full recovery can take as long as 15 years, a new study suggests. “The benefit of quitting smoking cannot be overstated — the cardiovascular system begins to recover quickly, with some physiologic changes happening within hours,” said lead researcher Meredith Duncan, of the division of cardiovascular medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. Duncan and her team found that within five years after quitting, your risk of heart disease is significantly lower than that of people who continue to puff away. But it takes 10 to 15 years before your risk is similar to that of someone who never smoked. Experts have long thought that an ex-smoker’s risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure or death from heart disease returns to normal within five years. Given this new finding, Duncan said doctors should consider that heavy smokers who stop will have a higher-than-normal risk for heart problems for at least a decade. “Full recovery may take several years, so today is a great day for current smokers to quit smoking, and […]
21August
2019
Latest Heart News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Kurt Lefteroff knew Cheryl Murdock for nine years before they started dating in September 2001. She was 42 and seemed perfectly healthy. He didn’t know that when Murdock was in sixth grade, she was diagnosed with a heart condition. He didn’t know she had taken medications to manage that heart issue for 30 years. And he didn’t know about the episode that happened two months earlier. While on vacation, atrial fibrillation caused her heart to beat quickly and irregularly for several days. Doctors used electric shocks to restore her normal heart rhythm and recommended she follow up with her cardiologist at home in Arizona. Lefteroff learned all this in late October, when Murdock had a second episode. She went on medication for almost a year, then received a pacemaker. Lefteroff, meanwhile, had to decide whether to continue the journey they’d begun. He did, and they became engaged in 2005. But Murdock didn’t want to get married until she felt better. By 2009, her heart condition worsened, and her lungs were gradually failing too. Lefteroff feared Murdock may never feel strong enough to marry. So he took her on […]
21August
2019
Source: Getty Images Atrial fibrillation definition and facts Atrial fibrillation (also referred to as AFib or AF) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation is caused by abnormal electrical discharges (signals) that generate chaotically throughout the upper chambers of the heart (atria). It reduces the ability of the atria to pump blood into the ventricles, and usually causes the heart to beat too rapidly. One-half million new cases of AFib are diagnosed every year in the U.S., and billions of dollars are spent annually on its diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms of the condition include: Some people have no signs or symptoms. Complications of atrial fibrillation include heart failure and stroke. Physical examination, electrocardiogram, Holter monitor, or patient-activated event recorder can make and confirm the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Treatment for the condition is directed toward controlling underlying causes, slowing the heart rate and/or converting the heart to normal rhythm, and stroke prevention using blood-thinning medications. Medications are commonly used in the longer term to control or prevent recurrence of AF, but medications may not be effective and may have intolerable side effects. Electrical cardioversion is successful in over 95% of individuals with AF, but 75% of […]
21August
2019
What is sofosbuvir and velpatasvir? What is sofosbuvir and velpatasvir used for? Epclusa is an oral tablet containing two drugs used for the treatment of chronic infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), genotype 1,2,3,4, 5, or 6 in adults. The components belong to a class of drugs called direct-acting antiviral agents. Similar drugs include Epclusa contains velpatasvir and sofosbuvir. Sofosbuvir is converted to an active form in the body before it is effective. The active form of sofosbuvir directly blocks replication of the HVC by interfering with a hepatitis C virus enzyme called NS5B. Velpatasvir is an inhibitor of another hepatitis C virus enzyme called NS5A, which also is needed for viral replication. Both drugs in Epclusa interfere with enzymes needed by hepatitis C virus to multiply and make new viruses, thus reducing the overall viral load. Epclusa does not require administration with interferons or ribavirin (Rebetol) except when used to treat patients with decompensated cirrhosis. In some clinical studies, 98%-100% of patients were cured after 12 weeks of Epclusa treatment. Cure was defined as undetectable levels of hepatitis C virus in the blood when measured three months after the completion of treatment. Epclusa was approved by the FDA […]
21August
2019
WEDNESDAY, Aug. 21, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency’s announcement that it won’t vaccinate migrants is being slammed by public health experts. Latest Cold and Flu News Since December, three migrant children in U.S custody have died after coming down with the flu, CNN reported. “In general, due to the short-term nature of CBP holding and the complexities of operating vaccination programs, neither CBP nor its medical contractors administer vaccinations to those in our custody,” a CBP statement released Tuesday said. Even though migrants are supposed to be held in CBP custody for a maximum of 72 hours, many remain for longer, CNN reported. The CBP should be able to vaccinate migrants, even if they’re in custody for only a few days, public health experts say. “I think their answer is completely inappropriate,” Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University and an adviser to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told CNN. “They ought to be able to do this. They create facilities that encourage the spread of infectious agents, with flu at the top of the list,” Schaffner said. In a letter to the heads of the Department […]
21August
2019
What is pseudoephedrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used for reducing nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. Pseudoephedrine causes blood vessels in the nasal passages to shrink (vasoconstrict). Vasoconstriction reduces nasal congestion by preventing fluid from draining from blood vessels into nasal passages. Pseudoephedrine also directly stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors and causes relaxation of bronchioles, as well as increased heart rate and contractility. The FDA approved pseudoephedrine in August 1975. What brand names are available for pseudoephedrine? Sudafed, Nexafed, Zephrex-D Is pseudoephedrine available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for pseudoephedrine? No What are the uses for pseudoephedrine? Pseudoephedrine is used for treating nasal and sinus congestion caused by the common cold or allergies. What is the dosage for pseudoephedrine? The recommended dose is 60 mg every 4 to 6 hours when using immediate release tablets. When using extended release tablets the recommended dose is 120 mg every 12 hours or 240 mg every 24 hours. Which drugs or supplements interact with pseudoephedrine? Pseudoephedrine should not be combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) because such combinations may cause an acute hypertensive episode. Examples of MAOIs include rasagiline […]
21August
2019
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Chronic Pain News WEDNESDAY, Aug. 21, 2019 (HealthDay News) — You suffered an injury that has sidelined you from exercise, but you dodged a bullet — your doctor has said that you don’t need surgery. Instead, he or she prescribes physical therapy, most likely to start after a rest period to give any inflammation time to subside. At that point, you’re probably feeling better and wondering if you need the rehab after all. Here’s why it’s important to go through with the program and not just jump back into your old routine. Physical therapy programs are customized to your needs with specific exercises designed to help you heal, return to the activities you love and keep you from re-aggravating your injury. You’ll benefit from one-on-one attention, important since each person responds differently to an injury and improves at his or her own speed. Other goals include reducing pain and improving flexibility, mobility and range of motion. If surgery is still a question mark, going through physical therapy may help you avoid it. Your physical therapist will continually assess your recovery and adapt exercises as you progress from the repair phase, in which your body repairs […]
21August
2019
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Cancer News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Mutations in two genes — BRCA1 and BRCA2 — are known to significantly increase the risk of breast cancer, but experts have long debated which women should be tested for them. New recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) may help clarify who can benefit most from a risk assessment test. If a woman has a high risk, the task force recommends she see a genetic counselor and possibly be tested for the BRCA mutations. “Breast cancer is very prevalent, but the BRCA founder mutations are rare, occurring in less than 1% of all women,” explained task force member Dr. Carol Mangione, a professor of medicine and public health at the University of California, Los Angeles. Deciding whether to have a test for these mutations is “a complex decision with a lot of pros and cons to weigh,” she said. “Women who are known to be positive sign up for some pretty dramatic surgeries and medications.” For example, women with a BRCA mutation might have both breasts removed to prevent cancer from developing. “In women who don’t have an increased risk [of a BRCA […]
21August
2019
A recent study looking for a link between antibiotics and cancer risk uncovers a complex relationship. The researchers conclude that there is an association between antibiotic use and an increase in colon cancer risk, but a decrease in rectal cancer risk. A new study finds an association between antibiotics and certain cancers. With the advent of antibiotic resistance, doctors are more conscious than ever before of limiting these drugs. However, the use of antibiotics continues to grow globally. From 2000–2010, consumption increased by 35% to 70 billion doses each year. That equates to 10 doses for each human on earth. These staggering figures are the fuel that drives researchers to understand the impact of antibiotics on human health better. Over recent years, scientists have begun to appreciate the significant role that gut bacteria play in maintaining a healthy body. Likewise, because antibiotics kill gut bacteria, they have the potential to make a lasting impact on human health. In short, if antibiotics kill off a colony of “good” bacteria, it leaves a niche for “bad,” or pathogenic bacteria to colonize. These pathogenic bacteria include ones that can be carcinogenic. Moving forward with the research base Earlier research has found associations between […]
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
20August
2019
Some studies have identified links between sleep apnea and cancer. Now, new research reveals that rates of cancer are higher among females with pronounced symptoms of apnea. New research finds that women with a severe form of sleep apnea are more likely to receive a cancer diagnosis. The recent study, which features in the European Respiratory Journal, analyzed data on 20,000 adults with sleep apnea. About 2% of the participants also had a diagnosis of cancer in their medical history. The data came from the European Sleep Apnea Database (ESADA), which has medical and visit records on adults registered at 33 centers across Europe. The international research team points out that while the findings do not prove that sleep apnea causes cancer, there appears to be a clear link in females. “It’s reasonable to assume that sleep apnea is a risk factor for cancer or that both conditions have common risk factors, such as [being] overweight,” says Ludger Grote, an adjunct professor and chief physician in sleep medicine at Gothenburg University in Sweden. “On the other hand,” he adds, “it is less likely that cancer leads to sleep apnea.” Obstructive sleep apnea Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or sleep apnea, is […]
20August
2019
New research finds differences in the gut microbiome of children who are at high genetic risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The findings suggest that certain species of bacteria may have a protective effect in autoimmune conditions. New research examines the gut flora of children and their genetic risk of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that can develop at any age. However, it tends to occur in early adulthood, childhood, or adolescence. According to recent estimates, there are 1.3 million adults in the United States living with diabetes. Although the causes of type 1 diabetes are not yet known, there are many risk factors for this metabolic condition. For example, researchers have linked a handful of genes to this condition. These genes help create proteins with a key role in the immune system, and they account for 40% of the genetic risk of type 1 diabetes. However, only a small percentage of people with these genetic variants go on to develop the condition. In fact, only 5% of people with variations in so-called HLA genes develop type 1 diabetes. This is because environmental factors also play a key role. The composition of the gut microbiota is one […]
20August
2019
Despite decades of research, Alzheimer’s disease still holds many mysteries. A recent study asks whether spontaneous changes to the chemistry of proteins might help explain the neurological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s. A new study looks at the chemistry of Alzheimer’s-related proteins. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia; it currently affects an estimated 5.5 million people in the United States. As it stands, there is no cure, and researchers are still trying to come to grips with what makes Alzheimer’s tick. The main focus of medical research has been plaques and tangles, the protein-based markers of the Alzheimer’s brain. A recent paper, published in ACS Central Science, asks whether these features might occur due to what they refer to as “spontaneous chemistry.” Plaques and tangles Plaques consist of a protein called beta-amyloid. Usually, this protein is cleared away by cells, but in the Alzheimer’s brain, it sticks together in clumps between nerve cells. A protein called tau forms neurofibrillary tangles, which develop inside brain cells. Tau is associated with microtubules, which are long, thin, tubular structures that provide support to the cell. In Alzheimer’s, tau is altered, and microtubules cannot form correctly; instead, they form twisted filaments. Despite a […]
20August
2019
TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Having children can make you happier, but only when you’re older and if your children have moved out, a new study finds. Latest Healthy Kids News Researchers surveyed 55,000 people, 50 and older, in 16 European countries about their mental health and found that the “the positive aspects of parenthood dominate when getting older,” CNN reported. One of the main reasons for that conclusion is that children offer a form of social support, according to the authors of the study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They noted that social support networks are associated with greater happiness and less loneliness and can provide a cushion against stressful events, CNN reported. “As stress associated with balancing the competing demands of childcare, work and personal life decreases, once people get older and their children leave (home), the importance of children as caregivers and social contacts might prevail,” study leader Christoph Becker, Heidelberg University, Germany, and colleagues wrote. The study also found that having children who still live at home can harm older parent’s mental well-being, CNN. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SLIDESHOW Childhood Diseases: Measles, Mumps, & More See […]
20August
2019
Latest Heart News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The Barostim Neo System was granted U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to treat symptoms of patients with advanced heart failure who are not candidates for treatment with other devices such as cardiac resynchronization therapy, the agency announced on Friday. The device includes a pulse generator implanted below a patient’s clavicle and connected to a lead attached to the carotid artery. A physician tests and programs the device after implantation. The Barostim Neo System delivers electrical impulses to baroreceptors to ultimately inhibit production of stress-related hormones and reduce heart failure symptoms. Indications for treatment with the device include regular heart rhythm, not being a candidate for cardiac resynchronization therapy, and left ventricular ejection fraction of ≤35 percent. Contraindications include anatomy that could impair device implantation, certain nervous system disorders, uncontrolled and symptomatic slow heart rate, atherosclerosis, and a known allergy to silicone or titanium. Approval of the device was based on data from a prospective, multicenter, two-arm, randomized clinical trial of 408 patients with advanced heart failure. All patients received guideline-directed medical therapy and medication, and 125 patients also received the Barostim Neo System implant. Those who received the device […]
20August
2019
What is thalidomide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Thalidomide is an oral medication used for treating the skin conditions of leprosy, a disease caused by a parasite, Mycobacterium leprae. The mechanism of action of thalidomide is not well understood. The immune system reaction to Mycobacterium leprae plays an important role in producaing the skin manifestations of leprosy. Scientists believe that thalidomide modifies the reaction of the immune system to Mycobacterium leprae and thereby suppresses the skin reaction. Thalidomide also is being evaluated as a treatment for HIV and several other conditions. Thalidomide was approved by the FDA in July 1998. What brand names are available for thalidomide? Thalomid Is thalidomide available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: No Do I need a prescription for thalidomide? Yes What are the uses for thalidomide? Thalidomide is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of skin conditions that result from leprosy, and multiple myelomas. Off-label uses include the treatment of tuberculosis, aphthous ulcers, HIV-wasting syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and Kaposi’s sarcoma. Latest Skin News Daily Health News Trending on MedicineNet Is thalidomide safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding? Thalidomide is very harmful to the fetus. Therefore, thalidomide should be avoided […]
20August
2019
What is adapalene, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Adapalene is a gel used for the treatment of acne vulgaris (pimples). The exact mechanism of action is not known. Scientists believe that when adapalene is applied to the skin, it affects the growth of skin cells and thereby reduces the formation of pimples. What brand names are available for adapalene? Differin Is adapalene available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes Do I need a prescription for adapalene? Yes What are the uses for adapalene? Adapalene is a gel prescribed for the treatment of acne (pimples). What are the side effects of adapalene? The most common side effects of adapalene are: irritation, redness, dryness, and itching flares of acne. Most of these side effects lessen with continued use; however, if they are bothersome, decreasing the frequency with which adapalene is applied may reduce these side effects. Adapalene may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sun and lead to sunburn. Excessive sun exposure should be avoided, and sunscreens should be used over the treated areas if exposure to the sun cannot be avoided. Adapalene should not be applied to sunburned skin, cuts, eyes, nose, or lips. What is […]
20August
2019
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Sexual Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Are you having enough sex? It’s a loaded question. “Enough,” like “a lot,” means different things to different people — it could mean every night, twice a week or twice a month. Many studies have tried to pinpoint how often the average couple has sex, how that number might change at various stages in a relationship and the ideal amount for happiness. But one of the most interesting takeaways from recent research is that enough sex is whatever amount brings both sexual and marital satisfaction to both partners. It’s not the number of times detailed in a magazine article or how often your best friend and his or her partner are having it. And more isn’t always better. In fact, according to one study, couples who have a lot of sex but feel like they’re just going through the motions or that the sex is dull aren’t happier or more satisfied with the sex or their relationship. So what are the secrets of satisfied couples? They’re things that focus on the quality of sex, not the quantity. This includes being in sync with your partner […]
20August
2019
Latest Senior Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Driving is a source of independence for many seniors, so determining when they should hang up the keys requires careful consideration, an expert says. “Driving retirement is a normal part of aging, and should be carefully considered and discussed openly,” said Dr. Ericka Tung, an internist and geriatrician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. “Primary care providers are uniquely poised to counsel patients about driving safety because they understand their patients’ health conditions, capacities, challenges and goals,” Tung said in a clinic news release. She is lead author of a paper in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings that examines the issue. There’s no single test to determine whether an older person should continue driving, but health care providers can look at several areas of physical and mental functioning to assess a senior’s driving fitness. Those areas are vision, including depth perception and visual fields; thinking skills, including changes in memory, attention or language; mobility and physical function, including range of motion and coordination of the neck, upper body and lower body; health conditions that could affect the ability to safely operate a vehicle, and medications that could impair […]
20August
2019
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Senior Health News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Large pills and dietary supplements can be tough for anyone to swallow, but new research finds they may pose a potentially dire risk to seniors. A study from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found that between 2006 and 2015, almost 4,000 people had trouble swallowing dietary supplements that was serious enough to report. Three people died after choking on them. More than three-quarters of the swallowing issues occurred in people over age 65. “Elderly patients face a real dilemma when it comes to weighing the risk and benefits of taking vitamin supplements,” said geriatric emergency medicine specialist Dr. Teresa Amato. “On the one hand, we know that taking a proper amount of supplements such as calcium and vitamins can lead to a more active life for the elderly. However, the actual intake of these supplements may increase a common hazard, namely choking and aspiration,” she said. Amato was not involved in the current research, but reviewed the findings. She’s chair of emergency medicine at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills in New York City. A previous study in the journal Dysphagia estimated that 15% of […]
20August
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Pregnancy News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Fluoride exposure from drinking water during pregnancy could be making children less intelligent, a new Canadian study argues. Expectant moms with higher levels of fluoride in their urine tended to have kids with lower average IQs, based on a study of 601 mother-child pairs from six cities in Canada. On average, a 1 milligram-per-liter increase in maternal urinary fluoride was associated with a 4.5-point lower IQ score in boys by the time they reached ages 3 to 4, researchers report. “Four and a half IQ points is of substantial societal and economic concern,” said senior researcher Christine Till, an associate professor of psychology at York University in Toronto. “We’re talking a magnitude that’s comparable to what we’re talking about when we talk about lead exposure. “You would have millions of more children falling into the range of intellectual disability with IQ scores of less than 70, and that many fewer kids in the gifted range,” Till concluded. However, the researchers only found an association, due to the observational nature of the study. It was published Aug. 19 in JAMA Pediatrics. Debate over fluoridation has simmered since […]
20August
2019
What is zolmitriptan, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Zolmitriptan is a drug for treating migraine headaches. Migraine headaches are believed to result from dilation of the blood vessels in the brain. Zolmitriptan causes constriction of the blood vessels and thereby relieves the pain of a migraine headache. While zolmitriptan is very effective in relieving migraine headaches, it does not prevent or reduce the number of headaches if taken prophylactically. Its mechanism of action and effectiveness are similar to those of sumatriptan (Imitrex). Zolmitriptan was approved by the FDA in November of 1997. What brand names are available for zolmitriptan? Zomig, Zomig-ZMT Is zolmitriptan available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: No Do I need a prescription for zolmitriptan? Yes What are the uses of zolmitriptan? Zolmitriptan is used for the treatment of migraines. What are the side effects of zolmitriptan? Side effects are generally transient. Some common side effects include: Rarely, allergic reactions (even shock) have been reported though usually in individuals who are highly allergic to many substances. What is the dosage for zolmitriptan? Dosing: The initial dose is 2.5 mg or less. The dose can be repeated after 2 hours if symptoms persist. The maximum […]
20August
2019
Latest Mental Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — If you don’t think Americans have a problem with illicit drugs, a new study shows that nearly $150 billion was spent on marijuana, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine in 2016. “To better understand changes in drug use outcomes and the effects of policies, policymakers need to know what is happening in markets for these substances,” said study author Greg Midgette. He’s an assistant professor at University of Maryland and an adjunct policy researcher at RAND Corp., a nonprofit research organization that funded the study. From 2006 to 2016, Americans’ spending on the four drugs varied between $120 billion and $145 billion a year. In comparison, Americans spent an estimated $158 billion on alcohol in 2017, according to another analysis. Most of that spending was by a small percentage of people who use drugs every or nearly every day, according to the researchers. Spending on both illegal and state-licensed marijuana rose about 50% between 2006 and 2016, from $34 billion to $52 billion. From 2010 to 2016, the number of people who used marijuana in the past month increased nearly 30%, from 25 million to 32 million. Spending on marijuana is […]
20August
2019
By Alan MozesHealthDay Reporter Latest Mental Health News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Living in the city can be hard on the senses and the spirit, but spending some time in a tree-lined park could counteract that stress, new research suggests. “Over a three-month period, we collected tweets from 4,688 Twitter users before, during and after they posted from the park,” explained study author Aaron Schwartz. He’s a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Vermont’s school of environment and natural resources and the Gund Institute for Environment. All of the 160 parks that were visited in the study were located in the city of San Francisco. About 100,000 tweets were analyzed by a hedonometer, a kind of online happiness dictionary that ranks words according to their happiness content. Tweeting “jail,” for example, would bank a score of less than 2, while a tweet of “hahaha” would render a score nearly 8. After comparing pre-park tweets to post-park tweets, the study authors concluded that parks trigger a mood bump equivalent to that seen at Christmas, the day hedonometer happiness levels hit their peak. The team didn’t track how long participants spent in parks, so they can’t say how short […]
20August
2019
(HealthDay News) — Everyone feels lack of motivation at some point, and it doesn’t necessarily represent a mental health issue, says the Mental Health Foundation. Latest Mental Health News From meeting up with friends to participating in a hobby, sometimes it can be difficult to find the motivation to get involved. To help overcome lack of motivation, the Mental Health Foundation suggests: Break tasks into manageable chunks. Write down each positive thing you go through during the day. Give yourself credit for the small things you do. Make some time for yourself. Be gentle on yourself. Be present in the moment. Ask for help when needed. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SLIDESHOW 17 Everyday Ways to Ease Depression See Slideshow
20August
2019
What is testosterone gel (Axiron)? What is Axiron used for? Axiron is a solution of testosterone that is administered through the skin of the armpit for treatment of low testosterone levels. It belongs to a class of drugs called androgens. Other testosterone replacement products include Androderm, Androgel, Testim, and Fortesta. Testosterone is the major male sex hormone responsible for the normal growth and development of the male sex organs and secondary sex characteristics. These effects include development of the prostate, penis and scrotum; distribution of facial, pubic, chest and axillary hair; development of a deep voice and alterations in muscle mass and fat distribution. Low production of testosterone leads to erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual desire, fatigue and loss of energy, depression, regression of secondary sexual characteristics and weakening of bones (osteoporosis). Testosterone replacement products supplement or replace natural production of testosterone and reverse symptoms of low testosterone levels. The FDA approved Axiron in November 2010. What brand names are available for testosterone gel (Axiron)? Axiron Is testosterone gel (Axiron) available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for testosterone gel (Axiron)? Yes What are the side effects of testosterone gel (Axiron)? The most common side effects are […]
20August
2019
MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — About 39,000 pounds of Weaver brand chicken patty products have been recalled by Tyson Foods Inc. due to possible contamination with foreign matter, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) says. Latest Infectious Disease News “The material involved was pieces from a mechanical seal or gasket,” a spokesperson for Tyson Foods told CBS MoneyWatch. The company did not say how many consumers had complained. The 26-oz resealable plastic bags of frozen, fully-cooked Weaver Breaded Chicken Breast Patties with Rib Meat were sold across the United States. They were made on Jan. 31, 2019 and have a best if used by date of “Jan312020” and lot codes 0319PBF0617, 0319PBF0618, 0319PBF0619, 0319PBF0620, 0319PBF0621, 0319PBF0622, 0319PBF0623, or 0319PBF0600. The establishment number “P-13456” is printed on the back of the resealable plastic bag. The recalled products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness after eating the products should contact a healthcare provider, FSIS advised. For more information, consumers can contact Tyson Foods at 1-855-382-3101. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SLIDESHOW Bacterial Infections 101: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments See Slideshow
20August
2019
What is pyrimethamine? What is pyrimethamine used for? Pyrimethamine is an oral antiparasitic drug used for treating Toxoplasma gondii and plasmodia infections. Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, and plasmodia parasites cause malaria. Pyrimethamine prevents parasites from producing important proteins by blocking the use of folic acid which is necessary for the production of proteins. Preventing parasites from producing important proteins prevents growth and development of new parasites. The FDA approved pyrimethamine in January 1953. What brand names are available for pyrimethamine? Daraprim Is pyrimethamine available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for pyrimethamine? Yes What are the side effects of pyrimethamine? Side effects of pyrimethamine include: What is the dosage for pyrimethamine? Toxoplasmosis treatment For the treatment of toxoplasmosis the recommended adult starting dose is 50 to 75 mg of daily with 1 to 4 g daily of a sulfonamide for 1 to 3 weeks depending on the response of the patient and tolerance to therapy. The dosage of each drug should be reduced by half then continued for an additional 4 to 5 weeks. Acute malaria treatment For treatment of acute malaria the dose is 25 to 50 mg daily for 2 […]
20August
2019
What is penicillin g benzathine? What is penicillin g benzathine used for? Penicillin G benzathine (Bicillin L-A) is a penicillin antibiotic that is given by deep intramuscular injection. Penicillin G benzathine kills susceptible bacteria by inhibiting the synthesis or formation of bacterial cell wall. It is thought to preferentially bind to specific penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) found inside the bacterial cell wall. The end result of the inhibition of bacterial cell synthesis is cell lysis and the death of the susceptible bacteria. Penicillin G benzathine has poor solubility and is therefore very slowly released from the site of injection. In the blood, penicillin G benzathine is broken down to penicillin G. Penicillin G benzathine formulation is released and absorbed slowly to allow for a more prolonged duration of action (drug works slowly over an longer period of time). What brand names are available for penicillin g benzathine? Bicillin L-A Is penicillin g benzathine available as a generic drug? Not available in the US Do I need a prescription for penicillin g benzathine? Yes What are the side effects of penicillin g benzathine? Side effects associated with penicillin G benzathine treatment are: hypersensitivity or allergic reactions, upset stomach, neuropathy, cardiac or heart […]
20August
2019
What is penicillin v potassium? What is penicillin v potassium? Penicillin V potassium is penicillin antibiotic that is administered orally. Penicillin V potassium kills bacteria by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Some bacterial species against which penicillin V potassium has shown high in-vitro activity include some species of staphylococci, streptococci (groups A, C, G, H, L, and M), and pneumococci. Other bacterial species against which this medication has activity includes Corynebacterium diphtheria, Bacillus anthracis, Clostridia, Actinomyces bovis, Streptobacillus moniliformis, Listeria monocytogenes, Leptospira, Neisseria gonorrhea, and Treponema pallidum. Penicillin V potassium offers some distinct advantages over penicillin G. Penicillin V potassium is much more resistant to inactivation by stomach acidity, and therefore results in better drug absorption and higher levels in the blood. On average, blood levels of penicillin V potassium is two to five times higher than that observed with same dose of oral penicillin G. Penicillin V potassium was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1956. What brand names are available for penicillin v potassium? Beepen-VK, Penicillin VK, V-Cillin-K Is penicillin v potassium available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for penicillin v potassium? Yes What is the dosage for penicillin […]
20August
2019
What is betaxolol, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Betaxolol is a beta-adrenergic blocking drug (beta-blocker). The nerves of the sympathetic nervous system — a subdivision of the autonomic nervous system — release a chemical related to adrenaline that binds to the heart-rate controlling cells in the heart as well as the muscles of the heart. Binding causes the heart to beat faster and the muscles of the heart to contract more vigorously and work harder. Betaxolol blocks the binding of the adrenaline-like chemical and prevents the increases in heart rate and muscular contraction. As a result, blood pressure is lowered. By reducing the heart rate and muscular contraction, betaxolol also reduces the heart’s need for oxygen to generate energy. Since angina pectoris (heart pain) occurs when the heart’s need for oxygen is too great and exceeds the supply of oxygen, betaxolol can prevent angina pectoris. Betaxolol was approved by the FDA in 1985. What brand names are available for betaxolol? Kerlone (Discontinued Brand) Is betaxolol available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes Do I need a prescription for betaxolol? Yes What are the side effects of betaxolol? Betaxolol generally is well tolerated, and side effects usually […]
20August
2019
Latest High Blood Pressure News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — For seniors who’ve been hospitalized for non-cardiac conditions, any hike in blood pressure medications as they leave the hospital can prove dangerous, new research shows. That’s because the prescription change may not help and could do harm — putting them at higher risk for falls and other health issues, investigators said. “During hospitalization, patients’ blood pressure can be temporarily elevated in response to illness and stress,” explained lead author Dr. Timothy Anderson. However, “our findings suggest that making medication changes during this period is not beneficial,” said Anderson, who is a primary care research fellow at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). “Instead, deferring medication adjustments … [until after] patients are recovered from their acute illness is likely to be a safer course,” he said in a university news release. In the study, the researchers looked at more than 4,000 patients, aged 65 and older, with high blood pressure who were hospitalized for non-cardiac conditions that typically don’t require an increase in blood pressure meds. Half of the patients had their blood pressure medications increased when they left the hospital and half did not. A year after […]
20August
2019
Latest Heart News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — There is no cure for a-fib, but the common heart disorder can be managed, an expert says. Atrial fibrillation — which can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications — affects as many as 6 million people in the United States. It’s more common in whites than in blacks and Hispanics, and more common among men than women. Symptoms can include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness and fatigue. Risk factors include high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, tobacco and alcohol abuse and uncontrolled diabetes. “Once the genie is out of the bottle, you can’t stuff it back in,” said Dr. Christopher Rogers, a cardiologist at Penn State Health Medical Group — Berks Cardiology in Wyomissing, Pa. A-fib “is very frustrating for the patient and physician to take care of. While there is no cure, we can manage the symptoms and do certain things to treat it,” he said in a Penn State news release. “What’s most important is protecting the patient from having a stroke and controlling their heart rate. Stroke as a result of a-fib is the largest problem, and determining a patient’s […]
20August
2019
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Diet & Weight Management News TUESDAY, Aug. 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Americans eat three times as much cheese as just 50 years ago, but not because we’re enjoying careful indulgences like a cheese plate with fruit and whole grain crackers. Experts point to the cheese overload in pizza and other Italian dishes, Tex-Mex favorites and the ubiquitous mac-and-cheese. That’s a lot of saturated fat and calories. But most people don’t have to avoid cheese completely — it’s just a question of being more judicious in your selections. Because the dairy fat found in cheese as well as in whole-fat milk and yogurt has been given a slight reprieve in the war on saturated fat, eating small amounts is OK. But you probably don’t want to depend on cheese alone to get in the recommended three dairy servings a day, especially if weight control is an issue for you. Because of its high fat content, cheese packs a lot of calories into a small package. A one-ounce serving is the size of two pairs of dice, so portion control is key. Ounce for ounce, some types of cheese naturally have less fat and therefore fewer […]
20August
2019
(HealthDay News) — Back pain is one of the most common medical issues in the United States, says the National Institutes of Health. Latest Chronic Pain News Could CBD Treat Opioid Addiction? Less Pain, More Car Crashes: Legalized Marijuana Hypnotherapy, Alternative to Opioids for Pain? Scientists Spot Unexpected Player in Fibromyalgia 1 in 4 American Workers Struggles With Back Pain Want More News? Sign Up for MedicineNet Newsletters! Short-term back pain lasts no longer than six weeks, and can be uncomfortable if untreated. To treat short-term back pain, the NIH suggests: Use hot or cold packs to soothe a sore, stiff back. Try extension or aerobic exercises. But check with a doctor first. Incorporate stretching into your daily routine. Include calcium and vitamin D in your diet, to help keep your spine strong. Take acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen to ease pain. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION Nearly everyone has low back pain at some time during their life. See Answer
20August
2019
Latest Cholesterol News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Women are less likely than men to be treated with cholesterol-lowering statins – or get them prescribed at guideline-recommended intensity levels when they do, according to a new study that also looked at reasons behind the discrepancies. Statins help reduce the risk of heart attacks, stroke and other cardiovascular events by lowering high cholesterol levels. But women historically have received less aggressive treatment than men when it comes to cholesterol management. Researchers explored potential causes for the differences in a study published Friday in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. They examined national registry data on 5,693 people eligible for statin treatment based on cholesterol management guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. Researchers found women were considerably less likely than men – 67% compared to 78% – to be treated with a statin. Among the reasons cited, women were not offered the medication as often as men, were more likely to decline statin therapy when it was recommended and were more inclined to discontinue the treatment after starting it, usually citing side effects. Women and men had different beliefs about the role of statins […]
20August
2019
<img class="healthday_image" src="http://www.medicationjunction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/rozlytrek-approved-to-treat-tumors-with-ntrk-gene-fusion.jpg" alt="News Picture: Rozlytrek Approved to Treat Tumors With NTRK Gene Fusion”> Latest Cancer News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Rozlytrek (entrectinib), a kinase inhibitor, has received approval to treat adults and adolescents with cancer that carries the genetic defect neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusion and has progressed following other treatment, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced last week. The drug was also approved to treat adults with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer and ROS1-positive tumors. The recommended dose for adults with either indication — NTRK gene fusion-positive tumors or ROS1-positive non-small cell lung cancer — is 600 mg orally once daily. Dosage in adolescent patients aged 12 years and older is based on body surface area. The approval of Rozlytrek to treat NTRK gene fusion-positive tumors was based on data from four clinical trials of 54 adult patients. Fifty-seven percent of patients with NTRK gene fusion-positive tumors who received Rozlytrek had substantial tumor shrinkage, and tumors completely disappeared in 7.4 percent of treated patients. Tumor shrinkage persisted for nine months or longer in 61 percent of patients with a response. The most common cancers among these patients were lung, salivary gland, breast, […]
20August
2019
What is Dulera? and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Dulera is a combination of inhaled drugs that is used to treat asthma. In patients with asthma, the smaller airways (bronchioles) through which air moves in and out of the lungs can be narrowed by accumulation of mucus, spasm of the muscles that surround these airways, or swelling of the lining of the airways due to inflammation. Airway narrowing leads to symptoms of shortness of breath, wheezing, cough, and congestion. Medications used in treating asthma include those that open airways, called bronchodilators, and those that reduce inflammation. Dulera contains a combination of formoterol, a long acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA) bronchodilator, and mometasone furoate, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid. Beta-2 agonists are medications that attach to beta-2 receptors on the smooth muscle cells that surround the airways, causing the muscle cells to relax and open the airways. Mometasone furoate is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid of the glucocorticoid family which is related to the natural hormone, cortisol or hydrocortisone, produced by the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoid steroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions. In people with asthma, the suppression of inflammation within the airways reduces the swelling caused by inflammation that narrows the airways. At […]
20August
2019
What is budesonide/formoterol? What is budesonide/formoterol used for? Symbicort is a combination of inhaled drugs that is used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In patients with asthma or COPD the smaller airways (bronchioles) through which air moves in and out of thelungs can be narrowed by accumulation of mucus, spasm of the muscles that surround these airways, or swelling of the lining of the airways due to inflammation. Airway narrowing leads to symptoms of shortness of breath, wheezing, cough, and congestion. Medications used in treating asthma or COPD include those that open airways, called bronchodilators, and those that reduce inflammation. Symbicort contains a combination of formoterol, a long acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA) bronchodilator, and budesonide, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid. Beta-2 agonists are medications that attach to beta-2 receptors on the smooth muscle cells that surround the airways, causing the muscle cells to relax and open the airways. Budesonide is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid of the glucocorticoid family which is related to the natural hormone, cortisol or hydrocortisone, produced by the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoid steroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions. In asthmatic patients and people with COPD, the suppression of inflammation within the airways reduces the swelling caused […]
20August
2019
Latest Alzheimer’s News MONDAY, Aug. 19, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Heat waves can pose a serious risk to people with Alzheimer’s disease, so their families should know how to keep them safe, advocates say. Extreme heat is “dangerous for everyone, but especially for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, who may be unable to spot the warning signs of trouble or know how to get help,” said Charles Fuschillo Jr., president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). “Caregivers need to be proactive and prepared to protect their loved ones. Taking a few simple steps will go a long way,” he said in a foundation news release. Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia can diminish a person’s ability to know when they are thirsty, so it’s crucial for caregivers to watch them and encourage them to drink often. Don’t let them have alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which may contribute to dehydration. Seniors and people with chronic medical conditions are at high risk for hyperthermia, an abnormally high body temperature caused by an inability to regulate heat from the environment. A life-threatening form of hyperthermia is heat stroke, a dangerous elevation in body temperature. Watch Alzheimer’s patients for warning signs such […]
What is beclomethasone aerosol inhaler? What is beclomethasone used for? Beclomethasone is a synthetic steroid of the glucocorticoid family. It’s prescribed to people age 5 and up. Beclomethasone is inhaled to stop and prevent the brochial spasm symptoms of asthma. The naturally-occurring glucocorticoid that is produced by the adrenal gland is cortisol or hydrocortisone. Glucocorticoid steroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions. When used as a nasal inhaler or spray, the medication goes directly to the lining of the nose, and very little is absorbed into the body. The FDA approved beclomethasone nasal spray in September 1981. What brand names are available for beclomethasone aerosol inhaler? Beconase AQ, QNASL Is beclomethasone aerosol inhaler available as a generic drug? No Do I need a prescription for beclomethasone aerosol inhaler? Yes What are the side effects of beclomethasone aerosol inhaler? The most common side effects associated with nasal beclomethasone are: A bloody nasal discharge and septum perforation may occur. Fungal infection of the nose and throat, slow wound healing, glaucoma, and cataracts are also associated with intranasal beclomethasone. Higher doses of intranasal beclomethasone may result in more absorption into the body. This may decrease bone formation and increase bone breakdown (resorption), resulting in weak […]
20August
2019
New research looks into the chronic illnesses that people living with HIV are at most risk of developing. <img src="http://www.medicationjunction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/what-chronic-illnesses-are-people-with-hiv-more-likely-to-experience.jpg" alt="hiv awareness ribbon“>New research examines what other illnesses HIV may lead to. In the United States, over 1 million people are currently living with an HIV infection. Worldwide, 1.8 million people have HIV. Overall, the incidence of HIV infections has declined over the past few decades. The mortality rate from an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related illness fell by nearly 80% since the year 2002, according to some estimates. Despite these trends, HIV remains a global health priority. Worldwide, the leading cause of death among people with HIV is tuberculosis. However, in countries such as the U.S. where tuberculosis is uncommon, people with HIV die from other conditions that are not related to the immunodeficiency virus. Conditions include diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, and cardiovascular conditions. New research set out to examine more closely the specific conditions that people with HIV are at risk of developing. Lee Smith, a reader in Physical Activity and Public Health at Anglia Ruskin University in London, United Kingdom, is the senior author of the new review. The findings appear in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases. […]
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
You have chosen to share the following article: How elderberries can help you fight the flu To proceed, simply complete the form below, and a link to the article will be sent by email on your behalf.Note: Please don’t include any URLs in your comments, as they will be removed upon submission. We do not store details you enter into this form. Please see our privacy policy for more information. Message sent successfully The details of this article have been emailed on your behalf. Click here to return to the Medical News Today home page.
19August
2019
Scientists have found that increasing the levels of a molecule in a particular part of the brain can reduce anxious temperament in young monkeys. New research identifies brain molecules that play a key role in anxiety. The finding sheds light on the origins of anxiety disorders and how it might be possible to devise early treatments for those at risk. Although there are some effective treatments for anxiety disorders, they do not work for everybody. Also, in some cases, they do not treat all of the symptoms. Researchers from the University of California (UC), Davis, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the State University of New York in Brooklyn worked on the new study. The team describes the findings in a recent Biological Psychiatry paper. An anxious temperament is a risk factor for anxiety disorders and depression. Children who are extremely shy and nervous are more likely both to develop these conditions later in life and to abuse alcohol and drugs. In earlier work with young rhesus macaques, the researchers had identified that the amygdala forms a central part of the brain circuitry of anxious temperament. The amygdala is a brain region that has a key role in a person’s emotions. […]
19August
2019
Researchers are growing increasingly interested in the relationship between blood pressure and dementia. The most recent study investigates how patterns of change in blood pressure over the decades might influence risk. What can blood pressure fluctuations tell us about dementia risk? As the United States population ages, dementia incidence rises in tandem. Today, around 5 million people in the U.S. have a dementia diagnosis. Studies published over the last few years have produced evidence that hypertension (high blood pressure) during midlife appears to increase the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. Hypertension affects an estimated 1 in 3 adults in the U.S., so it is vital to understandi the exact relationship between blood pressure and the aging brain. Researchers have done less work to investigate the links between blood pressure during later life and cognitive outcomes. However, as the authors of a recent study explain, the findings hint that “optimal blood pressure ranges for older adults may depend on earlier blood pressure characteristics.” In other words, the impact of hypertension on the aging brain may depend on the pattern of blood pressure from midlife onward. Blood pressure changes through life The authors of the current study, published in JAMA Network, […]
