Antihypertensives: Drugs to Keep High Blood Pressure In Check

Of all the various diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels, high blood pressure - also referred to as hypertension - is the most common. This disease is much feared for being a "silent killer," the dreadful tag being in obvious reference to its treacherous nature of directly killing many unsuspecting people who, for much of the time, have not had any symptoms of disease. It is very important, therefore, for a person to have his or her blood pressure checked on a regular basis.

Some of the many causes of high blood pressure include kidney disease, excessively active glands, neoplasms (tumors), and certain drugs. In treating high blood pressure, the doctor will begin by dealing with its cause. In some cases, however, he may not find any specific cause. In such a situation, he will most likely prescribe any one of the known drugs that can keep high blood pressure under control. These drugs are called antihypertensives.

While the various groups of antihypertensives all work toward lowering blood pressure, the manner by which they accomplish this task differs from one another. Diuretics, commonly known as water pills, are the most frequently prescribed antihypertensives simply because they are an excellent treatment for high blood pressure. These drugs work by making the kidneys eliminate excess salt and fluid. This translates into having less fluid in the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the workload of the heart.

Another set of antihypertensives are the vasodilators, which include the widely used alpha blocker prazosin (an example is the brand name Minipress). These drugs act directly on the blood vessels by widening their lumen and making them less tense. The resulting dilation of the blood vessels leads to the lowering of blood pressure.

Two other groups of antihypertensives - beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers - effectively lower blood pressure by causing interference to the continuous motion of nerve impulses. Beta-blockers (an example is the brand name Bystolic, a drug recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of high blood pressure), in particular, block the beta-receptors contained in both the heart muscle and blood vessels which, when stimulated, cause the heart to beat more rapidly and intensely, thus raising the blood pressure. The action of these drugs in blocking the said receptors - with the heart consequently beating more slowly and less strongly -, therefore, effectively brings down blood pressure.

Calcium-channel blockers (an example is the brand name Norvasc), on the other hand, lower blood pressure by blocking the paths along which calcium moves into the cells of blood vessel muscles. Note that calcium molecules cause blood vessels to become narrow. The action of these drugs in blocking the said paths or channels, therefore, prevents the blood vessels from constricting.

It is important to understand that antihypertensives are not intended to be a cure for high blood pressure. Rather, they are used merely to keep the condition in check. Once your doctor prescribes any one of these drugs and you start using it, do not stop taking it just because you suddenly feel you are already well. If you do, your blood pressure can abruptly elevate back to perilous levels. Your doctor is the best person to tell you if discontinuing the use of a drug he earlier prescribed will not pose any risk to your health. [Read the Original Article]

Nitroglycerin Patches: Convenient and Effective Transdermal Treatment for Angina Pectoris

For about three years now, my aunt has been suffering from angina pectoris, more commonly known as "chest pain" or "heart pain." For those who do not understand what angina pectoris exactly is, it is a condition that is characterized by discomfort in the chest, with physical or emotional stress as the usual cause. Often, atherosclerosis - the accumulation of fatty deposits in the coronary arteries - is the precursor of the problem. As a result of the narrowing of the coronary arteries, the supply of blood to the heart becomes restricted.

Just recently, I asked my aunt what precisely does she feel whenever angina pectoris attacks? Her best description of the condition is that of a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the chest. While there may be a lot of people who live with angina pectoris for years, this condition may bring about susceptibility to heart attacks. As a matter of fact, some people who develop angina pectoris experience a heart attack within five years or even less.

In preventing or treating angina pectoris, doctors may recommend the application of nitroglycerin patches. While nitroglycerin medications may also come in ointments and in tablets that are placed under the tongue, nitroglycerin patches are more convenient to use and are equally effective as the other two forms.

Nitroglycerin patches, which look like adhesive dressings - as most other transdermal medications do -, are available in various sizes. They are designed in such a way as to slowly release nitroglycerin into the body over a period of twenty-four hours to prevent or treat angina pectoris. The best body parts to which nitroglycerin patches should be applied are the chest, abdomen, upper arm, and thigh. They may also be applied to other skin areas where there is very little or no hair. It isn't advisable to apply nitroglycerin patches to either the lower arms or legs as their effectiveness may just be put to naught in these areas.

Since nitroglycerin patches are convenient to use, less messy than the ointment form, and quite easy to apply, most people with angina pectoris - my aunt included - prefer them over the other forms of nitroglycerin medications; this inspite of their being more expensive than either the tablet or ointment form. If your particular condition requires treatment that will last all day, nitroglycerin patches can definitely meet this end much better than the under-the-tongue tablets can.

Whatever the form, nitroglycerin medications have the same side effects. These include headache (the most common one), nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness. In some cases, the affected person may likewise experience rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. The good thing is that all of these side effects may be reduced or completely eliminated by reducing the measured quantity of the nitroglycerin medication to be taken. In case nitroglycerin patches cause irritation to a particular skin site, move them to other areas. [Read the Original Article]

Amantadine: Effective Antiviral Drug Against the Influenza A Virus

Influenza is a disease that is highly communicable by contact and lasts for a short period of time. It may be caused by any of the three types of influenza virus - A, B, or C. Some of the most common symptoms of this disease include fever, chills, aches and pains, loss of appetite, and general weakness. Persons suffering from influenza may also experience nose and pharynx inflammation.

The presence of the influenza virus in the body can weaken the vitality of the nose and pharynx membranes. Once this happens, bacteria - which always exist in both the mouth and pharynx - commonly attack tissues and bring about certain complications, including ear infection, sinusitis, and pneumonia. Of these three secondary conditions, pneumonia is the most serious and may even be fatal.

We know, of course, that antibiotics (such as erythromycin and penicillin) are ineffective against any viral infection, such as the common cold or flu; they are, however, prescribed by doctors for the treatment of post-flu secondary infections. It is the antiviral drugs that are effective against diseases that are caused by viruses. In treating respiratory infections caused by strains of the influenza A virus, the antiviral drug amantadine can be very effective.

Over the years, many antiviral agents - amantadine included - have been developed. Specifically, amantadine has been medically certified as an effective antiviral drug against influenza A, a form of flu. It must be made clear here, though, that the term "flu" is not necessarily the same as influenza. Note that while viral diseases are frequently referred to as flu, not all of these illnesses are necessarily the result of any of the known influenza viruses. Again, amantadine is specifically used in the prevention and treatment of influenza A.

Doctors may prescribe amantadine as a preventive medicine for any one of these subjects: persons who have not had influenza A vaccine and who are in frequent contact with a great number of diverse people (the unvaccinated persons especially referred to here are doctors, nurses, and other medical or hospital personnel); the elderly or those who suffer from certain chronic illnesses and have not received influenza A vaccine; or unvaccinated persons living in the same dwelling with someone who has been infected by influenza A. To ensure the efficacy of amantadine in the treatment of influenza A, it must be given within a couple of days of the onset of the illness.

Like most other drugs, amantadine is not without side effects. Giddiness, restlessness, and the inability to get sufficient sleep are some of the side reactions associated with the use of amantadine. These side effects usually occur within two days of using amantadine and vanish when the use of the drug is discontinued. In some instances, though, the side effects cease to exist even when the use of amantadine is continued. [Read the Original Article]

Acyclovir: Safe and Effective Antiviral Drug Against the Herpes Simplex Virus

Herpes simplex, also often referred to as fever blisters or cold sores, is a disease caused by a particular virus. The virus is known to remain latent in the nerves and then activates under any of these conditions: after an active episode of a recurring fever, when a cold is about to occur, or when the affected individual is physically or emotionally drained.

In a localized herpes simplex, small blisters may become manifest on any of these body parts: the mouth and gums, the tissues of one eye, or the external genital organs. The initial infection may pass unnoticed as it may not produce any symptom. What are produced here instead are antibodies, and these may result in succeeding manifestations of herpes simplex being different from those of the initial one.

There are several anti-inflammatory medications that are available over the counter which may be used to help reduce the severity of symptoms of herpes simplex in the affected individual. Note, however, that most of these medications provide mere alleviation from irritation and itching. One antiviral drug that has been proven to be effective against the virus that causes herpes simplex is acyclovir.

Doctors may prescribe a medication - specifically a cream - containing acyclovir for more frequent episodes of herpes simplex. This type of medication goes by the generic name "penciclovir cream," a specific example of which is the brand name Denavir. These acyclovir-containing medications work by stopping the virus that causes herpes simplex from undergoing reproduction, effectively preventing it from spreading as well. Acyclovir has likewise been proven to help in lessening the severity and duration of a herpes simplex outbreak.

Besides the cream or ointment form for topical or local application, acyclovir medications also come in vials (for administering intravenously) and in tablet form (prescription drug). Recognized for having a wide margin of safety, most people generally exhibit physiological tolerance for drugs or medications containing acyclovir. Of course, as in most other drugs or medications, there are some potential adverse reactions to acyclovir.

A person who has taken acyclovir orally for about three months may experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Persons who are unable to take the medication orally for some reasons, or those whose immune system has been depressed due to other drug treatments, may instead be given acyclovir intravenously. One potential adverse reaction to intravenous acyclovir is a decrease in kidney function. Fortunately, this problem is reversible. [Read the Original Article]

The Limitations of Streptomycin in the Treatment of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a disease that is caused by the bacterium tubercle bacillus. This disease develops slowly and mainly affects the lungs. When a person with tuberculosis - who is not undergoing treatment - coughs or sneezes, mists teeming with tubercle bacilli are dispersed, and those in the vicinity are liable to breathe in sufficient quantities of the tuberculosis-causing bacteria.

Once these tubercle bacilli settle in the lungs' air sacs, they can cause a flu-like reaction. A few days later, they may spread into the bones, the other internal organs, and even the brain. As they multiply during a period of from three to ten weeks, the tubercle bacilli can cause an inflammatory reaction at the infected portions of the affected body parts. The reaction is marked by an accumulation of nodular, chronically inflamed tissues and white blood cells, or what is called granuloma.

A number of prescription drugs are being used to treat tuberculosis. Some examples are rifampin, ethambutol, isoniazid, and streptomycin. But how effective really are these prescription drugs in treating tuberculosis? Let's direct the spotlight on the last one - streptomycin.

Probably one of the most discouraging findings in the areas of medical investigation and experimentation is the repeated observations that a drug initially very effective in fighting an infection fails to sustain its effectiveness in the long run. Such is the case in streptomycin.

A soil actinomycete (mold) product, streptomycin is, to an extreme extent, damaging to tubercle bacilli and is relatively innocuous to man. This makes its use initially effective in preventing the advance of tuberculosis. But continued use of streptomycin has proven to gradually decrease its effectiveness, even reaching the point where it may become totally useless. In the end, it is observed that tubercle bacilli in the treated individual exhibit extreme resistance to streptomycin which was earlier capable of destroying them.

What can perhaps explain the foregoing circumstance is that, at the onset, only a few tubercle bacilli are so formed as to withstand the injurious effect of streptomycin. The use of streptomycin at this point, therefore, results to something strikingly beneficial to the affected individual. But these few bacteria later increase rapidly in number, yielding a great number of resistant progenies, taking the place of the few streptomycin-resistant ones that were initially involved. At this point, streptomycin, for all practical purposes, has become ineffective; but the disease remains to be tuberculosis.

It may be appropriate to conclude that using streptomycin for minor infections without a doctor's prescription exposes the individual to certain dangers. The importunate problem may be seemingly settled, but the growth of strains of bacteria that are resistant to the drug may be promoted in the process. Subsequent treatment of more serious infections in this regard may be perilously impaired. [Read the Original Article]

The Licit Uses of Steroids for Medication

Steroids are compounds that occur naturally in the body and function like hormones. Specifically, they are a group of biochemical substances the body produces from cholesterol - the reason why steroids are termed as such. As defined in the Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary, cholesterol is "a steroid alcohol C27H45OH that is present in animal cells and body fluids..." Hence, cholesterol is itself a steroid.

All of us have steroids circulating in our blood all the time. The female sex hormones estrogens (example, estradiol) and the male sex hormones androgens (example, testosterone) are steroids. Produced naturally by the body, steroids help in regulating the functions of the heart, muscles, kidneys, and lungs. When an injury occurs, the body produces hydrocortisone - a steroid that fights inflammation. Also, the levels in the blood of this naturally-occurring steroid may become elevated in response to psychological or physical stress.

It isn't surprising therefore that steroids are manufactured synthetically for medicinal purposes. In the manufacture of synthetic steroids, certain modifications are made to enhance specific properties and lessen side effects. There are two ways by which steroids, as medication, are administered. One is locally: as topical steroids in ointments and creams applied on the skin surface, as medication for the eyes applied in drops, and as injection into a joint. The other is internally: as systemic medication given orally or by injection.

Many anti-inflammatory medications have synthetic steroids as their active ingredients. In the treatment of severe cases of inflammation, for example, doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroids. This medication is likewise effective in repressing allergic reactions and in fending off asthma attacks. Likewise, prednisone (a common corticosteroid), as well as the other similar drugs - including prednisolone, cortisone, betamethasone, and dexamethasone - may be prescribed to treat certain conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, inflamed joints associated with rheumatoid arthritis, dermatitis, lupus, chronic hepatitis, and even Crohn's disease.

Oral corticosteroid medications, used only for a short period of time, often bring positive results. Its long-term use, however, may result to some serious side effects, including diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and peptic ulcers. Other problems that may crop up as a result of prolonged use of synthetic steroids include bruising, thinning of the skin (atrophy), cataract, and mood swings.

In the treatment of such skin conditions as eczema and psoriasis, doctors may prescribe topical steroids. As an example, topical hydrocortisone creams, which are about the only over-the-counter steroid medications, can be effective in relieving itching and inflammation. When used in conformity with a doctor's directions, topical steroids rarely cause side effects. However, long-term use over wide areas of skin can cause excessive absorption that may lead to such problems as stretch marks, altered pigmentation, and dilated blood vessels.

Through all these, it is important to understand why doctors exercise due diligence when prescribing steroid medications, or other medications for that matter; they are circumspect when giving schedule and dosage directions. Also note that gradual withdrawal is required as far as steroid medications are concerned. This is to give the adrenal glands that produce steroids the chance to start functioning normally on their own. [Read the Original Article]

How the Sulfa Drugs Came into Being

With all the many functions of medical science, perhaps the one that stands out is that which pertains to its aiding, reinforcing, and supplementing the human body's natural reactions to such things or influences that are deemed deleterious. Here we can cite two examples. The first one, involving an individual suffering from anemia, emphasizes the importance of blood transfusion in helping the bone marrow provide a sufficient number of red blood cells. The second, involving a person with a broken bone, stresses the significance of the application of a cast in practically eliminating any movement at the point of break which the body's natural defense called pain can only reduce.

Similarly, we can say here that, in the annals of medical science, efforts exerted have been too many and quite extensive to discover and make use of substances that can destroy bacteria but are innocuous to man in the control of infections, in attempts to strengthen the human body's natural defenses mentioned previously.

One of the most remarkable triumphs of medical science is the control of bacterial infections, and this has been made possible primarily through the discovery of the sulfa drugs. Much like the antibiotics, sulfa drugs fight infections, not by augmenting the natural defenses of the body, but by penetrating the tissues and fluids of the body and destroying the intruding disease-causing microorganisms.

The pressures of circumstance as well as the good chances for advancement instant during the Second World War were the great driving forces in the research and testing of drugs that can combat bacterial infections. The strong desire to lessen or eliminate infections of wounds gave rise to the urgent need for such drugs. The large number of soldiers provided the opportunity to make further tests on substances already proven to be at least innocuous to man, and to demonstrate the efficacy of these substances in battling infections. This was the exact scenario that led to the development or formulation of the sulfa drugs, which became prominent during the said period of worldwide armed conflict.

For a long time, the existence of the sulfa compounds has been known, in fact way before their medicinal value against infections was shown. For example, sulfanilamide - the parent compound of most of the sulfa drugs, and which is an effective substance in the treatment of certain infections - was the result of continuous studies and systematic examinations by many scientists that spanned three decades.

Sulfanilamide was first produced in 1908, but its usefulness then only pertains to its being a dye component. In several instances, its potential for fighting harmful bacteria was noted, although none of those occasions offered any solid proof. Almost thirty years later, a German scientist experimented on mice, giving them a sulfanilamide compound, and then infecting them with deadly doses of streptococci (parasitic bacteria). The experiment clearly demonstrated that the mice failed to die.

The German scientist's spectacular discovery paved the way for many more experiments to be conducted in the United States and Europe, all of which proved the effectiveness of sulfanilamide in fighting certain infections in man. Not long after, sulfa drugs were manufactured and became prominent agents in the control of infections. The use of sulfa drugs against disease (and possible death) in the wounded soldiers of the eventful episodes of the Second World War was a vital factor for either forces in winning the war. Inspite of the fact that the sulfanilamide compound originated in Germany, its effective employment occurred primarily in the medical facilities and laboratories of the allied countries England and the United States. [Read the Original Article]

NSAIDs: Weapons Against Body Pain

When body pain sets in, the initial reaction of most people is to take one of those over-the-counter pain relievers. These pain relievers, or analgesics, do not cause addiction; they are considered safe to take even without a prescription.

But these over-the-counter pain relievers are not entirely risk-free. When used improperly or taken over long periods of time, they can cause serious side effects. A common example is when one tries to self-medicate with these pain relievers and in the process masks more serious symptoms that otherwise need immediate medical attention or treatment.

Although there are numerous brand names of pain relievers one can choose from, we have to understand that there are basically only two types of pain relievers that are considered nonnarcotic. One is acetaminophen, an example of which is the brand name Tylenol. Under the other type are the NSAIDs, short for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs that can be obtained over the counter include ibuprofen (example is the brand name Advil) and acetylsalicylic acid, or ASA (example is the brand name Anacin), while NSAIDs that require prescription include ketoprofen (example is the brand name Oruvail) and naproxen sodium (example is the brand name Aleve).

Ibuprofen, which is known to have a stronger effect than aspirin, is usually recommended for more acute pains, such as those caused by sprains or arthritis. Be warned though that for cases of swelling, these NSAIDs should not be taken for more than five days without a doctor's advice. For women with menstrual cramps, ibuprofen is the preferred medication.

Acetylsalicylic acid remains to be one of the most reliable and least expensive drugs for body pain. Most headache sufferers prefer these NSAIDs because they act faster than any other pain relievers. Adults who experience such pains, as those brought about by joint or dental problems, can safely take these NSAIDs. Children, on the other hand, can take acetylsalicylic acid but should be in lesser doses.

Ketoprofen and naproxen sodium are much like ibuprofen; however, a single dose of these NSAIDs can last up to twelve hours.

When choosing a medication to relieve body pain, its side effects should always be taken into consideration. All of the NSAIDs mentioned here can cause stomach disorders, particularly in the elderly. This is because NSAIDs inhibit the production of prostaglandin - any of the lipid compounds derived enzymatically from fatty acids - thereby depriving the stomach lining of the very substance that protects it against ulcers. In order to avoid this problem, NSAIDs should be taken with food. [Read the Original Article]

The H2 Blockers: Drugs for Heartburn

Some people find themselves in a hospital's emergency room often as a result of believing that they are having a heart attack when in fact all that they are experiencing is a simple case of heartburn. While the pain of both heartburn and heart attack does occur in the heart area, the symptoms are not the same.

In a heart attack, the pain can spread to the neck and to an arm or even to both arms. In heartburn, however, the pain tends to remain in the chest. Further, the pain felt during a heart attack is described as an overwhelming ache in the chest, while that in heartburn is really like a fiery sensation.

A lot of people use antacids to treat their heartburn condition. But deviating from these traditional over-the-counter medications is a group of drugs generally recognized as H2 blockers (exact medical term: Histamine-2 receptor antagonists). Two examples of these drugs are the products Zantac 75 and Pepcid AC. For many years, H2 blockers are exclusively available in prescription form. Today, however, these drugs can be obtained over the counter.

H2 blockers relieve most cases of heartburn. Their main function is to block the action of the cells lining the stomach that produce acid. Specifically, H2 blockers block the action of histamine (a compound that causes, among others, the stimulation of gastric acid secretion) on parietal cells (the cells of the gastric mucous membrane that secrete hydrochloric acid) in the stomach, reducing acid production by these cells in the process.

Inspite of the fact that H2 blockers have proven to be effective in alleviating most cases of heartburn, doctors advise that a person has to be aware which foods make him or her have the condition. This is important, especially if the food identified to be the cause of the problem happens to be a favorite, because the person has to take these drugs at least one hour before starting with the said food. Putting it in another way, the person not only has to know ahead of time whether he or she is going to have potential problem foods for his/her next meal but also how his/her stomach is most probably going to react to these foods in order that the drug can be taken ahead of time.

Generally, H2 blockers are considered safe for simple cases of heartburn. Doctors warn however that prolonged use of these drugs can result to certain grievous side effects, such as severe headache, dizziness, fatigue, and mild diarrhea. Those who have liver or kidney problems need to take careful note of the warnings that some H2-blocker products bear.

For people with chronic heartburn, taking H2 blockers may pose some risks. Chronic heartburn, for this purpose, carry any or all of these symptoms: a recurring condition, one that takes place three times or more in a week for no apparent reason; difficulty swallowing food; regurgitation of food or even liquids; and bloody, black stools. A malfunctioning of the muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter (the opening that serves as an entry point situated between the esophagus and the stomach) is the usual cause of chronic heartburn. Taking H2 blockers in case one has chronic heartburn may conceal a more serious condition that should otherwise be addressed immediately by a doctor. [Read the Original Article]

The Four Main Active Ingredients in Antacids to Watch Out For

Antacids are digestive aids that come in different forms - chewable, tablet, and liquid - and are sold over the counter under numerous brand names. All forms of antacids work relatively quickly, pacifying symptoms within a few minutes. However, it is the liquid form that probably offers the quickest relief. Equally numerous are the different ingredients these antacids may contain.

Included in these ingredients are aluminum carbonate, the various bismuth compounds (including bismuth aluminate, bismuth carbonate, bismuth subcarbonate, and bismuth subnitrate), glycine, the different magnesium compounds (including magnesium carbonate, magnesium oxide, magnesium trisilicate, magnesium aluminosilicate, and magnesium aluminum hydroxide), dried milk solids, aluminum sodium silicate, the various sodium compounds (including sodium carbonate and potassium tartrate), and the two tartrate compounds - sodium citrotartrate and tartaric acid.

Because antacids contain various active ingredients, the effect of one type on a person may be different on another. Having said this, it is important to state here that there are basically four main active ingredients in antacids one should look for on a product's label, any of which may cause more problems than they solve: aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and sodium bicarbonate. Most antacids contain any one of these four active ingredients, either alone or in combination with other ingredients; all four are classified as salt.

All antacids work at more or less the same level of effectiveness. They are also generally effective and safe for occasional use. Just the same, antacids do have side effects that one needs to know about. As examples, some antacids, particularly those containing aluminum hydroxide or calcium carbonate, have a tendency to cause constipation; others, especially those containing magnesium hydroxide or sodium bicarbonate, may cause diarrhea. For those who experience such problems, switching to a different antacid - one without any of the four main active ingredients listed above - may help.

Some known brands of antacids make use of simethicone, an anti-foaming agent. This substance helps in relieving the feeling of bloating, as well as the discomfort or pain brought about by excess gas in the stomach.

Watching what you eat is important if you are to avoid such digestive problem. Likewise important is to test several antacids until you come to a specific brand that best alleviates your condition. Doctors however advise not to use antacids, most especially those containing the four active ingredients mentioned here, unless there is a real need for you to use any of them. [Read the Original Article]

The Four Common Types of Antacids and Their Side Effects

There are occasions when a person suffers from an attack of indigestion and quickly reaches for one of those antacids. This instinctive reliance on antacids to relieve such disorder or other similar abdominal discomforts is due mainly to the known effects antacids have on the digestive system.

For reasons that are still not fully understood, the stomach occasionally produces an amount of gastric acid that is more than normal. Working through chemical reaction, antacids neutralize this excess gastric acid secretion to digest food. Acid indigestion, or heartburn, which can be caused by overeating or by having too much caffeine or alcoholic beverages, is a common symptom that antacids can help to alleviate. With their helpful gastric-acid counteracting effect, can we say that it's always wise to take antacids whenever we experience a sour stomach? Are they totally harmless?

Most antacids are both helpful and completely harmless, provided the manufacturer's recommended dosages are closely observed. It isn't wise, however, to take antacids with milk; milk is known to absorb antacids and therefore eliminates their effectiveness. Doctors likewise advise to discontinue using antacids if your symptoms persist for more than a few days to a week. In all probability, what you are experiencing may not anymore be just an ordinary indigestion but a sign of the presence of a more serious disorder, such as ulcer or heart disease.

There are different types of antacids, each of which may affect the user differently. Before using an antacid, you should be aware of the side effects it carries. Those of the four common types of antacids are enumerated here.

The sodium bicarbonate type, which has baking soda for its main ingredient, can provide quick relief. However, its use should be for a very limited period only and should not be taken too often. Being high in sodium content, it may pose risks to those who have high blood pressure. Other side effects that may crop up as a result of taking these antacids too frequently include disruption of the mineral balance in the body, failure of the heart and kidney to function normally, and increase in urinary tract infections.

The calcium carbonate type also provides speedy relief because of its high calcium content. While these antacids can be taken daily, it may cause severe constipation in some people. Several studies have also proven that an excess in calcium intake may result to the formation of kidney stones or the disruption of kidney function.

The aluminum compound type, while equally effective as the other types of antacids, acts slowly in providing relief. Side effects of these antacids include the risk of constipation (when taken frequently) and the depletion of the body's mineral reserves, specifically of calcium (in case of long-term use).

The magnesium compound type, because of its high magnesium content, has a laxative effect. As a counterbalance, some antacids under this type are mixed with either calcium or aluminum. These antacids are not recommended for elderly people, especially those with diabetes, as it may result to an abnormally high blood pressure or in certain heart conditions.

If you are taking other medications, consult your doctor before taking an antacid. Some antacids can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs, such as antibiotics. For this reason, antacids should be taken well apart from other medications you may already be taking. [Read the Original Article]

Beta-Blockers and Calcium-Channel Blockers: What Precisely Do They Block?

In 1988, I remember my father was taking atenolol which was prescribed by his doctor as a treatment for his hypertension. But after another round of examinations done to ascertain his heart condition, his doctor changed the prescription to nifedipine.

Note that the first medicine prescribed to my father, atenolol, belongs to a group of heart drugs known as beta-blockers, while the second - nifedipine - is one of the well-known newer heart medicines called calcium-channel blockers. But why are these drugs termed "blockers"? What precisely do they block, and how exactly do they work in treating hypertension?

Introduced in the late 1960s, beta-blockers also include other similar complicated-sounding names, such as timolol, metoprolol, pindolol, and propranolol, the latter being the best known. These beta-blockers work on the blood vessels and the heart muscle, both of which contain groups of cells that receive stimuli, known as beta-receptors. Once these receptors get stimulated, they cause the heart to beat harder and faster; blood pressure is raised as a result of this. The role of the beta-blockers is to block these receptors so that the heart's beating becomes less strong and slower, thereby lowering blood pressure.

The effects of beta-blockers are, to a great extent, valuable for a number of heart conditions. For instance, beta-blockers relieve angina (a distinguishing feature of coronary artery disease, characterized by a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest) by reducing the cardiac muscle's requirement for oxygen. Any of the beta-blockers can be used to fight high blood pressure. They are likewise effective in treating the different kinds of abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias.

The calcium-channel blockers, on the other hand, were introduced in 1981. This group of heart drugs includes, apart from nifedipine, two other names that are equally difficult to say or pronounce: diltiazem and verapamil. To appreciate the role played by calcium-channel blockers in the treatment of certain heart conditions, especially arrhythmias and angina, we have to understand that calcium molecules are key players in the possible constriction of blood vessels. Plainly as their name suggests, calcium-channel blockers block the passages through which calcium makes its way into the cells of blood vessel muscles. In this way, calcium-channel blockers prevent blood vessels from constricting.

Both beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers are helpful in reducing recurrent heart attacks. Calcium-channel blockers, in particular, improve blood flow to the heart muscle by opening up the coronary arteries and making their diameter larger. [Read the Original Article]

Side Effects of Prescription Eyedrops for Chronic Open-angle Glaucoma

At age 38, my younger brother has chronic open-angle glaucoma, generally known as the most common form of glaucoma. Broadly, his ophthalmologist described his condition as one in which the internal plumbing system of the eye functions imperfectly. It was explained that such malfunctioning occurs when an excess of the circulating transparent fluid in the eye (aqueous humor) fails to drain out quickly enough (through the eye's complex drainage system) and creates excessive pressure, destroying cells in the retina and optic nerve in the process. Chronic open-angle glaucoma, or any other form of glaucoma for that matter, can seriously reduce peripheral vision and eventually lead to a complete loss of sight if not treated.

There are basically three classes of eyedrops prescribed for the treatment of chronic open-angle glaucoma. These are: pilocarpine (the type prescribed to my brother); epinephrine (often referred to nontechnically as adrenaline); and the various beta-blockers (timolol is the most common of this class).

Initially, my brother complained of headache near the eyebrow shortly after applying pilocarpine. His ophthalmologist assured him that this side effect is temporary and typically does not occur after using it regularly for a couple of weeks. It was mentioned that the other common side effects of this type of eyedrops include momentary obscuring of vision and a slight pricking sensation. Because less light is allowed by this type of eyedrops to filter through to the back of the eye, objects appear darker in dimly lit rooms. In general, according to my brother's ophthalmologist, the side effects of pilocarpine are minimal and that none of these should remain a problem for any length of time.

Earlier, epinephrine was also considered for my brother's condition. When applied as eyedrops, this decongestant-bronchodilator medication causes dilatation of the eyes' pupils. While some patients have been known to react favorably to these eyedrops, others may experience such reactions as heart palpitations and nervousness from their use.

The different beta-blockers comprise the third class of medications prescribed to sufferers of chronic open-angle glaucoma. Timolol, for example, is often prescribed to those who have very low tolerance for the other types of eyedrops or have developed allergies from using them. This drug appears to work perfectly for some patients and not so well for others. It has likewise been observed that beta-blockers can lose their effectiveness after a time. The reason why this type of eyedrops was not even considered for my brother is because he's asthmatic. Ophthalmologists will never prescribe beta-blockers to people with asthma, or those who have heart condition or lung disease.

Not a few people have the misconception that eyedrops are weaker than the other forms of medication. Truth is that all eyedrops are powerful medications and may carry serious side effects. The ophthalmologist's directions on the use of these drugs must therefore be precisely followed at all times. [Read the Original Article]

The Difference between a Medication's Side Effects and its Possible Adverse Reactions

Side effects, precisely, are unwanted but natural and anticipated consequences of taking a particular medication. They can be, to a relative degree, inconsequential; or they may be serious and, therefore, require prompt attention. Adverse reactions are completely different; they are rare and unforeseen bodily responses. They can likewise be either insignificant or dangerous.

The constipation and dry mouth you might develop while taking atropine (a drug extracted from the perennial herbaceous plant called deadly nightshade or belladonna) are good examples of minor side effects. A perfect example of a serious side effect is excessive bleeding resulting from the use of a blood thinner, a prescription drug used to prevent the formation of blood clots, especially in the lower limbs.

One type of adverse reaction is an allergic reaction caused by a particular drug. A minor adverse reaction, for example, might involve no more than an instance of an allergic disorder known as hives induced by taking penicillin. But if, under the same conditions, the reaction is of major significance, it might result to a life-threatening shock reaction. Dangerous reactions may be uncommon; still, you should be aware of the types of side effects and adverse reactions different drugs can cause.

To learn as much as possible about the side effects and potential for adverse reactions of any drug you take, there are various sources that one can refer to. For example, all drug companies are required to list all known side effects and adverse reactions (regardless how uncommon) in both the literature and packaging of the drug. When buying a medication, make sure that you read all warnings and directions that go with it; you may also ask your doctor what side effects and adverse reactions to expect.

Additionally, you may have to know if the medication includes more than one drug, or if it contains substances to which you may be allergic, such as color dyes, additives, or preservatives. Equally important is for you to know if there are any specific safeguards that you should comply with, such as avoiding certain foods or beverages. Find out, too, if reciprocal actions are possible with any other drugs that you may be taking. Discuss with your doctor any unwanted or rare reactions you may have previously experienced with certain drugs.

Several drug reference materials are obtainable from your local library or bookstore. They contain the most recent information on both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. They also provide reviews on side effects, adverse reactions, beneficial and health-damaging interactions, and diet limitations. Generally well-indexed and easy to use, these publications offer answers to most of the questions concerning side effects and adverse reactions. [Read the Original Article]

The Problem of Using Tranquilizers to Relieve Stress

Compared to previous decades, our modern way of life is decidedly more stressful. With its attendant discords and cutthroat competition, today's urban living gives rise to tensions and anxieties. Within recent years, drugs - which go by the name tranquilizers - have been developed. Under the close supervision of a doctor, these enticingly-named drugs afford a means of calming a nervous person down and enabling him to survive difficult moments of stress.

As to how they affect the brain, tranquilizers can be likened to alcohol or to barbiturates (barbituric acid-derivatives used as sedatives and often addictive). The danger in using these drugs is that they diminish the user's ability to perceive and react to emergency situations. Therefore, a person using a tranquilizer should keep himself from driving a car or operating complex machines.

The greater danger though in using tranquilizers comes from their effect on the user's disposition or attitude; these drugs make him less oblivious to the problems surrounding him. As he had once experienced the lightening of stress and anxiety that tranquilizers provide, it is only natural for him to desire this same feeling of relief over and over. Consequently, the user becomes increasingly reliant on these drugs, is less able to meet life's true state and real situations, and finds it growingly difficult to bring the apparent addiction to an end.

Buying genuine tranquilizers without a doctor's prescription is generally not allowed. But there are certain nonprescription drugs made to closely imitate tranquilizers. Unfortunately, most of these over-the-counter drugs contain one of the antihistamines (their chief ingredient, in fact), which are known to cause lethargy. On top of not receiving the kind of drug he expects to have, the buyer of these nonprescription drugs faces the risk of antihistamine overdose.

No one can avoid stress, that's for sure. The worthwhile accomplishments of life demand taking action with regard to stress one way or the other. But if tranquilizers are not the perfect answer, what then does a person do to be free from stress?

For a person to successfully get rid of the basis for his anxiety, he must learn to adapt to stress. The person who has not learned to adapt to stress fails in both mental and physical health. His body's organs react negatively to the disturbed condition of his mind. Rather than resorting to tranquilizers to deal with stress, try some other ways - those that are wholesome and have been proven effective. You may, for example, allow time for healthful recreation, learn how to relax for a moment, or establish a balance between work and play. [Read the Original Article]

Diuretics: Temporarily Removing Excess Water from the Body

Diuretics, or "water pill" to others, are drugs used for the temporary elimination of the body's excess water. Medical experts have validated the medicinal value of these drugs, citing as an example their proven efficacy in treating hypertension (abnormally high blood pressure), congestive heart failure (inability of the heart to maintain an adequate circulation of blood in the bodily tissues), and pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs). Diuretics make such treatment possible by stimulating the kidneys to discharge salt and urine in large amounts. This translates to less water in the bloodstream, and thus assists in lowering blood pressure and in reducing the amount of work the heart is capable of performing.

Diuretics have been proven to be safe, provided they are taken according to a doctor's explicit instruction. A study conducted by a US national committee revealed that diuretics are the preferred initial medication in the treatment of high blood pressure. Other studies likewise concluded that these drugs produce the desired effect of prevention for apoplexy (stroke) or such other occurrence involving the heart and blood vessels.

In women, diuretics may be helpful in lessening water accumulation brought about by the "period." This aids in alleviating symptoms associated with the premenstrual syndrome, one of which is breast pain.

All these however don't necessarily mean that diuretics pose no risk to health. Some of these drugs have been observed to cause muscle weakness and weariness or exhaustion, as they can also cause the elimination of potassium from the body. For this reason, doctors advise people taking such type of diuretics to add foods that are rich in potassium to their diet (examples: bananas, prunes, and orange juice). Other diuretics work the other way around though, that is, they cause the retention of potassium in the body. It is important, therefore, that you discuss things with your doctor before making any modifications on your diet.

There are other known problems which certain types of diuretics can cause. Some diuretics, for example, have been found to act upon the body's hearing and balance mechanisms negatively, thus causing lightheadedness or dizziness. Still others have been found to cause sexual dysfunction. In such cases, it would be wise to talk to your doctor as there may be a need to change the type or dosage of the diuretic you are taking.

For people who are taking doctor-prescribed diuretics and are considering stopping their use, they are advised to first check with their doctor. This is very important since a hasty discontinuance of the use of these prescribed drugs may result to serious problems, such as the sudden elevation of blood pressure and a rise in the risk of heart failure. Doctors recommend decreasing the use of diuretics over a period of one month or even longer.

Some people who are in some weight-loss programs think that diuretics can be used as diet aids and help them shed excess pounds. This notion is not only incorrect but dangerous as well. Diuretics work only in eliminating excess water, not fat; they can cause an abnormal depletion of body fluids that can be fatal if not appropriately used. [Read the Original Article]

Ibuprofen Has the Best Results When It's Used Properly

A lot of people, at one time or another, are certain to have taken ibuprofen to relieve the pain caused by a severe headache, a nasty toothache, or a muscle strain. Others reach for this pain reliever to control their fever, alleviate the pain of menstrual cramps, or check the pain caused by their osteoarthritis. Ibuprofen is categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can be purchased over the counter under an assortment of brand names. Because it is considered a powerful medication, people are reminded to use ibuprofen properly in order that they gain its benefits and reduce the risk of developing any secondary conditions. But not a few people still would like to know how ibuprofen exactly works as a pain-relieving drug.

To begin with, ibuprofen acts on damaged body tissues by lessening pain and reducing inflammation. It works by restricting the synthesis of prostaglandins - hormonelike chemicals that accelerate the progress of inflammation. Because ibuprofen also has the ability to lessen inflammation even in the brain, medical experts believe that this pain reliever may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. However, doctors are explicit in warning against the use of ibuprofen if only for this purpose.

But what's incongruous is that while ibuprofen can effectively reduce pain and inflammation, the exact same factor that makes ibuprofen an effectual pain reliever is likewise considered a contributor to the risks it poses. Doctors are firm in saying that inhibiting the production of prostaglandins too frequently can increase the risk of certain conditions, including peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney disorders. Another concern is that ibuprofen, which contains sodium, may increase fluid retention. This makes the use of ibuprofen particularly risky for people with lung congestion or those who have congestive heart failure (the latter may further experience or suffer from dropsy - an excess accumulation of serous fluid in connective tissue).

As much as it has its benefits, ibuprofen has several other downsides apart from those already mentioned above. Be aware that ibuprofen (or any other anti-inflammatory drug for that matter) may:

- raise blood pressure, especially when taken longer than directed;

- increase the blood levels of lithium - a medication specifically used to control bipolar disorder;

- impede the action of certain beta-blockers - drugs that reduce the rate and force of heart contractions and lower high blood pressure;

- interfere with certain diuretics; and

- retard the mending of bone fractures.

Still, many people trust ibuprofen as both a pain reliever and as an anti-inflammatory drug. As a matter of fact, medical experts rank ibuprofen high above other pain medications in terms of being safe. But that is, of course, only if it is used properly. Mind these requirements to ensure safety: do not take more than the dosage recommended by your doctor; do not drink alcoholic beverages while under this medication; and do not take this medication if you have an allergy to aspirin. People who suffer from asthma, diabetes, liver or kidney ailments, peptic ulcers, or heart problem would do well to first seek the professional advice of their doctor before taking ibuprofen. [Read the Original Article]

How to Know Which Eyedrops are Best for Which Condition

Every day, our eyes are exposed to a number of irritants. For this reason, eyedrops have always occupied an important place in our medicine cabinets. There are, however, different types of eyedrops and it is necessary that you know which type will best address a specific condition.

The eyes are endlessly beset by factors that often make them red and itchy, foremost of which is our working for many hours at a computer terminal. For some, it may be using contact lenses for too long. Circumstances and conditions relating to the environment, such as wind, dry heat, pollution, and the sun's rays, are possible contributing factors. Dust, pollen, and other allergens are common irritants, while the use of certain medications (decongestants, antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and drugs to treat ulcer or maintain normal blood pressure) may all play a significant part in unduly straining the eyes.

There are three distinct classes into which eyedrops are grouped, each class having a specific purpose: Decongestants remove redness in the eyes; combinations of antihistamines and decongestants alleviate itching and eliminate redness; and lubricants restore normal moisture in dry eyes.

But let's not stop at just having identified the different types of eyedrops and how they work; each type has specific negative features which we must likewise consider. For example, using a combination antihistamine-decongestant eyedrops for over a week may subject you to what is known as the "rebound" effect. This means that the itching and redness are likely to recur and may even become chronic. In decongestants, any one of three known ingredients - naphazoline, phenylephrine, or tetrahydrozoline - may even worsen itching and redness and may serve as a cause for conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the eyes characterized by viscid discharge and of experiencing such a sensation as if the eyes have grits in them, especially upon waking in the morning). It is strongly advised that you see your doctor once these problems become manifest and continue after you have used the eyedrops for a week.

Of the three types of eyedrops, the safest for long-term use are the lubricants. However, a number of these eye lubricants contain some preservatives which, when used for long, may result to erosion in the cornea's surface. This condition (a form of inflammation), although completely reversible, is too vexatious. And in infrequent instances, a serious allergic reaction may develop from having too much of these preservatives.

In cases of chronic eye problems, there are certain types of eyedrops which your doctor may prescribe. These prescription eyedrops contain antihistamines and such other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ingredients. For glaucoma, consult your doctor as to which type of eyedrops is best for the condition. [Read the Original Article]

Nicotine Gum and Patches: How They Work as Antismoking Medications

Overcoming the urge to smoke wasn't really difficult, according to some of my friends - all heavy smokers once upon a time. Their secret: they used nicotine gum and patches as substitutes for cigarettes.

Nicotine is an organic base - an alkaloid to be exact - that is addictive. When taken in, it triggers the brain to set loose an abundant amount of a chemical called dopamine. This chemical, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, is associated with craving. As levels of nicotine start to fall, the body feels an intense longing for more. The need to light up again becomes even stronger. Failing to satisfy this urge, an assortment of symptoms may occur: sleeplessness, peevishness, weariness or exhaustion, anxiety, or even a feeling of dejection. These conditions may be too overpowering to some people that giving up smoking is a virtually impossible task for them.

In battling against an intense desire to smoke, nicotine gum and patches help by providing nicotine to the body with an amount that's just enough to keep the craving in check. While nicotine gum gives off a surge of nicotine much like what one is familiar with when lighting a cigarette, nicotine patches provide a weak yet equable flow of nicotine that assists in containing the urge continuously.

Experts consulted by my friends were one in saying that nicotine gum and patches do pose a risk of addiction though of little consequence; they assure that the addiction is relatively harmless when compared to smoking. Further, they maintain that nicotine gum and patches do not influence the inner urge that is linked with smoking despite their being known to meet the body's want for nicotine.

Still, the occurrence of several side effects is possible. This may include itchiness of the skin, diarrhea, weakness of the muscles, or a whirling sensation in the head coupled with a sullied vision. People who are known to have heart disease are cautioned on the use of nicotine gum and patches. This is because several tests pointed out that some of these nicotine-replacement products may have the very same adverse effect on the heart as cigarettes have if used for too long.

Using nicotine gum or patches may not be a sufficient medication for some people who are trying to beat their addiction to smoking. A program that deals directly with the habitual sides of smoking may be an ideal regimen in combination with using these nicotine-replacement products. An effectual regimen is one that lasts for several months. [Read the Original Article]

Relieving Rhinitis Effectively with Vasoconstrictor Nose Spray

Some sure signs that you are suffering from rhinitis is when your nose is itchy, it is runny and stuffy, and you sneeze a lot. Rhinitis often afflicts people during a bout with the common cold. It can also smite people when substances that cause allergy, such as pollen, abound. When rhinitis attacks, the blood vessels and tissues of the nasal courses are inflamed.

I am one of those who easily fall victim to rhinitis, and my immediate solution is to reach for one of those nose sprays - a vasoconstrictor nose spray, to be specific. A vasoconstrictor nose spray is an over-the-counter medication which can effectively counter the vexing effects of rhinitis. It can lighten the condition fast although for a limited time only.

There is one thing you have to be aware of though when using a vasoconstrictor nose spray: you must not use it for more than three consecutive days. If you do, it may cause your nasal passages to be even more clogged. This is because if you overextend the use of this spray, the tissues in your nose will rely on it the more to prevent the blood vessels from swelling. The moment you decide to discontinue using the spray, you are likely to suffer from a reaction which medical experts term as "rebound congestion," which means that the blood vessels in your nose distend even worse and your nose becomes clogged anew.

Vasoconstrictor sprays are proven to relieve rhinitis a lot quicker than those medications taken orally. Besides, oral decongestants are known to cause side effects such as dryness of the mouth and insomnia, or even an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure in some people. Vasoconstrictor nose sprays have very few of these side effects.

An ingredient I always look for in an over-the-counter vasoconstrictor spray is phenylephrine. I find this element effective in easing my rhinitis. Two other ingredients that are known to be as efficient are oxymetazoline and xylometazoline. Always look for any of these three ingredients when purchasing your over-the-counter vasoconstrictor nose spray.

Of course, there are other choices or ways to alleviate your rhinitis. An easy one is the old, tested way of steam inhalation, done for about ten minutes at least twice a day, which can help in easing symptoms of rhinitis. Another choice you have is a saline spray which is also available over-the-counter. This non-medicated spray restores the moistures in nasal layers that are lost due to indoor heat. A nasal gel lubricant works in much the same way.

If you are in search of a long-term solution to your allergic rhinitis, a prescription spray - such as a corticosteroid nasal spray - may be just what you're looking for. However, this type of spray is known to have side effects, such as headache, nausea, and nosebleeds. Your doctor will advise you on the correct and safe way of using it. [Read the Original Article]