What are the uses for metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL)? Metoprolol is a beta blocker (beta-adrenergic blocking agent) used for the treatment of: High blood pressure Heart pain Congestive heart failure Hyperthyroidism Abnormal heart rhythms Some neurologic conditions. Metoprolol's off-label use is to prevent migraine headaches. Why are the uses for metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL)? Metoprolol is used to treat: High...
Dilaudid vs. Percocet for Pain: Which One Is Better?
Dilaudid vs. Percocet quick comparison Dilaudid (hydromorphone hydrochloride) and Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen) are both opioid narcotic pain relievers. Percocet has an additional non-narcotic pain reliever added (acetaminophen) which achieves greater pain relief than either drug taken separately. Both Dilaudid and Percocet are available as generic drugs. Side effects of both Dilaudid and Percocet are similar and include lightheadedness, dizziness,...
Vicodin, Norco (Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen): Side Effects & Dosage
What is Vicodin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain-reliever and a cough suppressant, similar to codeine. Hydrocodone blocks the receptors on nerve cells in the brain that give rise to the sensation of pain. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). Acetaminophen works by elevating the threshold to pain,...
lorazepam (Ativan) Side Effects, Uses & Dosage
What is lorazepam (Ativan)? How does it work? Lorazepam (Ativan) is thought that excessive activity of nerves in the brain may cause anxiety and other psychological disorders. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves in the brain use to send messages to one another that reduces the activity of nerves in the brain. It is thought that...
carvedilol (Coreg): Side Effects, Uses & Dosage
What is carvedilol? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Carvedilol is used for treating high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It is related to labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate). Carvedilol blocks receptors of the adrenergic nervous system, the system of nerves in which adrenalin (epinephrine) is active. Nerves from the adrenergic system enter the heart and release an adrenergic chemical...
Cefdinir vs. Cefuroxime: Antibiotic Uses, Side Effects & Dosage
Facts on cefdinir vs. cefuroxime Cefdinir and cefuroxime (Zinacef, Ceftin) are cephalosporin antibiotics used to treat a range of infections. The brand name for cefdinir called Omnicef is discontinued in the U.S. Side effects of cefdinir and cefuroxime that are similar include diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, vaginitis, and skin rash. Side effects of cefdinir that...
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Mini Stroke Symptoms & Causes
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) facts A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a brief interruption of blood flow to part of the brain that causes temporary stroke-like symptoms. The risks for TIA are the same as for heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease, and include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and family history. The artery blockage may occur...
Mesothelioma Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prognosis
Mesothelioma facts Mesothelioma is a cancer that arises from the cells lining the chest or abdominal cavities. Mesothelioma typically results from exposure to asbestos. When mesothelioma affects the chest, the doctor may look inside the chest cavity with a special instrument called a thoracoscope. When mesothelioma affects the abdomen, the doctor may look inside the abdomen with a special tool...
Bipolar Disorder in Children & Teens: Symptoms & Treatment
Bipolar disorder in children and teens facts *Bipolar disorder in children and teens facts written by Charles P. Davis, MD, PhD Bipolar disorder is a serious brain illness that results in individuals going through unusual mood changes; they can exhibit maniac or "up" or energetic moods to "down" or depressive moods. Although most anyone can develop bipolar disorder, most develop...
Bipolar Disorder in Children & Teens: Symptoms & Treatment
Bipolar disorder in children and teens facts *Bipolar disorder in children and teens facts written by Charles P. Davis, MD, PhD Bipolar disorder is a serious brain illness that results in individuals going through unusual mood changes; they can exhibit maniac or "up" or energetic moods to "down" or depressive moods. Although most anyone can develop bipolar disorder, most develop...