Fertility Boosters

                                 Want to get pregnant, start by getting healthy

 

If your one of the millions of Canadian couples trying or thinking about conceiving a child, getting pregnant can be one of the most pleasurable and frustrating things in life.

Below you will find suggestions on how to make the process a little easier to achieve for you and your partner.  Although your partner may want to take his time and enjoy each session as an individual and pleasurable experience, we think you’ll find the suggestions will help you through the decision of trying to become a parent easier to deal with.

Shedding the extra pounds that you have worked so hard on adding to your frame is one step on the road to increased fertility.  Quitting smoking increases lung capacity and air flow and increases blood flow to the important parts of the male and female anatomy.  Just as reducing alcohol consumption to less than eight drinks a week and cutting back on caffeine can all help increase a couples chances of conceiving say reproductive endocrinologists and infertility experts.

Here’s the latest research on fertility boosters:

Spread natural peanut butter on the bagel you get at Tim Horton’s.  A Harvard school of public health study determined that women whose lifestyle includes a diet with fewer trans-fats and more mono-unsaturated fats, vegetable proteins, multivitamins and iron were most likely to conceive.  The study also corroborated that being overweight or obese can significantly hamper conception.

Think about the benefits of acupuncture.  Acupuncture raised the likelihood of conception by 65 percent for women undergoing embryo transfer via in vitro fertilization, according to a recent University of Maryland review of seven clinical trials involving 1,366 women.  While this research is preliminary, it’s something to consider as a complement to other healthy fertility choices.  Do research to locate a qualified, well trained acupuncturist who sterilizes his or her needles (to avoid diseases associated with needles, such as hepatitis C and HIV).

Toss a salad.  A small Spanish study found that men who are more fruits and vegetables and fewer meat and dairy products improved their sperm quality and count.  This has been supported by other research that indicates antioxidant-rich produce also has natural benefits that help increase sperm count.

Ticked Off

 

                                                         Lyme disease on the rise in Canada

 

If not diagnosed and left untreated, the symptoms of Lyme disease will progress from flu-like lethargy to severe heart and neurological damage.  If treated with antibiotics, the normal prescription for Lyme disease, this disease is treatable with modern techniques, but many times this debilitating disease is misdiagnosed as something else and left untreated, in which case the complications associated with Lyme disease increase.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) usually records less than 60 cases a year of Lyme disease in a country with upwards of 30 million souls, but acknowledged in a 2008 report on Lyme disease in Canada that a large percentage of cases of Lyme disease probably go unreported or are mistakenly recorded as something else.  The British Columbia based Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation argues that the real figure is more like 2,000 cases of Lyme disease each year, which they base in part on statistics from the U.S. that show cases in the United States have doubled in number since 1991 to more than 20,000 a year.  The PHAC is currently working with the provinces and Canadian government to require doctors to make a report of all cases of Lyme disease they treat each year.

The Lyme causing bacteria (Borrelia burgdoferi) are transmitted primarily by two species: the blacklegged tick, which are most prevalent in parts of Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia, but their range has been reported lately by ecologists to be increasing and they can currently be found across the geological regions of Canada.

Prevention is the best cure for most diseases and Lyme disease is no different.  To help, wear long sleeved shirts and tuck pants into socks when in blacklegged tick infected areas, and use DEET-based insect repellent – containing up to 30 percent DEET for adults; 10 percent for children six months to 12 years of age;  and don’t give infants under six months any as it can cause additional medical concerns.

Vasogen’s Heart Stops

Mississauga, Ontario – Rumours that Toronto-based Vasogen Incorporated’s new Celacade treatment for heart failure, also referred to as Acclaim II, is a failed drug and that clinical trials for their new product has reached the failure stage, apparently its new Celacade system has suffered a striking reversal of study requirements that are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has apparently started the rumour mill spinning at breakneck speed today about the possible closure of the firm and the total loss of 125 high paid employees of the troubled firm.

This comes directly after the company announced it was cutting 85 percent of its current workforce and seeking alternatives to save cash because of the recent announcement of the failure of their Celacade System, but that about 15 employees would remain after the restructuring move.

We were able to contact representatives of Vasogen, who wished to stay unnamed, for comment about the current situation.  Vasogen officials stated that the company needs to restructure to find about 3 million for planned restructuring in the second half of the year, thus the cost cutting actions to allow them to achieve their goals to allow the company to stay afloat.  They stated that they would be discontinuing operational and financial support for European commercialization and exploring alternates for their cash strapped European marketing partner, Grupo Ferrer.

In conclusion, bringing a new drug onto the marketplace is a time consuming and expensive adventure for most pharmaceutical companies, the hoops they need to jump through, the years of trials, often mean in the end the product never makes it to market.  If Vasogen’s new Celacade System works and can provide sufferers of ailments with treatments that will help alleviate the symptoms and effects of their afflictions, then eventually it will get approved, but time will tell.  

Alcohol Destroys Lives and Society

Canadians that like to partake of a little alcoholic beverage on a daily basis are on the minds and thoughts of Canadian officials concerned about the abuse of alcohol in Canada.

According to Canadian researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, who are tasked with monitoring Canadians consumption of alcohol, alcohol abuse costs each Canadian an estimated $463 per year.

The report just released by the centre, The Avoidable Cost of Alcohol Abuse in Canada 2002, indicated that direct health care costs for alcohol abuse in Canada surpass those of cancer and create an additional economic burden for Canadians in access of $1 billion.

Scientists and health professionals have suggested six intervention techniques that would save upwards of 800 Canadian lives each year and more than 90,000 acute-care hospital days annually.  Additionally, they point out, implementing these policies would decrease productivity losses by about $600 million, health care costs by $250 million and crime-related costs by upwards of $180 million.

The scientists and health care officials say that Canadians don’t take alcohol and its possible effects on Canadian society as a serious issue, that alcohol abuse is one of the prime factors increasing costs in the Canadian health care sector, and that it’s preventable, providing Canadians take the issues seriously.

Officials have suggested increasing taxes on alcohol; studies have shown a link between increases in the price of alcohol and a marked decrease in Canadians consuming alcohol, suggesting that a hypothetical 25 percent increase in alcohol related taxes could reduce alcohol consumption by up to 4.1 percent.  Scientists also say that lowering the legal blood alcohol concentration limits to 0.05 percent from 0.08 percent to combat alcohol abuse and increasing the legal drinking age in Canada to 21 years of age could have a notable effect on alcohol related motor vehicle fatalities.

Scientists propose a zero tolerance rule for drivers under 21, programs to educate servers of alcohol to recognize intoxication and additional screening by health care officials for drivers who have a history of drinking and driving. 

The Canadian Medical Association, recently, urged the Canadian government to decrease the legal blood alcohol concentration levels, suggesting that such reductions have been shown to result in fewer fatalities and could reduce alcohol related fatalities in Canada by about 185 to 555 Canadians.

Currently, provinces issue 12 to 24 hour suspensions for blood alcohol levels over 0.05 in Canada, but under the new legislation that takes effect in Ontario later this year, a driver with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 percent will be suspended for three days, up from twelve hours.

The problem of alcohol abuse in society is an old one that has been a part of human life for thousands of years and I would agree the only way that no damage will be done by individuals consuming alcohol is for alcohol to not be available.  This is of course not feasible considering the current laws in place; people should have the right to live their lives the way they want, provided their choices aren’t damaging others.

The suggested changes are just the same old ideas implemented with a new level of monitoring, no new ideas have come forward to help alleviate this problem, but then the problem is deeper then just people drinking.

The consumption of alcohol in society has a lot of origins, from stress relief, to an escape from reality, to a never ending supply of money for suppliers and like all human inventions alcohol is relatively harmless if we control the amount we consume.

Humans are creatures of habit, we will continually come back to a familiar feeling, and this includes alcohol, even when the benefits are out weighted by the problems.  It’s easy to fall into one of these human pitfalls, the hard part is realising the hole you’re in and getting yourself out of it.

If you drink daily, it’s likely you have lost control of your alcohol consumption and you should seek council from those who have been down this road.  Your not alone, many humans have suffered from alcoholism and the help exists to let you escape from the alcoholic-spiral your in, you just have to realise you need help and reach out for it.

 

 

Ageless Wonders

                                                                            Ageless Wonders

  The idea that older works are slower and less productive than their younger competitors is a myth; in fact they often make fewer errors than younger employees.

  Older employees move to slow, forget to do things and are inflexible around the workplace.  They don’t work well in a team atmosphere and can’t adapt quickly to new technologies or changing times.  Many people describe their older colleagues in these terms and these blanket statements are often the reasons personnel managers cite for hiring younger employees over their older competitors.  

  But are these opinions warranted?  Do older workers in truth perform as poorly as their younger counterparts claim?  If so, at what specific functions or tasks do they perform at a lower lever than younger employees?  Neuroscientists and psychologists active in the field of “cognitive gerontology” are currently examining these questions in laboratories around the world.  The answers found to date are eye-popping: although older workers maybe slower at specific jobs or functions, they are actually faster at others and in most cases less prone to reoccurring mistakes.  In fact research shows that only certain brain functions are affected by possible age-related deficits and that basic change in the work environment can compensate for any deficits.

  In the fast pace, shifting, business world of today a lot of importance is placed on the ability to operate at a high rate of speed in the business environment.  And the skill to adapt to changes in the work environment, to be flexible to changing business needs and demands.  Even workers, who for years followed the same routine during their daily jobs, now find the requirements of business have changed and continue to change constantly.  Coping with a constantly shifting environment requires “fluid intelligence”-the focus to switch quickly between different functions, redirect ones attention, and screen out irrelevant or distracting information.

  It has been shown in studies by psychologist Jutta Kray of Saarland University in Germany that older people tend to find difficulty coordinating competing tasks.  She found that individuals over 50, on average, did not do as well on tasks calculated to test an individual’s ability to switch quickly between mental tasks.  For the individual over 50 the studies found the mental effort required for task switching was greater.

  The study wasn’t all bad news for the average 5o-plus Joe or Mary; the old participants did far better after they rehearsed ways to improve their responses.  The scientists concluded that age related performance deficits can be overcome if work environments are constructed in the appropriate way.

  Studies conducted by Michael Falkenstein and Sascha Sommer in collaboration with Juliana Yordanova and Vasil Kolev of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in Sofia.  Indicate older subjects take a moment longer to respond to stimulus and yet the results indicate they commit far less mistakes than younger individuals.  Detailed analysis indicates that older people process visual and auditory stimuli just as quickly as younger people did.  Their brains also thought, made decisions and choices as well as their younger counterparts.  The only lag occurred during the final phase-the brain signal that prepares the finger to move.  In older subjects the threshold to initiate a motor response was higher which seems to indicate older subjects operate according to the motto: “Better to be slow but right.”  And numerous other studies over the years seem to indicate this same conclusion.

  For the everyday workplace this has numerous implications as certain jobs require frequent choices, and categorization – for example, any quality control position with a manufacturer.  Since studies indicate the processes of choice and categorization is not significantly affected in older employees, there is no reason to deny them employment in these industries.  Yes the actual motor response is slower in older workers, but this can be an advantage in an industry where a low error rate is the goal.

  Studies indicate older workers make fewer mistakes mainly because they are aren’t as easily distracted from a task.  A surprising finding if you hold to traditional wisdom that older workers are easier to distract from function.  Studies indicate that older workers have a delayed reaction before making a decision, kind of like a mental stop sign to check everything, before proceeding to the next light.  Research has shown that this ability means that older workers commit far less errors, that this slowness gave them a decided advantage in performance.  This check-stop can be very useful for older people in many jobs, such as guiding a car through the busy, constantly moving and changing traffic at the busy intersection.

  While studies do show that our older fellow-humans do not perform as well when under severe time constraints, especially if they must use visual acuity to find a target.  In this situation older employees had longer reaction times and higher error rates then younger competitors.  These situations older workers also found more stressful, but this can be compensated for in the workplace.  Older drivers could be given on board navigation systems to provide the spoken directions instead of a map on a small screen.  Many present workplace situations could be altered in small ways to provide the older employee with the ability to complete the tasks they are better suited to.

  Since older employees have tasks and functions they perform better than their younger competitors, it is wrong to categorize older people as on the whole less valuable in the workplace.  And any small differences can certainly be compensated for by small adjustments in workplace environment and attitude toward older employees.  In the coming years with additional studies and understanding we will be able to isolate the causes of poor performance and redesign the work environment to mitigate these causes.

  Additionally it should be noted that in the real business world, speed and accuracy are not the only criteria determining success.  The older employee has spent years collecting experience and knowledge about the world and business, the younger employee has not gained yet.  Older workers are generally more socially competent, making them more suited for customer relations.

  Furthermore, even though an older worker might be initially slower at a certain mental task, neural networks have been shown to rewire themselves given the opportunity.  For example, cognitive neuroscience professor Roberto Cabeza of Duke University has shown that older people who performed poorly on a memory test activate the same memory areas of the human brain as their younger competitors, yet seniors who did well had a different activation pattern.  Scientists say these results make it clear that neuronal restructuring can help compensate for deficits – although not every older brain is capable of carrying this out.

  With the employment crush in the workplace in recent years and the call to bring older workers back into the workplace to compensate for the lack of workers.  A restructuring of workplaces and brain networks will be necessary if older workers are to be the solution to the problems of the labour market.  The call to rise retirement ages is part of this crush; low birth rates mean fewer people entering the workforce and a need for more skilled, experienced, workers.  Personnel managers equating the age 45 with “over the hill” in coming years will be ignoring a prime source of needed skill and experience if they continue to listen to the assumptions.  Something tells me the over-the-hill-gang, of which apparently I quality for, will be having a thing or two to say about this, because I for one have a lot left to learn, give and teach my fellow human.

Acebutolol (a se byoo`toe lole)

                                  Acebutolol (a se byoo` toe lole)

Brand name: Sectral (also available generically)

Important WarningNever stop taking Acebutolol before talking to a physician first, if Acebutolol is stopped suddenly, it can cause chest pain or heart attacks in some individuals. 

Why do doctors prescribe Acebutolol?

Acebutolol is prescribed to help high blood pressure; it will relax your blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard.  Acebutolol is also used to treat an irregular heart beat and occasionally for additional afflictions, ask your physician or pharmacist for additional information on this.

How should this medication be taken?

Acebutolol comes in capsule form and is consumed through the mouth, usually once or twice daily.  Read the prescription label carefully and follow the directions to the letter, and any part you don’t understand ask a physician or pharmacist to explain to you.  Do not take more of less of the amount your physician has prescribed for you, and do not take it more often thinking more is better. 

Acebutolol is designed to control your ailment, but doesn’t cure it, so continue to take your Acebutolol even if you feel better.  Never stop taking Acebutolol unless first consulting with a physician.

What other uses are there for Acebutolol?

Acebutolol is used to treat chest pain (angina) in afflicted individuals, but talk to your doctor about the possible risks of taking Acebutolol for angina.

Are there any special precautions I should follow while on Acebutolol?

Before taking Acebutolol,

·         Tell the attending physician if you are allergic to Acebutolol or any other drugs.

·         Always tell the attending physician about any additional prescription or non-prescription drugs you are currently taking, especially medications for migraine headaches, diabetes, asthma, allergies, colds, or pain; other medications for high blood pressure or heart disease; reserpine; and vitamins.

·         If you have a history of kidney, heart, or liver disease; asthma or other lung diseases; diseases of the blood vessels; severe allergies; diabetes; or an overactive thyroid gland be sure to mention this to the physician.

·         Make sure to tell the physician if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or are currently breast feeding an infant.  If you should become pregnant while on Acebutolol immediately contact and notify your physician.

·         If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, tell the surgeon or dentist that you are currently taking Acebutolol.

·         This is a strong drug, and it may make individuals drowsy.  Don’t operate a vehicle or machinery until you gauge how your body reacts to Acebutolol.

·         Don’t drink while on Acebutolol as this can cause you to become even drowsier.

Are there any special dietary instructions to remember?

Contact a physician before ingesting salt substitutes with potassium.  If your physician suggests a low-salt or low-sodium diet, make sure to follow the directions explicitly.

What to do if you forget your scheduled dosage?

You can take the medication as soon as you notice you have missed the scheduled time, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dosage.  If this is the case skip the missed dosage and continue your regular regiment.  Never take a double dosage of Acebutolol to make up for a missed one.

Are there any side effects with Acebutolol?

Like most medications today Acebutolol can have serious side effects for those taking the medication.  Make sure to immediately contact a physician if any of the following symptoms are severe or don’t go away with time:

·         Dizziness

·         Light-headedness

·         Excessive tiredness

·         Headache

·         Constipation

·         Diarrhea

·         Upset stomach

·         Muscle aches

If any of the following symptoms should appear, immediately contact a physician:

·         Shortness of breath or wheezing

·         Swelling of the feet and lower legs

·         Chest pain

Serious side effects should be reported by you or your physician to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm or by phone at 1-800-332-1088.

How should I store the Acebutolol?

Acebutolol should always be kept in the airtight container provided by the pharmacist, tightly closed, and out of the eyes and reach of children.  Store it at room temperature and away from any sources of excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).  If the medication is outdated or no longer needed, talk to your pharmacist about proper disposal methods for drugs.

What should I do if someone overdoses on Acebutolol?

Whenever someone overdoses on Acebutolol, immediately call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.  If the victim is unconscious, incapacitated, or unable to breathe, call local emergency services at 911 without hesitation.

What additional information about Acebutolol should I be aware of?

Make sure to keep all your appointments with your physician and the laboratory you will be visiting.  The physician should be checking your blood pressure regularly to see what your response to Acebutolol is going to be.  The physician may ask you to occasionally check your own pulse (heart rate), so you can learn to keep tabs on your condition.  If you do not know how to check your pulse ask the physician or pharmacist to show you how, and if you ever check it and find it to be faster or slower than it should be, immediately contact your physician.

Remember to never let another person take your Acebutolol and if you have any questions about recharging your prescription or any questions at all ask a physician before doing anything.

Well that’s it for his hub on the pharmaceutical drug Acebutolol (Sectral), we hope the information contained here will help you understand the drug your physician has you on.  We hope you feel better soon, happy hubbing!

       

Acarbose(ay`car bose)

                                         Acarbose (ay`car bose)

Brand name: Prandase, Precose

 Why is this prescription medicine prescribed?

Acarbose is used in combination with a diet plan, or diet and other medications, to combat type 2 (noninsulin-dependent) diabetes (high blood sugar).  Acarbose is effective by slowing the action of particular chemicals that break down food to release glucose (sugar) in the blood; this slows digestion, and keeps levels of blood glucose from increasing very high after meals.

Acarbose is occasionally prescribed for other ailments, so ask your physician or pharmacist for more information if you want to know.

How should I take Acarbose?

Acarbose is taken orally in a tablet form, usually three times per day, but this will depend on your physicians directions.  It is of utmost importance to take the tablet of Acarbose with the first bite of each meal, but this will also help you remember to take your medication.  Make sure to read and follow the directions on the prescription label explicitly, and contact your pharmacist or physician if you are confused by the directions or do not understand anything about your medication.  You must take Acarbose exactly as directed by your physician.  Never take more or less of Acarbose, or take it more often then directed by your physician.

If you start to feel better, or feel better, continue to take the Acarbose until you finish your regiment or your physician indicates for you to cease.  Never cease taking Acarbose without conferring with your physician first.

Are there any special precautions I should take?

Before ingesting Acarbose,

·         Always tell a physician if you are allergic to Acarbose or any other medications.

·         It is very important to tell your physician if you are on any prescription or non-prescription medications.  Especially medications for diabetes, digoxin, (Lanoxin), diuretics (water pills), estrogens, isoniazid, any medications dealing with high blood pressure or colds, oral contraceptives, pancreatic enzymes, phenytoin (Dilantin), steroids, thyroid medications, and vitamins of any kind.

·         If you have been afflicted with ketoacidosis, cirrhosis, or intestinal disease such as inflammatory bowel disease or bowel obstruction. 

·         If you are pregnant, planning on getting pregnant, or are currently breast feeding an infant immediately inform your physician of this condition.  If you should become pregnant while on Acarbose you should call a physician and tell them of the situation.

·         If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, in form your physician or dentist that you are currently taking Acarbose.

Are there any special dietary considerations I should be aware of while on Acarbose?

It is common for the physician or dietician to prescribe exercise and dietary recommendations when someone is taking Acarbose, so follow the instructions of either health care professional carefully.  Make sure to eat a healthy diet while on Acarbose as this is very, very, important.

Alcohol can cause a decrease in blood sugar if you taking Acarbose, so consult your physician before drinking any alcohol while on Acarbose.

What to do if you forget to take your dose at the right time?

Make sure to take the missed medication as soon as you notice you have missed it, have a snack so you can take it with the first bite, unless it is almost time for the next dosage.  If it is time for the next dosage, skip the missed dosage, and take your regular scheduled dose.  Never take a double dose of Acarbose to make up for a missed one, this could have serious effects.

Are there any side effects associated with taking Acarbose?

Acarbose is not meant to be used in conjunction with insulin or other medications used to treat diabetes, Acarbose can cause excessive lowering of blood sugar levels if used with any such medications.

If you develop any of the following symptoms, glucose products (Insta-Glucose or B-D Glucose tablets) should be taken and you should call your physician immediately, Acarbose blocks the breakdown of table sugar and other complex sugars, fruit juice or other products containing these sugars will not help to increase blood sugar.  It is very important you and anybody in the household understands the difference between Acarbose and other medications used to treat diabetes.

·         Shakiness

·         Dizziness or light headedness

·         Sweating

·         Nervousness or irritability

·         Sudden changes in behaviour or mood shifts

·         Experiencing headaches

·         Numbness or tingling around the mouth area

·         Weakness

·         Pale skin

·         Hunger

·         Clumsy or jerky movements

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can develop and if left untreated, severe symptoms may occur.  Make sure that you, your family, friends, and other people who spend time in your presence know that if you show any of the following symptoms, they should immediately get medical attention for you.

·         Confusion

·         Seizures

·         Loss of consciousness

Remember to call a physician or seek medical attention immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms of hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar):

·         Extreme thirst

·         Frequent urination

·         Weakness

·         Blurred vision

·         Extreme hunger

Left untreated high blood sugar could lead to a potentially fatal condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, so if you have any of the following symptoms immediately seek medical attention:

·         Dry mouth

·         Upset stomach and vomiting

·         Shortness of breath

·         Breath that smells fruity

·         Decreased consciousness

How should I store the Acarbose?

Acarbose should be stored in the airtight container provided when you received the medication, tightly closed at all times, and out of the reach and eyesight of children.  Store the drug at room temperature and away from any source of excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).  Always throw the Acarbose away when it is outdated or no longer for consumption, your pharmacist of physician will have suggestions on the proper disposal of medications, if you ask.

If an overdose of Acarbose should occur what should I do?

In the case of any over dose of medication, always call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.  If the ingesting individual has collapsed or has ceased to breath, immediately call local emergency services at 911.

Is there any additional information about taking Acarbose I should be aware of?

Never miss an appointment with your doctor or laboratory if it can be avoided, as time can be of the utmost importance in certain cases.  Your physician will certainly order particular tests to check your body’s response to Acarbose.

Well that’s it for his hub on the pharmaceutical drug Acarbose (Prandase, Precose); we hope the information here helps you understand a little more about your medication Acarbose.

     

Reference Guide for Prescription and Non-prescription Medicines

Reference Guide for Prescription and Non-prescription Medicines

 

The Internet’s most comprehensive free source of information on prescription and non-prescription medicines

  

  Welcome traveler to our new hubs on everything you need to know about a prescription or non-prescription medicines on the market today.  If you need information on a particular medicine that has been prescribed by your physician or want to check information on non-prescription medicines, then this is the place for you.  Here you will find information on how the medicine you’re taking should help your present condition, whether you taking the right dosage for the medicine, whether the particular medicine you’re currently taking will interfere with other medicines or foods you might be ingesting.  What particular areas your doctor should be monitoring while your on you’re medication, what you should do if you miss a dose and the side effects that might be serious and what you should do to combat them if they occur?

 

  These reference hubs are designed to help make the tricky job of taking a medication as easy, as valuable and as safe as possible for individuals taking each individual medicine.  Medicines are expensive, taking them the wrong way will make them inefficient and a waste of money and time and potentially hazardous to the individual.  In 2005, for example, 464,068 adverse drug events were reported to the US Food and Drug Administration; 18% of these (84,770) were categorized as potentially life threatening.

 

  Important directions about how to take medicines can be hard to find, those supplied by your pharmacist will probably be insufficient, the wrong information or even so much information that you’re on information overload. 

  The advertisements for such drugs cannot be trusted to tell you the truth, they are really only interested in the benefits and selling the product.  This series of hubs will help curve these problems for many looking for information on a particular medicine they have been prescribed or non-prescription medicine they might be taking or considering.

 

  The information in these hubs will be on over 12,000 medicines just about every possible drug in Canada or the United States will be included when were finished and more are being added all the time so we will have periodic updates on new medicines available.

 

  The medicines are arranged alphabetically, at the bottom of this hub you will find a link to the first medicines reviewed and each successive hub will have a link to the next medicine.  If you want to use these hubs to find a particular medicine, and then use the search box on the hubpages.com homepage, just put the generic or brand name into the box and click.  You may have to look on a list to find it but it will be present, were working on a way to link them together for you.

 Notice:The information contained within theses hubs is not intended for individual advice, but should be in addition to the information and instructions that your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional has talked with you about.  The medicine listing here are summaries of available data and do not contain all of the warnings, precautions, side effects, possible drug interactions, or other data that may be related to the use of the medicine.  The listing do address the manufacturer’s information accompanying the drug or medicine, but not all the content is the same, and we have included additional information gained from additional sources.  The information provided here is not intended to provide a comprehensive background for individuals to evaluate the risks and benefits of using a medicine reviewed for your medical condition or disease.  The information here should be reviewed, in addition to any other sources, with your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professionals if you have any questions about a medicine you’re taking and/or how it might affect your medicine condition.  Always talk to a pharmacist or doctor if you require additional information about any medicine.  The nature of the information contained within these hubs is constantly shifting because of additional research and emerging knowledge from the ongoing use of the drug in patients.  Any data about medicines is usually subject to interpretation and the uniqueness of each patient and his or her medical condition.  We have taken the utmost care to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, but the reader is advised that the author, editors, reviewers, contributors, and publishers cannot be responsible that the information remains up to date or for any errors or omissions in these hubs or for any associated consequence of the uses the information is put to.  Because of the ever changing nature of drug information, the reader should know that choices regarding medicine or medical care should always be based on a doctor’s judgment, changing information about a drug and shifting medical procedures.  If however, after reading and reviewing any information contained within these hubs or other sources.  You have any special concerns about the medication that you have been prescribed by you’re doctor; you should first talk to your doctor before you make any changes in the methods used to ingest or use any medication.  Drugs are consumed under many brand (trade) names and these are included with the information provided on these lists to make it easier to reference a specific product.

  Well that is it for this hub on explaining how these hubs on prescription medicines and drugs consumed will work.  If you’re ready to look for any particular medicine you might be taking, then let’s go find it shall we, the first link is below.  We here at hub pages hope you’re able to find the information you require, if you have any suggestions, medicines you would like included, please leave us a comment and we will find the information for you.  Well if you’re ready to go, happy hubbing!

 

    

Acamprosate

Acamprosate (a kam`prosate)

 

Brand Name: Campral

 

For what reasons is Campral prescribed to patients?

 

Acamprosate is a drug used to in combination with counselling and social support to help individuals with a history of prolonged and continuous consumption of large amounts of alcohol to overcome the need to drink.  Consuming large amounts of alcohol for significant amounts of time changes the brain chemistry and the way the brain functions.  Acamprosate helps these individuals by helping the brain functions of individuals who have consumed large quantities of alcohol to function properly.  Acamprosate is not designed to dissipate the withdraw symptoms often associated with ceasing alcoholic consumption of large quantities of alcohol.  Note: Acamprosate has not been shown to have any effect in individuals who continue to consume alcohol while on Acamprosate or in people who drink exceptionally large quantities of alcohol or use and abuse other street-level drugs or prescription medications.

 

How should Acamprosate be taken and used?

Acamprosate is taken three times a day, with or without food, by swallowing a delayed-release tablet.  It is very important to never forget to take Acamprosate, so set a regular scheduled time to take your medication, such as the three meal times during the day.  Read the instructions on the prescription label of your medication and ask your physician or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.  It is very important to take Acamprosate exactly as directed by your physician, don’t take more or less, and do not take it more often because you think more is better, it isn’t.

Swallow the tablets of Acamprosate whole; don’t split, chew or crush them in anyway before ingestion.

Acamprosate only helps to prevent drinking if it is taken regularly and under a physician’s direction.  Do not stop taking Acamprosate, even if you think you will not start drinking alcohol again, unless you talk to your physician first.

If you drink alcohol while taking Acamprosate, continue to take your medication, but call a doctor and inform them of the situation.  Acamprosate will not cause you to have an unpleasant reaction if you drink alcohol during treatment.

 

What other uses are there for Acamprosate?

Acamprosate is prescribed for the treatment of other ailments, so ask your physician or pharmacist for more information.

 

Are there any special precautions while taking Acamprosate?

Before you take Acamprosate,

·         You should always tell an attending physician prescribing Acamprosate if you are allergic to Acamprosate, any other medications and especially sulphites.

·         In form the physician of any prescription, non-prescription, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.  Make sure to mention antidepressants (mood elevators), as your physician may need to alter the dosage of Acamprosate or monitor you closely for possible side effects.

·         Alcoholism is often associated with depression, so tell your physician if you have ever thought about harming or killing yourself, if you have ever attempted suicide, if you are currently on or have ever taken street drugs or have overused prescription medications in the past.  Also inform your physician if you have or have ever had depression or kidney disease.

·         Tell your physician if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or are currently breast feeding an infant.  If you should become pregnant while on Acamprosate immediately inform a physician of the situation.

·         If you are scheduled for surgery or dental surgery inform the surgeon that you are currently on Acamprosate.

·         Acamprosate has been shown to sometimes affect thinking, ability to make decisions, and coordination, so no operating a car or machinery until you know how Acamprosate affects your body.

·         Individuals drinking large amounts of alcohol frequently become severely depressed, sometimes attempt to harm or kill themselves.  Taking Acamprosate doesn’t decrease an individual’s risk factor for suicide and may increase the risk in certain individuals that they will try suicide.  Individuals on Acamprosate may develop depression while taking the medication even if they don’t go back to consuming large quantities of alcohol.  Call a physician immediately, if an individual or if you, experience symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness; loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed; lack of energy; difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering common things; irritability; sleep problems; changes in appetite or weight; restlessness; or thinking about harming or killing yourself or planning or trying to do so while on Acamprosate.  Be sure your family knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call a physician immediately if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.

 

Are there any special dietary instructions you should be aware of while taking Acamprosate?

Continue on your normal diet, unless directed by your physician to do otherwise.

 

Did you forget to take your medication at the scheduled time?

If you have missed your scheduled time and it is almost time for the next dosage, then skip the missed medication and continue with your normal regiment.  If you missed your dosage and your next scheduled medication is along off, then take the medication as soon as you notice you missed the scheduled time.

 

What possible side affects does Acamprosate have?

Acamprosate can come with side effects, so tell a doctor if any of the following symptoms are severe or do not go away with time.

·         Diarrhea

·         Gas

·         Upset stomach

·         Loss of appetite

·         Dry mouth

·         Dizziness

·         Itching

·         Weakness

If the side effect is very serious do not hesitate to contact a physician.  The following symptoms are very unusual, but if you experience either or them, or any of the symptoms mentioned in the SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS section, seek the help of a medical professional immediately.

·         Any burning, tingling, or numbness in the hands, feet, arms, or legs

·         A rash of any kind develops on your body

It is possible Acamprosate could have additional side effects not noted before, so if you have any usual side effects not on the list above, immediately call your physician and make them aware of the situation.

If serious side effects are experienced on any kind, you or your physician can send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online at, www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm or by phone 1-800-332-1088.

 

How should Acamprosate be stored?

Keep Acamprosate in the airtight container it originally came in, tightly closed, out of the reach and eye sight of children and store Acamprosate at room temperature and away from any sources of excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).  Throw it away when it is outdated or no longer needed, don’t keep it around for emergencies, and if you need advice on the proper disposal of medications talk to your physician or pharmacist for suggestions.

 

What to do in case of an overdose?

In the case of an accidental or purposeful overdose, immediately call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.  If the victim is unconscious or collapsed and unable to move, or is not breathing, immediately call local emergency services at 911 and wait with the victim until the emergency response personnel arrive on scene.

The symptoms associated with an overdose may include:

·         Diarrhea

If you have taken too much Acamprosate consistently for an extended period, it is possible you may encounter specific symptoms.  Call a physician immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

·         loss of appetite

·         upset stomach

·         constipation

·         extreme thirst

·         tiredness

·         muscle weakness

·         restlessness

·         confusion

 

Is there any other important information I should be aware of while taking Acamprosate?

If is very important when taking any medication to remember to keep all appointments with a physician, counsellor or support group.

Never allow any other individual to ingest your medication for any reason and ask your physician if you have any inquires about restocking your prescription.

Well that’s it for his hub on the prescription drug, medication, Acamprosate.  We hope this information will help you improve your health and welfare.  Until next time hubber, happy hubbing!

       

Abacavir (a ba ka`vir)

                       Abacavir (a ba ka` vir)

Brand Name: Epzicon as a combination product containing Abacavir and Lamivudine, Trizivir; and as a combination product containing Abacavir, Lamivudine, and Zidovudine, and Ziagen.

 Vital WarningAbacavir can cause severe allergic reactions that can result in death.  Cease taking Abacavir and immediately contact your physician if a rash or at least one of the following symptoms from two of the following sets:Ø  FeverØ  Excessive tirednessØ  Upset stomach, vomiting, diarrheal, or stomach painØ  Sore throat, shortness of breath, or couchThe Warning Card your physician or pharmacist provides you with will have a written list of possible symptoms; always carry this card on you in a place where it can be conveniently found.If you cease taking Abacavir because you had an allergic reaction or any reason, never take Abacavir again, and do not start again until you consult your physician.Abacavir can cause serious liver damage and a blood condition called lactic acidosis.  Make sure to tell the physician if you drink large amount of alcohol and if you have or have ever had liver disease.  If you experience any of the following symptoms, call a physician immediately: unusual bleeding or bruising; loss of appetite; pain in the upper right part of the stomach; yellowing of the skin or eyes; or upset stomach and tiredness that continues.Always keep all appointments with a physician and the laboratory as procrastination could cause additional problems.  Your physician will schedule particular laboratory tests to determine you’re body’s response to Abacavir.

Why is Abacavir prescribed?

Abacavir is utilized in conjunction with additional medications to remedy human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with or without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).  Included in a class of antiviral medications called nucleoside reverse transcription inhibitors (NRTIs), Abacavir is effective by slowing the spread of HIV infection in the human body.  Abacavir is not a cure for HIV and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses, and Abacavir does not prevent the spread of NIV to additional patients.

How should Abacavir be used?

Abacavir comes in two forms; as a tablet to be swallowed and as a solution (liquid) to also be swallowed.  Amounts may vary on your physician’s prescription, but Abacavir is usually taken twice a day with or without food.  We suggest that with any medication you are taking that you set a time to take the medication and stick to it; this will help you remember to take the medication also.  Absolutely, remember to read the directions carefully and follow the prescription label instructions to the letter, and ask your physician or pharmacist to carefully explain any portion of the instructions you do not understand.  It is vitally important to take exactly the amount prescribed, not more because you think more is better or less for any reason, and never take it more often then prescribed by a physician.

If you start feeling well this is no reason to stop taking the Abacavir, never stop taking Abacavir unless you first consult your treating physician.

Manufacturers provide medication guide’s that come with prescriptions, so make sure to read the one you get with your Abacavir carefully.

Abacavir is also employed sometimes in conjunction with other antiviral medications to thwart HIV infection in humans who have been in contact with HIV.  But always talk to a physician about the possible dangers of using Abacavir for your particular circumstances.

Abacavir may also be prescribed by a physician to treat other afflictions; check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information on additional uses for Abacavir.

Are there any special precautions to know about before taking Abacavir?

There are a number of things you should do before ingesting Abacavir,

v  You should always tell a physician if you are allergic to Abacavir or any other medication before taking Abacavir.

v  If you are taking any prescription of non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products tell your pharmacist or physician.  Especially if you are taking Methadone, because you will need to be monitored or your dosage of medication altered.

v  Very important, in addition to the conditions mentioned in the vital warning section highlighted in red script above, make sure to tell your doctor if you have or ever had kidney disease.

v  If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or are breast-feeding tell your physician.  You should not be breast-feeding while using Abacavir and if you become pregnant while taking Abacavir, immediately notify your physician.

v  If you like to drink regularly talk to your physician about the possibility of using alcohol when taking Abacavir.

Did you forget to take your medication?

It depends on the circumstances when you realise you have missed your dosage.  If it is almost time for your next scheduled dosage, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule, otherwise take your missed dosage as soon as you realise you have missed it.

Are there any side effects associated with Abacavir?

Abacavir can have side effects, but sometimes they will be slight or go away quickly.  Contact a physician if any of the following symptoms are severe or do not go away.

v  Upset stomach

v  Vomiting

v  Diarrhea

v  Loss of appetite

v  Tiredness

v  Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

Occasionally side effects can be serious.  If any of the following appear or you experience any symptoms listed in the vital warning section in red script above, then immediately contact a physician.

v  Muscle or joint pain

v  Headache

v  Pain, burning, or tingling in the hand of feet

v  Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

v  Pink eye

v  Bruises in the mouth

It is possible Abacavir could possibly cause other side effects not listed.  If some symptoms appear that are unusual while taking Abacavir immediately consult a physician.

If you have a serious side effect you or your physician should report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse event Reporting program online at http: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm or by phone at 1-800-332-1088.

Are there any special storage conditions for Abacavir?

Abacavir should be stored in the air tight container it originally came in and out of the possible reach of individuals below legal age.  Store the container at room temperature and away from any excess heat source and moisture (not in the bathroom).  If it is in liquid form store the Abacavir at room temperature or in the refrigerator, but not the freezer?  After the medication is beyond its expiration date or no longer needed immediately talk to your doctor about proper disposal of your medication.

If you think you have taken an accidental overdose or someone else has taken your medication?

If you think you have taken too much somehow and are worried about any possible effects call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.  If the victim has passed out, collapsed or is not breathing, immediately call local emergency services at 911.

Any other important information I should know?

Just some commonsense stuff, firstly never let anyone else take your Abacavir, it was prescribed for you and could kill another person. And ask your physician any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Well that’s it for our first hub on today’s prescription medication and some of the things you should know and keep in mind if your taking this cutting edge medication for treating HIV infections.