c
 

   

Telmisartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure.
Telmisartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by
blocking the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more
smoothly.

    

Telmisartan comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without
food. To help you remember to take telmisartan, take it around the same time every day. Follow
the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain
any part you do not understand. Take telmisartan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of
it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of telmisartan and gradually increase your dose.

Telmisartan controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take telmisartan even
if you feel well. Do not stop taking telmisartan without talking to your doctor.

    

Telmisartan is also used sometimes to treat congestive heart failure. Talk to your doctor about
the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

c
  
 
  

Before taking telmisartan,

Ê tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to telmisartan or any other medications.
Ê tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications,
vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention
any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin);
digoxin (Lanoxin); and diuretics ('water pills'). Your doctor may need to change the doses
of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
Ê tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or kidney or liver disease.
Ê tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.

c
  


   

If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

c
 
 
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to
make up for a missed one.

c
 
 

 

Telmisartan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:

Ê runny nose
Ê sore throat
Ê back pain
Ê sinus pain
Ê diarrhea

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience
any of them, call your doctor immediately:

Ê swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Ê hoarseness
Ê difficulty breathing or swallowing
Ê fainting

Telmisartan may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
while taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and
Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

c

 
   

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about
the proper disposal of your medication.



 

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

Ê dizziness
Ê fainting
 Ê rapid or pounding heartbeat

c
 
  

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to
determine your response to telmisartan.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-
the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or
other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if
you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of
emergencies.



 

Ê Micardis®



 
   

Ê Micardis® HCT (containing Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide)

M

 
 
 


 !"#$%&!


Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug
Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

c'& This drug can cause serious fetal harm (possibly death) if used during the last six
months of pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor
immediately.

($"$& This drug is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). This drug works by
blocking the hormone angiotensin thereby relaxing blood vessels, causing them to widen. High
blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

)"($"$& This drug may also be used to treat congestive heart failure and to help protect
the kidneys from damage due to diabetes.

c)($"& Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily or as directed by your
doctor. You may take this drug with or without food. Use this medication regularly in order to
get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not take
potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor or
pharmacist first. This medicine can raise your potassium levels, which rarely can cause serious
side effects such as muscle weakness or very slow heartbeats. Tell your doctor immediately if
these effects occur. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. For
the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take 4 weeks before the full benefit of this drug
occurs. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with
high blood pressure do not feel sick.

$ ""**"+)$& You may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or back pain
as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your
doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious
side effects occur: fainting, decreased sexual ability. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: change in the amount of urine. An allergic
reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of
an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, lips, tongue, or throat),
severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.

î
Demo S. A. [ PharmAsia-Cuvest ]

MIMS Class : Quinolones

See related Zalvos tab information

Contents Ciprofloxacin (tab: HCl; infusion: lactate)

Indications Treatment of mild to moderate lower resp tract, skin & skin structure, bone &
joint & GI infection; septicemia, endocarditis; UTI.

Dosage 2
’
 

250 mg 12 hrly, 


 
 500 mg 12 hrly.

   
    

   

 500 mg
12 hrly, 


 
 750 mg 12 hrly.

  
 


500 mg 12 hrly. Duration of treatment: 5-7 days for acute infection, 7-14 days for
severe & complicated infection, ш4-6 wk for bone & joint infection. —
 Æ

100-400 mg bid. To be given by IV infusion over 30-60 min in a conc of 1-2 mg/mL.
Administration May be taken with or without food (May be taken w/ meals to minimise GI
discomfort. Do not take w/ antacids, Fe or dairy products.).

Contraindications Hypersensitivity.

Special Epilepsy; patients w/ known or suspected CNS disorders eg severe cerebral

Precautions arteriosclerosis, epilepsy, & other factors that predispose to seizure. Lactation.
Childn & adolescents.

Adverse Drug GI disturbances eg 


-associated diarrhea, pseudomembranous colitis,

Reactions vomiting, dyspepsia, dyphagia, flatulence, abdominal pain. CNS effects eg
convulsive seizures, toxic psychosis, anorexia, dizziness, headache, tiredness,
agitation, trembling, anxiety. Erythema multiforme or Stevens-Johnson syndrome,
exfoliative dermatitis, fever, flushing, pruritus, hyperpigmentation;
photosensitivity. Visual disturbance/pain, hearing loss & tinnitus, nystagmus, bad
taste, musculoskeletal effects, renal failure/urogenital effects, CV & resp effects.
Local IV reactions eg phlebitis & thrombophlebitis.
View ADR Monitoring Website

Drug Interactions Theophylline (elevated serum theophylline conc & prolonged elimination half-life).
Probenecid interferes w/ renal tubular secretion of ciprofloxacin.
View more drug interactions with Zalvos

Pregnancy
Category (US FDA)


 : Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the foetus
(teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in
women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given
only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.

MIMS Class Quinolones

ATC Classification J01MA02 - Ciprofloxacin ; Belongs to the class of fluoroquinolones. Used in the
systemic treatment of infections.

Poison Schedule Rx
m

MIMS Class : Beta-Blockers

See available brands of carvedilol

See related carvedilol information

Indication Listed in Dosage.

Dosage © j  Initial: 12.5 mg once daily. May increase to 25 mg/day. 

 
Initial: 12.5 mg twice daily. May increase to 25 mg twice daily. j
 
Initial:
3.125 mg twice daily. Max: >85 kg: 50 mg twice daily; <85 kg: 25 mg twice daily.
!
 
   
"
Initial: 6.25 mg twice daily. May increase to
25 mg twice daily.
Click to view Dosage by Indications

Administration Should be taken with food.

Overdosage For action to be taken in the event of accidental overdose ... click to view

Contraindications Hypersensitivity; severe chronic heart failure, bronchial asthma or related

bronchospastic conditions; severe hepatic impairment. Patients with NYHA class IV
cardiac failure, 2nd or 3rd ° AV block, sick sinus syndrome (unless a permanent
pacemaker is in place), cardiogenic shock or severe bradycardia. Lactation.

Special Avoid abrupt withdrawal as it may precipitate thyroid storm or exacerbate

Precautions hyperthyroidism. Liver injury; vascular disease, renal failures, suspected
phaeochromocytoma and prinzmetal's variable angina; worsening cardiac failure
or fluid retention during increase in dosage of carvedilol; diabetic patients.
Pregnancy.

Adverse Drug Bradycardia, AV block, angina pectoris, hypervolaemia, leucopenia, hypotension,

Reactions peripheral oedema, allergy, malaise, fluid overload, melena, periodontitis,
hyperuricaemia, hyponatraemia, increased alkaline phosphatase, glycosuria,
prothrombin time, SGPT and SGOT levels, purpura, somnolence, impotence,
albuminuria, hypokinesia, nervousness, sleep disorder, skin reaction, tinnitus, dry
mouth, anaemia, sweating, fatigue, arthralgia, aggravation, dizziness. Diarrhoea,
 nausea, vomiting, insomnia, hypercholesterolaemia, weight gain, abnormal vision,
rhinitis, pharyngitis and hypertriglyceridaemia.

Drug Interactions Potentiates insulin-induced hypoglycaemic action. Concurrent use with

catecholamine-depleting agents and ɴ-receptor blockers may cause marked
hypotension. Serum levels may be increased by fluoxetine. May increase serum
levels of ciclosporin and digoxin.
©
 # $Rifampin pretreatment results in a decreased Cmax and AUC.
Combination with verapamil can lead to severe bradycardia and myocardial
depression.
Click to view more Drug Interactions

Food Interaction For caution against potential drug-food interactions ... click to view

Pregnancy
Category (US FDA)


 : Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the
foetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies
in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be
given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.

%& 

'


 (: There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits
from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the
drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which
safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Storage For special storage condition to ensure optimal shelf-life of medicine... click to
view

Mechanism of For details of the mechanism of action, pharmacology and pharmacokinetics and
Action toxicology ... click to view

MIMS Class Beta-Blockers

 ATC Classification C07AG02 - carvedilol; Belongs to the class of alpha and beta blocking agents. Used
in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

 !"
Bionorica [ Zuellig / Pharmalink ]

MIMS Class : Other Drugs Acting on the Respiratory System

See related Sinupret drag ees information

Contents ©


Gentianae radix 6 mg, Primulae flos 18 mg, Rumicis herba 18 mg,

Sambuci flos 18 mg, Verbenae herbe 18 mg

Indications Acute & chronic inflammations of the sinuses & the resp tract; supplementary
measure in antibacterial therapy.

Dosage Æ
 2 dragees,  

   1 dragee. To be taken tid.

Administration May be taken with or without food

Contraindications 


 
—

 

Side Effects View Sinupret side effects

Storage View Sinupret storage conditions for details to ensure optimal shelf-life.

Description View Sinupret description for details of the chemical structure and excipients
(inactive components).

MIMS Class Other Drugs Acting on the Respiratory System

ATC Classification R07AX - Other respiratory system products ;

 Poison Schedule Rx

 #$ m
#m!#%m& '( ) mm
Share Article |

May 22, 2008 Tami Port

Antibiotics are chemotherapeutic agents used to inhibit or kill bacteria (prokaryotic organisms). How do
quinolones destroy bacteria without hurting our cells?

There are many different classes of antibiotics each exerting a different type of inhibitory effect
that specifically impacts bacteria. Bacterial cells are prokaryotic; primitive cells that differ
significantly from humans¶ eukaryotic cells.

Quinolones exert their bacteriocidal effect by interfering with a bacterium¶s ability to make DNA
(replication). Many quinolones antibiotics belong to a subgroup called fluoroquinolones, which
have a fluoro functional group associated with the molecule. Both terms are therefore used to
describe antibiotics in this class.

Each article in this series covers a specific class of antibiotic and includes the following
information:

Ê a list of the specific antibiotics that fall in the class (generic and brand names)
Ê mode of action
Ê type of infection the antibiotic class to against
Ê type of bacteria inhibited or killed
Ê pros and cons of using the class of antibiotics

#m

Ê Aminoglycosides
Ê Cephalosporins (a Beta-lactams)
Ê Macrolides
Ê Penicillin (a Beta-lactam)
Ê Quinolones (Fluoroquinolones)
Ê Sulfonamides (Sulfa Drugs)
 Ê Tetracyclines

$ 

The quinolones are classified into generations based on their antibacterial spectrum, with earlier
generation quinolones more effective against Gram- bacteria and the spectrum of activity
expanding to include more Gram+ bacteria with the later generations. Some representative
quinolones include:

P

 

#m#$ 

Quinolones are bacteriocidal drugs, meaning that they kill bacteria. These antibiotic drugs inhibit
the bacterial DNA gyrase enzyme which is necessary for DNA replication. Since a copy of DNA
must be made each time a cell divides, interfering with replication makes it difficult for bacteria
to multiply.

How DNA is packaged is very different in bacteria as opposed to eukaryotes. Bacteria supercoil
DNA using DNA gyrase, whereas eukaryotes coil DNA around histone proteins. Because
quinolones specifically target DNA gyrase, they do not interfere with human DNA.

m!m #$ 

Quinolones are known as broad-spectrum antibiotics, effective against many different types of
bacteria, both Gram-positive (Gram +) and Gram-negative (Gram -).

*!##m$ +(

Clinical applications of quinolones include the treatment of common urinary tract infections, and
certain gastrointestinal infections, gynecological infections / STDs, skin infections, and upper
and lower respiratory infections (such as sinusitis, pneumonia, bronchitis).

,&#$ 

Æ
 


Quinolones typically have few side effects, most commonly including nausea, headache,
dizziness, and confusion. Rare but serious adverse events have been reported, such as
prolongation of the corrected QT interval, phototoxicity, liver enzyme abnormalities, arthropathy
(joint problems), as well as cartilage and tendon abnormalities.

 


Resistance to quinolones can develop very quickly, even during a course of treatment. The newer
quinolones are rarely used as first-line agents, since over and inappropriate use of this class of
antibiotic is likely to worsen current problems with antibiotic resistance. A variety of pathogens,
including ¯
    (pathogenic Staph), Enterococci, and ¯

   
(the causative agent of strep throat) now exhibit resistance.

m m

The information in this article was obtained from a variety of sources, including the text book
˜  
      by Kathleen Park Talero (2008) and Oliphant & Green¶s article
Quinolones: A Comprehensive Review, published in 2002 in the journal Æ˜
 . To learn more about bacteria and prokaryotes in general, see the microbiology
information on the science website Science Prof Online.

Read more at Suite101: MOA of Quinolone Antibiotics: Mode of Action: Ciprofloxacin & Other
Fluoroquinolone Antimicrobics
http://bacteriology.suite101.com/article.cfm/moa_of_quinolone_antibiotics#ixzz0ksEfhzzf

Read more at Suite101: MOA of Quinolone Antibiotics: Mode of Action: Ciprofloxacin & Other
Fluoroquinolone Antimicrobics
http://bacteriology.suite101.com/article.cfm/moa_of_quinolone_antibiotics#ixzz0ksDIIEAr

m
Schering-Plough [ Zuellig ]

MIMS Class : Antihistamines & Antiallergics

See related Claricort tab information

Contents Loratadine 5 mg, betamethasone 250 mcg.

Indications Relief of symptoms of atopic dermatitis, angioedema, urticaria, seasonal &

perennial allergic rhinitis, food & drug allergic reaction.

Dosage Adult & childn >12 yr 1 tab bid.

Overdosage View Claricort overdosage for action to be taken in the event of an overdose.

Administration Should be taken with food

Contraindications Hypersensitivity to loratadine or betamethasone. Betamethasone: Systemic fungal

infections.

Special Pregnancy, lactation. Severe liver impairment. Avoid exposure to measles or

Precautions chickenpox esp in childn. Latent TB. Hypothyroidism, cirrhosis. Ocular herpes
simplex.

Adverse Drug Fatigue, headache, somnolence, nervousness, dry mouth, GI disorders (eg nausea,
Reactions gastritis) & allergic symptoms eg rash.
View ADR Monitoring Website

Drug Interactions Increase plasma conc of loratadine w/ ketoconazole, erythromycin or cimetidine.

Enhance metabolism of betamethasone w/ phenobarb, phenytoin, rifampin or
ephedrine. Enhance hypokalemia w/ K-depleting diuretics. Concurrent use of
corticosteroids w/ cardiac glycosides may enhance possibility of arrhythmias or
digitalis toxicity associated w/ hypokalemia; enhance K-depletion caused by
amphotericin B; may increase or decrease anticoagulant effects. Increased
occurrence or severity of GI ulceration w/ NSAIDs or alcohol. Corticosteroid may
decrease blood salicylate conc. Concomitant glucocorticosteroid therapy may
inhibit response to somatotropin.
View more drug interactions with Claricort

Storage View Claricort storage conditions for details to ensure optimal shelf-life.

Description View Claricort description for details of the chemical structure and excipients
(inactive components).

Mechanism of View Claricort mechanism of action for pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Action details.

MIMS Class Antihistamines & Antiallergics

ATC Classification R06AX - Other antihistamines for systemic use ;

Poison Schedule Rx
Presentation/Packing

M

 !

 !"&
 

('+,$$ !"+$!& Amlodipine belongs to a class of medications called

calcium channel blockers. These medications block the transport of calcium into the smooth
muscle cells lining the coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. Since calcium is
important in muscle contraction, blocking calcium transport relaxes artery muscles and dilates
coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. By relaxing coronary arteries, amlodipine is
useful in preventing chest pain (angina) resulting from coronary artery spasm. Relaxing the
muscles lining the arteries of the rest of the body lowers the blood pressure, which reduces the
burden on the heart as it pumps blood to the body. Reducing heart burden lessens the heart
muscle's demand for oxygen, and further helps to prevent angina in patients with coronary artery
disease. For more detailed information related to coronary artery disease, please read the Chest
Pain, Cholesterol, and Heart Attack articles.

-"$+-)& yes

'""+.,,"& no

-"-)$& Tablets ( 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg.)

$)'"& Amlodipine should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light resistant

container.

-"$+" *& Chest pain (angina) occurs because of insufficient oxygen delivered to
the heart muscles. Insufficient oxygen may be a result of coronary artery blockage or spasm, or
because of physical exertion which increases heart oxygen demand in a patient with coronary
artery narrowing. Amlodipine is used for the treatment and prevention of angina resulting from
coronary spasm as well as from exertion. Amlodipine is also used in the treatment of high blood
pressure.

$'& Amlodipine can be taken with or without food. Amlodipine is metabolized mainly by
the liver and dosages may need to be lowered in patients with liver dysfunction.

(')"+)$& In patients with severe coronary artery disease, amlodipine can

increase the frequency and severity of angina or actually cause a heart attack on rare occasions.
This phenomenon usually occurs when first starting amlodipine, or at the time of dosage
increase. Excessive lowering of blood pressure during initiation of amlodipine treatment can
occur, especially in patients already taking another blood pressure lowering medication. In rare
instances, congestive heart failure has been associated with amlodipine, usually in patients
already on a beta blocker. For further information on beta blockers, please read the propranolol
(Inderal) article.
-"'+/& Generally, amlodipine is avoided in pregnancy, and by nursing mothers and
children.

($'!)"$& Generally, amlodipine is avoided in pregnancy, and by nursing

mothers and children.

$ ""**"+)$& Side effects of amlodipine are generally mild and reversible. The two most
common side effects are headache and edema (swelling) of the lower extremities. Less common
side effects include dizziness, flushing, fatigue, nausea, and palpitations.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

M

 m

 !"&+

0+

1))$02


('+,$$ !"+$!&Clonidine is an oral and topical (applied to the skin) drug

for treating high blood pressure (hypertension). Clonidine acts by stimulating receptors on nerves
in the brain that reduces the transmission of messages from nerves in the brain to nerves in other
areas of the body. As a result, clonidine slows heart rate and reduces blood pressure. The FDA
approved clonidine in September 1974.

-"$+-)& Yes

'""+.,,"& Yes (tablets), No (patches).

-"-)$& Tablets: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mg. Transdermal patches: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mg
delivered over 24 hours.

$)'"& Tablets and patches should be kept at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F).

-"$+" *& Clonidine is approved for the treatment of high blood pressure. Non-FDA
approved (off-label) uses include treatment of symptoms of narcotic withdrawal, nicotine
withdrawal, diabetes-associated diarrhea, diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), hot flashes
associated with menopause, and as an adjunct to manage severe cancer-related pain.

$'& The usual oral adult dose is 0.1±0.3 mg twice daily. The maximum oral dose is 2.4
mg daily. Patches should be applied to an area of hairless skin on the upper arm or torso, once
every 7 days. When applying a new patch, a different area of skin should be used.

(')"+)$& Clonidine can increase the sedating effects of other medications that
cause sedation. Such drugs include narcotic pain relievers, barbiturates, sedatives such as
alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin) as well as ethanol.
Tricyclic antidepressants, for example, amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep), imipramine (Tofranil),
desipramine (Norpramin), and clomipramine (Anafranil), can block the blood pressure lowering
effects of clonidine. This may cause blood pressure to rise.

Since clonidine can reduce heart rate, it should be used cautiously in persons who are receiving
other medications that lower heart rate such as beta-blockers, for example, atenolol (Tenormin),
metoprolol (Lopressor), propranolol (Inderal)], digoxin (Lanoxin), diltiazem (Cardizem) or
verapamil (Calan; Covera HS). Abnormal heart rhythms can occur with the combination of
clonidine and verapamil.

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral) concentrations in the blood can increase when clonidine is
begun. This interaction could result in kidney damage from the increased levels of cyclosporine.

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), for example, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil),

naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve), and nabumetone (Relafen) can reduce the antihypertensive effects
of clonidine.

Cocaine, pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, and phenylpropanolamine also can reverse the blood
pressure lowering effects of clonidine.

,! mm

(Drugs listed alphabetically by generic name with brand name in parentheses)

ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors-
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are used to treat high blood
pressure. They cause the blood vessels to relax and become larger and, as
a result, blood pressure is lowered. When blood pressure is reduced, the
heart has an easier time pumping blood. This is especially beneficial when
the heart is failing. ACE inhibitors also cause the process of hypertensive-
and diabetes-related kidney diseases to slow down and prevent early
deaths associated with high blood pressure. ACE inhibitors cannot be
taken during pregnancy since they may cause birth defects. Generic ACE
inhibitors are available.
levothyroxine sodium (brand names: Synthroid,
Levoxyl, Levothroid, Unithroid)-A synthetic version of the
principal thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), which is made and released by
the thyroid gland. Levothyroxine sodium is used to treat hypothyroidism
and to suppress thyroid hormone release in the management of cancerous
thyroid nodules and growth of goiters. Thyroid hormone increases the
metabolic rate of cells of all tissues in the body. Thyroid hormone helps to
maintain brain function, food metabolism, and body temperature, among
other effects. Generic is available.

lisinopril (brand name: Zestril, Prinivil)-Lisinopril is an ACE

acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol)-A pain reliever and
fever reducer. The exact mechanism of action of acetaminophen is not
known. Acetaminophen relieves pain by elevating the pain threshold (that
is, by requiring a greater amount of pain to develop before it is felt by a
person). Acetaminophen reduces fever through its action on the heat-
regulating center of the brain. Generic is available.
alprazolam (brand name: Xanax)- A benzodiazepine sedative
that causes dose-related depression of the central nervous system.
Alprazolam is useful in treating anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and
muscle spasms. Generic is available.
inhibitor that works to lower blood pressure by relaxing and enlarging
blood vessels. It also is used to treat heart failure. Lisinopril should be
taken at the same time each day in order to ensure consistent blood levels.
Pregnant mothers should avoid lisinopril, and it is important to avoid
taking lisinopril within two hours of an antacid since antacid binds the
lisinopril and prevents it from being absorbed into the body. Side effects
of lisinopril include dizziness that is felt when the blood pressure begins to
drop, and kidney damage as well. Those taking potassium supplements or
diuretics that cause potassium to be retained by the body should not take
lisinopril because blood potassium levels may rise to dangerously high
levels. Generic lisinopril is available.

lithium (brand name: Lithobid)-Since the 1950s, lithium has

amoxicillin (brand names: Amoxil, Polymox, Trimox)-
An antibiotic of the penicillin type that is effective against different
bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria gonorrhoea,
Escherichia coli, Pneumococci, Streptococci, and certain strains of
Staphylococci, particularly infections of the middle ear, tonsillitis, throat
infections, laryngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Amoxicillin is also used
in treating urinary tract infections, skin infections, and gonorrhea. Generic
is available.
atenolol (brand name: Tenormin)-A medication that blocks the
action of a portion of the involuntary nervous system that stimulates the
been used in the treatment of bipolar disorder as well as depression.
Lithium is a mineral that has a positive charge, similar to sodium,
potassium, calcium and magnesium. It works by interfering inside cells
with other minerals with positive charges such as potassium, calcium and
magnesium. Lithium impacts the brain by affecting both the
concentrations of tryptophan and serotonin within the brain's cells, and
neurotransmitters, chemical messengers that nerves use to communicate
with each other. It is recommended that lithium be taken together with
food. The full clinical effects of lithium are seen about 2-3 weeks after
beginning treatment. Goiters of the thyroid gland develop in one out of
pace of the heartbeat. By blocking the action of these nerves, atenolol
reduces the heart rate and is useful in treating abnormally rapid heart
rhythms. Atenolol also reduces the force of heart muscle contraction,
lowers blood pressure, and is helpful in treating angina. It is also used for
the prevention of migraine headaches and the treatment of certain types of
tremors. Generic is available.
bupropion (brand names: Wellbutrin, Zyban,
Wellbutrin SR)-An antidepressant medication that affects chemicals
within the brain that nerves use to send messages to each other. These
chemical messengers are called neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters
that are released by nerves are taken up again by the nerves that release
them for reuse (referred to as reuptake). Many experts believe that
depression is caused by an imbalance among the amounts of
neurotransmitters that are released. Bupropion is unrelated to other
antidepressants. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of the
neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, resulting in
more of these chemicals being available to transmit messages to other
nerves. Bupropion is unique in that its major effect is on dopamine.
Wellbutrin and Wellbutrin SR are used for the management of depression.
Zyban has been approved as an aid to patients who want to quit smoking.
Generic is not available.
cephalexin (brand names: Keflex, Keftabs)-A semisynthetic
cephalosporin antibiotic that is chemically similar to penicillin.
Cephalexin is effective against a wide variety of bacterial organisms, such
as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus
influenzae, and Escherichia coli, particular involving infections of the
middle ear, tonsillitis, throat infections, laryngitis, bronchitis, and
pneumonia. Cephalexin is also used in treating urinary tract infections and
skin and bone infections. Generic is available.
ciprofloxacin (brand name: Cipro)-An antibiotic that stops
multiplication of bacteria by inhibiting the reproduction and repair of their
genetic material (DNA). Ciprofloxacin is used to treat infections of the
skin, lungs, airways, bones, and joints that are caused by susceptible
bacteria. Ciprofloxacin is also frequently used to treat urinary infections
caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli. Ciprofloxacin is effective in
treating infectious diarrheas caused by E. coli, Campylobacter jejuni, and
shigella bacteria. Generic is not available.
citalopram (brand name: Celexa)-An antidepressant medication
that affects neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers within the brain.
Neurotransmitters manufactured and released by nerves attach to adjacent
nerves and alter their activities. Thus, neurotransmitters can be thought of
as the communication system of the brain. Many experts believe that an
imbalance among neurotransmitters is the cause of depression. Citalopram
works by preventing the uptake of one neurotransmitter, serotonin, by
nerve cells after it has been released. The reduced uptake caused by
citalopram results in more free serotonin being available in the brain to
stimulate nerve cells. Citalopram is in the class of drugs called selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Generic is not available.
clonazepam (Klonopin)-Used to treat anxiety, clonazepam works
by enhancing the response to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the
brain, a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity of many parts of the
brain. It is believed that too much activity can lead to anxiety. By
enhancing the response to GABA, clonazepam inhibits activity in the
brain and relieves the short-term symptoms of anxiety. Clonazepam
should not be taken during pregnancy, as the effects are known to cause
damage to the fetus. More than half of those who take clonazepam
experience the side effect of sedation. Generic clonazepam is available.
codeine (brand name: Empirin 2, 3, 4, Tylenol 2, 3, 4,
Tylenol with Codeine Elixir)-Codeine is a pain reliever used to
temporarily relieve mild to severe pain. Codeine has the ability to impair
thinking and physical ability necessary for driving, and, when combined
with alcohol, the impairment can be worsened. Those taking codeine have
every 25 persons taking lithium. Generic lithium is available.
lorazepam (brand names: Ativan)-An antianxiety medication
in the benzodiazepine family. Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines act
by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the
brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves in the brain use
to send messages to one another. GABA inhibits activity in many of the
nerves of the brain, and it is thought that this excessive activity is what
causes anxiety and other psychological disorders. Lorazepam has fewer
interactions with other medications and is felt to be potentially less toxic
than most of the other benzodiazepines. Lorazepam is also used to treat
insomnia and panic attacks. Generic is available.
meloxicam (brand name: Mobic)-Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used in the treatment of
inflammation due to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Meloxicam,
like other NSAIDs, reduces the pain, tenderness and swelling caused by
inflammation by preventing the formation of chemicals that contribute to
inflammation. Individuals who are prone to asthma attacks, hives or have
an allergy to aspirin and other NSAIDs should not take meloxicam.
Aspirin should not be taken with meloxicam as such a combination raises
the risk for developing ulcers of the stomach or small intestine. Generic
meloxicam is available..
metformin (brand name: Glucophage)-Approved by the FDA
in 1994, metformin is used to lower blood glucose levels in type 2
diabetes in adults and children. Metformin also reduces complications of
diabetes including heart disease, blindness and kidney disease. When used
alone, metformin does not increase insulin levels in the blood and,
therefore, does not result in extremely low blood glucose levels.
Metformin increases the effects that insulin has on the liver, muscle, fat,
and other tissues. As a result, the reduced levels of insulin have more of an
effect than they otherwise would. Metformin also has been used to prevent
diabetes from worsening and also has been used to treat polycystic
ovaries. Side effects of metformin include nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating,
diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Generic metformin is available.
methotrexate (brand names: Rheumatrex, Trexall)-A drug
that is capable of blocking the metabolism of cells (an antimetabolite). As
a result of this effect, methotrexate has been found to be helpful in treating
certain diseases associated with abnormally rapid cell growth, such as
cancer of the breast and psoriasis. Recently, methotrexate has been shown
to be effective in inducing miscarriage (for example, in patients with
ectopic pregnancy). This effect of methotrexate is attributed to its action
of killing the rapidly growing cells of the placenta. Methotrexate has also
been found to be very helpful in treating rheumatoid arthritis, although its
mechanism of action in this illness is not known. Methotrexate seems to
work, in part, by altering aspects of immune function that may play a role
in causing rheumatoid arthritis. Generic is available.
methylprednisolone (brand name: Medrol, Depo-
Medrol)-Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid that is used to
reduce inflammation in inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, lupus,
Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. The body produces corticosteroids
naturally in the adrenal glands. Methylprednisolone may be used during
pregnancy as it does not cause abnormalities in the fetus. However, using
methylprednisolone for long periods of time can cause the body to stop
producing its own corticosteroids. This can lead to a serious problem, i.e.,
inadequate amounts of corticosteroids, if the methylprednisolone is
stopped for any reason. Generic methylprednisolone is available.
metoprolol (brand names: Lopressor, Toprol XL)-A
medication that blocks the action of a portion of the involuntary nervous
system. The sympathetic nervous system stimulates the pace of the heart
beat. By blocking the action of these nerves, metoprolol reduces the heart
rate and is useful in treating abnormally rapid heart rhythms. Metoprolol
also reduces the force of heart muscle contraction, lowers blood pressure,
the ability to become dependent on the drug mentally and physically.
Those patients allergic to aspirin and pregnant mothers should not take
codeine. Codeine often is combined with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or
aspirin to add to its effectiveness. Side effects of codeine include light-
headedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and sedation.
Generic codeine is available.
doxycycline (brand name: Vibramycin)-A synthetic broad-
spectrum antibiotic that is derived from tetracycline and is effective
against a wide variety of bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae,
Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia psittaci,
Chlamydia trachomatis, and Neisseria gonorrhoea. Doxycycline is
particularly helpful for treating respiratory tract infections and for treating
nongonococcal urethritis (due to ureaplasma), Rocky mountain spotted
fever, typhus, chancroid, cholera, brucellosis, anthrax, syphilis, and acne.
Generic is available.
fluoxetine (brand name: Prozac)-A class of antidepressant
medications that affects chemical messengers within the brain. These
chemical messengers are called neurotransmitters. Many experts believe
that an imbalance in these neurotransmitters is the cause of depression.
Fluoxetine is used in the treatment of depression and obsessive-
compulsive disorders. Fluoxetine is believed to work by inhibiting the
release of or affecting the action of serotonin. Generic is available.
hydrocodone/acetaminophen (brand names: Vicodin,
Vicodin ES, Anexsia, Lorcet, Lorcet Plus, Norco)-A
narcotic pain reliever and a cough suppressant that is similar to codeine
and is used for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain. The
precise mechanism of pain relief by hydrocodone and other narcotics is
not known. Acetaminophen is a nonnarcotic pain reliever and fever
reducer. It relieves pain by elevating the pain threshold and reduces fever
through its action on the heat-regulating center of the brain. Generic is
available.
hydroxyzine (brand names: Vistaril, Atarax)-An
antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties that is
used to treat allergic reactions and to relieve nasal and nonnasal symptoms
such as those from seasonal allergic rhinitis. Histamine is released by the
body during several types of allergic reactions and to a lesser extent
during some viral infections, such as the common cold. When histamine
binds to its receptors on cells, it causes changes within the cells that lead
to sneezing, itching, and increased mucus production. Antihistamines
compete with histamine for cell receptors; however, when they bind to the
receptors, antihistamines do not stimulate the cells. In addition,
antihistamines prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the cells.
Generic is available.
ibuprofen (brand names: Advil, Motrin, Medipren,
Nuprin)-A traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
that is effective in treating fever, pain, and inflammation in the body. As a
group, NSAIDs are nonnarcotic relievers of mild to moderate pain of
many causes, including injury, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other
musculoskeletal conditions. Generic is available.
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a. Antihistamines are drugs that compete with histamines for their receptor sites,
known as H1 and H2 receptor sites. These receptor sites are found in tissue cells, with
H1 receptors located throughout the body and H2 receptor sites found in the gastric
mucosa. The majority of available antihistamines are H1 antagonists.
b. H1 antagonists are believed to act not by opposing but by preventing the
physiologic action of histamine. This occurs because anti-histamine molecules are
chemically similar to histamine molecules. When the antihistamine binds itself to the H1
receptor site, it prevents histamine from doing the same, which effectively eliminates
and is helpful in treating angina. Generic is available.
metronidazole (brand name: Flagyl)-Metronidazole is an
antibiotic used to fight infections caused by a class of bacteria called
anaerobic bacteria as well as some parasites. Metronidazole is used for
infections of the small intestine, amebic liver abscesses, dysentery and
trichomonas vaginal infections. It also is used to treat infections of the
colon caused by the bacterium, Clostridium difficile. Taking
metronidazole with alcohol is dangerous as it can cause nausea, vomiting,
cramps, flushing and headache. Pregnant mothers and nursing mothers
should not use metronidazole. Side effects of metronidazole, although
they are few, include seizures and nerve damage that can lead to
numbness and tingling of the hands and feet. Generic metronidazole is
available.
naproxen (brand names: Naprosyn, Naprelan, Anaprox,
Aleve)-A traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that
is effective in treating fever, pain, and inflammation in the body. As a
group, NSAIDs are nonnarcotic relievers of mild to moderate pain of
many causes, including injury, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other
musculoskeletal conditions. Generic is available.
phentermine (brand names: Adipex-P, Fastin, Obenix,
Oby-Trim)-An appetite suppressor that decreases appetite by possibly
changing brain levels of serotonin. Phentermine is a nervous system
stimulator like the amphetamines, causing stimulation, elevation of blood
pressure, and increased heart rates. Phentermine is used for short periods,
along with diet and behavior modification, to treat obesity. Generic is
available.
prednisone (brand names: Deltasone, Liquid Pred,
Prednisolone, Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol)-An oral,
synthetic corticosteroid that is used for suppressing the immune system
and inflammation. Synthetic corticosteroids mimic the action of cortisol
(hydrocortisone), the naturally occurring corticosteroid that is produced in
the body by the adrenal glands. Corticosteroids have many effects on the
body, but they most often are used for their potent anti-inflammatory
effects, particularly in conditions in which the immune system plays an
important role. Such conditions include arthritis, colitis, asthma,
bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of
the nose and eyes. Generic is available.
tramadol (brand name: Ultram)-A pain reliever (analgesic) that
is used in the management of moderate to moderately severe pain. Its
mode of action resembles that of narcotics, but tramadol has significantly
less potential for abuse and addiction than narcotics. Tramadol is as
effective as narcotics in relieving pain, but it does not depress respiration,
which is a side effect of most narcotics. Generic is not available.
histamine action