What is metformin? Metformin is an FDA-approved antidiabetic agent that manages high blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients. It reduces glucose absorption from the intestines, lowers liver glucose production, and improves insulin sensitivity. Metformin is recommended with dietary changes and exercise for better results. Managing blood sugar levels with medications like metformin can prevent complications such as kidney …
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Gabapentin – Uses, Side Effects and Overdose
Background Gabapentin is a structural analogue of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that was first approved for use in the United States in 1993. It was originally developed as a novel anti-epileptic for the treatment of certain types of seizures – today it is also widely used to treat neuropathic pain. Gabapentin has some stark advantages as compared with …
Read More »Cephalexin – Properties, Uses, and Dosage
Description Cephalexin is a semisynthetic first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic having methyl and beta-(2R)-2-amino-2-phenylacetamido groups at the 3- and 7- of the cephem skeleton, respectively. It is effective against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms, and is used for treatment of infections of the skin, respiratory tract and urinary tract. It has a role as an antibacterial drug. It is a cephalosporin, a …
Read More »Atorvastatin – Uses, Side Effects, and Composition
Background Atorvastatin (Lipitor®), is a lipid-lowering drug included in the statin class of medications. By inhibiting the endogenous production of cholesterol in the liver, statins lower abnormal cholesterol and lipid levels, and ultimately reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. More specifically, statin medications competitively inhibit the enzyme hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) Reductase, which catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonic acid. …
Read More »Methylphenidate – Side Effects and Dosage
Background Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant used most commonly in the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and for narcolepsy. Also known as the marketed products Ritalin, Concerta, or Biphentin, methylphenidate is used with other treatment modalities (psychological, educational, cognitive behaviour therapy, etc) to improve the following group of developmentally inappropriate symptoms associated with ADHD: moderate-to-severe distractibility, short attention …
Read More »Palifermin – Properties and Characteristics
About: Palifermin (Kepivance®) Palifermin is a man-made version of a protein, naturally produced by the body, called keratinocyte growth factor (KGF). KGF stimulates the growth of tissues such as: skin and the lining of the mouth, stomach, and intestines. KGF also assists in the repair of the skin and gastrointestinal lining by stimulating cells to grow and develop. Palifermin, like …
Read More »Paclitaxel – Interactions and Overdose
Background Paclitaxel is a chemotherapeutic agent marketed under the brand name Taxol among others. Used as a treatment for various cancers, paclitaxel is a mitotic inhibitor that was first isolated in 1971 from the bark of the Pacific yew tree which contains endophytic fungi that synthesize paclitaxel. It is available as an intravenous solution for injection and the newer formulation …
Read More »Olanzapine – Uses and Effects
Background Olanzapine is a thienobenzodiazepine classified as an atypical or second-generation antipsychotic agent. The second-generation antipsychotics were introduced in the 90s and quickly gained traction due to their impressive efficacy, reduced risk for extrapyramidal side effects and reduced susceptibility to drug-drug interactions. Olanzapine very closely resembles clozapine and only differs by two additional methyl groups and the absence of a …
Read More »Octreotide – Effects and Dosage
Background Octreotide is a long-acting drug with pharmacologic activities that mimic those of the natural hormone, somatostatin, which inhibits the secretion of growth hormone.8 Additionally, it is used for the treatment of acromegaly and symptoms arising from various tumors, including carcinoid tumors and vasoactive intestinal tumors (VIPomas).8 In the past, octreotide has been administered solely by injection. On June 26, …
Read More »Nefopam – Side Effects and Dosage
What is Nefopam? Nefopam is a painkiller which is prescribed to relieve moderate pain which is not being controlled by other painkillers such as paracetamol or aspirin. Although it is not fully understood how it works, it is thought to interrupt the way pain messages are sent to your brain from your body. This means you feel less pain. It …
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