Health Scripts
Note: Health Scripts are published at the beginning of each month.
Mar 15, 2010
Diagnosing ADHD in Children Complicated
Diagnosing ADHD in Children Complicated
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder
associated with inattention and/or hyperactivity or impulsivity. It is
estimated that 4.4 million youth between that ages of 4 and 17 years have
been diagnosed with this disorder. The criteria for diagnosing ADHD can
be complicated, as it requires that children have 6 or more symptoms of
inattention or 6 or more symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity for at
least 6 months. Treatment includes medication, behavioral therapy, or a
combination.
Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the number
of prescriptions written for ADHD. Although the cause of this rapid
increase is unknown, research has shown that a combination of therapy
and medication is the most effective treatment. However, it has also been
noted that the long term effects of ADHD treatments are unknown. Additionally,
the literature suggests that there are many conditions that are
commonly associated with ADHD, such as Defiant Disorder, which further
complicate treatment. Individualized treatment is used to help those
with ADHD overcome difficulties associated with this condition.
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.
Recent Health Scripts
- What to Do About Acid Reflux - 02/22/2010
- Aspirin for Peripheral Arterial Disease - 02/15/2010
- Protect Your Lips During Winter Months - 02/08/2010
- Aspirin Taken Immediately for Heart Attack - 02/01/2010
- The Drug That Helps Cancer Drugs Work Better - 01/25/2010
- Prevention & Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes - 01/18/2010
- Medicine that Might Affect a Person's Personality - 01/11/2010