Category Archives: Drugs

Mediator – Weight Loss Drug – caused 500 deaths in France

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Weight Loss Drug

Weight Loss Drug

Mediator, a weight loss drug, taken by millions of obese French patients, could have caused around 500 deaths, the French Drug and Safety body announced.

Mediator is a drug initially reserved for obese people with diabetes that became a popular appetite suppressor.

Afssaps, the drug safety body, said expert epidemiologists believed Mediator, made by Servier, had been lethal for at least 500 people and had caused 3,500 others to be admitted to hospital since its launch in 1976.

Apparently, the ban was applied too slowly in France, given repeated warnings of its potentially lethal side effects. Dr Irène Frachon, who wrote a book on Mediator’s dangers and warned Afssaps in February last year, said: “The health authorities were late in withdrawing this drug despite several alerts.”

The same drug was withdrawn in 2005 in Spain and Italy. It is believed that the drug causes dangerous thickening of the heart valves.

Xavier Bertrand, France’s new health minister, advised anyone who had taken the drug – but above all those who took in the past four years – to see a doctor.

Impotence or Erectile Dysfunction – Causes, Investigations, Treatment

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What is Impotence or Erectile Dysfunction?

Impotence or erectile dysfunction is being unable to have an erection sufficient to complete sexual intercourse or any other sexual activity persistently. The chances of getting it increase with age. It is becoming increasingly important as more old people are trying to maintain an active sex life.

How common is impotence?

It is fairly common and can affect up to one in ten men. Its incidence increases in older men. Many men don’t seek medical help for years. This might be due to unawareness that it is treatable or the embarrassment associated with it.


What is the cause for impotence?

The usual causes are stress, tiredness, anxiety or excessive alcohol consumption. Sometimes worrying about it may cause problems due to ‘performance worries’. Men become so preoccupied with previous failures that they fail to get aroused preventing erection. Usually it could be a combination of psychological or physical causes.

What are the physical causes?

Physical causes of impotence manifest gradually. They include:

•    Reduced blood flow to penis due to blocked arteries.

•    Excessive drainage of blood from the penis (‘venous leak’)

•    Problem with the nerves of the penis like damage or disease.

•    Hormonal imbalances.

•    Side effects of medication.

•    Alcoholism and drug abuse.

•    Diabetes and heavy smoking.

•    Excessively high blood cholesterol levels.

•    Diseases affecting the erectile tissue of the penis.

•    Stroke, neurological diseases and chronic diseases like kidney and liver failure.

What are the psychological reasons?

Usually they happen suddenly when a man can have normal erections under some circumstances but is unable to do so in others. Trigger factors could be: issues with the partner, interruptions during intimate moments or excessive worry. Other causes could be:

•    Marital conflicts and dissatisfaction.

•    Worry about sexual performance, like after premature ejaculation.

•    Depression

•    Sexual boredom.

How to deal with erectile dysfunction?

There are a few ways to deal effectively with this condition. To begin with some changes in life style are recommended. These include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, stress and anxiety. If theses changes do not solve the problem then the next step is to seek medical advice.

What are the various investigations that can be done?

Your doctor will try to find a possible cause and examine you. This may involve taking your blood pressure, checking the pulses in your legs as well as your reflexes. The next step would be to examine your penis and scrotum. You will need to give a sample of your water as well as blood to measure the amount of male sex hormone (testosterone) in it. Some further tests may include measuring the pressure and the blood flow in your penis, special images or x-rays of the arteries of your penis. Your specialist will decide what tests you need.

What are the treatment options for impotence?

Some of the options are:

Sex therapy: It is recommended when the cause of impotence is thought to be psychological or due to difficulties in the relationship. It can also be used in combination with other treatments.

Vacuum Constrictor Devices: It consists of a plastic cylinder connected to a pump
(which may be hand or battery driven) and one or more tension rings. It works by inserting the penis into the cylinder. Once activated air is removed from the cylinder creating a vacuum. This creates blood to be drawn into the penis enlarging it immediately like a natural erection. Once adequately erect a tension band is slipped around the base of the penis maintaining the erection. Then the vacuum and cylinder are removed from the penis. It is very important to remove the tension rings within 30 minutes as well.

Intracavernosal Injection Therapy: This is thought to be one of the effective treatment forms. The patient or the partner is taught to inject a drug directly into the shaft of the penis when he wants an erection. It takes around fifteen minutes for the erection to appear. For more details please speak to your specialist.

Transurethral Therapy: A small pellet of drug is introduced into the urethra (the tube through which urine is passed) using a special disposable applicator. The drug is then absorbed through the wall of the urethra leading into the erectile tissue, giving an erection within 5 to 10 minute.

Oral Treatments: There are two medicines at the moment. The first one is a tablet taken an hour before sexual activity while the other is placed under the tongue twenty minutes before sexual activity.  Both medicines work only when the man is sexually stimulated.

Hormone Treatment: Hormonal imbalances play a part in a few cases of impotence. Usually it is due to reduced levels of testosterone (male sex hormone) which can be restored by appropriate testosterone replacement. But replacement should not be started before laboratory confirmation of the deficiency.

Penile Prosthesis: Are splints inserted into the penis by surgery. The two types available are: Semi rigid rods which keep the penis in a state of rigidity all the time but the penis can be bent down when not needed.
The second type involves inserting a hydraulic device to harden the penis when a pump implanted in the scrotum is activated. This option should be tried only in the end as the implantation of penile prosthesis destroys erectile tissues.


What are the surgical options?

Surgery is usually recommended when there are abnormalities in blood flow into and out of the penis. For more details please contact your specialist.

Cialis – Tadalafil Indications, Side Effects, Cautions and Interactions

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Cialis or Tadalafil

Cialis

Cialis

The generic name is Tadalafil and the brand name is Cialis. This drug is used to treat men who suffer from erectile or impotence dysfunction. The drug enhances sexual stimulation and aids the blood flow to the penis which causes an erection.

How to use Tadalafil:

* Take one tablet half an hour before sex preferably with food or as directed by your practitioner. Only take the recommended dosage as this drug could cause you to have an erection for around 36 hours.

* Refrain from drinking or eating grapefruit as this fruit has been known to enhance the effect of the drug.

* Read the information leaflet and if anything unclear consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Cialis, Tadalafil – Side Effects

Cialis can produce Side Effects such as :-

* nasal congestion,

* muscular and back pain,

* headaches,

* flushing,

* dizziness,

* vision impairment,

* stomach cramps as well as pain in the limbs.

->> Should these symptoms persist contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Caution to people with Heart Disease using Cialis

If you suffer from a heart disease this drug could increase strain on the heart and should you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness then consult with your practitioner immediately.

* Priapism:- Another possible side effect is a prolonged and painful erection (called by medical name – Priapism) should this occur you need to stop taking the drug and consult with your practitioner or nearest hospital immediately.

Allergic Reaction to Cialis or Tadalafil:-

In the event of an allergic reaction to Cialis which is unlikely seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms include a raised rash, severe itching, difficulty in breathing, facial and neck swelling as well as difficulty in swallowing.

You need to be cautious and alert your doctor if you have any known allergies or using medication.

Interactions of Tadalafil with Other Medicines:-

Should you suffer from any of the following illnesses such as angulation, priapism, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, myeloma, retinitis pigmentosa, kidney disease, liver disease, stomach ulcers, heart disease, coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis, high or low blood pressure, please consult your doctor before taking these tablets.

Cialis may cause dizziness and impaired vision one should drive or use machinery. Alcohol should be taken in small quantities. Should you experience dizziness or light headedness remain in a lying position and get up very slowly as alcohol could enhance the onset. This drug is for the use of erectile dysfunction and not used by women or children.

Cialis may not be used in conjunction with other medications such as alpha blockers, nitrates or nitric oxide drugs containing amyl or butyl nitrite. If you are any of the above medications consult with your doctor before taking Cialis. Other medication such as drugs for epilepsy, hypertension or any antibiotics such as erythromycin, rifampucin, ritonavir and/or others please advice your doctor before you start taking this drug.

A Word of Caution on Sexually Transmitted Diseases:-

It is advisable to use a condom as this drug does not protect you again venereal disease such as gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and HIV or AIDS or herpes. Always practice safe sex. For further information consult your practitioner or pharmacist.

Tramadol – Overdose, Side Effects and Contra- Indications

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Tramadol is a morphine like narcotic slow release analgesic recommended for short term use only and is used to treat acute and chronic pain. Tramadol is habit forming and should not be taken by people that have had previous additions such as drug abuse or alcohol abuse. When taking this medication you must strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage recommended by your practitioner. The dosage should not exceed 300 milligrams per day.

Overdose of Tramadol:-

An accidental overdose of Tramadol is fatal and symptoms may include shallow breathing, decreased heart rate, drowsiness, lethargy and weakness, light headedness, fainting, cold and clammy skin or the person could go into a coma.  Should any of these symptoms occur contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital immediately. Tramadol tablets must not be crushed the tablet must be taken whole. This medication should not be crushed and inhaled or injected as this can lead to life threatening circumstances, over dose or even death.

Side Effects of Tramadol:-

Side Effects of Tramadol

Side Effects of Tramadol

Side effects when taking Tramadol are: constipation, diarrhea, drowsiness, dry mouth or nausea may occur.

If you have a sudden loss of appetite or experience sudden weight loss, disturbed sleep, increased sweating contact your doctor immediately.

If you should experience serious side effects such as severe or mild headaches, difficulty with swallowing, sudden mood swings, seizures, blurred vision, ringing in the ears and your stools are black contact your practitioner immediately or go to the nearest emergency hospital.

Allergic Reaction to Tramadol

Symptoms of an allergic reaction will present with a red raised rash, severe dizziness, extreme itching and swelling around the face and throat, difficulty in breathing then seek immediate medical attention. This drug must not be taken when driving. Do not consume any alcohol when you are on this medication. People suffering from liver disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcers or have a history of mental illness should not take Tramadol.

Tramadol is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. The side effects are fatal to the unborn child or if breastfeeding can pass through the breast milk which may harm the baby. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. Tramadol must not be given to anyone under the age of 18.

Drug Interactions with Tramadol

If you taking other medications such as carbamazepine, digoxin, antidepressants, tricyclics, warfarin, MAO inhibitors or SSRI’s inform your practitioner as the combination may trigger a seizure.  In the case of an overdose contact your local poison centre or emergency room immediately.

When you stop using Tramadol you could experience withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, nausea, tremors and chills, hallucinations, disturbed sleep, anxiety as well as breathing difficulties. Medications should be out of reach from children and should not be given to anyone else.

Contraindications of Tramadol:-

* People suffering from epilepsy or any type of metabolic disorders or have had any

*  Previous head injuries should refrain from taking Tramadol as this medication has been known to induce seizures.

* Previous allerigic reaction to any narcotic drug.

* Tramadol should not be taken with other medications such as muscle relaxants, anti nausea and anti depressants as you may have a seizure.

Valerian Root

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Valerian Root

Valerian Root

Valerian Root is the root of a perennial plant which produces beautiful sweet smelling white or purple flowers and the name “Valere” in Latin means to be in peak health. Valerian is indigenous to parts of Asia, South Africa and Europe and since has been introduced to most countries around the globe. It is an exceptionally pungent smelling plant when dried due to the isovaleric acid the root produces.

Dating back to the ancient Romans and Greeks this valuable medicinal plant was used as a folk medicine for various illnesses such as urinary tract infections, nausea and vomiting, severe headaches, heart conditions, insomnia and liver disorders. Valerian is known to have a sedative effect and is used widely to treat patients suffering from insomnia as well as a muscle relaxant as the effects of valerian reduce tension and irritability.

In Germany mothers used Valerian as a coffee substitute and as a condiment during medieval times and a tea made for children thought to be misbehaved at that time but in today’s times we would term this behaviour as ADHD. This medicinal herb is also used for conditions such as nervousness, epilepsy and hysteria. The herb also contains diuretic properties.

Researchers have found no consensus as to what the active valerian constituents in valerian root are. The result of valerian activity may be due to a combination of compounds. Researchers have established that valerian increases the GABA by increasing its production in the body or may even decrease the GABA absorption and/ar break down the GABA. There is inconclusive evidence of the effectiveness of valerian.

Valerian root can be purchased in most pharmacies as well as health outlets around the globe and can be bought directly over the counter as well as online. Valerian can now be obtained in capsule or tablet form as a dietary supplement. The preparation method is easy all you do is add 1 teaspoon of valerian root to a cup of boiling water. Allow the tea to cool off and then strain and drink.

Valerian Root – Side Effects

Herbal medicine like any other medication needs to be taken with caution as all medications have side effects. If valerian is being used for insomnia it should not be combined with other medications such as sedatives or benzodiazepines like Temazepam, Zopiclone, Lorazepam or Phenargan. Valerian should not be taken by children nor expectant ( pregnant) and nursing mothers. The side effects may include itchiness, drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, dry mouth or an upset stomach.

There have been reported cases where valerian root has been associated with liver damage but has not been proven. Should you experience any pain or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and intense itching, you are advised to stop the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Always consult a professional before using valerian root and should you be suffering from any liver disease avoid taking this herb.

Contra Indications of Valerian Root

Valerian root should under no circumstances be taken with other medications such as antifungal agents, allergy medications, cholesterol medications or chemotherapy medications as valerian is broken down by enzymes in the liver and could interfere with these other types of medications.