Health Scripts
Note: Health Scripts are published at the beginning of each month.
Mar 8, 2010
Treatment for Strep Throat Infections
Treatment for Strep Throat Infections
Strep throat is an infection of the throat that is caused by the bacteria
Streptococcus pyogenes. Signs and symptoms include difficulty swallowing,
swollen glands, headache, fever, and stomachache. The condition
is contagious, and can be transmitted through coughing or sneezing.
If not treated, the condition may lead to other conditions, such as an
ear infection, sinus infection, or tonsillitis. Although many sore throats
are caused by viruses and cannot be treated with antibiotics, a diagnosis
of bacterial strep throat should be treated with antibiotics.
Oral antibiotics are usually prescribed by a doctor after a diagnosis of
strep throat has been made. Penicillin, amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox),
azithromycin (Zithromax) or clarithromycin (Biaxin) may be prescribed.
Cephalexin (Keflex) is a cephalosporin type antibiotic that also may be
prescribed. Pain relieving medications may also be used, including
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain in the throat
and fever reduction. A saline nasal spray (Ocean Spray) also may be
used to help moisturize nasal passages. Adequate rest and hydration are
other non-medication therapies recommended for relief of symptoms. A
humidifier also may be useful for relief of cough and nasal congestion.
Mar 1, 2010
New Blood Thinner May Be Better
New Blood Thinner May Be Better
According to recent studies, an investigational drug called ticagrelor
(Brilinta) may be more effective than the blood-thinner clopidogrel
(Plavix) in treating acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This is a condition
that leads to a sudden decrease in blood flow to the heart, such as during
a heart attack. An analysis was conducted among 13,408 individuals
scheduled for cardiac stents who had received either Brilinta or Plavix.
After 12 months, those who took Brilinta had a significant 16% risk reduction
in heart attacks and strokes. Also, the risk of bleeding for individuals
who took Brilinta was no more common than for Plavix. Brilinta is
not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Current ACS guidelines recommend that individuals who receive cardiac
stents should take 2 blood-thinners that may be aspirin plus a prescription
medication like Plavix or prasugrel (Effient). The length of time
a person must take blood-thinners depends on the type of stent being
used. Generally, drug-releasing stents require the use of blood-thinners
for 12 months.
Feb 22, 2010
What to Do About Acid Reflux
What to Do About Acid Reflux
As many as one in four Americans may suffer heartburn at night.
Heartburn is a symptom of a condition called gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD). Chronic reflux can lead to inflammation of the esophagus,
scarring, and even cancer. Heartburn during sleep can also cause nighttime
awakening, sleep loss, and daytime sleepiness.
If you wake up with heartburn, here are tips to help you sleep better.
Raise the head of the bed by 4 to 6 inches, so you can sleep with your
head and chest elevated. You can lift the top end of the bed by sticking
cement blocks underneath. You could also lie on special wedge pillows
designed to help you sleep on an incline. Avoid eating meals and snacks
two to three hours before bed. Chew gum during the evening. This can
boost the production of saliva, which helps neutralizes stomach acid. If
you smoke, stop. You are more likely to have problems with nighttime
GERD if you are overweight. Your doctor can advise you about both the
lifestyle changes and medical therapies that would be of greatest benefit
for you.
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- Aspirin Taken Immediately for Heart Attack - 02/01/2010
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- Prevention & Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes - 01/18/2010
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