Saturday, July 12, 2008

Abstinence Assisting Medications - Are they Effective?


ANTABUSE:

Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is an "aversive," serving as a physical and psychological deterrent for someone trying to stop drinking. It does not reduce the person's craving for alcohol, nor does it treat any alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Research in Europe, where Antabuse is much more widely used than in the United States, has shown that long-term use of Antabuse is effective in helping some people stop drinking, producing abstinence rates of up to 50 percent. The longer people take Antabuse, the more effective it is, because they develop a "habit" of not drinking, which reinforces the establishment of alternative coping skills and behaviors.

While not generally recommending the use of Antabuse, some individuals find it effective and its use isn't ruled out completely. If you are contemplating it as an option, however, please read the following very carefully and discuss the possibilities with your physician.

Antabuse works by interfering with the bodyГўпїЅпїЅs usual metabolic processing of alcohol into toxic acetaldehyde then into harmless acetic acid. Because of this, a build up of acetaldehyde five or 10 times greater than normally occurs when someone drinks alcohol. These high concentrations can cause reactions that range from mild to severe, depending on how much Antabuse and how much alcohol is consumed, along with individual tolerance of the drug.

If you drink while taking Antabuse, you may experience flushing, nausea, copious vomiting, sweating, thirst, throbbing headaches, respiratory difficulty, chest pain, hyperventilation, tachycardia, and distress. Severe reactions can include respiratory depression, cardiovascular collapse, myocardial infarction, acute congestive heart failure, unconsciousness, arrhythmias, convulsions, and death.

CAMPRAL:

Campral is prescribed as a "post_abstinence" or "anti-relapse" support medication. It has no effect on cravings, withdrawal, or other early intervention discomforts. The results of European studies seem to indicate a modest positive effect - compared to placebos - after abstinence has been attained, with relapse prevention benefits lasting few months. There are no such benefits for people seeking to moderate their alcohol use.

While recommending neither for nor against Campral, informed decision making suggests, at this time, a very modest long-term benefit from Campral in widening a person's "window of opportunity" for making change.

For some individuals even a very small increase in results is enough reason to seek medical assistance. Again, individual responses to medications vary greatly and you should explore what works best for you.

Even Campral's manufacturers note that it's effectiveness is directly related to participation in ongoing counseling.

There are no magic cures, no pills, for alcohol related problems, only opportunities for change. Success involves coordinated efforts in a variety of areas over a year or more, and poor planning will always be expensive in time, money, health, and other costs.

Pick your method of treating your alcohol related concerns with care, stay focused, and seek qualified help with a personally compatable philosophy.

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ZetaOrionis's weblog

Fat Burning Diet Pills


Accumulation of excess fat is not good for health. It prepares background for various health risks. Health risks such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure are some direct outcomes of excess fat. Even chances of heart attacks and heart strokes are high among obese people. These health anomalies have led many people to turn their head to fat burning diet pills. The prime function of a fat burner is to reduce the excess quantity of fat stored in the body. Looking for the best fat burner may not be easy as there are varieties of fat burning pills available in the market. These over the counter products promise amazing results in fat burning effect.

There is a huge list of fat burning diet pills. To name a few are Ephedra, HCA, Caffeine containing pills, Yerba mat, Zingseng, Gurana , Fenfluramine and Pyruvate. Ephedra is said to be very effective in reducing excess fat. But due to its side effects it has been partially banned by the Federal Diet Association in America. There are examples when the regular consumption of Ephedra pills may has developed heart complications. According to medical reports chances of heart attacks and heart failures are likely to increase due to Ephedra. Caffeine containing product also has considerable fat burning effect as it increases the body metabolism resulting in burning of calories. One such product is Gingseng. It reduces the level of Cortisol, hormone responsible for appetite. HCA made from the extract of Garcinia Cambogia is also an appetite suppressant. Its purified form is Hydroxycitric acid which lowers blood sugar and helps reduce fat. Diet pills containing the ingredients of a chemical called Pyruvate. It helps digest glucose and stimulates metabolism resulting in fat burning.

Fenfluramine is also a fat burning pill but has been banned in America. It has been found to damage hearts and so is no longer allowed to sell. Fat burning diet pills containing Yerba mate ingredients also aids weight reduction. Yerba mate is a plant found in Brazil. It contains spanosis that has profound effect in weight loss.

These appetite suppressant pill industries are highly irregular and unauthorized. They are not what they claim actually. That is why there are reports of negative side effects of the fat burning pills across the globe. Dieters feel headache and nervousness with regular use of these pills. Heart palpitations and nose bleeding are some common side effects of the fat burners. Among the diet suppressant pills Hoodia Pills are said to have minimum side effects. Thus as of now Hoodia pill may be said to be the best fat burner.

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MadandAngry's weblog

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Breast Implant Sizing Decisions Made Easy!


In the recent years, breast augmentation has become more popular among women. Some undergo revision surgery, to correct a previous surgery or to undergo reconstruction surgery. Others undergo reconstruction surgery to replace damaged breast tissue or tissue that has failed to develop. Finally, others undergo the surgery to increase the size of their breast or to give them a more youthful look. Individuals should make sure they research the effects of breast implants, choosing those that are suitable to their body type.

If a patient chooses to get breast implants, all individuals should take into account their body structure characteristics such as height, weight, bone and muscle structure. If a patient gets breasts that are too large for their body structure, they can lead to serious medical complications or discomfort in the back. This pain may ultimately end in more reconstructive surgery and longer recovery time. This will cause the patient, more time and financial loss. Large implants may also look too large on a person's frame or take up an unnaturally spherical shape. The implant's edges may visibly protrude through the skin which means they may be more easily felt which can look more unrealistic.

When choosing the size, individuals must realize that implants tend to be wider in diameter than natural breasts and therefore it can be difficult to approximate how implants would look on the woman after surgery. Many individuals sell sizing guides which help women determine their optimal size. Many women try the oatmeal test to approximate the size goal for breasts. Women usually fill in their bra with the substance to approximate their desired size. Many women can then walk around the house and undergo daily activities to feel how implants would feel. People should make sure to perform the activities that they normally would do. An individual may want to also fill a bra with rice to see how it feels while sleep. In addition, the individual should bring their sizes to the doctor and have an open discussion about what size breast implants they want. Many women look at pictures in magazines to determine their desired look. Silicon gel implants weigh more than saline implants and therefore will feel heavier after the surgery.

After the surgery, the individual's breasts will fall and settle before the patient gets a clear idea of their actual size. During the recovery period, the area around the busts will swell after the surgery, causing them to appear possibly larger and distorted. After the swelling subsides, the individual will have to adjust and feel accustomed to the new size. The person may be slightly disappointed with the real size, even though it is the actual calculated size. In addition, tissue atrophy may take place within the first year of surgery, which may further decrease the size of it. Before getting the procedure, make sure you consult a qualified plastic surgery that has experience in breast augmentation surgery.

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Findus's weblog

Trasylol Kidney Failure


A recent study based on observations at 69 leading cardiac centers around the world was published regarding Bayer Pharmaceutical’s heart surgery drug Trasylol. Kidney failure, heart failure, and stroke are side effects associated with Trasylol heart surgery patients according to the study published by Mangano et al. in January 2006 in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM).

Each year approximately one million patients undergo surgery following a heart attack. The majority of patients who are at increased risk of bleeding during surgery have the option of one of three antifibrinolytic drugs to limit blood loss: Trasylol (Aprotinin), Amicar (aminocaproic acid), or Cyklokapron (tranexamic acid). These drugs work by inactivating an enzyme called plasmin so it stops from breaking down blood clots which helps prevent bleeding.

The observational study published in the (NEJM) raised significant concerns regarding the safety of Trasylol. The study revealed that Trasylol doubled the risk of kidney failure along with other serious side effects including stroke and heart attack. Trasylol has been on the market for use in cardiac surgery since its approval in 1993. It is estimated that as many as 10,000 patients may be on kidney dialysis due to Trasylol. Kidney failure was not associated with the less costly generic drugs aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid according to the study.

The FDA has approved revised labeling for Trasylol following a review of safety information. On September 21, 2006, the FDA held a public meeting of the Cardiovascular and Renal Drugs Advisory Committee to discuss the safety of Trasylol. The Trasylol labeling changes are based upon the recommendations of that advisory committee. The new label states that Trasylol should only be administered to patients who are at an increased risk for blood loss during heart surgery. The label changes include a warning that Trasylol increases the risk for kidney damage. The costs associated with patients suffering from Trasylol kidney failure are significant. Average annual dialysis costs per patients are over $66,000.

Dialysis is a type of renal replacement therapy which acts as an artificial kidney for patients who have lost kidney function due to renal failure. There are two primary types of kidney dialysis treatment: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. The overwhelming majority of dialysis patients receive hemodialysis where the blood is circulated outside the body through a hemodialyzer, cleaned and then returned to the patient. Hemodialysis treatments are typically performed three times per week, with each session lasting 3 to 5 hours. Dialysis involves substantial cost, whether it is hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.

On September 29, 2006, the FDA announced that Bayer had informed the agency of an additional Trasylol study. The result of the study suggests that in addition to serious kidney damage, Trasylol may also increase the risk of death, strokes, and congestive heart failure. It is estimated that the replacement of Trasylol with the generic drug aminocaproic acid would prevent kidney failure and related dialysis treatment in 11,050 patients per year saving more than $1 billion per year. Replacement of Trasylol with the generic drug tranexamic acid would prevent 9790 renal complications requiring dialysis each year with similar annual savings.

Trasylol kidney failure is a serious side effect that requires further study and may result in additional labeling changes. Mangano et al., in their January 26, 2006 study, suggest that given the serious risk of kidney damage and other side effects continued Trasylol use is not recommended due to the availability of less expensive generic drugs that are not associated with serious cerebrovascular events and renal dysfunction.

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Kaydis's weblog

Acomplia - Rimonabant To Be Available In 2006


The medical community and the general public await the FDA approval of Acomplia (Rimonabant), one of the most sought after pharmaceuticals in recent memory. Developed by French Drug Maker Sanofi-Synthelabo, Acomplia has also been called the anti-Marijuana, because where Marijuana gives folks the "munchies", Acomplia blocks the ability to receive these "munchy" signals.

By blocking the body's ability to receive the signals telling it that it needs to eat or smoke, Acomplia (Rimonabant) allows people to lose their cravings either to overeat or

to smoke (or both simultaneously). Both smokers and overweight people have overstimulated Endocannabinoid Systems. The Endocanabinoid System is a natural physiological system that believed to play a role in maintaining energy balance through the regulation of food intake and energy expenditure. Acomplia selectively blocks some of the receptors in the Endocannabinoid System which puts the system in proper balance.

This drug will be available in America in 2006. In America, the drug will be sold under the name "Acomplia", not Rimonabant.

It is clear that Acomplia will be one of the most significant drugs ever created that will address critical needs of the public. Viagra (followed by Levitra and Cialis) revolutionized treatment for male sexual dysfunction. Phentermine is the most popular diet drug worldwide. Soon, Acomplia will revolutionize how the world treats two significant health issues - stopping smoking and losing weight.

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MadandAngry's weblog

There Is No Best Way To Stop Smoking


There really is no best way to stop smoking. The only "best way" is for the smoker to say, "I really, really want to quit smoking" and actually mean it. The twp main things every one else can offer is support and advice. As a smoker, be clear about why you want to quit when you listen to their advice and support, listing as many reasons as you can, and then making a plan to accomplish your goal. On the list of why you want to quit, try to include achieving better health and fitness, wanting to live longer, less risk of cancer and heart disease, no nicotine stained fingers or teeth, better smelling breath, healthier babies and setting examples for the family, healthier skin with fewer wrinkles, increased budget income, etc.

We need to prepare ourselves mentally by setting an actual date we are going to quit. Make it a special day, a day of personal achievement - it can be our birthday or anniversary; a holiday or one of our children's birthdays; and can also be on No Smoking Day, the second Wednesday of every March. It really does not matter, as long as it means something to us. Reducing our smoking without setting a date to quit may not work, because our smoking is likely to increase once again. Be aware of the fact that it is easy to give in to temptation and start smoking again, especially when we are tense and upset. We stand to lose all that we have gained, if we have one single cigarette. And then we will have to start all over again.

Making a plan is easy - sticking to it is something else. If we were serious about wanting to quit smoking, we would follow it to the "T" - and hope to achieve our goal, by knowing what to expect and preparing ourselves to face the withdrawal symptoms. Most people find the first few days as the most difficult, with things becoming better after the first three or four days. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms may include irritation, restlessness, frustration, sleeplessness, and being "fumbly stumbly" accident-prone.

To curb these withdrawals and ease the distress, use NRT, or nicotine replacement therapy, in the form of gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, etc. that can double our chances of success, by reducing the intensity of our cravings. Go to counseling and behavior therapy classes. Use Nicotinell, Nicorette and NiQuitin CQ as some of the nicotine product aids. Another option is to use the drug Zyban, which is available on prescription. All of these aids are available.

Regardless which NRT method we use, we need to find something to do and stay as busy as possible, to take the place of smoking. Games, woodwork, online surveys, taking extra adult classes, volunteering at literary workshops, etc. We can drink a lot of water, tea, or juice, or chew gum. Whatever we enjoy doing should be approached at this time. Try to stay busy doing what we like. To avoid weight gain that usually accompanies quitting smoking, try not to grab food instead of a cigarette, and if you do - change your diet by grabbing raw vegetables and lots of fruit, drink lots of juices and water, avoid alcohol, and exercise much more.

Avoid situations where we may be tempted to smoke such as bars, nightclubs, hotels, and certain eating establishments. All of this is common sense, but when we are in the withdrawal mode, we do not think, we react only to the pain and distress our body is going through. Care for it gently, by compensating these feelings with something health and pleasurable. Family and friends will support you to deal with nicotine withdrawal symptoms if you let them.

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chakkorsis's weblog

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

What To Expect From Your Anti-Depressant Medication


Sinequan is part of a group of anti-depressants called tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), it's role is to increase the effects of neurotransmitters by blocking their reuptake. The exact mechanism of action of Sinequan is not known, but the hypothesis is that the clinical effects may be due to preventing norepinephrine reuptake into the nerve terminals at the synapse level. Doxepin has a strong local anesthetic action and like all other antidepressants it has a sodium channel blocking activity.

Sinequan is prescribed in the treatment of:

1. Psychoneurotic patients with depression and/or anxiety

2. Depression and/or anxiety associated with alcoholism

3. Depression and/or anxiety associated with organic disease (interaction with other drugs should be considered)

4. Depressive disorders with associated anxiety including manic-depressive disorders.

5. Chronic pain from a variety of conditions, eg. fibromyalgia, chronic headache or migraine

Symptoms that respond particularly well to Sinequan include anxiety, tension, depression, sleep disturbances, insomnia, guilt, lack of energy, fear, apprehension and worry.

Clinical experience has shown that Sinequan is safe to use and and well tolerated. Although some of the newer anti-depressants can have fewer side effects than the tricyclics, individuals will respond differently to particular treatments and the response may also vary over time. The type of treatment will depend on many factors, including the type of depression, other medications a patient is taking, the presence of other medical conditions, and a patient's response to previous therapy.

Side effects are usually most common when first starting the treatment, and should be reported to your health care professional if they do not clear up or worsen.

Common Sinequan side effects include: constipation or difficulty urinating (more likely in the elderly), dizziness (try standing slowly), drowsiness (problems with fatigue may be reduced by taking Sinequan in the evening or at bedtime), dry mouth, sensitivity to sunlight , temperature sensitivity, or weight gain.

Occasional Sinequan Side Effects: blood sugar changes, dental cavities, fainting, headache, hives, increased appetite, indigestion, nausea, rash, shaking, swollen face or tongue, unsteadiness, weakness. Getting up slowly may prevent dizziness rising from a sitting or lying position. If this condition worsens you should contact your doctor. Sinequan is best taken with food in most cases, to prevent indigestion and nausea.

Rare side effects: brown or red spots on skin, change in sense of taste or hearing, irritated tongue or mouth, nightmare, sexual side effects (impotence, difficulty with orgasm), sweating, restless feeling, vomiting.

Advise your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, as Sinequan's effects on unborn babies and nursing infants has not been established.

Some medications should not be mixed with Sinequan at all, and with others your doctor may want to adjust your dose to decrease the risk of adverse side effects. Make sure your doctor is aware of all the medications and supplements you are taking, as well as any other medical condition you may suffer from.

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Mazakari Maelstrom's weblog