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Analgesics: Examples, uses, side effects, and more - Medical News Today

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Analgesics are medications that relieve pain. These medications work either by reducing inflammation at the site of pain or by changing the way the brain processes and perceives pain. Some types of analgesics are available over the counter. However, stronger variants are available only with a prescription. This is because strong analgesics are more likely to cause side effects such as dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. This article outlines what analgesics are, including their uses, the different types available, and how they work. It also discusses the risks and side effects of analgesics and provides information on their availability. Analgesics are pain-relieving medications. These medications relieve pain but do not address its underlying cause. Typically, they work either by reducing inflammation at the site of pain or by changing the brain's perception of pain. Analgesics are available in many forms, including: oral medications such as tablets, capsules, and liqu...

Beta-blockers and COPD: Benefits, risks, and types - Medical News Today

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Beta-blockers are medications that doctors may recommend for cardiovascular disease, which is common in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). However, their use is not without controversy. COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Some researchers have concerns that beta-blockers may increase mortality for those with severe COPD who use oxygen at home. However, recent studies have not suggested that these medications carry this risk. This article looks at beta-blockers and COPD, including what they do, their benefits, risks, and types. Beta-blockers are medications that reduce stress on the heart and blood vessels. Doctors prescribe them to manage cardiovascular conditions, such as high blood pressure and angina. They can also prescribe them for anxiety, migraine, tremors, and other conditions. Beta-blockers work by blocking the action of stress hormones that the body releases during the "fight or flight" response. This includes ...

Can you safely take benzos when you're pregnant? - Slate

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I wanted another child. A prior miscarriage left me empty, craving nothing more than to squeeze chubby baby thighs. And yet, once pregnant again, my excitement felt distant and muffled. Like a pea beneath a pile of mattresses. I did not want to compare the baby growing in me to the size of a blueberry or kumquat, the way I did with my first. I told the midwife at my first prenatal visit. Hormones, pregnancy , she said, with a wave of her hand. She placed me on a call list for the hospital's mental health care group. Nobody ever called. I tried different doctors. "You don't understand. This is bigger, worse," I told the second obstetrics practice, and then a third. The darkness gave way to  panic attacks. I could no longer drive. My writing came to a halt. I spent days on the couch with my 3-year-old watching The Octonauts . She occasionally patted my head. Just before the December holidays, the thi...

13 ways to help sore throats: Home remedies and more - Medical News Today

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Several factors can cause a sore throat, such as illnesses, allergies, and acid reflux. Depending on the cause, people can use home remedies to help soothe sore throats. A sore throat might feel scratchy or make it painful to swallow. This article explains some common causes of a sore throat, what people can do to ease it, and when to speak with a doctor. Causes of a sore throat include: According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), viruses are the most common cause of sore throats. A sore throat is usually nothing to worry about, but it can be uncomfortable. However, people can try the following remedies at home to help to ease discomfort. Lozenges are available over the counter (OTC) and can help to ease the symptoms of a sore throat. They dissolve in the mouth, releasing ingredients that soothe a dry, irritated throat. They may be medicated or nonmedicated. A 2017 study found that lozenges containing amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzylalcohol (AMC/DCBA) are a safe and effe...

Allegra Allergy Review – Forbes Health - Forbes

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"I personally really like Allegra, as it's effective, stronger than Claritin and shouldn't make anyone drowsy. Studies show Zyrtec may be the most potent, but it can cause drowsiness," says board-certified allergist Ratika Gupta, M.D., of ENT and Allergy Associates in Brooklyn, New York. She routinely prescribes Allegra to her patients, often in addition to a nasal spray, she says. "Antihistamines in general aren't as good at treating hay fever as nasal sprays, so I usually use Allegra for skin rashes, itchiness and hives and as an adjunct to nasal sprays for hay fever symptoms." Allegra is usually very well-tolerated, adds Dr. Gupta. "It doesn't need to be taken with food and has minimal interactions with other drugs," she says. "I've had a few people tell me that Allegra hurts their stomach or they just didn't feel right. Everyone handles medication differently, but overall, I have very few complaints about it." Al...

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and COVID-19 Response Coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha - The White House

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James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 3:49 P.M. EDT MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Good afternoon, everybody.  So, first I wanted to read you the letter from the President's physician, updating you on the President's health: "President Biden completed his first full day of PAXLOVID last night.  His symptoms have improved.  He did mount a temperature yesterday evening to 99.4 degrees Fahrenheit, which responded favorably to…TYLENOL.  His temperature has remained normal since then.  His symptoms remain characterized as…runny nose and fatigue, with an occasional non-productive, now "loose" cough.  His voice is deeper this morning.  His pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation remain entirely normal, on room air. The President is tolerating treatment well.  We will continue PAXLOVID as planned.  His symptoms will be treated supportively with ...