Abstract This paper offers a study of the herbal product bromelain. The writer firstly looks at the origin of bromelain. In this article, the writer examines the use of this product. The writer further looks at dosage information related to the use of bromelain. In this paper, the writer also discusses interactions of the bromelain product.
From the Paper "Bromelain is the general name given to a family of sulfhydral proteolytic enzymes that are obtained from Ananas comosus the pineapple plant. It is usually distinguished from other fruit bromelain or stem bromelain, depending upon its source, with all commercially available bromelain derived from the stem. First introduced as a therapeutic compound in bromelain's actions, as identified by Kelly, include inhibition of platelet aggregation fribrinolytic activity, anti-inflammatory action, anti-tumor action, modulation of cytokines and immunity, skin treatment properties, enhanced absorption of other drugs .. "
Abstract This paper explains that society's dependence on pills and medications is fueled by our desire to find the easiest and quickest way out of problems instead of simply living a healthy lifestyle. The paper explores the specific causes of society's overmedication, which involve greedy and misleading drug companies, inattentive and disinterested doctors, and uninformed patients and caregivers. The paper focuses on the lack of monitoring of dosage and drug interactions in elderly and in children. The paper emphasizes that patients should maintain healthy lifestyles by eating right and exercising more with the understanding that we cannot fix every ailment with a pill.
From the Paper "Our society prides itself on being quick and efficient - we order lunch while sitting in our cars at fast food restaurants, and we do our shopping on the internet and have our orders sent directly to our front doors. This need for immediate gratification carries over into the medical industry as well. Medication is available for every ailment and many times proves to be the quick fix that both patients and doctors want and need. Often times a patient has been struggling with a condition for years, only to learn that one tiny pill can make that condition bearable or possibly even cure it. This is the miracle of the science and an amazing benefit of our advanced technological knowledge. But the excitement over a "miracle cure" can cause both doctors and patients to overlook the negative effects of medication, and too many tablet-sized phenomena combined can cause unexpected and fatal outcomes."
Abstract This paper presents an overview of corticosteroids. The paper discusses their purpose, recommended dosage and precautions and special conditions regarding their use. The paper also discusses the use of corticosteroids during cardiac surgery by first explaining the surgery itself and some of the risks associated with cardiac surgery and then by looking at how corticosteroids can help the postoperative course of cardiac surgery.
Table of Contents
Recommended Dosage for Corticosteroids
Precautions of Corticosteroids
Special Conditions Concerning Corticosteroids
Side Effects of Corticosteroids
Cardiac Surgery
From the Paper "Corticosteroid ointments, creams and gels can be absorbed through the skin and travel into the bloodstream. This is not a problem unless large amounts are absorbed. Then, unwanted side effects in other parts of the body are possible. To reduce the chance of that happening, do not spread the medicine over too large an area and do not cover it with plastic wrap, adhesive bandage, or any other type of airtight covering unless told to by your physician."
Abstract This paper takes a thorough look at the drug Synthroid which is used to treat hypothyroidism. It examines the safety tests the drug has passed, direction for use, common side effects and dangerous side effects which need precaution. It also briefly explains how the drug works.
From the Paper "SYNTHROID? (levothyroxine sodium tablets, USP) is an important drug, used to treat hypothyroidism. Synthroid has been extensively studied for over 42 years. It is the most widely prescribed thyroid medicine in the United States. Currently, over eight million people are using Synthroid for thyroid replacement therapy. [Abbott, 2001] Synthetic Levothyroxine (T4 ) is identical in chemical composition and molecular weight to naturally secreted T4. Synthroid tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: acacia, confectioner's sugar, lactose, magnesium stearate, povidone, talc, and color additives.[Abbott, 2001]."
Abstract This paper examines how fundamental the principles of thermodynamics are to pharmacy. The paper covers the topics of Gibbs free energy change, heat of formation, partial molar free energy, energy change and entropy, and discusses how all these are important in pharmaceutics in deciding drug delivery and dosage form. The paper presents the reader with a clearer insight into how important the above are, with extensive explanations into the three laws of thermodynamics and how they all help the modern day pharmaceutical scientist. Many of the complicated calculations involved in thermodynamics are exemplified through examples.
From the Paper "A pharmacist is regarded as a professional scientist. Thus he is expected to know more than ever, is a thorough knowledge of thermodynamics. This discipline forms a rudimentary backbone of most of the material sciences as many other disciplines do "borrow" heavily from this. 1,3 In studying thermodynamics, it attempts to integrate the factual knowledge of pharmacy and it aids the pharmaceutical scientist to predict the solubility, stability, feasibility, compatibility and biological action of drug products fairly accurately. Processes such as partitioning of solutes between immiscible solvents, the solubility of drugs, micellisation and drug-receptor interaction can all be treated in thermodynamic terms. 1Thermodynamics is concerned with the quantitative relationships between heat and other forms of energy, including mechanical, chemical, electric and radiant energy. 1The main feature to remember in the study of thermodynamics is that it is not possible to know the absolute value of the energy of a system but it is possible to record changes in energy that happen when a system undergoes transformation."
Abstract The cost of medications today has sky-rocked, leading to major debates across the country, as well as extreme criticism of the pharmaceutical companies among consumers, physicians, and lawmakers. This research paper discusses the high cost of medications. Some of the issues discussed in the paper are the the impact on the health care system, difficulty maintaining proper dosages, avoidance of medical care, government and insurance involvement and the long term consequences.
From the Paper "Another battle involving the high cost of medications is brand names versus generic brands. In the year 2000, the annual sales for the anti-depressant Prozac was $1.5 billion. When the drug's patent expired in 2001, a generic version hit the market at half the price, sending a drop in Prozac sales of 23 percent. During the next few years, several other popular medications will lose their patent, thus, helping many that are now forced to take the brand named medications. Experts are also expecting this to lead to a slow down in the growth in spending on prescription drugs, ?an amount that doubled between 1995 and 2000 and is expected to double again over the next several years.?"
Abstract This paper examines Evista, also known as raloxifene hydrochloride, a drug manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. It looks at how it is classified as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), which activates the estrogen receptors, but has differential physiological effects on other tissues, such as the breast and endometrium.
Outline
Indication of Usage
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Metabolism
Dosage and Administration
Contradictions, Precautions, and Warnings
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
Comparative Efficacy
Cost Analysis
Personal Perspective of Evista
References
From the Paper "The safety of raloxifene in the treatment of osteoporosis was assessed in a large (7705 patients) multinational, placebo-controlled trial (Barrett-Connor et al. 1270). Duration of treatment was 36 months and 5129 postmenopausal women were exposed to raloxifene (2557 received 60 mg/day and 2572 received 120 mg/day). The majority of adverse events occurring during the study were mild and generally did not require discontinuation of therapy. Therapy was discontinued due to an adverse event in 11% of EVISTA?-treated women and 9% of placebo-treated women. Common adverse events related to EVISTA? therapy were hot flashes and leg cramps. Hot flashes were most commonly reported during the first 6 months of treatment and were not different from placebo thereafter."
This paper compares the ethical and cultural medical traditions of two different cultures: The United States and the Hmong, an indigenous population native of Laos, a growing immigrant presence in California.
Abstract This paper explains the case of Lia, a Hmong girl stricken with epilepsy, which causes a cultural clash between her physicians and her parents. The author point out that her physicians defined Lia's illness in physical and chemical terms, but Lia's parents, like many Hmong people, regarded epilepsy with ambivalence because, to them, epileptic seizures are often seen as trances, giving the affected person special powers. The paper relates that Lia's parents violated several precepts of Western medicine by refusing medical treatment and purposely giving their daughter improper dosages of medicine; however, Lia's well-meaning physicians also unknowingly violated several important tenets of Hmong culture, such as their discussions of Lia's possible death.
From the Paper "Lia's parents, however, have a distinct explanatory model for their daughter's illness. The epilepsy was caused when a startled Lia's soul fled her body and became lost. Lia's soul had fallen prey to a thieving dab, a malevolent spirit. Therefore, Lia's soul was trapped outside her body, which remained rooted to the ground. Among the symptoms of this soul loss are fainting, rolling eyes and jerking limbs - which are also the classic symbols of a seizure that accompanies epilepsy."
Abstract This paper explains that the direct application of gaseous chlorine from pressurized steel containers is generally the most economical method for disinfecting large volumes of water. The author points out the types and sources of water pollution extend far beyond the ability of this single treatment process; therefore, American consumers should be aware that additional pollutants may continue to be present in their drinking water despite the best efforts of water treatment experts to make it safe. The paper suggests that taste or odor problems can be minimized through proper dosages of chlorine at the treatment plant with a residual concentration maintained throughout the distribution system to ensure a safe level at the points of use.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review and Analysis
Background and Overview
Current Applications
Conclusion
From the Paper "Healthcare practitioners have long recognized that small amounts of toxic substances can sometimes have beneficial effects for humans, and this would seem to be the case with chlorine as well. As a chemical, chlorine is a toxic, corrosive, greenish yellow gas that is irritating to the eyes and respiratory system; it is two and a half times heavier than air. The substance becomes a liquid at -34C (-29F) and was first prepared from hydrochloric acid and manganese dioxide in 1774 by Carl Wilhelm Scheele; chlorine was widely regarded as a compound until research by Sir Humphry Davy showed (1810) that it cannot be decomposed and that muriatic (hydrochloric) acid is comprised of hydrogen and another true element that he named chlorine."
Abstract This paper studies Alzheimer's Disease, which affects more than two million Americans. The paper provides an overview and definition of the disease, which is a progressive form of dementia. Next, the paper examines possible causes of the disease as well as risk factors, such as gender, age and obesity. The paper then turns to preventative factors, including a daily dosage of ibuprofen and Vitamin E. The paper concludes that longevity has an effect on brain deterioration.
Outline
Introduction
Definition of Alzheimer's
Possible causes of Alzheimer's
Preventative Factors
Conclusions
From the Paper "Alzheimer's is the most common type of irreversible dementia. Some early signs of the disease include mood changes, difficulties with attention spans and memory. There can also be problems with anxiety and restlessness. Some people experience depression as they realize their difficulties. It is important individuals receive proper social support and counseling to cope with their diagnosis. Alzheimer's patients move through disease progression at different rates. There often is a broad distinction made between the early middle, and advanced stages of Alzheimer's. In the early stages the only signs may be mild forgetfulness. As the disease progresses, individuals often have difficultly traveling alone and become confused in unfamiliar surroundings. Finally as the disease progresses to the end stage individuals have difficultly with verbal abilities, incontinence, and trouble walking (Snowdon, 2001)."
Tags: dementia, elderly, brain, prevention, women, obesity, treatment, medicine
Abstract This paper looks at the drug SINEMET and its role in treating Parkinson's disease. It looks at the cause of Parkinson's disease, the role of dopamine, how SINEMET is used to treat the disease, its mode of action, its contraindications and side effects, and the dosages used.
From the Paper "Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the extra pyramidal nervous system which affects mobility and control of the muscular system ..."
Abstract This paper looks at the drug Sinemet, used to treat patients with Parkinson's disease. The author explains that the drug is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa, the carbidopa preventing the levodopa from being decarboxylated in tissues outside the CNS so that a maximum dose is delivered to the brain. The paper discusses the drug structure, dosage, side effects, and contraindications.
From the Paper "The drug being researched is Sinemet which came on the market in Leffler. The name Sinemet literally means without vomiting generic name Carbidopa-levodopa. The drug is used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and syndrome ..."
Abstract The writer presents a general overview of St. John's Wort. The writer looks at the effectiveness of the use of this herbal supplement. The paper studies the dosage and side effects of using St. John's Wort. In this article, the writer discusses the use of herbal supplements. The writer points to research indicating that the use of St. John's Wort in order to fight depression has not been validated.
From the Paper "One of every three American adults regularly uses herbal supplements including both St. John's Wort and saw palmetto, the two most popular supplements in use today. St. John's Wort, just a few short years ago, was little more than an obscure weed growing wild in North America. Today, as Schardt has commented, St. John's Wort is one of the most common and popular 'feel-good' herbal supplements. Millions of people take it as a natural way of fighting depression. However as this brief ... "
Abstract The paper examines the herbal ingredient Ephedra, including a brief history of the drug, how it works on the body, potential side effects and its dosage. The paper discusses how Ephedra is a controversial herbal substance that has been banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to its potential harmful side effects. The paper notes that many people believe Ephedra is safe in small, regulated doses, but most experts agree the FDA ban was the correct way to handle a natural supplement that has the potential to cause great harm.
From the Paper "Ephedra has been in use for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. It has been found in burial caves in Iran, and "This evidence may indicate that Ephedra was used as a medicine more than 60,000 year ago. In China, Ephedra was the first herbal remedy to yield an active constituent, in this case ephedrine" (McBroom). It is known the Chinese have used it for a variety of ailments for centuries, and writings indicate Zen monks used it to concentrate during meditation. Soldiers drank it to stay awake as they guarded their lords, and in the U.S., the Mormons used it to make a stimulating tea that replaced coffee and black tea that were banned for Mormons."
Abstract This paper discusses depression in adults and the use of St. John's Wort as a treatment. The paper begins by describing the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms of depression in adults. It then discusses the use of St. John's Wort - the mechanism of action and how its use affects the health problem at the cellular and organ system level. The paper concludes by discussing side effects of using St. John's Wort, its cost and toxicity.
Table of Contents:
Description Of The Pathophysiology Of Depression In Adults
Signs And Symptoms Of Depression
Prognosis For Individual: Disability/Death
What Specific Cellular And Organ System Changes Occur?
Most Common Theories About The Health Problem
Complications Of Depression
Using St. John's Wort For Depression: Mechanism Of Action
How The Drugs Mode Of Action Resolves Of Affects The Health Problem At The Cellular And Organ System Level?
Side Effects That Can Occur
Pregnancy Classification
Toxicity
Cost Of A One Months Supply
Most Common Dosage In Generic And Name Brand If Available
From the Paper "Research, at present, is inconclusive. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted a 3-year study of 336 patients with major depression of moderate severity. The study randomly assigned patients to an 8-week trial. One-third of patients received a uniform dose of St. John's Wort, another third a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression, and the final group received a placebo. The study participants who responded positively were followed for an additional 18 weeks. At the end of the first phase of the study, participants were measured on two scales, one for depression and one for overall functioning. There was no significant difference in rate of response for depression, but the scale for overall functioning was better for the antidepressant than for either St. John's Wort or placebo. ("Depression," 2000, National Institute of Health)"
