The news has been full of the recent FDA findings on a new set of drugs to help relieve pain. These drugs have been approved for re-release, but it is unclear whether Vioxx will be available again and whether physicians will feel comfortable prescribing Celebrex and Bextra for many of their patients.
What happened to Celebrex and Vioxx?
Celebrex, Vioxx, and Bextra are all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, pronounced en-said-z), similar to drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, that are available over the counter (OTC). Celebrex, Vioxx and Bextra, (sometimes called Cox-2 inhibitors) however, use a slightly different method to achieve the same effect as their OTC cousins; this new method was supposed to limit the side effects some people experience on OTC drugs, including stomach and intestinal problems and allergic reactions. It was thought that because these drugs were less likely to cause such problems, they might be safer for patients with painful chronic conditions (like arthritis) to use for long periods of time.
Unfortunately, some studies of Cox-2 inhibitors suggest that while they don't cause the sorts of side effects of other NSAIDs, they may create a greater risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. For people already at risk for these diseases (including those who have already experienced a stroke or heart problem), taking these drugs over the long run may significantly increase the risk of heart problems.
Now What Can I Do To Get Pain Relief?
Until a final decision has been made on each of these drugs, what can your healthcare provider do to help you with pain management? Here are important pieces of information to think about in determining what next steps to take:
* The Cox-2 inhibitors were not shown to be more effective than other NSAIDs, like naproxen. If you've been on or thinking about trying Vioxx or another Cox-2 inhibitor, you may be able to use an older anti-inflammatory drug. Naproxen, one of the older NSAIDs, may be an anti-inflammatory drug that actually lowers heart attack risk.
* Some people started on a Cox-2 inhibitors because they had a stomach ulcer or other risk factors for stomach or intestine bleeding (for example, people on blood thinners), which may be made worse by older anti-inflammatory drugs. For some people who are at risk for bleeding, other options like acetaminophen may be an option.
* There are lots of other medical options. Steroids can be used for shorter periods of time to manage inflammatory pain from diseases like arthritis and lupus. Opioids (drugs that resemble opium), such as oxycodone, codeine, and hydrocodone (Vicodin) can help with pain management, but they can have serious side effects, and some of them can be addictive, so working closely with your healthcare worker is key to determine if these will work for you. In addition, some antidepressants may help with chronic (long-term) pain, though the way this works isn't yet known
* New procedures may be of assistance to you. Nerve block therapy (in which certain nerves are temporarily anaesthetized) can relieve pain temporarily. "Implantable "technologies, like spinal cord stimulation (SCS) systems and implantable drug delivery systems, do seem to help some people for whom other pain relief methods don't work.
* If you aren't getting the relief you need (with or without the use of Cox-2 inhibitors), you may want to consult a pain specialist. Some large hospitals (such as Stanford University) have departments devoted to pain management. The American Board of Pain Medicine can help you locate a pain specialist who can work with your other healthcare professionals to put a new treatment plan together for you.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Antidepressants: Control or Cure?
What's curious is that most of them will be on these drugs for life. Equally curious is that over seventy percent of people who stop taking them, for any length of time, will relapse into another painful episode of their illness.
Something's rotten in Denmark. Because if these drugs are as effective as their manufacturers claim, then sufferers should be cured of their illness. Clearly, this isn't happening.
Why? I mean, if these drugs are so good, why don't they cure stress, anxiety and depressive illness?
The commonly held belief, both by the medical profession and people who suffer from illnesses such as stress, anxiety and depression, is that anti-depressant drugs are the most effective treatment.
This is in fact, not quite true.
Antidepressant drugs DO help a sufferer. But they can only help them TEMPORARILY. They cannot offer a permanent cure for these illnesses. This is because anti-depressants treat ONE of the SYMPTOMS of stressful illnesses - reduced levels of "happy chemicals" called neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters are the chemicals inside our brains that help to regulate our moods. So all anti-depressants do is to give the sufferer a "boost" by raising levels of neurotransmitters. The real issue here is that once the sufferer ceases the medication, there is a seventy percent chance of relapse.
The reason for relapse is because these drugs simply haven't addressed the root cause of these illnesses. By boosting levels of our "happy chemicals" all the drugs are doing is masking the problem. Now, in the short term, giving our mental well-being a boost by increasing the levels of "happy chemicals" is very helpful in helping us START the process of recovery.
The last sentence is very important. It explains how these drugs should be used. Because when we feel stressed out, burned out, terrified of the future or that life has no point (all common feelings associated with stressful and depressive illnesses), we find it almost impossible to function. Finding our own way "out of the tunnel" is mission impossible.
And that's where antidepressants can help. In giving us a boost, we can feel more able to cope. We can START to take the first steps towards ending our suffering.
But they will not provide a permanent cure. They only way to cure these painful illnesses is to address the root cause as to why these illnesses arise. The root cause is down to harmful mental habits and processes we have learned and put to use for most of our lives - since childhood in the majority of instances.
And there lies the crucial difference. Antidepressants can help us in the short-term by CONTROLLING the illness. Learning the mental habits and processes that crush these illnesses so they cannot even begin to arise help us in the long-term by CURING these illnesses.
Something else I think you'll find illuminating about these drugs:
No single drug has proven to be more effective than any other and the latest research conducted at Yale university in the United States has revealed that drugs are ineffective for seventy percent of sufferers. This is because chemical imbalances in the brain are a symptom and not a cause.
You now know why this is so.
What's also interesting to note is that sales of these drugs in the US alone are worth $12 BILLION annually. Pretty good for something that cannot provide a cure don't you think? Of course, one of the issues here is having a sufferer paying thousands of hard-earned dollars for a drug which cannot cure them month in, month out, year in, year out.
I don't think that's right. Because I firmly believe that people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, panic, depression and similar illnesses, want to get rid of it from their lives forever. Cure means cured, permanently.
I overcame a terrible 5 year period of anxiety-induced depression without taking any antidepressants. By learning to address the harmful mental habits and processes which took me to the lowest point anyone can go, I turned my life around and found happiness again.
What worked for me will work for you and it will provide the one thing you deserve and what antidepressant drugs can never provide: A permanent cure to your suffering.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BEFORE YOU STOP TAKING ANY ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION.
Something's rotten in Denmark. Because if these drugs are as effective as their manufacturers claim, then sufferers should be cured of their illness. Clearly, this isn't happening.
Why? I mean, if these drugs are so good, why don't they cure stress, anxiety and depressive illness?
The commonly held belief, both by the medical profession and people who suffer from illnesses such as stress, anxiety and depression, is that anti-depressant drugs are the most effective treatment.
This is in fact, not quite true.
Antidepressant drugs DO help a sufferer. But they can only help them TEMPORARILY. They cannot offer a permanent cure for these illnesses. This is because anti-depressants treat ONE of the SYMPTOMS of stressful illnesses - reduced levels of "happy chemicals" called neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters are the chemicals inside our brains that help to regulate our moods. So all anti-depressants do is to give the sufferer a "boost" by raising levels of neurotransmitters. The real issue here is that once the sufferer ceases the medication, there is a seventy percent chance of relapse.
The reason for relapse is because these drugs simply haven't addressed the root cause of these illnesses. By boosting levels of our "happy chemicals" all the drugs are doing is masking the problem. Now, in the short term, giving our mental well-being a boost by increasing the levels of "happy chemicals" is very helpful in helping us START the process of recovery.
The last sentence is very important. It explains how these drugs should be used. Because when we feel stressed out, burned out, terrified of the future or that life has no point (all common feelings associated with stressful and depressive illnesses), we find it almost impossible to function. Finding our own way "out of the tunnel" is mission impossible.
And that's where antidepressants can help. In giving us a boost, we can feel more able to cope. We can START to take the first steps towards ending our suffering.
But they will not provide a permanent cure. They only way to cure these painful illnesses is to address the root cause as to why these illnesses arise. The root cause is down to harmful mental habits and processes we have learned and put to use for most of our lives - since childhood in the majority of instances.
And there lies the crucial difference. Antidepressants can help us in the short-term by CONTROLLING the illness. Learning the mental habits and processes that crush these illnesses so they cannot even begin to arise help us in the long-term by CURING these illnesses.
Something else I think you'll find illuminating about these drugs:
No single drug has proven to be more effective than any other and the latest research conducted at Yale university in the United States has revealed that drugs are ineffective for seventy percent of sufferers. This is because chemical imbalances in the brain are a symptom and not a cause.
You now know why this is so.
What's also interesting to note is that sales of these drugs in the US alone are worth $12 BILLION annually. Pretty good for something that cannot provide a cure don't you think? Of course, one of the issues here is having a sufferer paying thousands of hard-earned dollars for a drug which cannot cure them month in, month out, year in, year out.
I don't think that's right. Because I firmly believe that people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, panic, depression and similar illnesses, want to get rid of it from their lives forever. Cure means cured, permanently.
I overcame a terrible 5 year period of anxiety-induced depression without taking any antidepressants. By learning to address the harmful mental habits and processes which took me to the lowest point anyone can go, I turned my life around and found happiness again.
What worked for me will work for you and it will provide the one thing you deserve and what antidepressant drugs can never provide: A permanent cure to your suffering.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL BEFORE YOU STOP TAKING ANY ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION.
Wellbutrin For Depression
Wellbutrin For Depression: When Its More Than Just The Blues
We all have blue days:
We're missing someone we've lost, the expected promotion didn't come through, we've exhausted ourselves over the holidays. But when these feelings continue for a long time and begin to interfere in your life, you may have an illness that doctors call major depressive disorder (or depression).
Depression is not something you can "just snap out of." It's caused by an imbalance of chemicals in your brain; just like diabetes, cancer, or any other serious medical problem, depression needs treatment for you to be well again.
How do I know I'm not just having a bad day?
Symptoms of depression sometimes creep up on their victim. They may be triggered by a difficult event (like divorce, childbirth, or job loss) which makes it hard to see where the natural sadness ends and a depressive event begins. But over time, these symptoms become distinctive. They include feeling sad or "flat," unexplained changes in eating or sleeping, feelings of hopelessness, guilty or worthlessness, losing pleasure in things you used to love (whether that's your job or flying kites with the kids), and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.
In the midst of an episode of depression, it may be hard to see yourself and identify depressive symptoms clearly. A spouse or close friend may mention that you haven't seemed like yourself, or maybe you've noticed that you're just not functioning like you used to. If so, your doctor is an objective person to talk with about how you're feeling and whether you're suffering from depression.
But I've heard that antidepressants are dangerous!
While a few people may have unusual reactions to mood altering medications, most modern drugs for treating depression are safe and effective.
Wellbutrin, a relatively new antidepressant medication, is one of these drugs. It works by affecting the chemicals that changed in your brain to cause depressive feelings. Unlike some other antidepressants, it's more likely to make you feel "alert" rather than "mellow." It also is less likely to cause sexual side-effects and weight gain than other antidepressants.
Talking to your doctor
One of the hardest parts of depression is that you may feel helpless or exhausted and thus have a hard time getting motivated to see a doctor. If you can, ask a friend or loved one to help arrange an appointment. When you see your doctor, she'll help you sort through your symptoms. She'll also check on whether any other medications that you're on (like MAO inhibitors or nicotine patches) might interact with Wellbutrin. If you've had a history of seizures, she may also suggest a different drug.
But if Wellbutrin fits with your life and health, she'll start you on a prescription, which you can fill at your local pharmacy or even online! Once you started taking it, it may take a little time before the effect is apparent (remember, it's a gentle antidepressant. If it's not working after a few weeks, contact your doctor to talk about a dose adjustment.
You should also contact your doctor if you start experiencing significant side effects, especially if they get worse over time. These include symptoms of anxiety (like sweating, difficulty sleeping, and dry mouth) or significant loss of appetite.
As Wellbutrin readjusts your brain chemicals, you should begin to feel more active and interested in your life. Best of all, you'll be back to yourself - with your own natural highs and lows - the person that your family and friends know and love!
We all have blue days:
We're missing someone we've lost, the expected promotion didn't come through, we've exhausted ourselves over the holidays. But when these feelings continue for a long time and begin to interfere in your life, you may have an illness that doctors call major depressive disorder (or depression).
Depression is not something you can "just snap out of." It's caused by an imbalance of chemicals in your brain; just like diabetes, cancer, or any other serious medical problem, depression needs treatment for you to be well again.
How do I know I'm not just having a bad day?
Symptoms of depression sometimes creep up on their victim. They may be triggered by a difficult event (like divorce, childbirth, or job loss) which makes it hard to see where the natural sadness ends and a depressive event begins. But over time, these symptoms become distinctive. They include feeling sad or "flat," unexplained changes in eating or sleeping, feelings of hopelessness, guilty or worthlessness, losing pleasure in things you used to love (whether that's your job or flying kites with the kids), and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.
In the midst of an episode of depression, it may be hard to see yourself and identify depressive symptoms clearly. A spouse or close friend may mention that you haven't seemed like yourself, or maybe you've noticed that you're just not functioning like you used to. If so, your doctor is an objective person to talk with about how you're feeling and whether you're suffering from depression.
But I've heard that antidepressants are dangerous!
While a few people may have unusual reactions to mood altering medications, most modern drugs for treating depression are safe and effective.
Wellbutrin, a relatively new antidepressant medication, is one of these drugs. It works by affecting the chemicals that changed in your brain to cause depressive feelings. Unlike some other antidepressants, it's more likely to make you feel "alert" rather than "mellow." It also is less likely to cause sexual side-effects and weight gain than other antidepressants.
Talking to your doctor
One of the hardest parts of depression is that you may feel helpless or exhausted and thus have a hard time getting motivated to see a doctor. If you can, ask a friend or loved one to help arrange an appointment. When you see your doctor, she'll help you sort through your symptoms. She'll also check on whether any other medications that you're on (like MAO inhibitors or nicotine patches) might interact with Wellbutrin. If you've had a history of seizures, she may also suggest a different drug.
But if Wellbutrin fits with your life and health, she'll start you on a prescription, which you can fill at your local pharmacy or even online! Once you started taking it, it may take a little time before the effect is apparent (remember, it's a gentle antidepressant. If it's not working after a few weeks, contact your doctor to talk about a dose adjustment.
You should also contact your doctor if you start experiencing significant side effects, especially if they get worse over time. These include symptoms of anxiety (like sweating, difficulty sleeping, and dry mouth) or significant loss of appetite.
As Wellbutrin readjusts your brain chemicals, you should begin to feel more active and interested in your life. Best of all, you'll be back to yourself - with your own natural highs and lows - the person that your family and friends know and love!
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Phentermine Side Effects
When you're taking Phentermine, you should go to the emergency room if you experience any of the side effects listed below:
I) Allergic Reaction:
a. difficulty breathing
b. partial closing of the throat
c. lips, face, or tongue swell
d. hives (rash of red blotches)
e. abnormal heartbeat
f. extremely high blood pressure
g. extremely painful headache
h. abnormally blurry vision
i. hallucination
j. strange behavior
k. confusion
If you notice any of these less dangerous side effects of Phentermine, it is still alright to keep using your Phentermine prescription. However, you must make sure to let your doctor know about them:
II) Less serious possible side effects of Phentermine:
a. restlessness
b. shaking/tremors
c. nervousness
d. unusual levels of stress/anxiety
e. mild headache
f. dizziness
g. insomnia (trouble getting to sleep)
h. dry mouth
i. bad taste in your mouth
j. constipation
k. diarrhea
l. impotence
m. changes in sex drive
You should know that Phentermine can be addictive. This is probably due to the fact that your body gets used to the levels of neurotransmitters in the nervous system that are adjusted by Phentermine. I'm not sure about it though, since I'm no expert. That's just what amateur (and brief, I must say) research has led me to believe. Anyway, you might grow to depend on it in both body and mind.
As with any medication that you've become even slightly addicted to, you could experience unpleasant side effects when withdrawing yourself from Phentermine use during at least several weeks. Before you stop taking your Phentermine prescription, please have a talk with your physician/doctor to see what the plan should be for gradual withdrawal.
In addition to the notes above, you should keep in mind that other side effects of Phentermine could occur, which have not been listed on this site. If you notice anything strange happening, please alert your doctor.
I) Allergic Reaction:
a. difficulty breathing
b. partial closing of the throat
c. lips, face, or tongue swell
d. hives (rash of red blotches)
e. abnormal heartbeat
f. extremely high blood pressure
g. extremely painful headache
h. abnormally blurry vision
i. hallucination
j. strange behavior
k. confusion
If you notice any of these less dangerous side effects of Phentermine, it is still alright to keep using your Phentermine prescription. However, you must make sure to let your doctor know about them:
II) Less serious possible side effects of Phentermine:
a. restlessness
b. shaking/tremors
c. nervousness
d. unusual levels of stress/anxiety
e. mild headache
f. dizziness
g. insomnia (trouble getting to sleep)
h. dry mouth
i. bad taste in your mouth
j. constipation
k. diarrhea
l. impotence
m. changes in sex drive
You should know that Phentermine can be addictive. This is probably due to the fact that your body gets used to the levels of neurotransmitters in the nervous system that are adjusted by Phentermine. I'm not sure about it though, since I'm no expert. That's just what amateur (and brief, I must say) research has led me to believe. Anyway, you might grow to depend on it in both body and mind.
As with any medication that you've become even slightly addicted to, you could experience unpleasant side effects when withdrawing yourself from Phentermine use during at least several weeks. Before you stop taking your Phentermine prescription, please have a talk with your physician/doctor to see what the plan should be for gradual withdrawal.
In addition to the notes above, you should keep in mind that other side effects of Phentermine could occur, which have not been listed on this site. If you notice anything strange happening, please alert your doctor.
How Does Phentermine Work? Learn Pros & Cons Of Phentermine For Weight Loss
Phentermine, like many other prescription drugs, works with chemicals called neurotransmitters in your brain. It actually stimulates your neuron bundles to release a particular group of neurotransmitters known as catecholamines, these include dopamine, epinephrine (formally known as adrenalin), and norepinephrine (noradrenalin).
These neurotransmitters signal a fight or flight response in your body which, in turn, puts a halt to the hunger signal. As a result, you lose your appetite because your brain doesn't receive the hunger message.
This drop in appetite is perhaps due to phentermine's affects on leptin levels in the brain. It is theorized that phentermine can raise levels of leptin which signal satiety. It is also theorized that increased levels of the catecholamines are partially responsible for halting another chemical messenger know as neuropeptide Y. This chemical initiates eating, decreases energy expenditure, and increases fat storage.
What's a Neurotransmitter, anyway?
Neurotransmitters are chemicals in your nervous system and brain. They act as messengers, relaying electrical messages between the cells (neurons) of the nervous system or brain. Some people have naturally low levels of neurotransmitters. This condition may lead to diseases such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and obesity, and others.
Prescription drugs work by moving neurotransmitters from one place to another, but do nothing to increase the supply of neurotransmitters in the nervous system or brain. These drugs trick your brain into thinking there are more neurotransmitters than there actually are. Because of this, your brain slows down the production of neurotransmitters.
These neurotransmitters signal a fight or flight response in your body which, in turn, puts a halt to the hunger signal. As a result, you lose your appetite because your brain doesn't receive the hunger message.
This drop in appetite is perhaps due to phentermine's affects on leptin levels in the brain. It is theorized that phentermine can raise levels of leptin which signal satiety. It is also theorized that increased levels of the catecholamines are partially responsible for halting another chemical messenger know as neuropeptide Y. This chemical initiates eating, decreases energy expenditure, and increases fat storage.
What's a Neurotransmitter, anyway?
Neurotransmitters are chemicals in your nervous system and brain. They act as messengers, relaying electrical messages between the cells (neurons) of the nervous system or brain. Some people have naturally low levels of neurotransmitters. This condition may lead to diseases such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and obesity, and others.
Prescription drugs work by moving neurotransmitters from one place to another, but do nothing to increase the supply of neurotransmitters in the nervous system or brain. These drugs trick your brain into thinking there are more neurotransmitters than there actually are. Because of this, your brain slows down the production of neurotransmitters.
Weight Loss Support Groups: Lose Weight & Keep It Off With Your Friends At The Phentermine Forum
We all know it's hard to begin losing weight, no matter what method you're using. Even diet pills present a challenge through uncomfortable side effects that occasionally bother us. One of the biggest problems with making a project of losing weight is finding the energy and will power to keep going no matter what.
What Can I Use To Succeed With Weight Loss?
The reason most people fail to make a solid effort is that even though their close friends or family may be there for support, it is usually less effective. You need to discuss your eating and exercise habits with other people who are in the same boat. Words of encouragement mean much more coming from someone who's facing the same challenges that you are.
That's where support groups come in. However, real-world support groups take a great deal of time compared to what is readily available online. With today's technology, it's easy to post messages in a forum, and even exchange pictures and compare daily progress.
Where Can I Find Weight Loss Support For Free?
One of the best places right now to talk about both weight loss and health through exercise and better diet is PhenForum.com. We're currently a small but growing community of dieting and weight loss enthusiasts, most of whom have used the Phentermine diet pill. If you've never used this method, that's fine! We're always glad to talk to anyone who's trying to lose weight and become a healthier person.
What Can I Use To Succeed With Weight Loss?
The reason most people fail to make a solid effort is that even though their close friends or family may be there for support, it is usually less effective. You need to discuss your eating and exercise habits with other people who are in the same boat. Words of encouragement mean much more coming from someone who's facing the same challenges that you are.
That's where support groups come in. However, real-world support groups take a great deal of time compared to what is readily available online. With today's technology, it's easy to post messages in a forum, and even exchange pictures and compare daily progress.
Where Can I Find Weight Loss Support For Free?
One of the best places right now to talk about both weight loss and health through exercise and better diet is PhenForum.com. We're currently a small but growing community of dieting and weight loss enthusiasts, most of whom have used the Phentermine diet pill. If you've never used this method, that's fine! We're always glad to talk to anyone who's trying to lose weight and become a healthier person.
Phentermine Generics & Brand Names: How To Avoid Prescriptions Riddled With Impurities
Which diet pill are you currently taking for your weight loss needs? Recently, many people have been switching to brand names as opposed to generics. This is because generic manufacturing is put under far less strict rules and conditions. For example, the purity of the prescription drug you are taking is allowed to be far less when manufactured as a generic.
Should I Buy Generic Prescription Medications?
If you are taking a generic prescription medication, another factor to consider is that there are several generic versions of Phentermine available online and from brick-and-mortar pharmacies. Depending on which pharmacy you use, you may receive a different version of generic Phentermine each time you refill your prescription. This may affect your ability to lose weight, as different purity levels and doses of medication will change benefits and the number and strength of side effects.
It is recommended that you choose a brand name version of Phentermine, such as Adipex-P, and continue using that brand exclusively to avoid getting medication containing a dissatisfactory purity of Phentermine.
Generic Or Brand Name Phentermine: Which Is Best For Me?
In many cases, the generic versions of Phentermine use differing mechanisms of action, and, therefore have differing efficiencies. This inconsistency can affect your program for weight loss. You may want to stick with a single brand that is proven to yield consistent results.
Which Brand Name Diet Pill Should I Use?
Adipex (Adipex-P) is a weight loss medication that is indicated for short-term use. This is because long term use will cause you to build tolerance and, therefore, all Phentermine diet medications will lose their effectiveness.
If you are enjoying refreshing bursts of energy in the morning, but then are becoming hungry during the night hours, have a chat with your doctor about using Adipex-P 37.5mg tablets. Many doctors prescribe this medication for their patients because the 37.5mg tablet can be broken in half. As a result, you can take half (18.75mg) in the morning and the other half at night to extend your medication's effectiveness through the whole day. If you then have trouble sleeping at night, talk to your doctor, who will probably tell you to take half (18.75) a tablet per day, until you can tolerate Adipex.
Adipex-P is, so far, the only version of Phentermine which lasts over 12 hours. However, please remember to diet and exercise along with taking your medication in order to maximize weight loss and your health.
Should I Buy Generic Prescription Medications?
If you are taking a generic prescription medication, another factor to consider is that there are several generic versions of Phentermine available online and from brick-and-mortar pharmacies. Depending on which pharmacy you use, you may receive a different version of generic Phentermine each time you refill your prescription. This may affect your ability to lose weight, as different purity levels and doses of medication will change benefits and the number and strength of side effects.
It is recommended that you choose a brand name version of Phentermine, such as Adipex-P, and continue using that brand exclusively to avoid getting medication containing a dissatisfactory purity of Phentermine.
Generic Or Brand Name Phentermine: Which Is Best For Me?
In many cases, the generic versions of Phentermine use differing mechanisms of action, and, therefore have differing efficiencies. This inconsistency can affect your program for weight loss. You may want to stick with a single brand that is proven to yield consistent results.
Which Brand Name Diet Pill Should I Use?
Adipex (Adipex-P) is a weight loss medication that is indicated for short-term use. This is because long term use will cause you to build tolerance and, therefore, all Phentermine diet medications will lose their effectiveness.
If you are enjoying refreshing bursts of energy in the morning, but then are becoming hungry during the night hours, have a chat with your doctor about using Adipex-P 37.5mg tablets. Many doctors prescribe this medication for their patients because the 37.5mg tablet can be broken in half. As a result, you can take half (18.75mg) in the morning and the other half at night to extend your medication's effectiveness through the whole day. If you then have trouble sleeping at night, talk to your doctor, who will probably tell you to take half (18.75) a tablet per day, until you can tolerate Adipex.
Adipex-P is, so far, the only version of Phentermine which lasts over 12 hours. However, please remember to diet and exercise along with taking your medication in order to maximize weight loss and your health.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Celebrex? Vioxx? Can My Doctor Provide Me With Safe Prescription Painkillers?
The news has been full of the recent FDA findings on a new set of drugs to help relieve pain. These drugs have been approved for re-release, but it is unclear whether Vioxx will be available again and whether physicians will feel comfortable prescribing Celebrex and Bextra for many of their patients.
What happened to Celebrex and Vioxx?
Celebrex, Vioxx, and Bextra are all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, pronounced en-said-z), similar to drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, that are available over the counter (OTC). Celebrex, Vioxx and Bextra, (sometimes called Cox-2 inhibitors) however, use a slightly different method to achieve the same effect as their OTC cousins; this new method was supposed to limit the side effects some people experience on OTC drugs, including stomach and intestinal problems and allergic reactions. It was thought that because these drugs were less likely to cause such problems, they might be safer for patients with painful chronic conditions (like arthritis) to use for long periods of time.
Unfortunately, some studies of Cox-2 inhibitors suggest that while they don't cause the sorts of side effects of other NSAIDs, they may create a greater risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. For people already at risk for these diseases (including those who have already experienced a stroke or heart problem), taking these drugs over the long run may significantly increase the risk of heart problems.
Now What Can I Do To Get Pain Relief?
Until a final decision has been made on each of these drugs, what can your healthcare provider do to help you with pain management? Here are important pieces of information to think about in determining what next steps to take:
* The Cox-2 inhibitors were not shown to be more effective than other NSAIDs, like naproxen. If you've been on or thinking about trying Vioxx or another Cox-2 inhibitor, you may be able to use an older anti-inflammatory drug. Naproxen, one of the older NSAIDs, may be an anti-inflammatory drug that actually lowers heart attack risk.
* Some people started on a Cox-2 inhibitors because they had a stomach ulcer or other risk factors for stomach or intestine bleeding (for example, people on blood thinners), which may be made worse by older anti-inflammatory drugs. For some people who are at risk for bleeding, other options like acetaminophen may be an option.
* There are lots of other medical options. Steroids can be used for shorter periods of time to manage inflammatory pain from diseases like arthritis and lupus. Opioids (drugs that resemble opium), such as oxycodone, codeine, and hydrocodone (Vicodin) can help with pain management, but they can have serious side effects, and some of them can be addictive, so working closely with your healthcare worker is key to determine if these will work for you. In addition, some antidepressants may help with chronic (long-term) pain, though the way this works isn't yet known
* New procedures may be of assistance to you. Nerve block therapy (in which certain nerves are temporarily anaesthetized) can relieve pain temporarily. "Implantable "technologies, like spinal cord stimulation (SCS) systems and implantable drug delivery systems, do seem to help some people for whom other pain relief methods don't work.
* If you aren't getting the pain relief you need (with or without the use of Cox-2 inhibitors), you may want to consult a pain specialist. Some large hospitals (such as Stanford University) have departments devoted to pain management. The American Board of Pain Medicine and the Pain Connection can help you locate a pain specialist who can work with your other healthcare professionals to put a new treatment plan together for you.
What happened to Celebrex and Vioxx?
Celebrex, Vioxx, and Bextra are all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, pronounced en-said-z), similar to drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, that are available over the counter (OTC). Celebrex, Vioxx and Bextra, (sometimes called Cox-2 inhibitors) however, use a slightly different method to achieve the same effect as their OTC cousins; this new method was supposed to limit the side effects some people experience on OTC drugs, including stomach and intestinal problems and allergic reactions. It was thought that because these drugs were less likely to cause such problems, they might be safer for patients with painful chronic conditions (like arthritis) to use for long periods of time.
Unfortunately, some studies of Cox-2 inhibitors suggest that while they don't cause the sorts of side effects of other NSAIDs, they may create a greater risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. For people already at risk for these diseases (including those who have already experienced a stroke or heart problem), taking these drugs over the long run may significantly increase the risk of heart problems.
Now What Can I Do To Get Pain Relief?
Until a final decision has been made on each of these drugs, what can your healthcare provider do to help you with pain management? Here are important pieces of information to think about in determining what next steps to take:
* The Cox-2 inhibitors were not shown to be more effective than other NSAIDs, like naproxen. If you've been on or thinking about trying Vioxx or another Cox-2 inhibitor, you may be able to use an older anti-inflammatory drug. Naproxen, one of the older NSAIDs, may be an anti-inflammatory drug that actually lowers heart attack risk.
* Some people started on a Cox-2 inhibitors because they had a stomach ulcer or other risk factors for stomach or intestine bleeding (for example, people on blood thinners), which may be made worse by older anti-inflammatory drugs. For some people who are at risk for bleeding, other options like acetaminophen may be an option.
* There are lots of other medical options. Steroids can be used for shorter periods of time to manage inflammatory pain from diseases like arthritis and lupus. Opioids (drugs that resemble opium), such as oxycodone, codeine, and hydrocodone (Vicodin) can help with pain management, but they can have serious side effects, and some of them can be addictive, so working closely with your healthcare worker is key to determine if these will work for you. In addition, some antidepressants may help with chronic (long-term) pain, though the way this works isn't yet known
* New procedures may be of assistance to you. Nerve block therapy (in which certain nerves are temporarily anaesthetized) can relieve pain temporarily. "Implantable "technologies, like spinal cord stimulation (SCS) systems and implantable drug delivery systems, do seem to help some people for whom other pain relief methods don't work.
* If you aren't getting the pain relief you need (with or without the use of Cox-2 inhibitors), you may want to consult a pain specialist. Some large hospitals (such as Stanford University) have departments devoted to pain management. The American Board of Pain Medicine and the Pain Connection can help you locate a pain specialist who can work with your other healthcare professionals to put a new treatment plan together for you.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Over The Counter Pain Medication: How To Choose The Right Drugs
With the recent front-page news about the possible hazards of pain medications, you may be taking a look at your over-the-counter (or OTC) pain medications with a wary eye. While all drugs, including those you don't need a prescription for, can be dangerous, some basic knowledge can help you avoid the pitfalls for the pain relief you need.
Types of OTC pain medication:
The pain relief aisle of any drug store can make it seem like there's an infinite number of pain-relief medications. But there are really only three types. Each type works in a different way and can cause different types of problems.
Aspirin: Aspirin blocks the activity of pain hormones called prostaglandins, which would otherwise send pain information to the brain. In addition, by blocking prostaglandins you reduce the pain and discomfort of inflammation (swelling and heat indicating immune function).
Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is found in drugs like Tylenol, as well as some generic OTC medications and in prescription pain-relief products. Acetaminophen travels through your bloodstream to the brain, reducing pain-related brain activity and fever. Because it doesn't work through the hormonal system, it doesn't do as good a job of reducing swelling and inflammation as the other two types of pain medication.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories: These are sometimes called NSAIDs (pronounced N-Saidz). This isn't a single chemical, like acetaminophen, but a group of chemicals including ibuprofen, naproxen and ketoprofen, all of which block the production of prostaglandins, and thus pain and swelling. A number of NSAIDs are available over-the-counter, including brands like Aleve, Ibuprofen (generic) and Motrin; some newer NSAIDs, like Celebrex and Vioxx , need a prescription.
How To Take Aspirin Safely
In addition to blocking pain signals, aspirin blocks the production of blood clots. Strokes can be caused by blood clots blocking the brain's blood vessels and aspirin reduces the chance that such clots will form, so physicians will sometimes recommend a low dose of daily aspirin to prevent strokes in high-risk patients.
However, this also means that it's harder to stop bleeding if you're taking aspirin. People who are already on blood thinners (like Coumadin) should not take. Similarly, pregnant women have an increased risk of bleeding if they take aspirin, so if you need pain relief while pregnant, speak with your healthcare worker for a better options.
Aspirin can quickly lead to ulcer formation and potentially-dangerous gastric (stomach) bleeding. Enteric coating reduces the likelihood of harm, but even so, aspirin should not be taken for long periods of time without consulting a physician.
Some people are allergic to aspirin, and may experience a variety of symptoms (potentially serious) on taking it. If you're allergic to aspirin, you shouldn't take aspirin or NSAIDs without consulting a physician.
Lastly, children and teens with chicken pox, flu, or other viral illness should not be given aspirin (even children's aspirin) without first consulting a physician, as the combination of certain illnesses and aspirin can lead to a potentially fatal complication called Reye's syndrome.
How To Take Acetaminophen Safely:
Acetaminophen, taken in high doses or over long periods of time, can cause liver damage and, eventually, liver failure. If you think you may have taken too much, call a healthcare provider or poison control center right away.
Alcohol consumption can magnify the effect of acetaminophen on the liver. If you regularly have three or more alcoholic drinks per day, you should check with your healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen (or any other pain reliever).
Because of the potential for overdose, children should never be given "extra strength" acetaminophen products. Regular strength ones should be given at the stated doses for children or after speaking with a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
How To Take Over The Counter NSAIDs Safely:
NSAIDs slightly increase the risk of bleeding. People on blood thinners, pregnant or nursing women, and people at risk for internal bleeding should not take these products. They can also affect your liver's function and health and lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
In order to avoid these effects, you shouldn't take more than one NSAID at a time or an NSAID with aspirin without first consulting a physician. If you're taking a multi-drug medication (for example, pills for relief of menstrual symptoms may include several different medications), make sure it doesn't already contain an NSAID if you're taking an NSAID separately. Lastly, pregnant and nursing women should speak with their healthcare provider before using an OTC NSAID.
Other Things To Think About:
If you find yourself taking any OTC pain reliever over a long period of time (several weeks), you should see your healthcare provider. The pain may indicate a problem that needs to be dealt with rather than masked, and there may be treatment that will take care of the problem, rather than merely covering the symptoms.
Types of OTC pain medication:
The pain relief aisle of any drug store can make it seem like there's an infinite number of pain-relief medications. But there are really only three types. Each type works in a different way and can cause different types of problems.
Aspirin: Aspirin blocks the activity of pain hormones called prostaglandins, which would otherwise send pain information to the brain. In addition, by blocking prostaglandins you reduce the pain and discomfort of inflammation (swelling and heat indicating immune function).
Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is found in drugs like Tylenol, as well as some generic OTC medications and in prescription pain-relief products. Acetaminophen travels through your bloodstream to the brain, reducing pain-related brain activity and fever. Because it doesn't work through the hormonal system, it doesn't do as good a job of reducing swelling and inflammation as the other two types of pain medication.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories: These are sometimes called NSAIDs (pronounced N-Saidz). This isn't a single chemical, like acetaminophen, but a group of chemicals including ibuprofen, naproxen and ketoprofen, all of which block the production of prostaglandins, and thus pain and swelling. A number of NSAIDs are available over-the-counter, including brands like Aleve, Ibuprofen (generic) and Motrin; some newer NSAIDs, like Celebrex and Vioxx , need a prescription.
How To Take Aspirin Safely
In addition to blocking pain signals, aspirin blocks the production of blood clots. Strokes can be caused by blood clots blocking the brain's blood vessels and aspirin reduces the chance that such clots will form, so physicians will sometimes recommend a low dose of daily aspirin to prevent strokes in high-risk patients.
However, this also means that it's harder to stop bleeding if you're taking aspirin. People who are already on blood thinners (like Coumadin) should not take. Similarly, pregnant women have an increased risk of bleeding if they take aspirin, so if you need pain relief while pregnant, speak with your healthcare worker for a better options.
Aspirin can quickly lead to ulcer formation and potentially-dangerous gastric (stomach) bleeding. Enteric coating reduces the likelihood of harm, but even so, aspirin should not be taken for long periods of time without consulting a physician.
Some people are allergic to aspirin, and may experience a variety of symptoms (potentially serious) on taking it. If you're allergic to aspirin, you shouldn't take aspirin or NSAIDs without consulting a physician.
Lastly, children and teens with chicken pox, flu, or other viral illness should not be given aspirin (even children's aspirin) without first consulting a physician, as the combination of certain illnesses and aspirin can lead to a potentially fatal complication called Reye's syndrome.
How To Take Acetaminophen Safely:
Acetaminophen, taken in high doses or over long periods of time, can cause liver damage and, eventually, liver failure. If you think you may have taken too much, call a healthcare provider or poison control center right away.
Alcohol consumption can magnify the effect of acetaminophen on the liver. If you regularly have three or more alcoholic drinks per day, you should check with your healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen (or any other pain reliever).
Because of the potential for overdose, children should never be given "extra strength" acetaminophen products. Regular strength ones should be given at the stated doses for children or after speaking with a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
How To Take Over The Counter NSAIDs Safely:
NSAIDs slightly increase the risk of bleeding. People on blood thinners, pregnant or nursing women, and people at risk for internal bleeding should not take these products. They can also affect your liver's function and health and lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
In order to avoid these effects, you shouldn't take more than one NSAID at a time or an NSAID with aspirin without first consulting a physician. If you're taking a multi-drug medication (for example, pills for relief of menstrual symptoms may include several different medications), make sure it doesn't already contain an NSAID if you're taking an NSAID separately. Lastly, pregnant and nursing women should speak with their healthcare provider before using an OTC NSAID.
Other Things To Think About:
If you find yourself taking any OTC pain reliever over a long period of time (several weeks), you should see your healthcare provider. The pain may indicate a problem that needs to be dealt with rather than masked, and there may be treatment that will take care of the problem, rather than merely covering the symptoms.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)