Author: Wisdom Bassey

Sulfonamides, also known as sulphonamides, represent a class of synthetic medications containing the sulfonamide chemical group and are commonly referred to as sulfa drugs. While many people use the term sulfonamide loosely to describe only antibiotics incorporating a sulfonamide functional group in their chemical makeup, there exist various non-antibiotic sulfonamides developed by leveraging insights gained from the clinical assessment of antibiotic sulfonamides. These non-antibiotic variants serve diverse purposes such as managing diabetes and alleviating pain. The initial sulfonamide, Sulfanilamide, was formulated in 1906, though its application as an antimicrobial agent didn't occur until the late 1930s. Sulfonamide antimicrobials, which are…

Metronidazole is an antibiotic prescribed for a range of infections. Its mechanism involves halting the growth of specific bacteria and parasites. It's important to note that this antibiotic is effective against select bacterial and parasitic infections but not viral ones like the common cold or flu. Misuse of antibiotics when unnecessary can render them ineffective against future infections. Additionally, Metronidazole may be combined with other drugs to address specific stomach or intestinal ulcers stemming from H. pylori bacteria. How to use Metronidazole Before commencing metronidazole, ensure you peruse the Patient Information Leaflet, accessible from your pharmacist, both at the outset…

Nitrofurantoin is employed for the treatment of urinary tract infections, belonging to a category of drugs known as antibiotics. Its mechanism involves the elimination of bacteria responsible for the infection. It's noteworthy that antibiotics like nitrofurantoin are ineffective against colds, the flu, or other viral infections. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) pose a common challenge for many individuals, occurring sporadically or frequently. They occur when specific bacteria colonize the urinary tract. Symptoms typically include cloudy urine, painful or burning sensations during urination, and discomfort in the lower abdomen. In case of experiencing such symptoms, a healthcare provider might prescribe nitrofurantoin. Nitrofurantoin…

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a condition characterized by involuntary and repetitive movements, typically affecting the face, trunk, and other body parts. TD often stems from the use of medications known as dopamine receptor blockers, such as antipsychotics and various prescription drugs. Studies suggest that a significant portion, ranging from 20% to 50%, of individuals taking antipsychotics may encounter TD, with women and older adults being particularly vulnerable. Prolonged use of dopamine receptor blockers can lead to alterations in the striatum, a region of the brain, which may contribute to the development of TD. However, it's essential to understand that not…

Neosporin is a compound medication comprising neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin, antibiotics designed to halt bacterial growth. Its effectiveness is limited to bacterial skin infections, excluding those caused by fungi or viruses. Primarily, this medication serves to prevent and address minor skin infections resulting from small cuts, scrapes, or burns. It can be obtained over-the-counter for self-administration. What is Polysporin? Polysporin is a combined medication employed in the treatment of skin infections. Comprising Polymyxin and bacitracin, it is effective against various infections, including infected wounds, burns, skin grafts, boils, and acne. Additionally, it can prevent catheter-related infections in individuals undergoing hemodialysis.…

Sertraline, available both as a generic medication and under the brand name Zoloft®, is an antidepressant used to address conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, and premature ejaculation. While it is customary to indulge in an occasional beer, glass of wine, or other alcoholic beverage, individuals prescribed sertraline for the aforementioned conditions may question the compatibility of alcohol with their medication. In general, it is advisable to refrain from alcohol consumption while taking drugs like sertraline, prompting individuals to reconsider before reaching for their next bottle. This discussion provides an overview of what sertraline is…

Haldol is used to address symptoms of schizophrenia and to control tics and vocal outbursts in individuals diagnosed with Tourette's syndrome. Moreover, it is effective in managing behavioral problems in children. Administered orally, typically with water, in tablet form according to prescribed instructions, this medication is marketed under the brand name Haldol. What is this medication? Haloperidol is a medication primarily prescribed to treat schizophrenia and may also be utilized to alleviate symptoms of Tourette disorder. Additionally, it can be employed to address severe behavioral issues in children when conventional therapies have proven ineffective. Its mechanism of action involves balancing…

Nabumetone, categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is utilized to alleviate pain and inflammation linked with conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is marketed under different brand names such as Relafen, Arthaxan, and Mebutan. Originating in the 1970s, Nabumetone was developed by the Spanish pharmaceutical company, Llorente. It received approval for use in the United States in 1991. Its mechanism involves the reduction of prostaglandin production, which are body chemicals contributing to pain and inflammation. Nabumetone stands out among NSAIDs as it is a prodrug, necessitating metabolism within the body to become active after oral consumption. Consequently, it…

D mannose, a sugar akin to glucose, is naturally present in various fruits and the human body. This compound may aid in addressing deficiencies resulting from genetic anomalies and could potentially hinder specific bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls, thereby averting infections. D-mannose serves as a treatment for carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome type 1b, an inherited disorder. Additionally, it's utilized for urinary tract infections (UTIs), though scientific validation supporting its efficacy in this regard remains inconclusive. Uses & Effectiveness Shown to be Effective for Carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome type 1b, an inherited disorder, demonstrates positive outcomes with oral d-mannose intake. This…

Melatonin is believed to be beneficial in complementary medicine for addressing insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) and sleep disturbances in individuals who are blind. In alternative medicine, melatonin has been explored as a potential aid for jet lag, hypertension, tumors, low blood platelet count, pelvic discomfort, insomnia or restlessness induced by medication, jaw discomfort, migraines, post-surgical drowsiness or anxiety. Topical application of melatonin may have potential in preventing sunburn. Furthermore, melatonin has been considered for treating infertility, dementia, enhancing athletic performance, stimulating appetite, managing shift work-related sleep issues, and facilitating weight loss. Nonetheless, scientific studies indicate that melatonin may…