Health Scripts
Note: Health Scripts are published at the beginning of each month.
Black Cohosh and Hot Flashes{script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
Black cohosh is an herb traditionally used to treat menopausal symptoms
(hot flashes). It is also known as black snakeroot, bugbane, and
rattleweed and is native to North America. The root and underground
stem of the plant are used medicinally. Traditional uses include colds,
rheumatism, and gynecological disorders, among many others. Black
cohosh is classified as a selective modulator of estrogen receptors.
However, its mechanism of action in the treatment of hot flashes is
unknown.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology states that
black cohosh may be helpful in the short-term management of hot flashes
in women. A commonly used dose is 40 mg per day. There is no published
scientific data on its long-term use. However, studies are underway
to evaluate this issue. Common side effects include stomach upset
and rash. There have been rare reports of hepatitis and seizures with the
use of black cohosh; however, these findings are controversial. Due to
its activity on estrogen receptors, black cohosh should not be used by
women with a history of or a high risk for breast cancer.
Treatments of Rheumatoid Arthritis{script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition of inflamed body joints. The
synovium lining becomes inflamed in response to the presence of white
blood cells. Cartilage, bone, tendons, and ligaments may be damaged in
response to this rheumatoid process. Eventual joint destruction can occur.
Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain and
swelling, fatigue, fever, and weight loss. Smaller joints of the wrists, hands,
ankles and feet are likely to be affected first, followed by progression to
other joints such as the elbows, hips, and knees.
Although there is no cure available for rheumatoid arthritis, treatments
are available. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),
such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are available both over-the-counter
and in prescription strength for the relief of pain and inflammation. Disease-
modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are medications that work
to decrease inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Examples include
hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). Tumor
necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blockers such as infliximab (Remicade),
etanercept (Enbrel), and adalimumab (Humira) are medications that stop
the progression of arthritis by blocking a step in the inflammation process.
New Drug Approved for Women with IBS-C{script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
The FDA recently approved a drug for women 18 years of age and
older for a condition called irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
(IBS-C). The drug is Amitiza (lubiprostone). Health officials indicate
that at the present, there are no other prescription drugs available in the
United States for this condition. The safety and efficacy of Amitiza was
evaluated in two major studies and involved individuals who were
experiencing at least mild abdominal pain or discomfort associated with
other IBS-C symptoms. Women in the study that got Amitiza reported
relief of IBS symptoms moderately or to a significant degree, more so
than those who took a placebo (fake drug) over a 12 week period of
study.
IBS-C is an intestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating,
cramping and constipation. Although these symptoms vary from
person to person, they can in some instances be disabling. Some health
experts believe IBS is caused by changes in the nerves that control the
muscles in the bowel. Since women are more likely than men to experience
this condition, some researchers believe that hormonal changes
may play a role.
Recent Health Scripts
- St. John’s Wort for Moderate Depression - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- Medications to Improve Weight Loss - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- Drugs May Lower Heart Disease Risk in Diabetics - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- Folate (Folic Acid) and Heart Attacks - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- Drugs that Provide Relief for Hay Fever - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- ALA and Dry Eye Syndrome - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}
- What To Do About A Stye - {script_date format="%m/%d/%Y"}