Jun
27
Plavix Side Effects
June 27, 2011 | Leave a Comment
Side Effects of Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Before you buy Plavix online without a prescription (generic Plavix - Clopidogrel) you need to know common possible side effects of the drug. Briefly there is information on Plavix side effects. Order Plavix online only after studying full information on this drug.
Plavix - Side Effects Information
With the blood coagulation system: gastrointestinal bleeding (2%, 0.7% of the cases required hospitalization), less often - hematoma, hematuria, and bleeding in the conjunctiva. From the hemopoietic system: severe neutropenia (number of granulocytes <450/mkl) was observed in 0.04%, severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <80 000/mkl) - at 0.2%. From the digestive system: abdominal pain, indigestion (constipation, diarrhea, nausea), gastritis, rarely - the changes of liver samples. From the central and peripheral nervous system: headache, dizziness, paresthesias. Dermatological reactions: skin rash, itching. Allergic reactions: seldom - bronchospasm, angioedema, anaphylactic reactions.
Other: thrombocytopenic purpura (1 / 200, 000).
Other clinically significant side effects noted in several large international studies, with a frequency ≥ 0.1%, as well as all serious side effects are presented below, according to the WHO classification. Their frequency is defined as follows: common (> 1 / 100, <1 / 10), uncommon (> 1 / 1000, <1 / 100), rare (> 1 / 10000, <1 / 1000).
From the central and peripheral nervous systems: common - headache, dizziness, paresthesias, rare - vertigo.
From the digestive system: common - diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes - nausea, gastritis, flatulence, constipation, vomiting, stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer.
With the blood coagulation system: sometimes - lengthening of bleeding time.
From the hemopoietic system: sometimes - leukopenia, decreased number of neutrophils and eosinophils, low platelet counts.
Dermatological reactions: sometimes - a rash and itching.
With the blood coagulation system: reports of bleeding were the most frequent (most of the cases occurred within the first month of treatment). There are several cases with fatal outcome (intracranial, gastrointestinal and retroperitoneal bleeding), there are reports of severe cases of skin hemorrhages (purpura), musculo-skeletal bleeding (haemarthrosis,), eye hemorrhages (conjunctival, ocular, retinal), epistaxis , hemoptysis, pulmonary hemorrhage, hematuria, and bleeding from the wound, in patients taking clopidogrel along with aspirin or with aspirin and heparin have also been reported cases of severe bleeding.
From the hemopoietic system: very rare - thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (0.0005%), severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <30 000/mkl), granulocytopenia, agranulocytosis, anemia, aplastic anemia / pancytopenia.
Central nervous system: confusion, hallucinations.
Cardio-vascular system: vasculitis, blood pressure reduction.
The respiratory system: bronchospasm.
From the digestive system: colitis (including ulcerative or lymphocytic colitis), pancreatitis, change in taste, hepatitis, liver function abnormalities.
With the musculoskeletal system: arthralgia, arthritis.
From the urinary system: glomerulonephritis.
Dermatological reactions: bullous eruption (erythema multiforme), erythematous rash, eczema, lichen planus.
Allergic reactions: seldom angioedema, urticaria, anaphylactoid reactions.
Other: very rarely - increased temperature, increased blood creatinine.
These are possible side effects of Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Generic Plavix is cheap to buy online without rx.
Tags: buy Clopidogrel, clopidogrel information, constipation, liver, plavix, plavix clopidogrel, plavix side effects, prescription, purchase clopidogrel, rx, spasmAug
12
Donnatal - Doxazosin - Doxercalciferol - Dronabinol - Dyazide
August 12, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Brand Name
Donnatal
Generic Ingredients
Atropine Sulfate + Hyoscyamine Sulfate + Phenobarbital + Scopolamine Hydrobromide EQ
Other Brand Names Antispas
Antispasmodic Barbidonna
Bellatal
Donnapine
Donnatal Extentabs Hyosophen Spasmolin
The information in this profile also applies V) the following drugs: Generic /nqcedjer)t: Hyoscyamine Sulfate 0
Anaspaz ED-SPAZ
A-Spas S/L Hyosol
Cytospaz Hyosyne
Donnamar IB-Stat
Levbid Levsin
Levsinex Timecaps Medispaz
DONNATAL
Neosol NuLev Spasdel Symax
Generic Ingredient: Propantheline 92 Pro-Banthine
Type of Drug
Anticholinergic combination.
Prescribed For
Stomach spasm and gastrointestinal (GI) cramps; also used to treat motion sickness.
General Information
Donnatal is a mild antispasmodic sedative. Its principal action is to counteract the effect of acetylcholine, an important neurohormone. Donnatal is used only to relieve symptoms. not to treat the underlying condition, and there is considerable doubt among medical experts that this drug lives up to its claims. In addition to the brand names listed above, there are about 50 other anticholinergic combinations with similar properties. All are used to relieve cramps and all are about equally effective. Some have additional ingredients to reduce or absorb excess gas in the stomach, to coat the stomach, or to control diarrhea. Donnatal and products like it should not be used for more than the temporary relief of symptoms.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take Donnatal if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Donnatal should not be used by people with glaucoma, rapid heartbeat, severe intestinal disease such as ulcerative colitis, intestinal obstruction, urinary difficulties, asthma, myasthenia gravis, acute intermittent porphyria, acute bleeding with unstable heart function, or hiatal hernia.
Phenobarbital may be, habit-forming and should not be admin(Ste_%16 10 people with a history of drug dependence.
Donnatal should be used with caution in children and in people with brain damage, spastic paralysis, Down’s syndrome, heart disease, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), kidney or liver disease, autonomic neuropathy, or gastric ulcer.
Donnatal can reduce your ability to sweat and may lead to heat exhaustion. Avoid extended heavy exercise and limit your exposure to high temperatures.
Possible Side Effects
♦ Most common: blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary difficulties, flushing, and dry skin.
♦ Less common: rapid or unusual heartbeat, increased sensitivity to bright light, loss of the sense of taste, headache, nervousness, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, sleeplessness, nausea, vomiting, fever, stuffy nose, heartburn, loss of sex drive, decreased sweating, constipation, feeling bloated, and allergic reactions such as fever and rash.
Drug Interactions
• Although Donnatal contains only a small amount of phenobarbital, it is wise to avoid alcohol or other sedative drugs. Although unlikely, phenobarbital interactions are possible with anticoagulants, adrenal corticosteroids, narcotics, sleeping pills, digitalis or other cardiac glycosides, and antihistamines.
• Some phenothiazine drugs, sedatives, tricyclic antidepressants, and narcotics may increase the side effects of the atropine sulfate ingredient in Donnatal, causing dry-mouth, urinary difficulties, and constipation. The effectiveness of phenothiazines to control psychotic symptoms may be decreased.
• Combining Donnatal and the antiviral amantadine may increase the side effects of Donnatal.
• Donnatal may increase the side effects of atenolol and digoxin.
• Antacids may decrease Donnatal’s effectiveness; do not take antacids within 1 hour of taking Donnatal.
Food Interactions
‘%ke Donnatal 30-60 minutes before meals.
Usual Dose
Donnatal
Adult (age 13 and over): 1-2 tablets, capsules, or tsp. 3-4 times a day, or 1 extended-release tablet every 12 hours.
Child (age 2-12): 112 the adult dosage. Child (under age 2): not recommended.
Propantheline
Adult-. 15 mg 3 times a day before meals, and 30 mg at bedtime. Senior: 7.5 mg 3 times a day.
Child (under age 12): not recommended.
Overdosage
Symptoms of overdose include dry mouth; difficulty swallowing; thirst; blurred vision; sensitivity to bright light; flushed, hot, or dry skin; rash; fever; abnormal heart rate; high blood pressure; urinary difficulties; restlessness; confusion; delirium; and breathing difficulties. The victim should be taken to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Call your doctor if you experience persistent diarrhea, bloating, fever, heart palpitations, rash, flushing, or eye pain.
Do not crush or chew Donnatal tablets.
Dry mouth usually can be relieved by chewing gum or sucking hard candy or ice chips. Constipation can be treated with a stool-softening laxative.
Donnatal may reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth, making it easier for bacteria to grow there. Pay special attention to dental hygiene while taking this medication to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Donnatal may cause drowsiness and blurred vision. Be careful when driving or operating hazardous equipment.
If you forget to take a dose of Donnatal, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Donnatal may cause drug dependency or breathing problems in newborns and may interfere with labor aM delivery. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential must be carefully weighed against its risks.
Donnatal may pass into breast milk and may reduce the amount of milk produced. It may cause tiredness, shortness of breath, and a slower-than-normal heartbeat in infants. Nursing mothers who must take this medication should consider using infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors are often more sensitive to the side effects of Donnatal, such as excitement, confusion, drowsiness, agitation, constipation, dry mouth, and urinary difficulties. Memory may be impaired and glaucoma worsened.
Generic Name
Doxazosin (dok-SAY-zoe-sin) In
Brand Names
Cardura. Cardura XL
Type of Drug Antihypertensive.
Prescribed For
High blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); also used with digoxin and diuretic drugs to treat congestive heart failure.
General Information
Doxazosin mesylate and other alpha-adrenergic blocking agents, or alpha blockers, reduce blood pressure by dilating (widening) blood vessels. They achieve this effect by blocking nerve endings known as alpha, receptors. The maximum blood-pressurelowering effect of doxazosin is seen between 2 and 6 hours after taking a dose. In BPH treatment, doxazosin works by relaxing smooth muscles in the prostate and neck of the bladder. Doxazosin helps the symptoms of BPH, and taking it for several years may eliminate the need for surgery or allow the use of a less invasive type of surgery. Doxazosin’s effect lasts for 24 hours. It is mostly broken down in the liver; little passes out of the body via the kidneys.
Doxazosin may slightly reduce cholesterol levels and improve the ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)—”good” cholestemAand low-density lipoprotein (ILDL}—”bad cholesterol”—a positive step for peQ¢kp_%Aln a blood-cholesterol problem.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take doxazosin if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or to any alpha blocker.
Doxazosin may cause dizziness and fainting, especially the first few doses. This is known as a first-dose effect, which can be minimized by limiting the first dose to 1 mg at bedtime. First-dose effects occur in about i % of people taking an alpha blocker and may recur if the drug is stopped for a few days and then started
again.
Doxazosin should be taken with caution if you have liver
disease.
White-blood-cell counts may be slightly decreased in people
taking doxazosin.
Rarely, alpha blockers, including doxazosin, have led to pri-
apism (painful and prolonged erection). Call your doctor immediately if this happens. If not treated promptly, this condition can lead to impotence.
Possible Side Effects
✓ Most common: headache, dizziness, and weakness.
♦ Less common: heart palpitations, abnormal heart rhythms, chest pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain or discomfort, gas, breathing difficulties, nosebleed, sore throat, runny nose, muscle or joint pain, visual disturbances, conjunctivitis (pinkeye), ringing in the ears, fainting, depression, decreased sex drive or sexual function, tingling in the hands or feet, nervousness, tiredness, anxiety, sleeplessness, poor muscle coordination, muscle stiffness, poor bladder control, frequent urination, itching, rash, sweating, fluid retention, facial swelling and flushing, and back, neck, shoulder, arm, or leg pain.
✓ Rare: vomiting, dry mouth, sinus irritation, bronchitis, cold or flu symptoms, worsening of asthma, coughing, hair loss, weight gain, and fever. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
• Doxazosin may interact with beta blockers to ‘increase the risk of dizziness or fa:kv%1)g alter the first dose of doxazosin.
• TW-1 UDOd-pressure-lowering effect of doxazosin may be reduced by indomethacin.
• When taken with other blood-pressure-lowering drugs, dox-
azosin produces a severe reduction of blood pressure.
• The blood-pressure-lowering effect of clonidine may be reduced by doxazosin.
Doxazosin should be taken with caution in combination with clarithromycin, ketoconazole, and itraconazole.
Food Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Adult: 1 mg morning or evening to start; may be increased to a total of 16 mg, taken once a day. Extended-release tablets-4 mg once daily at breakfast; may be increased to a total of 8 mg. Do not chew, cut, or crush extended-release tablets.
Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Overdose may produce drowsiness, poor reflexes, and very low blood pressure. Overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room at once. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Take doxazosin exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking it unless directed to do so by your doctor. Avoid over-the-counter drugs that contain stimulants because they may increase your blood pressure.
Doxazosin may cause dizziness, headache, and drowsiness, especially 2-6 hours after you take your first dose, although these effects can persist after the first few doses. Use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
Call your doctor if you develop severe dizziness, heart palpitations, or any bothersome or persistent side effect.
Wait 12-24 hours after taking your first dose of doxazosin before driving or doing anything that requires concentration. Take your dose at bedtime to minimize this problem.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and coT)- tinue with your regular schedule. Do R(ak%’Ke a double dose.
4VIWIal Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: The safety of using doxazosin during pregnancy is not known, although animal studies have shown that alpha blockers may affect fetal development. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
Small amounts of doxazosin pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors, especially those with liver disease, may be more sensitive to the effects and side effects of doxazosin.
Generic Name
Doxercalciferol (dox-er-kal-Sffl-fer-ahl)
Brand Names
Drisdol Liquid Hectorol Capsules
Type of Drug
Vitamin D supplement.
Prescribed For
Elevated parathyroid hormone levels in patients undergoing kidney dialysis.
General Information
Doxercalciferol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that is processed in the body to form active vitamin D. Vitamin D, along with parathyroid hormone, are key elements of the calcium-regulating system in the body. Normally, your body releases parathyroid hormone if blood calcium levels are too low. Parathyroid hormones move calcium from the place where it is found in greatest quantity—your bones—into the bloodstream. This can have disastrous effects for a wide variety of body functions where calcium is crucial including muscle contraction, nervous system function, bone fragility, and blood clotting. Doxercalciferol helps to stabilize the system and normalize parathyroid hormone levels that can be artificially elevated in dialysis patients.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use doxercalciferol if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Do not take any other Vitamin D supplement while taking this dwg.
People with a tendency toward high calcium or vitamin D levels should not take doxercalciferol.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take doxercalciferol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
Dialysis patients experience increases in blood calcium and phosphate while taking this drug.
Drug Interactions
• Do not take antacids that contain magnesium while you are taking doxercalciferol.
• Cholestyramine may reduce the absorption of doxercalciferol.
• Prolonged use of mineral oil may reduce the absorption of doxercalciferol.
• Do not combine any other over-the-counter or prescription medicines, or vitamin supplements with doxercalciferol without first talking with your doctor.
• The following medicines can slow the transformation of doxercalciferol to its active form in the body, reducing its effectiveness: ketoconazole, erythromycin, delaviridine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, amiodarone, aprepitant, chloramphenicol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, diltiazem, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, gestodene, itraconazole, mifepristone, nefazodone, norfloxacin, mibefradil, and verapamil.
• The following drugs can increase the breakdown of doxercalciferol in the liver, possibly reducing its effectiveness: efavirenz, nevirapine, barbiturates, carbamazepine, glucocorticoids, modafinil, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John’s wort, oxcarbazepine, pioglitazone, and rifabutin. Dosage adjustment may be needed.
• Digoxin may cause symptoms of alcohol intolerance when combined with disulfiram or mettot)idazole.
Food (”WTactions
Avoid grapefruit products as they can slow the transformation of doxercalciferol to its active form in the body, reducing its effectiveness.
You may need to limit your consumption of foods containing vitamin D. Consult your doctor.
constipation, general discomfort, nausea, difficulty breathing, and itching.
of appetite, indigestion, weight gain, on, sleepiness, and slowed heart rate.
Possible Side Effects
♦ Common: swelling, headache, dizziness,
✓ Less common: loss joint pain,
Usual Dose
Adult:starting dose-10 mcg 3 times a week during kidney dialysis treatment. Dosage may be adjusted to 2.5 mcg at 8-week in-
tervals if necessary.
Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Symptoms include weakness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, metallic taste in mouth, constipation, muscle pain, bone pain, and irregular heartbeat. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for more information. It you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Compliance with dosage instruction, diet, and calcium supplementation is important while taking doxercalciferol.
Lab tests are required to monitor therapy while taking doxercalciferol.
Doxercalciferol may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
Special Populations
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breast-feeding.
The safety of using doxercalciferol during pregnancy is not known. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
It is not known if doxercalciferol passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must use this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may use this drug without special precaution.
Generic Name
Dronabinol (droe-Mla-ih,bl)
Brand Name Marino)
Type of Drug Antinauseant.
Prescribed For
Nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, and appetite stimulation and weight-loss prevention in people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
General Information
Dronabinol is a legal form of marijuana. The psychoactive chemical in marijuana is delta-9-THC. Dronabinol has all of the psychological effects of marijuana and is therefore considered to be a highly abusable drug. It can cause personality changes, feelings of detachment, hallucinations, and euphoria (feeling “high”). Younger adults have reported a greater success rate with dronabinol, probably because they are better able to tolerate these effects.
Most people start taking dronabinol while in the hospital so their response to the drug and its possible adverse effects can be monitored. Dronabinol has also been studied as a glaucoma treatment.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take dronabinol if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients, to marijuana, or to sesame oil.
Dronabinol should not be used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by anything other than cancer chemotherapy.
Dronabinol should be used with caution in those with a history of seizure disorders or substance abuse.
Dronabinol has a profound effect on mental states; it will impair your ability to operate complex equipment or engage in any activity that requires intense concentration, sound judgment, or coordination—such as driving a car.
Dronabinol produces withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. These may develop within 12 hours of the drug’s discontinuation and include restlessness, sleeplessness, and irritability. Within a day after the drug has been stopped, stuffy nose, hot flashes, sweating, loose stools, hiccups, or appetite loss may occur. The symptoms usually subside within a few days,
Dronabinol should be used with caution by people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Dronabinol should be used with caution by people with a manic-depressive or schizophrenic history because it may aggravate the underlying disease.
Possible Side Effects
V Most common: drowsiness, euphoria, dizziness, anxiety, muddled thinking, perceptual difficulties, poor coordination, irritability, a separation in time and space, depression, weakness, sluggishness, nausea and vomiting, headache, hallucinations, memory lapses, loss of muscle coordination, unsteadiness, paranoia, depersonalization, disorientation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness when rising from a sitting or lying position.
♦ Less common: difficulty talking or slurred speech, facial flushing, excessive perspiration, nightmares, ringing or buzzing in the ears, fainting, diarrhea, loss of bowel control, and muscle pain.
Drug Interactions
• Dronabinol increases the effects of alcohol, sleeping pills, sedatives, and other depressants. It also enhances the effects of psychoactive drugs including tricyclic antidepressants, amphetamines, cocaine, and other stimulants.
• Dronabinol may increase the effects of fluoxetine and disulfiram.
• The effects of theophylline drugs are reduced by dronabinol.
• Combining dronabinol and antihistamines or anticholinergic drugs may cause either rapid heartbeat or excessive drowsiness.
Food Interactions
This drug may be taken without regard to food or meals; as an appetite stimulant, it is often taken before meals.
Usual Dose
Antiemetic: 5 mg 1-3 hours before starting chemotherapy treatment and repeated every 2-4 hours after treatment, for a total of 4-6 doses a day. Dosage may be increased up to 15 mg per dose if needed; psychiatric side effects increase greatly at higher dosages.
Appetite Stimulant: 2.5 mg before lunch or dinner, or 2.5 mg at bedtime. Dosage may be increased to 20 mg a day.
Overdosage
Overdose symptoms may occur at usual dosages or at higher dosages if the drug is being abused. The primary symptoms of
overdose are the psychological symptoms listed above (see “Possible Side Effects”). In some cases, overdose may lead to panic reactions or seizure. Contact a hospital or local poison center for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Be careful when driving or performing any task that requires concentration. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants.
Dronabinol may cause acute psychiatric or psychological side effects. Call your doctor if any develop.
The capsules must be stored in the refrigerator.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding; Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
Dronabinol passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to this drug, especially its psychological effects.
Brand Name
Dyazide
Generic Ingredients Hydrochlorothiazide + Triamterene 5§1
Other Brand Names
Maxzide Maxzide-25
The information in this 10TOVile also applies to the following drugs:
Generic Ingredients: Amiloride + Hydrochlorothiazide 92 Hydro-Ride Moduretic
Generic Ingredients: Spironolactone + Hydrochlorothiazide KI
Aldactazide Spironazide
Alzide Novo-Spirozine Spirozide
Type of Drug
Diuretic that increases urination).
Prescribed For Hypertension (high blood pressure) or any condition where it is de-
sirable to eliminate excess water from the body. General Information
Dyazide combines a thiazide diuretic and a potassium-sparing diuretic. The latter, triamterene, helps the body retain potassium while producing a diuretic effect. This balances the other ingredient, hydrochlorothiazide, which normally causes a loss of potas- sium. Different products contain differing concentrations of these 2 drugs. Dyazide should be used only when you need its exact proportion of ingredients, and should not be used for initial therapy of hypertension or edema. It may be used alone or with other anti hypertensive drugs such as beta blockers. Dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use dyazide if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or to any sulfa drug or if you have a history of allergy.
Do not use Dyazide if you have nonfunctioning kidneys, bronchial asthma, or hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels).
Do not combine any potassium supplement and Dyazide without your doctor’s knowledge. Dyazide may reduce blood levels of sodium and potassium and raise blood calcium levels.
Dyazide should be used with caution in people with diabetes, liver disease, or an electrolyte imbalance.
Possible Side Effects
♦ Most common: appetite loss, drowsiness, lethargy, head-
ache, gastrointestinal upset, cramping, and diarrhea.
V Less common: rash—possibly severe, mental confusion, fever, feeling unwell, impotence, bright red tongue, burnt”g sensation in the tongue, tingling in the toes and fingers, restlessness, anemia or other effects on blood components, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and dizziness when rising quickly from a sitting position. Dyazide may also produce muscle spasms, gout, weakness, and blurred vision.
Drug Interactions
other blood pressure
• Dyazide increases the effect of
drugs. This is why other blood-pressure drugs are often prescribed with Dyazide, but dosage adjustments may be required.
• Combining Dyazide and digitalis drugs, amphotericin B, or adrenal corticosteroids increases the risk of body-fluid imbalance. If you are taking insulin or an oral antidiabetic drug and begin taking Dyazide, the insulin or antidiabetic dosage may have to be modified.
• Dyazide may increase the risk of allopurinol side effects.
• Dyazide may decrease the effects of oral anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs.
• Antigout drug dosage may have to be modified since Dyazide raises uric-acid levels.
• Dyazide may prolong the effects of chemotherapy drugs on reducing white-blood-cell counts.
• Dyazide may increase the effects of diazoxide, which may lead to symptoms of diabetes.
• Dyazide should not be taken with loop diuretics because the combination can lead to an extreme diuretic effect and an extreme effect on blood-sodium levels.
• Dyazide may increase the effect of vitamin D, which may cause high blood-calcium levels.
• Propantheline and other anticholinergics may increase the diuretic effect of Dyazide.
• Lithium carbonate taken with Dyazide should be monitored carefully by a doctor due to an increased risk of lithium side effects.
• Cholestyramine and colestipol prevent Dyazide from being absorbed. Dyazide should be taken at least 2 hours before cholestyramine or colestipol.
• Methenamine and other urinary agents may reduce the effect of Dyazide.
• Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSNDs), particularly indomethacin, may reduce the effect of Dyazide. Sulindac, another NSAID, may increase its effect.
• Potassium-sparing diuretics should be used with caution in combination with ACE inhibitors.
Food Interactions
Take this drug with food if it upsets your stomach.
usual Dose
Adult
Amiloride combination: 1-2 tablets daily with meals.
Spironolactone combination: 1-8 tablets daily.
Triamterene combination: 1-2 capsules or tablets a day. Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Symptoms may include tingling in the arms or legs, weakness, fatigue, changes in heartbeat, a sickly feeling, dry mouth, restlessness, muscle pain or cramps, urinary difficulties, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, low blood pressure and decreased respiration may occur. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Dyazide causes excess urination at first, but this subsides after several weeks of use. Diuretics are usually taken early in the day to prevent excessive nighttime urination that may interfere with sleep.
Dyazide may make you drowsy. Be careful when driving or performing any task that requires concentration.
Call your doctor if you develop muscle pain, sudden joint pain, weakness, cramps, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, excessive thirst, tiredness, drowsiness, increased heart or pulse rate, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, or rash.
People with diabetes may experience an increased blood-sugar level and require dosage adjustments of their antidiabetic medications.
Avoid other drugs while taking Dyazide unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Avoid alcohol.
If you are taking Dyazide for the treatment of hypertension or congestive heart failure (CHF), avoid over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications, which may contain Ft%m\)%an1s.
Take Dyazide exactly -as prescribed. Be aware that all triarRtt~tl)Z-’hydrochlorothiazide products are not equal to each other and should not be freely substituted. Check with your doctor and pharmacist before switching brands.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Aug
1
Cholestyramine
August 1, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Generic Name
Cholestyramine (kol-es-TYE-rah-meen) 0
Brand Names
LoCHOLEST Questran
LoCHOLEST Light Questran Light Prevalite
The information in this profile also applies to the following drugs:
Generic Ingredient: Colesevelam Hydrochloride WelChol
Generic Ingredient: Colestipol Hydrochloride Colestid
Type of Drug
Anti -hyperli pidemic (blood-fat reducer).
Prescribed For
High blood-cholesterol levels; generalized itching associated with bile duct obstruction—cholestyramine only; colitis; digitalis or thyroid overdose; and pesticide poisoning.
General Information
Cholestyramine resin lowers blood-cholesterol levels by absorbing bile acids in the bowel. Since the body uses cholesterol to make the bile acids—needed to digest fat—fat digestion can only continue by making more bile acid from blood cholesterol. This results in lower blood-cholesterol levels 4-7 days after starting cholestyramine.
Cholestyramine w3Cks entirely Within the bowel and is never absorbed into the bloodstream. Though usually given 3-4 times a day, there appears to be no advantage to taking it more often than twice a day. The cholesterol-lowering effect of cholestyramine may be increased when it is taken with an HMG-CoA inhibitor or nicotinic acid. In some kinds of hyperlipidemia, colestipol may be more effective in lowering total blood cholesterol than clofibrate.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use cholestyramine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or if your bile duct is blocked. The powder form should not be taken dry; doing so may result in the inhalation of powder into your lungs or a clogged esophagus.
If you are being treated for hypothyroidism, diabetes, kidney or blood vessel disorder, obstructive liver disease, or alcholism, consult your doctor before taking cholestyramine.
Cholestyramine may cause or worsen constipation and hemorrhoids. Most constipation is mild, but some people may need to stop the medication or take less of it.
Possible Side Effects
✓ Most common: constipation, which may be severe and in rare cases result in bowel impaction. Hemorrhoids may be worsened.
♦ Less common: abdominal pain and bloating, and bleeding disorders or black-and-blue marks due to interference with the absorption of vitamin K, a necessary factor in the blood clotting process. One person developed night-blindness because the medication interfered with vitamin A absorption into the blood. Other side effects include belching, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, and appetite loss. Your stool may have an unusual appearance because of a high fat level.
✓ Rare: Rare side effects can affect your mouth, stomach and intestines, muscles and joints, mental status, urinary tract, and breathing. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
O Cholestyramine interferes with the absorption of virtually all oral drugs, including acetaminophen, amiodarone, aspirin, cephalexin, chenodiol, clindamycin, clofibrate, contraceptive drugs, corticosteroids, diclofenac, iopanoic acid, iron, digitalis drugs, furosemide, gemfibrozil, glipizide, hydrocortisone, imipramine (an antidepressant), methyldopa, mycophenolate, nicotinic acid, penicillin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, piroxicam, propranolol, tetracycline, thiazide diuretics, thyroid drugs, tolbutamide, trimethoprim, ursodiol, warfarin and other anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. Take other medications at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after taking cholestyramine.
Food Interactions
Take this medication before meals. The powder may be mixed with soda, water, juice, cereal, or pulpy fruits, such as applesauce or crushed pineapple. Cholestyramine bars should be thoroughly chewed and taken with plenty of fluids. Colestipol pills are swallowed whole.
Usual Dose
Cholestyramine: 4 g (1 packet) or 1 level scoopful taken 1-2 times a day or up to 6 times a day.
Colesevelam: 6 tablets once a day or in 2 divided doses. Colestipol: 2-16 g (1-6 packets) once a day or in divided doses.
Overdosage
The most severe effect of overdose is obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract. Take the overdose victim to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Do not swallow the granules or powder in their dry form. Prepare each packet of powder by mixing it with soup, cereal, or pulpy fruit or by adding the powder to a 6-oz. glass of liquid, such as a carbonated beverage. If some of the drug sticks to the sides of the glass, rinse it with liquid and drink the remainder.
Constipation, gas, nausea, and heartburn may occur and then disappear with continued use of this medication. If constipation is a problem, your doctor may recommend drinking more fluids and taking a fiber supplement. Call your doctor if these side effects persist or if you develop unusual problems such as bleeding from the gums or rectum.
If you miss a dose of cholestyramine, skip it and continue with your regular scheduke. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: While cholestyramine does not affect the fetus directly, it may prevent the absorption of vitamins A, D, and E and other nutrients essential to the fetus’ proper development–even when you take, a prenatal vitamin supplement.
When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
Cholestyramine is not absorbed into the body. However, reduced absorption of vitamins A, D, and E and other nutrients may make your milk less nutritious. Nursing mothers who must take cholestyramine should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to experience side effects, especially those relating to the bowel.
Jul
16
Alpha Blockers
July 16, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Type of Drug
Alpha Blockers
Brand Names
Generic Ingredient. Alfuzosin Uroxatral
Generic Ingredient: Terazosin Hydrochloride Hytrin
Prescribed For
High blood pressure (terazosin) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (alfuzosin and terazosin).
General Information
Alpha blockers block nerve endings known as alpha, receptors. They reduce blood pressure by dilating (widening) and reducing pressure within the blood vessels. The maximum blood-pressurelowering effect of terazosin is seen between 2 and 6 hours after taking a single dose. Terazosin’s effect lasts for 24 hours.
In BPH, alpha blockers work by relaxing smooth muscles in the prostate and neck of the bladder. This effect is produced by blockage of alpha, receptors in the affected muscles. Despite the fact that terazosin alleviates the urinary symptoms of BPH, the drug’s long-term effect on complications of BPH or the need for urinary surgery is not known. Alpha blockers are broken down in the liver.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take alpha blockers if you are allergic or sensitive to any of their ingredients.
Alpha blockers may cause dizziness and fainting, especially after the first few doses. This is known as the “first-dose effect” and may be minimized by limiting the first dose to 1 mg at bedtime. The first-dose effect occurs in about 1 % of people and may recur if the drug is stopped for a few days and then restarted.
Do not take alfuzosin if you have moderate to severe liver disease since this can drastically increase blood concentrations of the drug.
Alpha blockers should be taken with caution if you have kidney disease, since blood concentrations may be increased by 50%.
Do not take these medicines if you are already taking an alphablocker for either high blood pressure or prostate problems.
Terazosin may slightly reduce cholesterol levels and improve the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ratio, a positive step for people with blood-cholesterol problems.
Terazosin may reduce the counts of red and white blood cells.
People taking terazosin may experience a weight gain of about 2 lbs.
Possible Side Effects
Alfuzosin
✓ Most common: dizziness, fatigue, upper respiratory infection, and headache.
✓ Less common: pain, abdominal pain, upset stomach, constipation, nausea, impotence, bronchitis, sinusitis, sore throat, low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting.
✓ Rare: rash, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and painful and persistent erection. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Terazosin
✓ Most common: dizziness, weakness, and headache.
✓ Rare: depression, reduced sex drive or abnormal sexual function (including painful and persistent erection), fluid retention, and weight gain. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
• When taken with other blood-pressure-lowering drugs, terazosin severely reduces blood pressure.
• Verapamil may increase blood levels of terazosin.
• Antifungal drugs such as itraconazole and ketoconazole and protease inhibitors interfere with the breakdown of alfuzosin in the liver, raising the amount of drug in the blood.
• Alfuzosin moderately increases the amount of diltiazem in the blood.
• Alpha blockers should not be taken with ritonavir.
Food Interactions
Alfuzosin should be taken with food.
Usual Dose
Alfuzosin: one 10-mg tablet taken after the same meal every day. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
Terazosin: starting dosage-1 mg at bedtime. Dosage may be increased in increments of 1-5 mg to a total of 20 mg a day. Dosages of 10 mg a day are generally needed to control the symptoms of BPH.
Overdosage
Symptoms may include drowsiness, poor reflexes, and very low blood pressure. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Take alpha blockers exactly as they are prescribed and do not stop taking it unless directed to do so by your doctor. Avoid over-the-counter drugs that contain stimulants because they may increase your blood pressure.
Alpha blockers may cause dizziness, headache, and drowsiness, especially 2-6 hours after taking your first dose, though these effects may persist after the first few doses. Wait 12-24 hours after taking the first dose before driving, operating machinery, or performing any other task that requires intense concentration. You may take alpha blockers at bedtime to minimize this problem.
Some people undergoing eye surgery who take alpha blockers can experience an unusual effect called “floppy iris syndrome.” Make sure to tell your eye surgeon if you are taking or have ever been treated with an alpha blocker. There is no benefit to stopping alpha-blocker treatment before cataract surgery.
Prostate cancer and BPH may have similar symptoms. Talk to your doctor about ruling out prostate cancer before beginning treatment for BPH.
Call your doctor if you develop severe dizziness, heart palpitations, or any bothersome or persistent side effect.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Alfuzosin is not indicated for use in women. Large dosages of terazosin damage the fetus in animal studies. When alpha blockers are considered crucial by your doctor, their potential benefits must be carefully weighed against their risks.
It is not known if terazosin passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the effects of terazosin.
Jul
16
Acamprosate
July 16, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Acamprosate (ah-CAM-pro-sate)
Brand Name Cameral
Type of Drug
Synthetic neurochemical similar to the amino acid homotaurine.
Prescribed For Alcoholism.
General Information
Acamprosate is used to help alcoholic patients stay alcohol-free after they have stopped drinking. Unlike other drugs used to help people stay away from alcohol, it does not cause people to have a physical reaction to alcohol. Acamprosate restores the balance between two chemical systems in the brain, glutamate and GAGA, that are known to become unbalanced in alcoholics, but its exact action is not known. It may reduce alcohol craving. Acamprosate should be part of a program that includes counseling and support, and it should be started as soon as possible after alcohol withdrawal and continued even if the patient starts drinking again. This medication has not been proven to help patients if they are still drinking when they start treatment. Acamprosate has not been studied in patients who abuse other substances together with alcohol. Tolerance or addiction has not developed with acamprosate. It passes out of the body through the kidneys.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take acamprosate if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or if you have severe kidney disease. People with moderate kidney disease require a lower dosage of acamprosate.
Acamprosate does not eliminate or ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
People taking acamprosate may become depressed or have suicidal thoughts.
Acamprosate can affect your judgment, thinking, or coordination. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery if you are taking this medicine.
Possible Side Effects
Almost 2 of every 3 people who take this medicine will experience a drug side effect.
♦ Most common: diarrhea.
✓ Common: headache, weakness, anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.
✓ Less common: pain, accidental injuries, nausea, stomach gas, dizziness, dry mouth, tingling in the hands or feet, itching, sweating, chest pain, loss of appetite, weight gain or loss, impotence, abnormal vision, rash, vomiting, and constipation.
♦ Rare: heart or kidney failure, psoriasis, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and urinary tract infections. Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
• Mixing acamprosate with naltrexone can increase the levels of both drugs in the blood, but no dose adjustments are needed.
Food Interactions
Acamprosate may be taken without regard to food or meals.
Usual Dose
Adult: two 333-mg tablets 3 times a day. Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
The only symptom associated with acamprosate overdose has been diarrhea. Overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room for observation and treatment. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Call your doctor if you are breast-feeding, pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant while taking this medicine.
Take care while driving a car or performing complex tasks.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Call your doctor if you forget to take 2 or more doses in a row. Do not take a double dose.
Acamprosate must be part of an ongoing treatment program. Do not stop taking it on your own, even if you start drinking again.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Acamprosate can damage animal fetuses in doses that are approximately equal to those taken by people on this medicine. Women of childbearing age should use an effective contraceptive while taking this drug. The potential benefits of acamprosate must be weighed against its risks if your doctor considers it a crucial treatment during your pregnancy.
Acamprosate passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Dosage reduction may be needed in seniors because of a general decline in kidney function due to age.
Jul
16
COUGH
Trying to ease a cough ough can be a frustrating exper*ence. If it arrived with a cold or another upper respiratory tract infection, it’s likely to go away eventually, but those 2 or 3 weeks of suffering until it does can be miserable. Way back before the end of the last century, Americans could buy cough medicines that worked. Codeine-containing antitussive syrups were widely available without prescription. Physicians also recommended terpin hydrate, an expectorant, from the late 1800s until the early 1990s. In theory, an expectorant simply loosens up the stuff in the lungs and makes it easier to cough up. But many people found that terpin hydrate offered more benefit.
Q.For years I used terpin hydrate as an expectorant when I had a cough. It worked. It was sold over the counter and one small bottle would last me the entire cold season. Over-the-counter cough remedies on the market today are no better than water. They just do NOT work. Is terpin hydrate still available? I’ve never found another cough syrup that works so well, but I can’t find it in my local drugstores.
A. Terpin hydrate was a popular cough medicine from the late 1800s until the early 1990s. Then the FDA banned it on the grounds that it had not been proven effective.
As an expectorant, terpin hydrate was supposed to loosen mucus and relieve coughs. It was derived from natural sources such as oil of turpentine or compounds found in oregano, thyme, and eucalyptus. Terpin hydrate is no longer available in the United States. Instead, you may want to try a different old-fashioned remedy. Vicks VapoRub contains similar ingredients: oil of turpentine, thymol, and eucalyptol. Don’t take it internally. Just rub it on the chest or the soles of the feet to ease a cough.
Another approach is thyme tea. Use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves from the kitchen spice shelf per cup of tea. Some people like to add lemon and honey. Others prefer chicken bouillon for flavor. Terpin hydrate was removed from the market because the FDA did not receive enough data to support its use when they were reviewing over-the-counter (OTC) drugs for effectiveness. (A high-ranking FDA official admitted to us off the record that he had used it and found it helpful. But the agency needed real data, not testimonials.) Perhaps the fact that it had been around for so long and no one company had a strong vested interest in it meant that no one wanted to invest in research on tenpin hydrate. Or maybe it really doesn’t work quite as well as people believed. But in any event, after it was banned, Americans needed to look for other cough remedies.
Codeine Cough Medicine
Codeine at prescription doses is generally considered an effective cough suppressant, but even the lower-dose OTC forms are becoming much harder to find. If you have a cough, your doctor might write you a prescription. It is legal in some states for people to buy low-dose codeine cough syrups if they sign for them. Presumably, that step offers extra security against abuse. But even where OTC codeine is legal, many chain drugstores won’t sell it without a prescription. They simply don’t want to be bothered. If you live in a state where codeine may be sold without a prescription, check with an independent pharmacy. Otherwise, ask your physician about a prescription. Codeine can be constipating, and long-term use can lead to dependence. But for a short-term annoying hack, this is a very helpful medication. Codeine not only is a good cough medicine, it also is extremely good for relieving pain. When combined with aspirin or acetaminophen, it practically sets the standard for pain relief. Codeine can also be useful in alleviating diarrhea, though it isn’t necessarily the first choice for that problem.
Side effects: Constipation, drowsiness, upset stomach Downside: Can cause dependence. May require a prescription.
Cost: Approximately $6 to $10 for a bottle.
Dextromethorphan
By far the most readily available cough medicine is dextromethorphan. It is the primary ingredient in most OTC cough syrups, including Robitussin DM (the DM stands for dextromethorphan) and many other popular brands. Dextromethorphan has been almost the only choice for nonprescription cough relief for years. It is considered fairly safe because (unlike codeine) it is not classified as a narcotic. The effectiveness of dextromethorphan has been questioned, however. The American College of Chest Physicians issued guidelines in 2006 on the diagnosis and management of cough that discourage the use of dextromethorphan or any other OTC cough medicine. According to Richard Irwin, MD, the head of the committee that developed the guidelines, “There is no clinical evidence that over-the-counter cough expectorants or suppressants actually relieve cough.” That’s a pretty discouraging view, since very few coughs actually warrant a doctor’s attention. If the cough has lasted for more than a couple of weeks, or if you are otherwise sick, then you should by all means see your doctor. But a regular cough from a cold probably won’t benefit from anything your doctor can do.
Home Remedies
There’s no good evidence for most of the home remedies that we are going to suggest. No one has done studies to see if thyme tea or horehound drops will really help. On the other hand, these approaches are inexpensive, so you can try them and judge for yourself if they work.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub shouldn’t really be classified as a home remedy. It is, after all, a perfectly respectable OTC product that has been a popular way to treat colds for more than a hundred years. According to the history, North Carolina pharmacist Lunsford Richardson set out to formulate a vaporizing cold’ salve for his own family. His children had come down with bad chest colds and the standard treatments of the day were messy and unsatisfactory.
The result of his effort was Vicks VapoRub. With its distinctive blue jar and unforgettable aroma, Vicks became known around the world as a remedy for congestion and other cold symptoms. It still contains the original formula: menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, cedarleaf oil, nutmeg oil, thymol, and turpentine oil in a petrolatum base. Parents everywhere rub Vicks VapoRub on their children’s chests to ease their coughs. Many of the herbal oils in this old-fashioned salve seem to help ease a cough. Menthol is found in many cough drops, and thymol has a reputation for fighting cough. VapoRub is even approved by the FDA for relieving congestion and cough. You could apply it to the throat and chest, as the instructions suggest, but go ahead and try it on the soles of the feet for a nighttime cough.
Downside: Not for internal use. Keep away from broken skin. Do not apply inside nostrils. No studies confirm that applying Vicks to the soles of the feet will work to calm cough. Cost:Approximately $6 to $10 for a jar, which will last quite a while
My son continues to have problems with ear infections, although he had tubes put in them at 8 months old. He is now 30 months old and has an ear infection with nasal and chest congestion.
I was looking for home remedies for coughs when I found your Web site. I read the idea of putting Vicks VapoRub on the soles of the feet Within 10 minutes be was asleep without a cough.
We heard from a nurse who had learned from someone in her church that Vicks could be smeared on the soles of the feet to ease a nighttime cough. As she admitted, this sounded a little crazy, but she was desperate enough to try it on her 4-year-old daughter. When she did, they both finally were able to sleep through the night. We don’t know why Vicks on the soles of the feet would work any better than Vicks on the chest. Perhaps it doesn’t. But we do know that we have heard from hundreds of people who have tried this trick and had success. We have used it ourselves and been pleased. Be sure to put on socks to protect the bed sheets. Coughs frequently are a consequence of colds, and chicken soup is a time-honored cold remedy. Beyond its long history of use for this purpose (the Jewish philosopher Maimonides is said to have recommended it), there is even research to demonstrate its value or relieving congestion from colds. So it is little wonder that chicken soup flavored with thyme can be helpful.
Q. My husband recently had a spell of heavy, nonproductive coughing and couldn’t reach his doctor. Robitussin DM didn’t do a thing. He went 2 nights with very little sleep and was miserable. I made him some chicken soup for supper, and after he ate a bowl of it he stopped coughing. During the night he started up again. With more chicken soup, the coughing stopped immediately and he finished the night sleeping well. I recalled what I’d put into the soup, and zeroed in on two herbs from my garden—three fresh sage leaves and some dried thyme. On the Internet I found that sage can calm a cough and thyme has been widely used as cough medicine. I made him 2 cups of thyme tea before he went to bed the next evening and he slept the whole night through. I think our experience shows that thyme is a good remedy to keep around until the doctor calls back.
Thyme
Thyme contains compounds such as thymol and carvacrol. This herb is listed in the PDR for Herbal Medicines as indicated for cough. and bronchitis. One to 2 grams of dried thyme leaves (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) are used to make a cup of tea. The recommended daily dosage is 10 grams spaced over the course of the day. Chicken soup with thyme is one way to get the essence of thyme. Another is to make a cup of thyme tea. Ordinary thyme leaves from the kitchen spice cupboard will work just fine-1/2 teaspoon to a cup of hot water, steeped for about 5 minutes. One reader reported getting a cough remedy over the counter when traveling in Germany. She found it very useful, much better than Robitussin DM, and wondered what it was. The medicine, called Makatussin, came as drops to be put on a sugar cube or in tea and contained Thymianfluidextrakt and Sternanisol. These are extract of thyme and star anise oil.
The German government has approved both herbs for colds and coughs, confirming what our readers have found for themselves.
Other Herbs
A number of other herbs have traditionally been used for uncomplicated coughs. Licorice is classic for sore throat and cough. It can raise blood pressure, so we don’t recommend it for people with hypertension, but for short-term use, it could be helpful. Menthol seems to have been approved by the FDA, since it is found in most OTC cough drops (as well as Vicks VapoRub). Linden flower tea is a European favorite for cough, but may be difficult to find in this country. Elderberry flowers can also be collected and dried for use in tea as a “homegrown” cough remedy. You’d have a hard time finding elderberry flowers in a store, although there are some elderberry products that use the berries themselves, rather than the flowers.
Q. With my high blood pressure, it’s hard to find cold or cough medicine that is safe. My sister recommended black elderberry extract and zinc. It did the trick.
A. Elderberry-flower tea is a traditional remedy for colds and coughs. Many herbalists believe elderberry is more effective than echinacea.
Studies of zinc used against colds have produced mixed results, some positive but others negative. Neither remedy should increase blood pressure, though.
Ginger tea is one of our favorite cold remedies, and it also may help to ease a cough. One animal study found that a component of ginger called shogaol worked at least as well as dextromethorphan against cough. That may mean simply that shogaol is just as good as placebo, now that the effectiveness of dextromethorphan is in question. Nevertheless, ginger tea is tasty and not very expensive.
Another old-fashioned approach to calming a cough is horehound. Candies flavored with this herb are still available in some stores and catalogs (such as the Vermont Country Store) that pride themselves on carrying old-time products. There’s no good research for any of these herbal products, but also no indication that they would cause any serious reactions, either.
Some people find that sucking on a piece of hard candy works quite well to ease a daytime cough, whether or not the candy has any active ingredients such as licorice or menthol in it. One scientist has suggested that part of the reason most cough syrup is sweet is not only to mask the nasty flavor of dextromethorphan, but also to recruit the brain’s own opioids, endorphins, in calming the cough. 161 Since opioids are very effective against cough, this is an appealing hypothesis.
Chocolate
Another possible remedy fora simple cough may surprise you. Chocolate lovers though we are, we never suspected that theobromine, one of the essential components of chocolate and cocoa, would have any benefit against cough. But that is exactly what British researchers found in experiments with guinea pigs.” They gave the guinea pigs citric acid to make them cough, then gave them theobromine purified from cocoa. The theobromine overcame the induced cough. An experiment in humans confirmed that theobromine is also effective against coughs in people.
The question is, how much chocolate does it take, and in what form? Unfortunately, we do not have an answer to that extremely practical issue. The researchers used theobromine alone, which is not available to the rest of us. But all of us have access to chocolate. You could do some experiments of your own to find the most palatable and effective cough-suppressing chocolate. ,
Here’s what pediatrician Alan Greene, MD, says about using chocolate against cough:
How much chocolate would this be? Chocolate preparations vary widely, depending on their cocoa content but dark chocolate often has up to about 450 milligrams of theobromine per ounce. Milk chocolate has far, far less. Two ounces of dark chocolate was about the amount of theobromine used for the adults.
Theobromine has been tested and shown to be effective in suppressing a cough. We don’t know of any way to get theobromine except to eat some chocolate, preferably dark chocolate. Savor it, and remember that it has other health benefits if consumed in moderation.
Side effects: Allergy is possible.
Downside: Dose unknown. Excess chocolate consumption -may lead to weight gain.
Cost: Highly variable, no prescription dispensing fees
Half that maybe plenty for kids (but of course there is still a lotto learn about this marvelous food). Will that much chocolate keep them awake? Even though theobromine is structurally related to caffeine, studies have shown it doesn’t interfere with sleep at those amounts. I used some fine dark chocolate for my own family during our latest viral cough illness, and our coughs disappeared nicely. What a pleasant way to get through a cold!
One other odd cough remedy may be worth a try. This one has not been tested in guinea pigs, but some people find that drinking Concord grape juice helps to ward off colds and ease coughs. There is research demonstrating that Concord grape juice has measurable anti-inflammatory activity. But we don’t know what component of grape juice, if any, might be contributing to its cough-calming effect.
Q. My wife used to get sore throats every winter. They’d hang on for weeks and develop into aloud, hacking cough. Until she recovered, neither of us would get much sleep.
Then I remembered that my sister had a similar problem with her four growing boys. In desperation, she tried a remedy she read about. drinking -red” grape juice regularly.
My wife and I started drinking a glass of Concord grape juice every day fall through spring, and the prob-lem vanished. Since then, we’ve almost never had a bad cough.
We drink half a glass of grape juice and add a half glass of water. Do you know why this works?
A. Purple grape juice has a surprising number of potential health benefits. Research has shown that it can reduce bad cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and help keep blood vessels flexible. There are even some data to suggest that certain ingredients in grapes may support the immune system. Whether this effect would help ward off sore throats and coughs we do not know.
Treating Cough in Children
It is hard on parents to listen to a child coughing away. It may even be hard on the youngster. Sometimes coughs keep them awake at night. And because children are so susceptible to colds and other respiratory tract viruses, they seem to get a lot of coughs. But parents should refrain from rushing to the drugstore for cough remedies. A study published in Pediatrics found that the two main ingredients in OTC cough medicine, dextromethorphan and diphenhydramine, were no better at easing children’s coughs than a placebo syrup was.
According to the lead author, Ian Paul, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, “One of the conclusions you could come to from the results of our study is that these medicines don’t work [for kids]. And in fact this is what evidence-based reviews of the medical literature have found before, that the existing evidence doesn’t support the use of these medicines for acute cough due to a cold . In addition, these medicines are not without risk. According to Dr. Paul, the children who received the standard ingredient in most cough medicines, dextromethorphan (DM), had a harder time falling asleep. That’s the last thing an anxious parent wants for a sick kid.
What to do? For a nighttime cough, we are partial to Vicks on the soles of the feet. Grape juice is certainly popular with most youngsters and would be worth a try.
Concord grape juice has anti-inflammatory properties, but we don’t know of any studies that confirm it has cough suppressant activity.
Side effects: None known.
Cost: About $4 to $5 for a 64-ounce bottle.
ing the day, a lunch of chicken soup with thyme in it would not be amiss. We don’t know for sure that any of these remedies will work for kids, though. We have received many testimonials on vanquishing kids’ coughs with Vicks, however, so we suspect it is likely to help.
Conclusions
These suggestions are not intended for a cough that has lasted longer than a few weeks, or one that is accompanied by fever, pain, or other symptoms of serious illness. They are aimed primarily at the annoying but not dangerous cough that often crops up at the tail end of a cold or the “flu” and hangs in there even though the patient is feeling much better otherwise.
When it comes to coughs and colds, be very cautious about medicating children. Although there are lots of products on the market aimed at kids, very few have been tested on children. And often, when they are tested on children, they don’t seem to work very well. For youngsters, less is definitely better.
• Codeine-containing cough syrup is one of the most effective remedies for cough. It may be difficult to purchase without a prescription. But if your cough is troubling you, ask your doctor to write one. Don’t overuse it, because it can be constipating.
• Vicks VapoRub, with its familiar aroma of menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus, is worth trying. If you don’t want to put it on your chest, try it on the soles of your feet (under your socks) for a cough-free night.
• Chicken soup with thyme is a comfort food that could help control a cough.
• Several herbal teas may be helpful. Try ginger, mint (menthol), elderflower, or linden flower tea. Sweetening the tea slightly with honey may help the brain’s own opioids kick in to help with that cough.
• Suck on hard candy flavored with licorice or horehound.
• The theobromine found in chocolate is active against cough. Perhaps the best way to get it is to melt a square or two of dark chocolate in your mouth.
• Concord grape juice has its enthusiasts, and very little risk.
Jul
16
CONSTIPATION. COMPLETE INFORMATION.
July 16, 2009 | Leave a Comment
CONSTIPATION
• Get enough fluid and fiber
• Eat prunes, apples, or apricots
• Sprinkle ground flaxseed on cereal
• Chew sugarless gum
• Use psyllium powder
• Try docusate for less straining
• Use milk of magnesia for quick relief (occasional use)
• Ask your doctor about a prescription for Mira Lax
Many people feel that regularity is the key to good health. Is this true or is it a myth? Grandmothers around the world have promoted daily bowel movements for generations, but there is no evidence that a trip to the bathroom each morning is necessary. People vary in the frequency that suits them best. Some do well on a schedule of no more than three times a week. Others feel good on a schedule as frequent as a few times a day.
Constipation is defined as unsatisfactory defecation, but doctors and patients don’t always agree on what is most important. Physicians may prefer objective measures like the number of days between bowel movements. But people may be as concerned about consistency as frequency. They complain about the effort of passing hard “golf balls” or “bricks.”
Sometimes physicians dismiss constipation as a minor complaint. While it is not usually life threatening, constipation can be serious. Almost 100,000 people are hospitalized each year for constipation-related problems. Many more suffer considerable distress and reduced quality of life as a result of this common condition.
SOME DRUGS THAT MAY LEAD TO CONSTIPATION
• Abilify (aripiprazole)
• Actonel (risedronate)
• Anaprox (naproxen)
• Arimidex (anastrozole)
• Asacol (mesalamine)
• Casodex (bicalutamide)
• Cataflam (diclofenac)
• Catapres (clonidine)
• Cenestin (synthetic conjugated estrogens)
• Clinoril (sulindac)
• Clorpres (clonidine and chlorthalidone)
• Clozaril (clozapine)
• Cognex (tacrine)
• C6rdarone (amiodarone)
• Covers-HS (verapamil)
• Creon (pancreatin)
• Cymbalta (duloxetine)
• Detrol (tolterodine)
• Ditropan XL (oxybutyn n)
• Duragesic (fentanyl►
• EC-Naprosyn (naproxen)
• Effexor (venlafaxine)
• Ferrara (letrozole)
• Geodon (ziprasidone)
• Gleevec (imatinib)
• Imdur (isosorbide mononitrate)
• Kadian (morphine sulfate)
• Kytril (granisetron)
• Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Lotronex (alosetron)
• Lyrics (pregabalin)
• Meridia (sibutramine)
• Mirapex (pramipexole)
• Myfortic (mycophenolic acid)
• Nalfon (fenoprofen)
• Naprosyn (naproxen)
• Orap (pimozide)
• OxyContin (oxycodone)
• Pacerone (amiodarone)
• Pancrease MT (pancrelipase)
• Paxil (paroxetine)
• Permax (pergolide)
• Rapamune (sirolimus)
• Relafen (nabumetone)
• Remeron (mirtazapine)
• Requip (ropinirole)
• Retrovir (zidovudine)
• Risperdal (risperidone)
• Rythmol (propafenone)
• Thalomid (thalidomide)
• Topamax (topiramate)
• Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen)
• Zofran (ondansetron)
• Zoloft (sertraline)
• Zyprexa (olanzapine)
Fluids and fiber are the cornerstones of constipation prevention. Those who are constipated are often urged to drink more water. Adequate fluid (at least 6 glasses of water a day) is essential, but unless someone is actually dehydrated, drinking extra water does not solve the problem of hard stools.If constipation arises suddenly or if it starts to interfere with everyday activities, it makes sense to check in with your doctor. There are some conditions, such as an underactive thyroid gland or Parkinson’s disease, that can lead to constipation. In those cases the underlying disease needs to be treated.
Warning signs that should trigger a doctor’s visit include blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum; dark, tarry stool; weight loss of 10 pounds or more; a family history of colon cancer; or a positive Hemoccult test, a way of identifying invisible blood in the stoo1. Be sure to tell the doctor about any of these issues, so the proper workup can be done.
People taking medications or even supplements should also check with their doctor to see whether one of these might be responsible. A surprising number of prescription drugs can trigger constipation as a side effect. Because of the impact that constipation can have on their sense of well-being, patients sometimes become upset if doctors don’t warn them that a prescribed medication may interfere with bowel function. Narcotics are among the most notorious offenders, but there are many others. Sometimes, switching to a different medicine can ease the problem. The physician should always be involved in such a decision, because some of these drugs may be essential treatment for a serious condition such as cancer or AIDS.
Dietary Approaches
For uncomplicated constipation, focus on increasing the high-fiber foods in the diet. Sometimes, people buy a loaf of softand-squishy “wheat” bread and figure that’s all they need to do to get extra fiber. Wrong! Unfortunately, the “wheat” label may just be a marketing ploy. Consumers need to read the ingredient list to see if the first ingredient is whole-wheat flour. That’s a good start.
Even better is to actually consume the whole grains in pilafs or porridges, which is one reason we are so fond of steel-cut oats. (Also, they taste wonderful.) One of our favorite high-fiber breakfasts is steel-cut oats with extras: blackberries or pieces of apple, together with walnuts or almonds, topped with a sprinkling of freshly ground flaxseed. To boost the protein content of this breakfast, we stir in some egg white while the oats are cooking.
FOODS THAT ARE HIGH IN FIBER
• Apples 0 Lima beans
• Barley 0 Oat bran
• Beans 0 Oats (steel-cut)
• Blackberries 0 Pears
• Bran a Popcorn
• Bran cereal 0 Prunes
• Broccoli 0 Raisins
• Bulgur wheat 0 Split peas
• Chickpeas 0 Uncle Sam Cereal
• Fiber One cereal 6 Wheat berries
• Figs • Winter squash
• Lentils
Q. My wife is bedridden with emphysema and osteoporosis. Her fractured vertebrae are due to the steroids she takes for emphysema.
The doctor suggested calcium to strengthen her brittle bones. Then she had a problem with bowel movements because of not getting any exercise.
This caused her great distress until she tried eating a quarter of an apple every evening. The apple has made her regular again.
A. Thanks so much for reminding us all of the importance of fiber in the diet. This may help explain the wis-dom behind Grandmother’s recommendation of an apple a day.
Prunes
Why are the marketers changing the name of prunes to “dried plums”? While it is an accurate designation, it’s not particularly catchy. Instead, it is an attempt to get away from the image of self-treatment for constipation that “prune” or “prune juice” conjures up.
Q. A year ago I had a serious problem with constipation (over 2 weeks!). I tried everything I could, including Metamucil, Ex-Lax, milk of magnesia, and a Fleet enema with no results. A visit to the doctor resulted in a prescription but still no relief. Then I remembered. Prunes are laxatives. I bought some prune juice with pulp and drank 4 ounces a day with plenty of water. Within a few days I was back to normal. For a few months I drank some every other morning to keep me regular. Now I only need it once a week. Prune juice with pulp is my salvation.
A. Prunes are a time-honored home remedy for constipation. Researchers have confirmed what grandmothers always knew: Prunes stimulate the digestive tract.
In 1951 scientists discovered an ingredient in prunes that is closely related to the chemical laxative oxyphenisatin. This product was taken off the market when it was linked to liver damage.
Experts for the Harvard Health Letter suggest, “it is unlikely that moderate consumption [of prune juice] would cause any problems, but prune use, like everything else, should be prudent.”
Prunes are said to be loaded with antioxidant phytonutrients, so they are a healthy choice if consumed in moderation. They are not the only dried fruit that can be helpful in an attempt to overcome constipation. Dried figs and even apricots provide a little variety. They may not have any specifically laxative components, but they certainly are good sources of fiber, and some people find them quite helpful. Dried apricots (two a day) and plenty of water can relieve constipation. It helps me and has helped my friends.
Flaxseed
Another source of fiber is not nearly as well known as prunes. Flaxseed has long been used as a source of soluble fiber. It is one of the ingredients in an old-fashioned cold cereal, Uncle Sam Cereal. Once marketed as a “natural laxative,” it is now being touted as a low-glycemic-index or low-carb food. The primary ingredients are wheat berries and flaxseed. Both should help to keep things moving in the right direction.
Constipation has been my problem for more years than I want to count Psyllium seed barely works.
My solution is flaxseeds ground in my coffee grinder I keep it in small batches in the refrigerator and take’/ teaspoon with a glass of juice or water daily. Sometimes I sprinkle it on my cereal or put it in a fruit smoothie. I like the nutty taste and it has been like a miracle for me.
Ground flaxseed is a good source of soluble. fiber. Not only is it helpful against constipation, it can aid in lowering cholesterol and may help reduce the hot flashes of menopause. Flaxseed is an excellent plant source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Downside: Keeps well until ground, then is susceptible to going rancid. Keep ground flaxseed in the refrigerator for no more than 10 days to 2 weeks.
Cost: Approximately $4 to $5 per month (around 130 a dose).
Besides combating constipation, flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and has the added advantage of lowering cholesterol at least modestly. The seeds keep well, but once they are ground (a blender or a coffee grinder works well), they go rancid quickly. Ground flaxseed meal should be kept in the refrigerator or even in the freezer. Someone with a tendency to constipation might well want to get in the habit of incorporating ground flaxseed into meals.
Another way to get the benefits of flax is to make a solution. Simmer 2 tablespoons of flaxseed in 3 quarts of water for 15 minutes. Cool the liquid and strain it. It should be kept in the refrigerator. Add 2 ounces a day to fruit juice.
Sugarless Gum
It might be surprising to learn that something as simple and inexpensive as sugarless gum could counter constipation quite effectively. By the way, the converse is also true. People sometimes have problems with chronic diarrhea because of their gum-chewing habits. Sugarless candy has the same impact. Pick a flavor that you like and experiment to find the right dose. The “sugar alcohols” used to sweeten sugarless gummaltitol, sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol—are not absorbed from the digestive tract. They act as “osmotic laxatives.” Chewing sugarless gum does not contribute to tooth decay. A gum containing xylitol might even help fight ear infections.
Side effect: Diarrhea
Downside: Many sugarless gums contain aspartame, which some people prefer to avoid.
Cost: Approximately 70 to 150 a dose
Q. I read with interest and sympathy a letter about problems with constipation. I wanted to share something that has helped me. After hearing some people complain that sugar-free jelly beans gave them diarrhea if eaten in quantity. I decided to see if they would help my frequent constipation. I have found that if I eat 30 sugar-free jelly beans with a glass of water half an hour before bedtime, I stay regular. I hope this idea might help others with the same problem.
A. Thanks for the tip. Many people find that the sweeteners in sugar-free candy can cause diarrhea. How clever of you to turn that side effect to your advantage! Each person will have to experiment to find the right “dose.”
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Laxatives are among the most popular products in the pharmacy. Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent each year on these over-the-counter remedies. But overuse of such products can be a serious problem.
Q. My 19-year-old daughter and her girlfriend have been taking laxatives for weight control for several months. They also take over-the-counter diet pills.
My main concern is about the abuse of laxatives. Would you please print the harmful effects laxatives can cause? She won’t listen to me!
A. Chronic laxative abuse can undermine the body’s ability to eliminate waste on its own. We have heard from many elderly people who started using laxatives in their youth and became dependent upon them.
We are more concerned, however, about the potential interactions these young women might experience. Strong laxatives can deplete the body of potassium.
Laxatives are not an effective tool for lasting weight loss. Dietary counseling and exercise may be more helpful in the long run.
We generally suggest that people avoid stimulant chemicals like aloe, cascara sagrada, senna, and castor oil. These can be irritating to the digestive tract. Some of these compounds can interfere with proper nutrition, and chronic use might make a person more susceptible to weakened bones.
Bulk-Forming Laxatives
The first step in treating constipation is to increase your intake of fiber. Since dietary fiber may not be enough, there are several possible sources of fiber sold as “bulking agents” in the pharmacy. Psyllium is a naturally derived fiber from blond ispaghula seed (Plantago ovata). It can usually be bought quite inexpensively. There are also some alternative types of fiber.
Adequate fluid intake is crucial when taking fiber. Swallowing fiber such as psyllium without enough water could lead to choking as a result of the product clumping and swelling in the esophagus. Other digestive tract blockage is also possible if fluid intake is inadequate.
If psyllium is not satisfactory, other possible fiber sources are available. Polycarbophil (Equalactin, FiberCon, Fiber-Lax, Konsyl Fiber) may be the next step.
Sold under a number of brand names, including Metamucil, Fiberall, Konsyl, Perdiem Fiber Therapy, Reguloid, and Serutan. Store brands, available in most drugstore chains, are more economical. Psyllium (I tablespoon in 8 ounces of water three times a day) is approved both for constipation and for lowering. cholesterol. It may take a few days to observe the effects. Psyllium is considered safe for daily use. Sugar-free brands may be more economical, but most contain aspartame, which some people would rather avoid. No bulk-forming laxative should be taken if the person is nauseated, vomiting, running a fever, or suffering abdominal pain. Such symptoms deserve prompt medical attention.
I’ve had such frustration with constipation over the years. I’ve tried a lot of remedies, but the ones that worked were too harsh. Then a friend told me about UniFiber. It is a very fine powder, and I combine it with canned peaches or homemade oat bran muffins. It really regulates my system with no diarrhea or cramping.
Stool Softeners
When the main problem is that the stool is hard, the best remedy may be a stool softener. These are also recommended for people who have had abdominal or colorectal surgery or an episiotomy during labor and delivery and must avoid straining.
Old-fashioned mineral oil is the best-known product in this category. It should be used for only a short time, though. Mineral oil is petroleum-based and is not absorbed into the body. But it can interfere with the absorption of important fat-soluble nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. Over weeks or months, this could be detrimental to health.
The doctors’ choice in stool softeners is usually docusate sodium or docusate calcium. Although the evidence of their effectiveness is not strong, 118 they are widely used. They might work better in a postsurgical situation than they do for chronic constipation.
Dacusate Sodium
Available as Colace and Ex-Lax Stool Softener, and generically under various store brand names. Acts as a wetting agent to help stool absorb more water and thus become softer. Expect this product to take up to 3 or 4 days to work.
Side effects: Rash, throat irritation, nausea Cost: Approximately 250 to 500 per dose
This usually works fairly rapidly, within several hours. Each dose should be taken with 8 ounces of water. It is intended for occasional use only.
Side effects: Diarrhea, nausea, weakness
Downside: This laxative contains magnesium, so it should not be used by people with kidney disease. It may disrupt the balance of minerals and fluid in the body.
Cost: Approximately 600 to 750 per dose
Osmotic Laxatives
Compounds that attract water into the digestive tract add moisture to the stool. This softens it and may even help hurry it along. Such agents are called osmotic laxatives. We’ve already discussed sugarless gum, which works in this manner. It also exemplifies the downside of these laxatives: Getting the balance just right can be difficult. It’s not rare for a person to experience diarrhea as a side effect if the dose is too high. Some old familiar remedies fall into this category. Both Epsom salts and milk of magnesia are osmotic laxatives.
Prescription Laxatives
Chronic constipation can be extremely frustrating. If lifestyle changes and over-the-counter approaches are unsuccessful, people turn to their doctors hoping for a miracle. In this situation, miracles are few and far between. Physicians do have a few drugs they can prescribe that may be helpful. One is a type of osmotic laxative called lactulose (Chronulac, Duphalac, Kristalose) that has been around quite a long time. This is a type of sugar that is not absorbed well, so it pulls water into the intestines. It may take a day or 2 to produce results, and it can result in cramping, gas, or diarrhea.
There is another option as well. A prescription laxative containing polyethylene glycol, an ingredient quite similar to those used for cleansing the colon prior to a colonoscopy, can be used for desperate cases. MiraLax is not supposed to be used for more than 2 weeks at a time, however. MiraLax is an osmotic laxative.
The doctors’ big gun in prescription products is Zelnorm
Contains polyethylene glycol, or PEG. It comes as a powder to be dissolved in juice, water, coffee, or tea. Expect results in 2 to 4 days. Do not use for more than 2 weeks.
Side effects: Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, gas Downside: Prolonged or excessive use may upset the balance of fluids * and minerals in the body or result in laxative dependence.
Cost: Approximately $1.40 to $2 per dose; one dose per day
(tegaserod). It was developed for people who have irritable bowel syndrome with h constipation as the predominant symp- tom. It has also been approved for chronic constipation in adults under the age of 65. Your doctor will be able to evaluate if this last resort is appropriate for you. There have been instances of serious, dehydrating diarrhea that required hospitalization. Another dangerous side effect that worries us is ischemic colitis, a condition in which blood supply to part of the intestine shuts down. It has not been established whether Zelnorm was responsible for this frightening complication. Nevertheless, this drug is probably appropriate only when everything else has failed.
10 Tips for Combating Constipation
1. Pay attention to your diet. Getting plenty of fiber and fluid is essential. In addition, though, some foods tend to be constipating. Cheese has a reputation in this regard, but coconut, which can help ease diarrhea, may be constipating if too much is eaten. Other people have warned of the effects of pomegranate, mango, or peanut butter. The tannins in tea may also contribute to constipation.
2. Sip warm water with a tablespoon of blackstrap molasses. This sweetener contains a number of minerals. Some people find it a tasty way to cope with constipation. Another old-fashioned home remedy for constipation is drinking lemon juice in a cup of hot water first thing in the morning. Afterward, rinse your mouth with plain water, to protect your teeth.
3. Simmer 2 tablespoons of flaxseed in 3 quarts of water for 15 minutes. Cool, strain, and add 2 ounces of the liquid to orange juice every day. An alternative is to use freshly ground flaxseed on cereal or other foods.
4. Chew sugar-free gum. Experiment to find the appropriate dose. Or, if you prefer, eat sugar-free candy. Either may ease constipation; don’t overdo it.
5. Take psyllium powder in 8 ounces of water. For when you’re traveling, Metamucil makes psyllium cookies that are easier to carry, but they’re also more expensive and higher in calories.
6. Stay away from traditional laxative herbs such as aloe, cascara sagrada, and senna. They are harsh and overstimulate the digestive tract. Very occasional use may be acceptable, but overuse can lead to dependence. Instead, try dong quaff, ginger, or milk thistle.
7. Load up on vitamin C. Some people find that about 2,000 milligrams a day is enough to trigger diarrhea. Finding the dose that works for you and backing off just slightly is one approach that may work. Do not try this if you have ever had kidney stones, because excess vitamin C raises oxalate excretion and might increase the risk of a recurrence.159
8. Stir a couple teaspoons of Swedish bitters into a cup of water. Hot water or herb tea may work best. It also comes in capsules that are convenient when traveling.
9. Experiment with a bulk-forming laxative. Some people find that UniFiber or Citrucel works better for them than psyllium.
10. Make sure you get enough magnesium, especially if you are taking calcium supplements. Calcium carbonate can be constipating, but magnesium can help offset this tendency. We generally advise people that a dose above 300 milligrams of magnesium per day may cause diarrhea. The maximum short-term dose of magnesium advised on the label of Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia is 2,000 milligrams for adults. Do not take magnesium or milk of magnesia if you have kidney disease.
Conclusions
Constipation accompanied by pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever should not be ignored. It deserves medical attention. Even without such symptoms, persistent constipation should also be brought to a physician’s attention. Uncomplicated constipation may respond to home treatment.
• Begin with diet. Make sure you get six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water or other fluids daily. Concentrate on increasing fiber, and make sure you get 25 to 35 grams daily.
• Ask your doctor to check whether a medical condition or medication may be causing your constipation.
• Eat fruit. Apples, dried apricots, and (in moderation) dried plums, aka prunes, are a wonderful way to establish regularity when needed.
• Sprinkle ground flaxseed on your food, or take a solution of simmered flaxseed in juice.
• Chew sugarless gum or enjoy sugar-free candy for its laxative effect.
• Take psyllium as directed, with an 8-ounce glass of water.
• Docusate may soften stools and ease straining.
• Milk of magnesia may give relatively quick relief, but should not be overused. It’s off-limits for anyone with kidney trouble.
• Drugs such as MiraLax are intended for short-term use of less than 2 weeks.
Jul
15
Living with your Prostate. FAQ.
July 15, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Living with your Prostate
We hope we have shown you two things: firstly, you need to be aware of your prostate gland and what can go wrong with it, so that you can get treatment for any possible problems if they arise; and secondly, even if problems do arise, they are unlikely to be as bad as you may fear, and can probably be completely cured.
BE AWARE AND DON`T DESPAIR are the key words when it comes to the prostate. A positive outlook on life is one of the greatest weapons we have at our disposal. Never forget it.
BE AWARE
It is important to keep an eye on any changes in your urinary habits, particularly after the age of 50. Changes may creep up on you slowly over the years, but don’t use that as an excuse for not taking them seriously.
Ask yourself the following questions:
• Do you have to get up at night to urinate?
• Do you urinate much more often than you used to?
• Do you have difficulty passing water?
• Is your flow of urine particularly thin or weak, particularly in the morning’?
• Do you ever experience any pain when you urinate?
• Do you ever notice any blood in your urine?
• Can you urinate as high, or as far, as you used to’?
• Do you get pains in the region of your prostate, in the groin, or around your genitals?
• Do you sometimes find it difficult to start the flow of urine’?
• Do you sometimes find that you involuntarily stop and start urinating?
• Do you sometimes feel as though you haven’t quite emptied your bladder and there’s more to come?
• Do you have to strain to pass water?
• Do you ever suffer from incontinence?
• Does your urine continue dribbling, even when you think you’ve finished’?
• Do you sometimes need to rush urgently to the toilet to urinate?
• Do you ever notice blood in your semen?
Warning symptoms
If you have answered Yes to one (or more) of these questions, you may be experiencing problems with your prostate. Warning signs of this kind are there to be taken notice of and you should never ignore them. Men are notoriously good at sweeping under the carpet things that make them feel uncomfortable, and signs that all may not be quite as they should be on the health front come into this category. The reason why you should not do this is a straightforward, not to say obvious, one. It is, quite simply, because the sooner you do something about them, the greater your chances of doing something constructive about them and effecting a cure.
Men also tend to be frightened of wasting their doctor’s time and being viewed as a nuisance. But you shouldn’t worry about this, your doctor is very unlikely to think this way. Doctors are there to look after your health, and if something is really worrying you that’s enough to warrant a visit. So the message is:
GO TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR
CONSULTING YOUR DOCTOR
First of all, your doctor will want to know all your symptoms. To make sure you don’t forget to tell him about any of these, make a list of them before you go to the surgery. You should also make a note of any questions you want to ask him. The doctor will take a general medical history, with particular reference to any serious familial diseases such as diabetes, heart disease or haemophilia, and any drugs you are taking. He will also want to know about any important changes in your health that you have noticed recently, such as general fatigue or lower back pain, which may not seem to you to be at all relevant but which could be important to the doctor. If you’re worried about your urinary habits, it’s as well to establish a relationship with your doctor, so you can get to know him and he can get to know you and your anxieties sting. If you’re just starting to have symptoms, he may not find anything much wrong now, but he will want you both to keep an eye on things and to monitor the situation. Above all, never be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about your urinary habits. He won’t be embarrassed and you shouldn’t be either.
YOUR LIFESTYLE
There are several changes you can make to your lifestyle which will help keep your prostate healthy.
Try to do the following:
• Don’t smoke. Smoking causes spasm in smooth muscle and may, as a result, make matters worse, particularly if a prostate problem has already been diagnosed.
• Keep your consumption of alcohol, which can irritate the bladder, as low as possible. In particular, avoid beer.
• Avoid coffee nexium swollen lip problems . Coffee has an irritating effect on the bladder at the best of times, and if the bladder is already
`unstable’, this effect is likely to be heightened.
• Try to keep stress in your life to a minimum, as it can intensify urinary problems such as hesitancy and urgency.
This is easier said than done, but you may benefit (wouldn’t we all?) from making every effort not to allow yourself to be too easily worked up by the pressures of modern-day life. Try learning some relaxation techniques.
• Try to avoid going out in the cold, which can often trigger bladder problems.
• Wrap up warm.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Take regular exercise. In particular, it is thought that having played a lot of sport regularly as a child, particularly before reaching puberty, may have a protective effect against the development of cancer of the prostate. Exercise is still beneficial in adult life because it keeps the muscles around the abdomen active.
• Don’t regularly restrict your fluid intake because you are frightened of having to go to the loo too often. Drinking less may not actually help anyway. If you have an important meeting, or are going to the theatre, restrict your fluid intake from about three hours beforehand, which should help make it easier for you to go out. You can also restrict fluid intake at night, which may mean you don’t have to get up so often to urinate.