Saturday, July 12, 2008

Can My Herbal Supplements Harm Me?


Unknown to most people is the fact that everyday foods and Herbal supplements can and do interact with popular prescription medications. I became interested while talking to my Pharmacist that my son couldn't take decongestant cold medications with his heart medication. Well, I knew about interactions between two drugs, but when the Pharmacist told me he couldn't have grapefruit juice, I was stunned. Seems that grapefruit juice increases the blood concentrations of the drug. Basically that means that it greatly enhances the effects of the drug which could result in an overdose of the medication. This is everyday grapefruit juice! It got me wondering about other everyday foods and Herbs we take. Below are a few foods and Herbs that have an effect on your medications. This list is a basic guide, and is by no means the meant to replace your Doctor or Pharmacist. Consult with them about any prescriptions you are taking and the foods and Herbs that will interact with them. Although I have taken this information from a handout from a local Hospital, Use this information at your own risk. Again, I am not a Doctor or Pharmacist, and I have had NO medical training, so please consult with yours for more information.


People usually ask if Herbal supplements change the way their prescription drugs work. The answer is YES! Some medications should never be taken with Herbal supplements. Some can cause unwanted side effects or cause the medication to stop working to their full effect.


Another misconception about supplements is that they are completely safe because they are natural. Yes, they may be from plants, but they are not natural to your body. Herbal supplements are not tested or inspected like prescription drugs are tested, so the supplements vary in quality and strength from pill to pill and bottle to bottle.


Just like supplements, foods can change the way your body responds to medications. One example is grapefruits and grapefruit juice. Many people aren't aware that grapefruit juice can increase the drug levels of certain medications. An increase in the levels will also increase the side effects of the drug.


Things to Remember


1. Herbal supplements and foods can change the way your medications work.
2. Tell your caregiver what Herbal supplements you take and what foods you eat often.
3. Ask your Doctor or Pharmacist what Herbal supplements or foods will interact with your medications.
4. Always talk with your Doctor or Pharmacist FIRST before taking any Herbal supplements.DISCLAIMER: The following charts are not all inclusive and do not contain every interaction of drugs with foods and herbs. It serves as a guide only. Consult with your Doctor, Pharmacist or a registered dietician if you have any questions.


Analgesics (Pain Relievers)

Aspirin
Celecoxib (Celebrex)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen

Food: Avoid alchohol. Avoid large amounts of orange juice and vitamin C.
Herbs:Avoid Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Flaxseed Oil, and Ginko as it increases the risk of bleeding.


Narcotics
Codeine (Tylenol #2, 3, 4)
Morphine (MS Contin)
Oxycodone (Oxycontin/Percocet)

Foods:Avoid alchohol.
Herbs:Do not take with Kava or Valerian as it may make you feel drowsy.


Antibiotics


Ciproflaxacin (cipro)
Levofloxacin (Levaquin)


Food: Take 2 Hrs before or 6 Hrs after antacids, dairy products amd multi-vitamins that contain calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium. Avoid large amounts of caffeine.See Chart 3 below.
Herbs:


Methronidazole


Foods:Avoid alchohol during and 3 days after taking this medication to avoid nausea and vomiting.
Herbs:


Penicillin


Foods:Citrus fruits/juices and carbonated beverages will decrease desired effect.
Herbs:


Tetracycline


Foods:Take 2 Hrs before or 6 Hrs after antacids, dairy products amd multi-vitamins that contain calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium.
Herbs:Dong Quai or St. John's Wort increase the risk of sunburn.


Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)


Foods:May cause rash if taken with alchohol.
Herbs:Dong Quai or St. John's Wort increase the risk of sunburn.


Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)


Warfarin (Coumadin)


Food: Avoid alchohol. Avoid foods high in Vitamin K: beef liver, oils and green leafy vegetables (broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, collards, spinach).
Herbs: Avoid Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Flaxseed Oil and Ginko as they increase the risk of bleeding. Do not take St. John's Wort as it may decrease the desired effect.


Cholesterol Lowering Agents


Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Pravastatin (Pravachol)
Rosuvastatin (Crestor)
Simvastatin (Zocor)


Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.


Diabetes Medications


Glipizide (Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL)
Glyburide (Glynase, Micronase)
Metformin (Glucophage)


Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra as it may increase blood sugar and decrease desired effect.


Erectile Dysfunction


Sildenafil (Viagra)
Tadalafil (Cialis)
Vardenafil (Levitra)


Food: Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Yohimbe as it may increase side effects.


Gastrointestinal Agents (Stomach Meds)


Prochlorperazine (Compazine)


Food: Do not take with alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Dong Quai, Kava, St. John's Wort or Valerian as they may make you drowsey.


Cimetidine (Tagamet)


Foods: Avoid alchohol. Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3.
Herbs: St John's Wort may decrease desired effect.


Lansoprozole (Prevacid)
Omeprazole (Prilosec)
Pantoprazole (Protonix)
Rabeprazole (Aciphex)


Foods: Avoid alchohol as it may cause upset stomach.
Herbs: St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.


Heart and Blood Pressure Medications
*Note: The following herbs may cause an INCREASE in blood pressure and decrease desired effect of any blood pressure medications: Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Ephedra, Hawthorn, Quassia, Vervain and Yohimbe.


Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors-
Captopril (Capoten)
Linisopril (Prinivil, Zestril)


Food: Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium and potassium rich foods; see Chart 1.
Herbs: See *Note above


Beta Blockers-
Atenolol (Tenormin)
Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol ZL)
Propranolol (Inderal)


Foods: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: See *Note above.


Calcium Channel Blockers-
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac)
Verapamil (Calan, Verelan)


Foods: Do not take with grapefruit juice. A low sodium diet may be recommended.
Herbs: See *Note above.


Digoxin (Lanoxin)


Foods: Avoid antacids. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Ma Huang and St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.


Nitrates-
Isosorbide (isordil, Imdur)
Nitroglycerin Patch (Nitrol)


Foods: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: See *Note above.


Diuretics (Water Pills)


Furosemide (Lasix)
Hydrochlorothiazide


Food: INCLUDE potassium rich foods in diet; see Chart 1 below.
Herbs: See *Note above under Heart and Blood Pressure Medications.


Hormone Replacement Therapy


Estrogen (Premarin, Premphase, Prempro)


Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: St John's Wort may decrease desired effect. Do not take Black Cohosh Dong Quai, Red Clover or Saw Palmetto because of the possible side effects.


Mood Disorders


Aripiprazole (Abilify)
Clozapine (Clozaril)
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
Risperidone (Risperdal)


Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take grapefruit juice. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wor or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.


Benzodiazepines-
Alprazolam (Zanax)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Diazepam (Valium)
Lorazepam (Ativan)


Foods: Avoid alchohol. Do not take grapefruit juice. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wor or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.


Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)


Food: Avoid alchohol. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Green Tea.


Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI's)-
Phenelzine (Nardil)
Tranylcypromine (Parnate)


Foods: Avoid alchohol. Avoid tyramine-rich foods see Chart 2 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra, Kava, Ginko, St. John's Wort or Yohimbe as they may increase effect and cause a serious increase in blood pressure.


Selective Seratonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's)-
Citalopram (Celexa)
Escitalopram (Lexapro)
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Paroxetine (Paxil)


Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra, Kava, Melatonin, Valerian or Yohimbe as they may make you drowsy. Do not take with St. John's Wort as it may increase effect of drug and risk of side effects.


Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA's)-
Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Desipramine (Norpramin)
Nortriptyline (Pamelor)


Foods: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wort or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.


Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control)


Estradiol Cypionate
Ethinyl Estradiol
Mestranol


Food: Avoid smoking.
Herbs: Do not take with Chaste Tree Berry, Red Clover, Saw Palmetto or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.


Osteoporosis


Alendronate (Fosomax)
Risendronate (Actonel)


Food: Take only with plain water. Do not take anything else within 30 minutes of taking these drugs as they may decrease desired effect.
Herbs:


Seizure Medications


Carbamazepine (Carbatrol, NOT Tegretol)
Divalproex (Depakote)
Oxcarbazepine (trileptal)
phenytoin (Dilantin)


Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Evening Primrose increases risk for seizures. Do not take with Kava or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy. St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.


Thyroid Medications


Levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid)
Thyroid (Armour Thyroid)


Food: Limit intake of Brussel Sprouts, cabbage, kale, greens, rutabaga, soybeans and turnips.
Herbs: Do not take with Lemon Balm.


Miscellaneous


Antihistamines-
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)


Food: Do not take with alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava or Valerian as it may make you feel drowsy.


Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)


Foods: Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Echinacea or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.


Prednisone
Methylprednisolone


Food: Avoid alchohol. Calcium supplements may be recommended to prevent Osteoporosis.Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Echinacea or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.


Theopylline (theo-Dur)


Foods: Avoid alchohol.Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra or Green Tea as it may increase effect of drug.


Foods:
Herbs:


Chart # 1

High potassium rich foods include the following:
Apricots, Artichokes, Asparagus, Avacado, Banana, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Carrots, Celery,
Chocolate, Dates, Dried Beans, Dried Fruit, Figs, Greens, Honeydew, Milk, Orange Juice, Potato,
Pumpkin, Prune Juice, Raisins, Rhubarb, Spinach, Squash, Tomato, V-8 Juice


Chart # 2


High tyramine-content foods include the following:
Aged Cheese*, Aged Meat,Anchovies, Avacados, Bananas, Beer, Broad Beans, Caffeine
Chicken Liver, Chocolate, Cola Drinks, Canned Figs, Mushrooms, Raisins, Sausages, Sour Cream
Soy Sauce, Wine (Chianti, Sherry), Yeast, Yogurt*Camembert, Chedder, Gruyer, processed American and Stilton


Chart # 3


High caffeine-content foods include the following:
Chocolate (milk and dark, Coffee (brewed, cappuccino, expresso)
Caffeinated water (Java, Kank, Aqua Blast), Ice Cream (coffee, chocolate)
Soft Drinks (Mountain Dew, Coca Cola, Pepsi, Root Beer, Sunkist Orange Soda)
Teas (green Tea, Ginseng, Snapple Iced Tea, Lipton)


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Khaoz's weblog

Common High Blood Pressure Medications - Know These 8 Types


There are eight common medications used to treat high blood pressure. While many people dealing with hypertension will possibly be prescribed a combination of a variety of these medications, the amount of medication needed depends greatly on the type and the level of severity of the illness.

While antihypertensive medicines are used to lower blood pressure to normal levels, medications should always be used in combination with a healthy lifestyle change. The main objectives of high blood pressure medications are to not only lower blood pressure but to minimize the side effects caused by some of the medicines.

Diuretics


Water pills are used to remove excess salt from the body. The increase in salt in a person's body causes the blood vessels to retain more fluid than needed. The release of excess fluid in blood vessels, takes a strain off the vessels and arteries.

Examples: Thalitone, Lasix, Esidrix, Lozol, Dyazide, and Maxzide.

Beta-Blockers


Beta-Blockers are used to reduce the amount of blood pressure flowing through the body, by slowing the heart rate down, it allows for an optimal flow of blood throughout the vessels.

Examples: Sectral, Tenormin, Coreg, Lopressor, Toprol, Corgard, Inderal and Blocadren.

ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors)


The hormone Angiotensin II can cause the blood vessels to narrow; ACE inhibitors stop that hormone from production.

Examples: Lotensin, Vasotec, Prinivil, Zestril, Accupril, Altace, and Mavik.

ARBs (Angiotensin II receptor blockers)


This medication defends blood vessels from narrowing affects from angiotensin II.

Examples: Atacand, Avapro, Cozaar, Benicar, Micardis, and Diovan.

CCBs (Calcium channel blockers)


Calcium entering from the body's cells can cause blood vessels to constrict, CCB's stop that from happening.

Examples: Norvasc, Cardizem, Cartia, Dilacor, Tiazac, Plendil, Cardene, Adalat, Procardia, Calan, Covera, Isoptin, and Verelan.

Alpha-Blockers


Alpha-Blockers are used to reduce nerve pressure to allow blood to pass in vessels more freely.

Examples: Cardura, Minipress, and Hytrin.

Centrally acting drugs


Centrally acting drugs work with a person's brain chemistry to control nerve impulses that narrow the blood vessels.

Examples: Catapres and Methyldopa.

Direct vasodilators


Direct vasodilators perform by widening the blood vessels to allow more blood to circulate.

Examples: Apresoline and Loniten.

You can buy Accupril here

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therealmonkey's weblog

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Colchicine Recall - Colchicine Side Effects & Colchicine Lawsuits


Drug manufacturer ApotheCure and the Food and Drug Administration enacted an immediate recall of compounded Injectable Colchicine .5mg/ml, 4ml vials, lot number 20070122@26 due to three recent deaths in Oregon. ApotheCure, a pharmacy based in Texas, recently mistakenly made this batch of an already dangerous drug 10 times stronger than the label stated. Colchicine is an extremely toxic nitrogen-based medication used by doctors to treat a number of conditions such as:

• Gout: Gout is caused when uric acid builds up in the cartilage of the tendons or joints throughout the body, which inflames the tissues and results in immense pain. Colchicine gout treatment side effects are extremely dangerous unless the drug is administered carefully


• Secondary amyloidosis(AA): This condition occurs when protein deposits build up in the body


• Scleroderma: When collagen builds up the skin or other organs it can cause scleroderma, which can be fatal in some cases


• Familial Mediterranean fever: This autoimmune disease affects people with ancestry primarily from around the Mediterranean Sea, and affects a wide number of systems including the chest, lungs, skin, and abdomen.

This recall is very similar to a recall that occurred in 2000 when Phyne Pharmaceuticals of Scottsdale, Arizona accidentally labeled their injectable colchicine .5 mg/mL, but it was actually the far more potent and potentially fatal 5 mg/mL.

Three people in Oregon have already died due mislabeled compounded colchicine. Compounding is a process that pharmacies sometimes use to create medications for people that have certain conditions that prevent them from using standard drugs. ApotheCure Inc. compounded colchicine for the Oregon patients, but made it too strong. Colchicine is already extremely dangerous under the right conditions, but when it is used incorrectly it can be almost immediately life-threatening. ApotheCure Inc. initiated a recall in order to prevent more fatalities from occurring.

Colchicine poisoning side effects include:


• Fatigue


• Weakness


• Sore throat


• Rash


• Numbness


• Allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of lips/face/tongue, closing of throat, difficulty breathing


• Unsuspected bleeding and bruising

The most serious colchicine side effects include:

• Fetal damage in pregnant women


• Anemia,


• Respiratory failure


• Kidney failure


• Death

You can buy Colchicine here

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Playing Mantis's weblog

An Inside Look at Prostate Cancer Cures In The Various Forms Of ...


Prostate cancer cures lay in the various forms of treatments available as therapy for the disease.

Common Treatments for Prostate Cancer

Radiation, hormone therapy, radical prostatecomy, chemotherapy, and cryotherapy, which seeks to destroy cancer cells by freezing them, are amongst the most common treatments for prostate cancer, and the closet modern medicine has come to finding prostate cancer cures.

Radiation for prostate cancer treatment involves the use of external-beam radiation therapy, and radioactive seed implants.

Prostate cancer hormone therapy implements the use of drugs to stop the biological production of male sex hormones. Androgens are male sex hormones that have been clinical linked to the development of prostate cancer when produced in excess.

Radical prostatecomy is the surgical removal of the prostate gland. There are two radical prostatecomy surgical procedures available, retropubic surgery, and perineal surgery. The retropubic surgery removes the prostate gland through an incision placed below the navel. The perineal surgery features an incision for removal placed between the anus and scrotum.

Conventional Prostate Cancer Medications

Luteinizing hormone-releasing analogs (LHRH) are designed to lower testosterone levels. Such prostate cancer medications are administered via injections and can be given monthly or every three, six, or nine months. Many metastases (with the cancer spreading outside of the prostate gland) prostate cancer patients opt for this round of prostate cancer treatments as opposed to a surgical removal of their testicles.

Plenaxis is the newest LHRH antagonists. The drug works to lower testosterone but does not cause a sharp rise in testosterone levels before taking affect, as LHRH analogs do. LHRH antagonists can only be used in men who are not able to use other forms of hormonal treatment. Abarelix, Lupron, Zoladex, Eulexin, and Casodex are other common types of LHRH antagonists.

Finding Prostate Cancer Cures Through Clinical Trials

Clinical trials serves as one way of finding prostate cancer cures. All prostate cancer medications must take pass the three phases required to gain approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

Phase I of the clinical trials test the safety of a new drug. The second clinical phase is designed to determine how the proposed new prostate cancer treatment works. Patients are given the drug in high doses during this phase. The patients are watched to see what effect the test drug has on their prostate cancer. The final phase of clinical trial testing pits test medications against standard treatments. A control group is given dosages of the test drug while a second group uses standard methods of medicine-with the effects documented.

You can buy Eulexin here

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Syria's weblog

Femara as an Efficient Form of Infertility Treatment


There are two conditions that will identify if there is any need of using infertility drugs. One, if the woman is unable to ovulate therefore there is a need for assisted development of the egg cells. And second if there is a need to increase the chances of pregnancy when a patient already has the capability to ovulate. These are termed as ovulation and superovulation respectively.

Letrozole or femara is the most recent addition in the long list of infertility medications found in the market today along with already-established medications that come in names like Clomid or Serophene and Gonadotropins.

Letrozole, (the brand name of which is Femara) is primarily a drug used by breast cancer patients. But recently, it came into use in the infertility industry.

In the recent years, Femara has been one of the most efficient infertility drugs. However, recent studies suggest that it is somehow associated with low number of birth defects. Birth defects arise when Femara is used during the period of pregnancy. Yet when administered before the establishment of pregnancy, no adverse consequences are found. Nonetheless, the manufacturer of Femara accepted absolute responsibility over those cases that ended up with birth defects.

Femara works by suppressing the production of estrogen. Thus, creating the effect of producing more hormones that work solely for ovarian stimulation. These hormones namely LH and FSH help in both the processes of ovulation induction and superovulation. As a result, Femara has become widely accepted as an infertility drug.

Treatment using Femara have shown substantially higher rates of success as compared with those produced by other drugs like Clomid. In fact, it is known that while patients have failed to ovulate using other medications, there are still possibilities that they will do when Femara is administered in their case.

Common Side Effects of Femara
  • Breast tenderness

  • Headaches

  • Hot flashes

  • Advantages over other major infertility drugs

    So far, researches show no cases of miscarriage in women employing Femara in their infertility treatment. Only, the manufacturer advises that once pregnancy commences, the use of the medication must be automatically stopped.

    Unlike with Clomid, Femara is readily released from the body. Thus producing no other effects that might affect the tissues and other organs in adverse manner.

    When administering Femara, there is usually 60 to 80% increase in ovulation possibility. Nonetheless, assurance of pregnancy is decreased by half.

    Women who are able to ovulate normally take 1 tablet of Femara a day. But this dosage may increase depending on the capability of the body to react to the medication.

    You can buy Femara here

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    Kestra's weblog

    Nizoral Shampoo And Hair Loss


    Nizoral shampoo works well on dandruff and this prevents hair loss. There are two types of them. Nizoral mild shampoo contains 1% of ketkconazole, thereby increasing hair volume and decreasing hair fall. 2% of ketkconazole is present in anti-dandruff shampoo for treating severe dandruff problem. A research conducted found that its users shed 16% less hair compared to other shampoo users. It also increased anagen-phase hair follicles. In general, it is a fact that losing your hair is something nobody can bear to face. Losing your hair is emotionally depressing and thus hair loss is a serious issue for most of the people. Especially in females, this issue is considered to be really serious. A lot of people are concerned about this fact that hair loss is inevitable due to the diet we take these days. Our diets are not balanced and the genetically modified food is not healthy enough to ensure health. Thus people face problems li8ke hair loss. There are few natural and synthetic combats to the problem of hair loss, which can save you from this embarrassment. They are one of the best ways to combat hair loss.

    Nizoral shampoos are a dandruff treatment shampoo and are never advertised as a hair fall therapy shampoo because it is not authenticated. There is no guarantee that it will give you a dandruff free scalp and thicker hair growth. Check with you dermatologist before buying the shampoo or you could end up buying expensive shampoos without reaping its benefits.

    Nizoral successfully drives away itching, inflammation and simultaneously stimulates hair growth. This shampoo is available in most grocery stores and it is the only shampoo in the market that can make dandruff vanish. It is a remarkable shampoo for bringing down the DHT level in the scalp and for treating fungal infection.

    Nizoral shampoo tackles dandruff and helps to overcome hair loss. Regular use of this shampoo will prevent its recurring. It should be used twice a week. This shampoo is not perfumed and pleasant and cleans the hair like any other shampoo, leaving the hair manageable and healthy.

    Nizoral shampoo fights hair loss, because it basically fights injections caused by yeast or fungus. Though it is known to cure fungal infection it is popularly known as anti-dandruff shampoo. People allergic to Ketoconazole, children and aged people should use this shampoo only after consulting the physicians. Overuse of it could leave your hair looking dry, dull and arid.

    These are few of the important points about Nizoral shampoos. This shampoo is a great help to those who are interested in finding a remedy to their hair loss problem. In this way the hair loss issue can be done with forever.

    You can buy Nizoral here

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    Arkaig_Roe's weblog

    Wednesday, July 9, 2008

    Cold Sore Medications - Which One Is Right For You?


    It is estimated that over 80% of the general population has been infected with the herpes simplex virus. Of that total, about one third of these people will develop and get a cold sore. What can they do to treat it? What are the options?

    If you, or someone you know has had cold sores, then you know first hand just how difficult it can be to find a way to heal them. Many have tried various cold sore remedies such as using ice, putting on over-the-counter creams and many other methods without having much success. Now, over the past few years there have been two FDA approved prescription medications made available in treating a cold sore. Which one is the better choice?

    Denavir Cold Sore Cream

    Denavir is the older of the two cold sore medications, having been FDA approved in 1996. Denavir is a cream that you apply on the cold sore, or area where it is developing, every 2 hours throughout the day. This is from the time you wake up until the time you go to bed at night. It's important to begin treating the area where the cold sore is forming, immediately. Don't wait until it has already broken out to get started.

    Zovirax Cold Sore Cream

    Zovirax is the new kid on the block so to speak, being FDA approved in 2002. Zovirax is basically the same as Denavir except in dosage. Instead of applying every 2 hours, the instructions say to apply 5 times per day for 4 days total. Like Denavir, you should apply Zovirax immediately upon signs that a cold sore is beginning to develop.

    Which Is Best - Denavir Or Zovirax?

    Although everyone has their own opinion, and your doctor will know the right choice for your particular case, in the studies that have been done, the choice is pretty clear. Denavir was named the prescription cold sore medication of choice.

    Keep in mind that while both creams will work, nothing will permanently cure the herpes virus. Even though you will get rid of a cold sore much quicker, the virus remains in your body forever, just waiting for a time to try and break out again. But, with the advent of these newer prescription medications, at least you know there are ways to quickly heal any new cold sores that may try and develop in the future.

    You can buy Zovirax here

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    enderhelpme's weblog

    Parasite Symptoms


    Parasites live in or on another organism, known as the host, from which they receive nourishment and protection. Some pass successive stages of maturity in hosts of different species, including humans. Parasites are of different types, including protozoa (one-celled animals) and helminths (worms) ranging in size from microscopic eggs to adults up to several feet long. The illnesses they cause range from mild discomfort of short duration to chronic, debilitating disease and death.

    People who live in areas where the disease is endemic (constantly present) suffer the devastation most keenly. Hardest hit are developing countries in the tropics, where poor sanitation fosters the parasites and the insects that transfer many of them from one host to another.

    Parasite infection may cause many different symptoms, most of which are common to other diseases. Therefore, people with parasites may not suspect them as the culprit. Since parasites disturb the ecology of the intestine, many of their effects are seen in digestive problems, including constipation, diarrhea, gas and bloating, persistent bad breath, and irritable bowel syndrome. Other health problems that may result indirectly from a disturbance in intestinal ecology include joint and muscle aches and pains (fibromyalgia syndrome), anemia, allergies, skin problems, nervousness, depression, sleep disturbances, teeth grinding, persistent fatigue, immune dysfunction, and uncontrolable sugar cravings.

    Of course, not every case of ill health can be blamed on parasites. If, however, symptoms persist after you've been treated for some other suspected ailment, or if the symptoms recur at regular intervals, then parasites should be suspected. It is a good idea to keep track of your symptoms and look into the possible cause of a parasite with the help of a qualified health-care provider. Diagnosis usually must be performed by a laboratory that specializes in parasite testing (see Resources).

    If you learn you have parasites, you will want to follow a program aimed at eradicating the parasites instead of merely relieving the symptoms of infection. If the parasites are not eliminated, they will continue to reproduce and create problems. Parasites cause harm in part by overrunning the populations of beneficial microflora in the intestine that aid in maintaining proper digestive activity. They also produce toxic byproducts.

    When symptoms are severe, as may occur with certain parasites such as Giardia, doctors generally will prescribe drugs like Flagyl, Atabrine, and Vermox, any of which will usually get rid of the parasites. Many individuals, however, experience adverse reactions to these medications, such as nausea or psychiatric disturbances. Therefore, for less serious infections, you may wish to discuss with your doctor a series of simple steps that change the environment in the intestine to make it less amenable to the parasites' survival.

    You can buy Vermox here

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    Boogs's weblog

    The Stop Smoking Injection - Is it the Answer to Quitting Smoking?


    In the land of instant gratification, the idea of going to the doctor, receiving an injection and then going home a non-smoker sounds great. In fact it sounds too good to be true. So is it?

    For more than a decade, there have been injections available that are supposed to help you stop smoking. They started out using scopolamine and atropine in the injections. The newer version uses scopolamine and Atarax. It is marketed under the name SMART Shot.

    Scopolamine is most commonly used to treat motion sickness, intestinal cramping and to dilate pupils during eye exams. It is currently being investigated for its possible usefulness by itself or in combination with other drugs to help people with breaking the nicotine habit. Side effects include: dry mouth, throat and nasal passages, thirst, blurred vision and sensitivity to light, constipation and difficulty urinating.

    Atropine is made from the deadly nightshade plant and can be poisonous. It is used to treat extremely low heart rates in cardiac arrest, as an antidote to some poisons. Its side effects include: dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, loss of balance, dilated pupils, confusion and hallucinations.

    Atarax is an antihistamine used primarily for the treatment of itches and irritations, to reduce nausea and as a weak pain killer. Side effects include: deep sleep, dizziness, ringing in the ear, low blood pressure, dry mouth and constipation.

    Now how these drugs are supposed to help you quit smoking, I don't know. And apparently neither does the FDA. The website that markets the SMART Shot (www.smokingshot.com) states "The SMART Shot is a new and improved smoking cessation shot consisting of a combination of two medicines that have been around for over a decade and are FDA-approved for indications other than quitting smoking." At first glance it appears that this is a FDA-approved product. But read the wording closely and you will see that the site states that the two drugs (scopolamine and Atarax) are FDA-approved drugs. (And the are.) But that the FDA does NOT approve those drugs to be used as a smoking cessation product. (Which it doesn't.)

    But does it work? Bottom line - who knows. SMART shot claims a 70-80% success rate, but doesn't back up their claims with any data or show any proof in the form of results from clinical testing.

    Meanwhile, testing is underway on a stop smoking injection called NicVax. It is a vaccine that is supposed to make the immune system create antibodies that will bind with the nicotine and prevent it from ever reaching the brain.

    So maybe someday there will be a stop smoking injection that is known to really work, but for now there doesn't appear to be.

    You can buy Atarax here

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    Birus Durden's weblog

    The Tale of TB


    Since time immemorial, tuberculosis has been one of humanity's greatest nemesis. The earliest of human civilizations have suffered tremendous wrecks from this dreadful and fatal disease. Mummies from Egypt beginning 2400 BCE are proofs of the long-enduring curse of tuberculosis. Even the ancient Greece have their share of tuberculosis plague. It is from Greek literature that the word phthisis, which means consumption, was first discovered. It was prevalent that Hippocrates called it as the most fatal disease of their time.

    The bacteria by the name of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the identified cause of tuberculosis. More popularly known as TB, tuberculosis is misconceived by many as a disease exclusive to the lungs. While it mainly affects the lungs, some body parts, or almost every body part actually, can be affected by TB. The central nervous system, lymphatic system, circulatory system, genitourinary system, bones, and joints are just some other body parts that can be harmed by TB.

    Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an aerobis bacterium that grows slowly that it takes 16 to 20 hours to divide. When this bacteria is inhaled, it settles around the lung area and its eventual multiplication leads to pneumonia. Lymph nodes connected to the lungs can also be affected by the infection. These lymph nodes become enlarged and its normal healthy processes gets badly affected. The bacteria that causes TB is highly probable to spread around the nearby areas and can reach other body parts as well. As a natural response to any bacteria, the human body's immune system would act by producing scar tissues (fibrosis) to fence the bacteria in the hope of containing its spread. The main goal of our body's immune system's response is to isolate the bacteria from the other tissues and organs of our body. If a person's immune system succeeds in doing so, the disease may be made inactive. People whose immune system successfully mitigates the spread of the bacteria generally show no signs and symptoms of the infection. However, constant production of fibrosis can lead to yet another bad effect. When massive deposits of calcium go to the scar tissues, calcification, the lymph nodes, and the scar tissues are likely to harden like stone.

    The success of our body's immune system on quelling or at least, containing the harmful effects of the bacteria lies on the assumption that it remains well and healthy. But if our body's immune system is deteriorated by other factors or infections, TB bacteria is very well able of escaping the fences of the scar tissues and proceed with its natural way of living-- replication and invasion of other body parts. When this happens, pneumonia is very likely to happen again and again. Worse and highly probable, the bacteria may invade the kidneys, bone, spinal cord, and brain lining.

    Mycobacterium tuberculosis is characterized by its staining capabilities. Even if the bacteria is treated, it can leave some strains especially if it had been treated with an acidic solution.

    Mycobacterium tuberculosis has three other myobacteria-- M.microti, M.bovis, and M.africanum-- that can cause tuberculosis. There are also other myobacteria (nontuberculous myobacteria) that can cause TB-like pulmonary diseases, skin disease, and lymphadenitis.

    The primary mode of transmission is the inhalation of infected air exhaled by a TB carrier. The bacteria is transported outside the lungs and mix with the air everytime a TB-infected person sneezes, spits, coughs, or even shouts. People at a close distance can then easily get easily get the bacteria and get infected.

    When the TB infection is active, one that has not been contained by scar tissues, a number of symptoms can easily manifest. Patients with an active TB infection show symptoms of poor general health condition, noticeable weight loss, fever, and night sweats. If the lungs get so infected, chest pain, coughing up of sputum and/or blood, and poor breathing generally occur.

    A combination of Myambutol, Rifadin, pyrazinamide, together with isoniazid is the most common treatment for TB infections that are active and progressive. In cases of patients not being able to comply with oral medications, injection of Streptomycin is given. The duration and intensity of medication depends on how grave or serious the case already is. Patients who had an early detection of the infection are more likely to be cured immediately than those at late detection.

    You can buy Myambutol here

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    Kaston's weblog

    Tuesday, July 8, 2008

    MaxoDerm Cream - For Unmatched, Ultimate Male Enhancement


    If you are among the thousands of people around the world that are prone to weak erections or a have a undersized penis then MaxoDerm cream is the total on in one solution for you.

    The key to your success

    As with any medication or supplement the key is the delivery or application method. Being a cream form MaxoDerm is applied at the point where it is require - directly onto the penis. This leads to a fast acting, stronger erections that last longer, keeping both you and your partner satisfied.

    Regular user of MaxoDerm cream obviously increases you size and firmness but also has the added benefit of boosting your sexual stamina, which many users also reporting increased intensity of orgasms too.

    What Will You Experience?

    When applied MaxoDerm will invoke a warm sensation through your penis, this is normal and actually feels good. This sensation is the first stage of the application and proof that the cream is starting to work it's magic.

    The Technical Stuff That Erections Are Made Of

    To form an erection is a complicated process but starts with sexual arousal. This sexual stimulation releases nitric oxide in the corpus cavernous. This in turn diffuses into the muscle cells lining the arteries of your copus cavernous, causing them too relax. This relaxation then allows the arteries to

    The mechanism of action involves a complicated, complex interaction of physiological processes - sexual arousal results in a release of nitric oxide in the corpus cavernous which diffuses into smooth muscle cells lining the arteries of the corpus cavernous thereby relaxing them. It is this relaxation that allows arteries to become flooded with blood and produce an erection.

    MaxoDerm cream is usually applied liberally. It should be directly applied onto the penis and massaged lightly for approximately 5-10 minutes. It is recommended that you MaxoDerm for across a twelve week period to gain maximum effect, although it can be just as effective as a one off application.

    Quick Acting Cream

    Instead of being processed through the body's digestive system and being diluted and destroyed in processes as usually occurs when swallowing a pill, tablet, or capsule, MaxoDerm cream has a patent pending formula - by the name of vasotran auctum - which causes an immediate impact because its ingredients directly stimulate the skin tissue associated with the arousal and orgasm. The main contents of vasoatran auctum ingredints include:

    - zinc oxide

    - muira pauma

    - catauba extract

    - methyl nicotinatewhite nettle extract

    - L-Arginine

    - saw palmetto extract

    MaxoDerm cream enhances the results directly upon intended site of action, limiting exposure of the rest of the body to the ingredients.

    MaxoDerm cream is unlike any other male enhancement products due to its unique formula that contains clinically tested ingredients perfect dosage for the best guaranteed results.

    Research and Customer Feedback

    A test of the cream was carried out in accordance with Barmensen Labs' Internal Compliance Initiatives. This test surveyed 150 users. The results are summarised below and I'm sure you'll agree they seem to back up the claim that MaxoDerm is the premier erection enhancement cream on the market.

    - 78 % experienced a significant enhancing of their erecting firmness

    - 83 % felt that the product began working in less than 60 seconds

    - 71 % have noticed a great improvement in sensation

    Special Note: It is important to know that you do not need prescription for this male enhancement and it has been evaluated and approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

    You can buy Ultimate Male Enhancer here

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    Ulairi's weblog

    Side Effects of Some Drugs that Are Lowering Blood Pressure(part One)


    Lowering blood pressure is a condition that is below the normal expected for an individual in a given environment. Blood pressure differs deeply with activity, age, medications, and underlying medical conditions

    Some of the Drugs have some side effects that can cause lower blood pressure include blood pressure drugs, diuretics (water pills), heart medications (especially calcium antagonists-nifedipine/Procardia, beta blockers-propranolol/Inderal and others), depression medications (such as amitriptylene/Elavil), and alcohol.

    Diuretics — diuretics are a big evil of lower blood pressure. It could cause lack of potassium in your body. Usually after taking diuretics, patient may suffer from weakness, leg cramps, or being tiredness however, it is not permanent. A patient can avoid these problems by taking some potassium tablets with diuretics. Diuretics such as amiloride (Midamar), spironolactone (Aldactone) or triamterene (Dyrenium) are called "potassium sparing" agents and provide equal of amount of potassium to your body. A lower blood pressure patient with diabetes can have some problems with diuretics. It may increase the blood sugar level. So, it is recommended to take permission from doctor before taking it.

    Beta-blockers — patients of lower blood pressure feel insomnia, cold hands and feet, tiredness or depression, a slow heartbeat or symptoms of asthma after taking Beta-blockers. Patients of diabetes need to care while taking this medicine.

    ACE inhibitors — a required amount of ACE inhibitors not effect badly to lower blood pressure patient but the drugs, such as captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), lisinopril (Zestril or Prinivil), may cause a skin rash; loss of taste; a chronic dry, hacking cough; and in rare instances, kidney damage.

    Angiotensin II receptor blockers — another evil for the patients of lower blood pressure. A patient may feel occasional faintness, so take care, and ask your doctor before taking the drug.

    Calcium channel blockers —lower blood pressure patient may suffer from palpitations, swollen ankles, constipation, headache, or dizziness with this medicine. Form of Calcium channel blockers are Diltiazem (Cardizem), nicardipine (Cardene), Nifedipine (Procardia) and verapamil (Calan or Isoptin) which is injurious in lower blood pressure.

    These side effects will continue in the next article "Side effects of some drugs that are Lowering Blood Pressure(part two)"

    You can buy Procardia here

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    Mazakari Maelstrom's weblog

    Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Treatment and Medication


    If you are suffering from high blood pressure and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, also known as BPH, you should consider taking Cardura medication. It is a very effective drug for such treatments. It is an alpha-blocker. This helps to relax the muscles in the blood vessels. In return, it will lead to a decrease in blood pressure.

    For benign prostatic hyperplasia patients, such effect from taking Cardura is desired. This is because the drug frees the tension from the muscles that surround the urethra. Therefore, there will be good improvement in urinary symptoms.

    Do Not Use Cardura If:

    The patient will generate an allergic reaction to any chemical that is used to make Cardura or drugs similar to Cardura. Hence, it is necessary that you consult a doctor or pharmacist before you start your Cardura treatment.

    Before Using Cardura

    The doctor or pharmacist who prescribes the medicine must know if the women are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or if they are breast-feeding currently.

    Besides that, patients who are suffering from prostate cancer or liver and kidney problems should also refrain from taking Cardura. If patients are taking any health supplements, this must be reported to the doctor as these may interact with Cardura too and may have adverse effects.

    Cardura Side Effects

    Cardura may interact with Cimetidine or Verapamil. As a result, patient tends to feel dizzy or have a fainting feeling. Vardenafil must also be avoided when having Cardura treatment.

    Dosage

    Cardura can be taken either with food or without food. It does not matter. When the first dose is consumed, the patient may experience sudden drop of blood pressure. If the patient happens to miss his Cardura medication accidentally, it must be taken as soon as possible. But it must not be taken with 2 dosage at one time.

    You can buy Cardura here

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    Syria's weblog