Author: Wisdom Bassey

Citrucel, an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, incorporates methylcellulose fiber as its active component and holds FDA approval for alleviating sporadic instances of irregular constipation. However, it is not recommended for regular usage in cases of chronic constipation. Prolonged constipation enduring beyond seven days might indicate an underlying health issue of greater concern. Key Facts: Psyllium vs. Citrucel Different Sources of Fiber: Psyllium is a natural, soluble fiber from plant husks, while Citrucel contains methylcellulose, a synthetic, non-fermentable fiber that causes less gas and bloating. How They Work in the Gut: Psyllium swells in water and forms a gel, helping bulk up…

Olanzapine is a medication that requires a prescription and is accessible in tablet and disintegrating tablet forms, the latter dissolving on the tongue upon ingestion. Both formulations are administered orally. Key Facts: Taking Olanzapine Without a Prescription What Is Olanzapine? Olanzapine is a powerful atypical antipsychotic prescribed for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It alters brain chemicals to manage hallucinations, mood swings, and delusions. How It Affects a Normal Person: A healthy individual without psychiatric conditions may experience sedation, confusion, slowed thinking, mood dulling, and physical lethargy after taking olanzapine. Short-Term Physical Effects: Even a single dose can cause drowsiness, dizziness,…

Claritin functions as an antihistamine, addressing symptoms like itchiness, a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing associated with "hay fever" and other allergic reactions. Additionally, it alleviates itching caused by hives. However, it is important to note that Loratadine does not prevent hives or manage severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis. If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine for treating allergic reactions, ensure you have your epinephrine injector with you at all times and do not substitute Loratadine for it. Key Facts: Inside Claritin Allergy Relief Main Active Ingredient – Loratadine: Claritin contains loratadine, a second-generation antihistamine that works by blocking…

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…