What is ustekinumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ustekinumab is an injectable biologic drug that suppresses the immune system and is used for the treatment of psoriasis. It is an antibody that binds to interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, two chemicals produced by cells in the body that stimulate immune reactions. Scientists believe...
What is itraconazole? What are the uses for itraconazole? Itraconazole is an anti-fungal drug used to treat fungal infections of the toenails. It is in the same class of drugs as fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), and miconazole (Micatin, Monistat). It prevents growth of several types of fungi by preventing the fungi from producing the membranes...
What is erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Benzamycin is a combination of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide and is used for the topical treatment of acne (pimples). Erythromycin is an antibiotic. The exact mechanism by which topical erythromycin reduces pimples is unknown. Erythromycin probably reduces pimples by penetrating into...
Tinea versicolor facts Readers Comments 64 Share Your Story Tinea versicolor is a common fungal skin infection affecting primarily healthy people caused by a fungus found on normal human skin. There seems to be a genetic predisposition to develop tinea versicolor, the nature of which is poorly understood. Doctor easily identify tinea versicolor by examining...
What brand names are available for betamethasone dipropionate? Diprolene, Diprolene AF, Luxiq Is betamethasone dipropionate available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes Do I need a prescription for betamethasone dipropionate? Yes What are the uses for betamethasone dipropionate? Betamethasone is used for the relief of itching and inflammation associated with a wide variety of...
Ketoconazole cream vs. Lamisil: What’s the difference? Ketoconazole cream and Lamisil (terbinafine) are antifungal medications used to treat fungal infections such as jock itch and athlete's foot. Ketoconazole cream is also used to treat ringworm, dandruff, and tinea versicolor. Brand names for ketoconazole include Nizoral, Nizoral A-D, Ketodan, Extina, Xolegel, and Kuric. Lamisil is available...
What is cystic acne? Readers Comments 1 Share Your Story Cystic acne may cause scarring, giving the skin a pitted look. Cystic acne is a form of acne associated with long-standing, painful nodules of the face, back of neck, chest, and back. Adolescent acne goes through certain stages, each of which requires specific therapy. It...
What is tea tree oil? What is tea tree oil used for? Tea tree oil is topical antiseptic. It contains Terpinen-4-ol, which has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. What brand names are available for tea tree oil? Melaleuca oil Is tea tree oil available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for tea...
What is topical clindamycin? Clindamycin is an antibiotic used for treating several infections. It is effective against several types of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Propionibacterium acnes. Why is topical clindamycin prescribed to patients? Clindamycin topical (for application to the skin) is available as gels, foam, lotion, solution, and swab...
What is terbinafine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Terbinafine is an antifungal agent that is taken by mouth or applied to the skin. Terbinafine acts by interfering with the ability of fungi to make chemicals called sterols that are an important part of the membrane that surrounds fungal cells and holds them...