Health Scripts
Note: Health Scripts are published at the beginning of each month.
Jun 17, 2013
Over-The-Counter Drug Labels
Over the counter (OTC) drugs are available without a prescription
and can be taken without seeing a doctor. Such medications are commonly
used to treat minor illnesses and problems. However, caution should
be used when choosing an appropriate remedy. The U.S. Food and Drug
Administration has issued regulations as to how the labels of OTC medication
should be organized for consumers to read.
OTC drug labels will contain the following information sections: active
ingredients, uses, warnings, inactive ingredients, purpose, directions,
and other information. “Directions” will include precise dosing
information and “Warnings” will advise individuals with special conditions
or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The “Other Information”
section will include such things as how to store the product and
other relevant information about product ingredients. There will be an
expiration date, lot or batch numbers, name and address of the manufacturer,
quantity in each package, and information for cases of overdose. It
is important to take time and carefully read OTC labels to ensure that the
correct product is chosen and that the directions are followed.
Jun 10, 2013
Latex Allergies Can Be Life-Threatening
Latex is a natural plant-derived product that is used in making the
commercial rubber products we use at home and at work. Items that commonly
contain latex are generally thin and stretchy. Such items include
balloons, pacifiers, bottle nipples, rubber bands, and adhesive tape. In
addition, many medical and dental supplies contain latex such as gloves,
catheters, dental dams, tourniquets and equipment for emergency resuscitation.
Unfortunately, certain individuals are allergic to a protein in latex
rubber. Latex allergies can be mild, with symptoms such as itchy, red,
watery eyes, sneezing or runny nose, coughing, rash or hives. They can
also be very severe, with symptoms like chest tightness, shortness of
breath and shock. The allergy may even cause death. A life-threatening
allergic reaction can occur with no previous warning or symptoms.
Although there is no treatment for latex allergies, symptoms can best
be eliminated or reduced by avoiding contact with latex products. Nonlatex
gloves are available for health care workers. Persons with known
latex allergies should have a medical alert bracelet, necklace, or key chain.
Jun 3, 2013
Treatment of Nerve-Related Pain
Neuropathy is a generalized term for a condition that occurs when
nerves are damaged. Typically, neuropathy is a result of injury, nerve
disease, or improper care of long-lasting diseases that can cause nerve
damage. High blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, alcohol abuse, AIDS
(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), and carpal tunnel syndrome
are a few conditions that may increase the chances for nerve damage.
Some types of chemotherapy medicines may also cause neuropathy.
Symptoms of neuropathy include tingling or burning sensations in one
or both parts of the body, numbness, or complete loss of feeling.
While there is no cure for neuropathy, treatment includes proper
management of chronic disease and reducing the symptoms of
neuropathic pain. Gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) are
anti-seizure medications that help reduce this type of pain. Topiramate
(Topamax) is an anticonvulsant medicine that may lessen neuropathy.
Tricyclic antidepressants (Desipramine, Amitriptyline) have helped some
people with neuropathic pain, but many people cannot tolerate the
bothersome side effects. The addition of NSAIDs (Aleve, Advil) and
Tramadol (Ultram) may also help lessen nerve-related pain.
Recent Health Scripts
- OTC Overactive Bladder Drug for Women - 05/27/2013
- Prevention of Swimmer’s Ear - 05/20/2013
- Preparing for Springtime Allergies - 05/13/2013
- Alzheimer’s Drug Shows Promise in Trials - 05/06/2013
- What To Do About Dry Eyes - 04/29/2013
- Class of Diabetes Drugs May Protect Against Heart Disease - 04/22/2013
- Heart Failure: What Does It Mean? - 04/15/2013