Jul 1, 2024
Author’s note: This is a personal story in the sense that someone close to me (let us call him ‘Dan’) had atrial fibrillation. To honor his memory and protect my family’s privacy, I have altered details sufficiently to mask his identity. One detail remains, which is quite true: Eliquis (apixaban) extended his life and...
Read MoreJun 27, 2024
In the realm of adult allergy relief, the choice between various medications—ranging from second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine, fexofenadine, and loratadine to intranasal corticosteroids such as fluticasone and triamcinolone—is pivotal. Each of these medications offers a distinct mechanism of action and efficacy profile,...
Read MoreJun 26, 2024
Levetiracetam, a widely prescribed antiepileptic drug, is renowned for its effectiveness in managing seizure disorders but also poses a spectrum of potential side effects that merit thoughtful discussion. While many patients may experience only mild symptoms such as drowsiness or gastrointestinal discomfort, others could encounter more severe or...
Read MoreJun 25, 2024
Myoclonic seizures, brief yet sudden involuntary muscle spasms, present a unique challenge within the spectrum of neurological disorders. While often overlooked, their impact on individuals can range from minor annoyances to significant disruptions in daily life, depending on frequency and intensity. The pathophysiology behind these seizures is...
Read MoreJun 19, 2024
Valsartan, widely prescribed for managing hypertension, carries a spectrum of potential side effects that merit careful consideration. While most patients tolerate the drug well, experiencing only mild symptoms such as dizziness or fatigue, the occurrence of more severe reactions—such as significant changes in renal function or rare instances...
Read MoreJun 14, 2024
The landscape of psoriasis treatment is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the introduction of novel biologic therapies and technological advancements in drug delivery systems. Recent clinical trials have highlighted the efficacy of targeting specific cytokines, offering hope for more personalized and effective management of the...
Read MoreJun 10, 2024
Navigating healthcare expenses without insurance can be daunting, especially regarding medications like antibiotics. Prices can fluctuate widely based on factors such as choosing between generic or brand-name drugs, the specific type of antibiotic prescribed, and the pharmacy dispensing the medication. For those uninsured, the cost of antibiotics...
Read MoreJun 5, 2024
Author’s note: ‘Bob’ is a composite of several patients I’ve treated for high cholesterol. In this sense, Bob is several actual patients, but his privacy is being preserved by mixing up the facts about his case.Key TakeawaysSimvastatin effectively lowers LDL cholesterol levels, improving lipid profiles in patients with...
Read MoreJun 3, 2024
Author’s note: ‘Jared’ is an actual patient; however, the details of his history have been altered to preserve his privacy. Nevertheless, Jared’s successful asthma management is a true story repeated several times in my practice.Key TakeawaysMontelukast helps with asthma controlSix months of Montelukast use results in a...
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