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Depression symptoms: Recognizing common and lesser-known symptoms

Medication side effects: What are your options?

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Medications Archive

Diseases & Conditions

What’s new in diabetes drugs

Published December 1, 2021

Two classes of diabetes drugs—GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors—have received much attention lately. They not only lower blood sugar, they also help with weight reduction and may lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and chronic kidney disease. The drugs can be taken as daily oral tablets or in some cases weekly injections, both of which are preferable over daily insulin shots.

Heart Health

Over-the-counter drugs that can boost blood pressure

Published December 1, 2021

People with high blood pressure should avoid certain popular over-the-counter drugs used to treat cold and flu symptoms and pain. The problematic products are those that contain decongestants such as oxymetazoline, pseudoephedrine, and phenylephrine; and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. Because drugstores contain an overwhelming number of products that feature those drugs, people should ask their pharmacist to recommend a product.

Mind & Mood

The effects of marijuana on your memory

Updated November 16, 2021

Diseases & Conditions

Less may be more when treating urinary tract infections

Published November 1, 2021

Researchers found that treating urinary tract infections with antibiotics for seven days was just as effective as treatment lasting 14 days. The shorter duration also can reduce the risk of medication side effects like diarrhea and nausea.

Staying Healthy

Is your medication making you lightheaded?

Published November 1, 2021

Many medications can cause lightheadedness, such as drugs to treat depression, high blood pressure, or bladder problems. It’s important to learn about a medication’s potential side effects and be on high alert if lightheadedness is a possibility. A person can jot down the day and time a drug is taken as well as any side effects that follow; those details can help a doctor determine if changes in medicines are required. Someone who continues to feel lightheaded after about a week should report it to the doctor.

Pain

Drug therapy needs time to treat heart-related chest pain

Published November 1, 2021

Chest pain with exertion affects about one-quarter of people with stable coronary artery disease. A 2021 study found that these individuals can often eliminate their symptoms by following conservative drug therapy, without needing a stent or bypass surgery.

Diseases & Conditions

Why are mRNA vaccines so exciting?

Updated November 1, 2021

The first vaccines approved in the US to prevent COVID-19 were an entirely new type: mRNA vaccines. Over the past year, they've proven unusually effective and safe. How do mRNA vaccines differ from traditional vaccines, and what makes them so exciting?

Mind & Mood

Some blood pressure drugs are linked with better memory

Published October 1, 2021

A 2021 analysis found that adults ages 50 and older who took an ACE inhibitor such as lisinopril or an ARB like candesartan that crosses the blood-brain barrier scored higher on memory recall tests after three years on the medication, when compared with those who took a different drug in the same class that doesn’t cross over.

Heart Health

Aspirin and bruising

Published October 1, 2021

Taking low-dose aspirin may increase bruising and minor bleeding from small cuts. Minor bleeding does not necessarily indicate a greater likelihood of experiencing major bleeding.

Mind & Mood

Stuck in a brain fog? Look in your medicine cabinet

Published October 1, 2021

Older adults may assume bouts of forgetfulness or "brain fog" are a natural part of aging. But one possible explanation is that the problem is a side effect from common medications, in particular sleep aids and pain killers. Older adults who have recently begun taking a new medication or increased their dosage should monitor their memory problems and then share the information with their doctor to see if adjustments should be made to their medication regimen.

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Recent Articles

Hospice care: Overview of a compassionate approach to end-of-life care

Foot pain: A look at why your feet might hurt

Matcha: A look at possible health benefits

Wildfires: How to cope when smoke affects air quality and health

Forearm workouts: Strengthening grip for everyday function

Depression symptoms: Recognizing common and lesser-known symptoms

Medication side effects: What are your options?

Independent living with home care assistance: Balancing autonomy and support

Dialysis: What to expect from this life-changing — and lifesaving — treatment

The BEEP program: Keep your balance

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