Canadian Pharmacy » Archives for June 2006

Abilify is a prescription medication used to treat acute manic and mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It also maintains efficacy in patients with Bipolar Disorder with a recent manic or mixed episode who had been stabilized and then maintained for at least 6 weeks.
Even though there is no cure, bipolar disorder is a treatable condition. Many people with the condition have found that a treatment plan of medicine, education, and psychotherapy has helped them move forward with their lives.

How does Abilify work?

How Abilify works is still unknown, but experts believe that it works by adjusting dopamine, instead of completely blocking it, as well as affecting serotonin.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

As explained in the dictionary, bipolar disorder is a psychiatric disorder marked by alternating episodes of mania and depression. People who have this illness may experience extreme mood swings, along with other specific symptoms and behaviors. Commonly known as “episodes”, these mood swings can take three forms: manic episodes, depressive episodes, or “mixed” episodes.

What are the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder episodes?

Symptoms of a manic episode often include:

• An elevated mood – extreme happiness
• Extreme irritability and anxiousness
• Talking too fast and too much
• An unusual increase in energy
• A reduced need for sleep
• Acting impulsively – engaging in risky behavior or regrettable actions like shopping sprees
• The trouble with delusions and hallucinations – they may think they have a relationship with someone famous, claim to be an expert in an area they really know nothing about, feel paranoid (unusually fearful), or hear voices that are not there.

Symptoms of a depressive episode include:

• An overwhelming feeling of emptiness or sadness
• Lack of energy
• A loss of interest in things
• Trouble concentrating
• Changes in normal sleep or appetite
• And/or thoughts of suicide or dying

A mixed episode includes symptoms that are both manic and depressive.

What causes bipolar disorder symptoms?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder are thought to be caused by an imbalance of key chemicals in the brain. The brain is made up of billions of nerve cells that move a constant stream of information from one to the other. To keep the information flowing, the cells release chemicals known as “neurotransmitters.” Two key neurotransmitters that are needed for brain function are dopamine and serotonin, which play an important role in emotional health.
Many scientists believe that when the levels of these neurotransmitters are imbalanced, it may result in bipolar disorder. For instance, too much dopamine in certain parts of the brain can cause symptoms such as delusions, while too little dopamine in other parts of the brain can cause symptoms such as a lack of emotion and energy.

How can medicine help me?

Abilify or other bipolar medicines can play an important role in helping you take control of your symptoms and extreme mood swings. It can also help make your behavior more level and predictable. Once this is achieved, your doctor may recommend continuing the medicine (along with psychotherapy and support from your family and friends) to help you stay stable.

Are there any side effects of Abilify?

• Lightheadedness or faintness caused by a sudden change in heart rate and blood pressure when rising quickly from a sitting or lying position has been reported with Abilify
• Bipolar medicines like Abilify can affect your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. You should not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how Abilify affects you
• Since medicines like Abilify can impact your body’s ability to reduce body temperature, you should avoid overheating and dehydration
• Bipolar disorder medicines have been associated with swallowing problems (dysphagia). If you had or have swallowing problems, you should tell your doctor.
• If you have suicidal thoughts, you should tell your doctor right away

Other common side effects include constipation, an inner sense of restlessness or need to move, headache, nausea, upset stomach, vomiting, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, sleepiness, lightheadedness, and tremor.
While taking Abilify, avoid:

• Drinking alcohol
• Breastfeeding an infant

Tell your doctor if you have a history of seizures, or are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, and about all prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking or plan to take.

Important information

Tell your doctor right away if you have conditions or side effects, including the following:

• Very high fever, rigid muscles, shaking, confusion, sweating, or increased heart rate and blood pressure. These may be signs of a condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare but serious side effect that could be fatal
• Abnormal or uncontrollable movements. These may be signs of a serious condition called tardive dyskinesia which may be permanent
• Elderly: An increased risk of stroke and ministroke has been reported in a clinical study of elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis
• Diabetes, risk factors for diabetes (for example, obesity, family history of diabetes), or unexpected increases in thirst, urination, or hunger. Increases in blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), in some cases serious and associated with coma or death, have been reported in patients taking medicines like Abilify. Ask your doctor about the need to monitor your blood sugar level before and during treatment

What is aveoTSD and how does it work?

The aveoTSD is an anti-snoring mouthguard made from soft medical silicone. It works by holding the tongue forward by gentle suction, preventing it from falling against the back of the throat, and keeping the airway open during sleep.

What causes snoring?

Snoring is caused by a narrowed airway during sleep. This can be due to large tonsils, a long soft palate or uvula, or, in people who are overweight, excessive flabby tissue; with all those areas relaxing during sleep. Nasal congestion from allergies or deformities of the cartilage between the two sides of the nose and other internal nasal structures also contribute to a narrowing of the airway.

The most common cause of a narrowed airway is, however, a tongue muscle that relaxes too much during sleep and gets sucked back into the airway with each breath taken.
Snoring occurs when air travels faster through a narrow tube than through a broad one. This rapidly moving air causes the relaxed tissues of the throat to vibrate. The sound (vibration) caused by the rapidly moving air is what we know as snoring. However, by keeping the airway open with aveoTSD, air travels slower, reducing the vibrations in the throat, therefore reducing or stopping snoring.

Can snoring be harmful?

Snoring can progress into a medical condition known as obstructive sleep apnea – where the tongue is completely sucked against the back of the throat and breathing stops. This airway obstruction causes the heart rate to fall below normal with decreases in blood oxygen levels. The obstruction will not clear until the brain oxygen level falls low enough to partially awaken the sleeper with a release of adrenaline to prevent suffocation. Due to the adrenaline release, the heart rate is now increased above normal. These events may happen hundreds of times a night, not allowing deep restorative sleep, and causing reduced blood oxygen levels.

What are some symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea?

• You awaken frequently with a sensation of gasping, choking or palpitations.
• Your partner has observed that you stop breathing when you are asleep.
• You wake in the morning with a headache.
• You experience reflux and night-time heartburn episodes.
• You are excessively tired during the day.
• You fall asleep at inappropriate times.
• Poor physical and intellectual performance.

What kinds of treatment are there for snoring and sleep apnea?

Mild or occasional snoring and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea may be alleviated by lifestyle changes including:

• Losing weight
• Getting regular exercise
• Within 3 hours before bedtime avoid alcohol, heavy meals, and medications that make you drowsy

Other treatment options include:

• Surgery to the nose, throat, tongue, or jaw
• Nasal CPAP ( Continuous Positive Airway Pressure ) is a therapy in which an air compression device is used to force the airway open and aid breathing during sleep (used only under medical supervision ).
• Oral dental devices ( mandibular advancement splints ) are attached to the teeth and are worn at night to keep the lower jaw forward.
• AveoTSD which keeps the tongue from falling against the back of the throat, keeping the airway open during sleep.

Just like humans, your beloved dog or cat sometimes needs doctor-prescribed medication. And, as with anything and everything these days, pet meds can be purchased over the Internet — often at prices that are substantially lower than drugs purchased directly from your vet.

It’s tempting to order from sites that promise low prices, however, cost shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. It’s also important to look for the signs that prove the online pharmacy is trustworthy and has Fido’s best interests at heart.

Here’s what you should know before pressing SEND:

• Check to see if the pharmacy service has actual brick-and-mortar addresses and toll-free phone numbers. You can usually find this on the Contact Us page.
• Confirm that the pharmacy has a licensed veterinarian on staff.
• Look for the State or Provincial Pharmacy License number on the website and call the corresponding regulatory body to verify the legitimacy of the license.
• If you’re shopping from Canada, look for the CIPA (Canadian International Pharmacy Association) Certification Seal as an added verification of quality.
• Only your pet’s vet can prescribe drugs for your pet. Make sure the online pharmacy requires a valid prescription. Many bogus websites do not require this (i.e. SPAM and pop-up ads).
• Make sure the pharmacy requires your pet’s medical history or profile to be completed before ordering.
• Make sure the pharmacy requires a signed Patient Agreement.

A fully licensed, Canadian Internet-based pharmacy service, DoctorSolve™ Healthcare Solutions has filled more than 200,000 U.S. prescriptions. To us, pets are valued patients too. Our professional medical staff will speak with you directly to complete a health history on your pet and review your vet’s prescription and instructions. A Canadian, licensed veterinarian will re-write the prescription, which is then filled by a professionally registered pharmacist with a Canadian license. Your pet’s meds are delivered directly to your home.

What is Fosamax Plus D?

Commonly prescribed when you’ve been diagnosed with osteoporosis, Fosamax Plus D works by:

• Reducing the activity of the cells that cause bone loss
• Decreasing the faster rate of bone loss that occurs after menopause
• Increasing the amount of bone in most patients

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become more porous, gradually making them weaker and more brittle. Men and women’s bodies go through a continuous bone-building cycle in which old bone is broken down and new bone is formed. Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance in this cycle in which too much bone is broken down and not completely built.
Mostly occurring in women after menopause, osteoporosis can cause one-third of a woman’s lifetime bone loss in the first 5 years following menopause. This rapid bone loss can cause bones to become thin, fragile, and more likely to fracture. Although it is less common in men, osteoporosis can still occur. Men naturally have larger, stronger bones than women, and their bone loss generally starts later in life.

How do you test for osteoporosis?

There are 2 types of bone density tests:

• Peripheral machines measure such sites as your finger, wrist, or heel
• Central machines measure your hip, spine, or total body.

Some tests use ultrasounds. Others use small amounts of radiation to determine the thickness or density of bones. BMD (bone mineral density) tests are safe, pain-free, and easy.

What is the “Plus D” in Fosamax Plus D?

The Plus D stands for vitamin D. Adequate intake of vitamin D helps heighten the absorption of calcium, which is crucial for bone development. Even if you are eating a diet rich in calcium or taking a calcium supplement, your body cannot absorb calcium properly unless you have enough vitamin D. Severe vitamin D deficiency may cause muscle weakness, which can lead to falls and a greater risk of fracture.

Why should I take Fosamax Plus D?

Ninety-six percent of patients, on either a once-daily or once-weekly schedule, increased or maintained bone mass with results showing as soon as 3 months after therapy with Fosamax Plus D had begun.

Who should not take Fosamax Plus D?

You should not use Fosamax Plus D if you:

• Have certain disorders of the esophagus
• Are not able to stand or sit upright for 30 minutes
• Have severe kidney disease
• Low blood calcium

Before taking Fosamax Plus D, speak with your doctor if you have or have had stomach or digestive problems or problems with swallowing. In addition, you should talk to your doctor if you have conditions that may cause an overproduction of vitamin D (eg, sarcoidosis, leukemia, lymphoma). Lastly, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Does Fosamax Plus D have any side effects?

If you develop new or worsening heartburn, difficult or painful swallowing, or chest pain, stop taking Fosamax Plus D and contact your doctor immediately – these may be signs of serious upper digestive problems. Also contact your doctor if you develop severe bone, joint and/or muscle pain. Mild digestive side effects may include stomach pain, indigestion/heartburn, and nausea.
If side effects persist or worsen while taking Fosamax Plus D, contact your doctor right away.

Zoloft is effectively used to treat depression. It is also used to treat social anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in adults over age 18. Zoloft is also approved for OCD in children and adolescents aged 6-17 years.

How does Zoloft work?

Zoloft is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or SSRI.
Nerve cells in the brain and the rest of the nervous system use chemical messengers. These messengers help cells send messages to each other. One of these messengers is called serotonin.
Studies show that serotonin plays an important role in how our body works. It controls sleep, appetite, temperature, and blood vessel tone. Serotonin is also in charge of the release of certain hormones and how much pain we feel.

Because it is connected to so many functions in our body, serotonin has an effect on a wide range of conditions such as depression. Scientists believe people with depression could have an imbalance of serotonin in their brains. So the nerve cells can’t communicate or send messages to each other the right way. This lack of contact between cells might cause depression.
Zoloft helps fix the nerve cells so they can send messages to each other the way they normally should.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

It is important to know that depression is a common medical condition with very specific symptoms. Signs and symptoms might be different for each person.
Depression defined:

• A lasting sad mood and/or
• Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities

People may experience several or all of these symptoms:

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Restlessness or decreased activity that others notice
• Loss of energy or feeling tired all the time
• Hard time concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Repeated thoughts of death or suicide

For a doctor to decide that someone is clinically depressed, the person must have five or more of these symptoms and at least one must be either of the first two main symptoms of depression. These symptoms must last for at least two weeks. The symptoms should be serious enough to cause worry and to get in the way of the person’s work, social life, or daily life.

Are there any side effects?

Some people taking Zoloft might have side effects. The most common Zoloft side effects are dry mouth, insomnia, sexual side effects, diarrhea, nausea, and sleepiness. Not everyone will experience side effects.
If side effects persist or worsen while taking Zoloft, contact your doctor right away.

What is a migraine and how does Imitrex help?

A migraine occurs when blood vessels on the surface of the brain expand, causing the area around them to become inflamed and irritate nerve endings. This expansion and irritation may account for the pain you experience during a migraine. It may also lead to nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other symptoms associated with migraine. Imitrex helps by targeting the nerves and blood vessels believed to cause the migraine.

What are the symptoms of a migraine?

Types of pain you may have:

• Moderate to severe pain
• Pulsating or throbbing pain
• Worse pain on one side
• Worse pain when you move

Symptoms you may have:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound

Other symptoms you may have:

• Stuffy or runny nose and watery eyes
• Dizziness
• Mood changes
• Tunnel vision or seeing “spots”
• Pain or pressure in the face, eye area, or sinuses

Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms and they can vary from person to person.

Are there any triggers that set off a migraine?

Some triggers may include:

Food & food additives

• • Alcohol (especially red wine), caffeinated beverages, nuts, nitrite/nitrate-preserved foods (hot dogs, pepperoni), and smoked or pickled foods.

Light

• • Strong or glaring light. Flickering lights from TV or computer screen, strobe or laser lights, or reflections.

Smells/odors

• • Intense, specific food odors, cigarette or other smoke, perfumes, cleaning products.

Stress

• • Migraine attacks often occur after stress -, especially on weekends and holidays. Many people mistake these as tension headaches.

Weather Changes

• High humidity, atmospheric pressure changes, rapid temperature fluctuations, and exposure to extreme heat or cold may bring on migraine attacks. Many people mistake these for “sinus headaches”.

How is Imitrex available?

Imitrex is available in tablets, injections, and a nasal spray to suit your individual needs, as well as different migraine attacks. Imitrex is not habit-forming and does not cause drowsiness. Migraine pain can be relieved while you are active and alert.

Does Imitrex have any side effects?

Common side effects of Imitrex are tingling and warm/cold sensations with the tablets, a bad/unusual taste (nasal spray), injection-site reactions, atypical sensations (such as feelings of tingling, warm/hot sensations), dizziness, and flushing (injection). Most side effects last for only a short time.

If side effects persist or worsen while taking Imitrex contact your doctor as soon as possible.