Category: Medications and Supplements

What are the uses and applications of blood thinners? Blood thinners are medications used to prevent blood clots from forming or to treat existing clots. They don’t actually “thin” the blood but work by reducing the blood’s ability to clot, which is vital in managing and preventing several cardiovascular conditions. There are two main types…

What is ibuprofen and how does it work? Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. Here’s how it works: It’s important to use ibuprofen as directed and under medical guidance, as it can have side effects such as stomach irritation, ulcers, and in rare cases, kidney or…

What is an expectorant? An expectorant is a type of medication that is used to help loosen and expel mucus and phlegm from the lungs and airways. Expectorants are often used to help relieve coughs associated with respiratory conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. The primary function of an expectorant is to…

What is epinephrine and when should I use it? Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is a hormone and medication that is used to treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and certain other emergency conditions. It works by constricting blood vessels to increase blood pressure, dilating the airways to improve breathing, and reducing swelling and itching associated…

What are diuretics and how do they work? Diuretics, also known as water pills, are medications that help the body eliminate excess sodium (salt) and water, primarily through the kidneys. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema (fluid retention). Diuretics work by increasing the production of…

What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy, to treat cancer or to help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Chemotherapy drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which…

How do birth control pills work? Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, work by releasing hormones into the body that prevent ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. Without ovulation, there is no egg available for fertilization by sperm, and therefore pregnancy cannot occur. Additionally, birth control pills thicken…

What are appetite suppressants and what are their benefits? Appetite suppressants are medications or supplements that work to reduce feelings of hunger and help control food intake. They can be useful as part of a weight loss program for people who struggle with overeating or snacking between meals. Some common appetite suppressants include: The benefits…

What are the benefits of anticoagulants? Anticoagulants, also known as blood thinners, are medications that help prevent the formation of blood clots. They are used to treat or prevent conditions caused by excessive clotting in the blood vessels. Here are some benefits of anticoagulants: It’s important to use anticoagulants carefully and under the supervision of…

What is activated charcoal? Activated charcoal, also known as activated carbon, is a fine black powder made from carbon-rich materials such as wood, coconut shells, peat, or coal. It is processed at high temperatures to “activate” it, which creates a highly porous surface that can adsorb (bind to) a variety of substances. Activated charcoal is…

What are the uses of acetaminophen? Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a common over-the-counter medication used for its pain-relieving (analgesic) and fever-reducing (antipyretic) properties. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including: Acetaminophen is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid suspension, and as an ingredient in many cold and flu…

What are the uses of ACE inhibitors? ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors are a class of medications commonly used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and certain kidney diseases. They work by relaxing blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Here are some common uses of ACE inhibitors:…

What are the uses of abacavir oral solution? Abacavir oral solution is a medication used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in adults and children. It is a combination of antiretroviral medications that work together to reduce the amount of HIV in the body and help prevent further damage to the immune system. The…