Author: Wisdom Bassey

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a type of cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant and is commonly known as the “originator of cannabinoids.” This is due to the fact that other cannabinoids stem from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is an acidic form of CBG. Key Facts: CBGA and CBDA Explained What Is CBGA? Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) is considered the “mother of all cannabinoids”—the first compound from which others like THC and CBD are derived during the plant’s growth cycle. What Is CBDA? Cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is a direct precursor to CBD. It’s produced when CBGA is converted by specific enzymes in the…

Aspirin is a medication belonging to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is commonly used as an analgesic (pain reliever), antipyretic (fever reducer), and antiplatelet agent. As an antiplatelet, aspirin inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), thereby preventing the formation of thromboxane A2, a potent platelet aggregator. This action reduces the risk of blood clot formation and is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Key Facts: Aspirin and Metoprolol Interaction What Are These Medications? Aspirin is a blood thinner and anti-inflammatory drug, while metoprolol is a beta-blocker used to manage high blood pressure and…

The half-life of prednisone falls within the range of three to four hours, signifying the duration required for the body to decrease the drug’s plasma levels by half. Typically, it takes approximately five half-lives for the complete elimination of a drug from the system. Key Facts: Prednisone Injection in the Body What Is Prednisone Injection?Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation. When injected, it delivers powerful anti-inflammatory effects directly into the bloodstream or target area. Duration in the System: A prednisone injection typically remains in your system for 16 to 22 hours, but its effects can last several days…

Melatonin supplements often come with an expiration date, which serves as the manufacturer’s assurance regarding the potency and safety of the product if consumed before the indicated date on the bottle or label. However, not all melatonin products are labeled with an expiration date. Further research is necessary to determine the safety of melatonin products beyond their expiration dates. Key Facts: Melatonin After Expiration What Is Melatonin? Melatonin is a natural hormone used as a sleep aid. It’s also available in supplement form to treat insomnia, jet lag, and other sleep-related disorders. Does It Still Work After Expiry? The article…

Atorvastatin, marketed under the brand name Lipitor, is a cholesterol-lowering medication designed for once-daily consumption and falls under the category of drugs known as statins. Specific recommendations regarding the optimal time for statin intake exist for certain statins. In the case of atorvastatin, it can be taken either in the morning or evening, provided that it is taken consistently. The timing of statin administration typically hinges on the specific statin being used. Statins are commonly prescribed to reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. By effectively lowering LDL levels, these medications also contribute to diminishing the risk of…

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), also known as chorionic villus biopsy, is a prenatal examination involving the extraction of placental tissue to identify chromosomal abnormalities and specific genetic issues. The placenta, situated in the uterus, serves to deliver blood and nutrients from the mother to the fetus. Chorionic villi, resembling finger-like projections of placental tissue, carry the same genetic makeup as the fetus. Depending on family history and laboratory capabilities, testing might extend to other genetic disorders during the procedure. Typically performed between the 10th and 12th weeks of pregnancy, CVS differs from amniocentesis, another prenatal test, in that it does…

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, also known as MAO inhibitors or MAOIs, function by impeding the activity of monoamine oxidase enzymes in the brain. These enzymes are responsible for the degradation of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. While historically linked to depression due to low levels of these neurotransmitters, their deficiency might not solely explain depression. MAOIs elevate the levels of these neurotransmitters by inhibiting the actions of monoamine oxidase enzymes. Typically reserved for cases where standard antidepressants have failed, MAOIs pose a higher risk of drug interactions compared to conventional antidepressants. Additionally, they can interact adversely with specific foods such…

Ambien is prescribed temporarily to address a specific sleep disorder (insomnia) in adults. When experiencing difficulty initiating sleep, it facilitates quicker sleep onset, promoting a more restful night. Zolpidem is categorized under sedative-hypnotic medications, exerting a calming influence on the brain. Key Facts: Long-Term Use of Ambien 1. What Is Ambien? Ambien (zolpidem) is a prescription sedative-hypnotic used to treat insomnia. It works by slowing brain activity to help with sleep onset and maintenance. 2. Long-Term Use Is Not Recommended: Although effective short-term, most medical guidelines advise against using Ambien for more than 2–4 weeks due to the risk of…

Neosporin is a compound medication comprising neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin, antibiotics designed to halt bacterial growth. Its effectiveness is limited to bacterial skin infections, excluding those caused by fungi or viruses. Key Facts: Polysporin vs Neosporin ▪️Ingredient Differences Polysporin contains bacitracin and polymyxin B, while Neosporin adds neomycin, making it a triple-antibiotic ointment . ▪️Allergy Considerations Neomycin is a common allergen—many users prone to contact dermatitis may prefer Polysporin for its simpler formula . ▪️Infection Coverage Neosporin offers broader antibacterial spectrum thanks to neomycin, which can be helpful for burns or high-risk wounds. Polysporin still works well for minor cuts…

Valsartan, known by the brand name Diovan, belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers, often abbreviated as ARBs. It is prescribed for the management of high blood pressure (hypertension) in both adult and pediatric patients aged one year and above. By reducing blood pressure, Valsartan can potentially decrease the likelihood of experiencing a stroke or heart attack. Additionally, in adults, Valsartan is utilized to treat heart failure and diminish the chances of hospitalization and mortality following a heart attack. Key Facts: Bananas & Valsartan Interaction ▪️Hyperkalemia Risk from ARBs Valsartan and other angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)…