Before and After Meal Medications

Many have been wondering why certain medicines should be taken before meals and some should be taken after meals or with food. This is because of the different interactions of specific medications with food in the stomach. Some medicines cause stomach upsets or GI (gastrointestinal) tract disturbances when taken with an empty stomach. Most anti-inflammatory drugs for example are advised to be taken with food or directly after meals. (see table below: TAKEN WITH FOOD OR AFTER MEAL MEDICATIONS) On the other hand, most antibiotics are recommended to be taken before each meal (usually an hour or two before). Drugs under this category are most effective and are quickly absorbed with an empty stomach. (see table below: BEFORE MEAL MEDICATIONS) BEFORE MEAL MEDICATIONS
Generic Name	Extra Reminder	Generic Name	Extra Reminder
Alendronate		Oxacillin
Ampicillin		Penicillamine
Astemizole		Perindopril
Bethanechol		Repaglinide
Bisacodyl		Rifampin
Captopril	1 hour before meals	Rifabutin
Cefibuten		Riluzole
Cilostazol		Roxithromycin	Take 15 minutes before meal
Ciprofloxacin	Can also be taken with meals but it is best to take with an empty stomach	Sucralfate
Demeclocycline		Sulfadiazine
Dicloxacilling		Sulfamethoxazole
Etidronate		Tetracycline	Never take with milk and other daily products
Felodipine		Tolcapone
Indinavir		Zafirlukast
Lansoprazole	Take right before meal	Zalcitabine
Levothyroxine
Mycophenolate
Omeprazole

TAKEN WITH FOOD OR AFTER MEAL MEDICATIONS
Generic Name	Extra Reminder	Generic Name	Extra Reminder
Allopurinol	Take right after meal	Metronidazole
Atovaquone		Misoprostol
Augmentin		Methanamine
Aspirin		Mebendazole
Amiodarone		Methylprednisolone
Baclofen		Naltrexone
Bromocriptine		Naproxen
Clofazimine		Nelfinavir
Carvedilol		Nitrofurantoin
Carbamazepine		Niacin
Cefpodoxime		Olsalazine
Chloroquine		Perphenazine
Cimetidine		Pentoxifylline
Diclofenac sodium and potassium		Pergolide
Divalproex sodium		Piroxicam
Doxycycline		Potassium salts
Felbamate		Prednisone
Fenofibrate		Procainamide
Fiorinal		Ritonavir
Fludrocortisone		Salsalate
Fenoprofen		Saquinavir
Griseofulvin		Sevelamer
Glyburide	Taken after breakfast	Spironolactone
Hydrocortisone		Sulfasalazine
Hydroxychloroquine		Sulfinpyrazone
Ibuprofen		Sulindac
Indomethacin		Ticlopidine
Iron preparations	Take between meals-if GI upset occurs	Tolmetin
Itraconazole		Trazodone
Ketorolac		Troglitazone
Lithium		Valproic acid

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam filling is another type of mixture used to restore teeth. It is made of silver, tin, zinc, copper and mercury which comprises about 50% of the whole mixture. Amalgam filling is usually used in filling backs of the teeth and molars.

Advantages of amalgam fillings are:

• They are strong and can withstand forces due to biting and chewing.
• More affordable compared to other tooth-filling alternatives such as white composite fillings.
• Lasts longer than other tooth-filling methods as its lifespan may last up to atleast seven years or more.
• The entire procedure can be completed in one dental visit.

Disadvantages of amalgam fillings are:

• It does not match the color of the teeth (they are silver in color) that is why it is only considered if the areas to be covered are located at the back of the teeth or on the molars.
• It requires a large part of the teeth for it to be accommodated therefore some healthy parts of the teeth should be removed.
• The part of the teeth where amalgam meets the tooth may discolor in the long run. This is due to the fact that amalgam fillings tarnish after some time.
• There are people who are allergic to mercury and are not allowed to undergo this type of treatment.
• The amount of mercury in amalgams is almost similar to what people get from the environment, a fact which is based on studies and researches. So, one should also take into consideration the possible effects of mercury in the body.

Related topic:

White Composite Fillings

White Composite Fillings

Introduced in the 1960s, a white composite filling is a mixture composed of glass (silicon dioxide to be particular). The two main purposes of white fillings are to restore decayed parts of the teeth and for cosmetic improvements such as changing the uncolored teeth or reshaping deformed teeth. The white fillings were first designed to sit on the front part of the teeth because they were not good enough to withstand the pressure induced to back teeth especially to the molars. It was later enhanced which can now be placed in the back teeth and molars unlike before.

Below are some advantages using white composite fillings:

• It restores most of the tooth's primary strength as it adheres to the tooth completely.
• It brings back the natural color and appearance of the tooth.
• The tooth being treated with white fillings is not as sensitive to both hot and cold food and drinks compared to amalgam filling (amalgam is further discussed here).
• The tooth filled with white resin will fully hardened and is immediately ready to be used after the treatment.
• White composite fillings are mercury-free.
• The procedure requires minimal removal of tooth structure as compared to amalgam fillings.

Disadvantages using white composite fillings:

• Compared to amalgam filling, white composite fillings are more expensive (about 50 to 60% price difference). This is because the materials used in white fillings relatively cost much and the amount of time is comparably longer than applying amalgams.
• Although white fillings are strong, its lifespan is still not as long as amalgams have although the difference is not that huge at all.
• Can be critically weekend and damaged by too much alcohol intake as alcohol deteriorates the composite fillings prematurely.
• After some time, the composite fillings will acquire stains and will therefore discolor. Retreatment is recommended whenever this occurs.

Related topic:

Amalgam Fillings

What are EPA and DPA?

• Definition and Benefits from Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Both Eiscosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DPA) are popularly termed as essential fatty acids. EPA and DHA are the two active ingredients of the Omega-3 fatty acids which are polyunsaturated fats having very important roles for the body to function well.

Importance of EPA and DHA in the body:

• EPA and DHA have shown necessary nutrients in order to keep the brain and retina healthy. DHA serves as the brain (forming about 8% of the brain by weight) and the retina's building block of tissue. It aids in the formation of neural transmitters which is important for proper brain function. It is also found in the eye's retina therefore the right intakes of DHA is beneficial to keep healthy amounts of DHA for normal eye function. On the other hand, EPA is important in the functioning of the brain's nerve stimulation making it very essential in the daily activities of the brain. In recent studies, a strong form of EPA helps in treating patients suffering from depression and schizophrenia.
• According to studies, high percentage of DHA concentrations in the fetus' brain is increased for about 300-500% during the last trimester of pregnancy that is therefore pregnant women are advised to maintain an adequate supply of EPA DHA in the body to ensure proper brain development of the fetus.
• Infants need high amounts of DHA during their first two years of life to support brain growth. This is why there are lots of infant milk formulas containing DHA. You can ask your physicians about these products.
• As we age, our bodies are unable to create and produce the right amount of EPA and DHA. This may result to decreased mental focus, mental abnormalities, Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia . Taking in preparations containing EPA and DHA are highly recommended to avoid EPA and DHA decrease in our bodies.
• EPA and DHA are converted into hormone like substances. The most common of these are the prostaglandins which are responsible in regulating cell functions and in promoting healthy cardiovascular activities.

Other benefits from having enough amounts of EPA and DPA in the body are:

• It insulates the body against heat loss
• Prevents skin from drying
• Avoids skin from flaking and chapping
• Protects tissues and organs of the body

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Definition and Benefits from Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• More About EPA and DHA

Recommended omega-3 fatty acid dosage:

• For patients without any heart related problems, it is recommended to eat fatty fish twice a week.
• For patients suffering from any type of heart disease should atleast have fatty fish everyday. There are also omega-3 fatty acid preparations in capsules and liquid forms which are available in the market today which the patient can consider with proper consultation with the physician. These preparations contain EPA+DHA (furhter discussed here) which contains 1 gram of the required EPA+DHA daily allowance for a healthier heart.
• For patients who are concerned in lowering their triglyceride levels, it is recommended to take atleast 2 to 4 grams of EPA+DHA per day. Still, this procedure is under the advice of your physician.

Note: It is not recommended to take more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids without a proper advice from the doctor. This is because of the fact that high intakes of this fatty acid may possibly lead to excessive bleeding in some people.

Aside from keeping the heart healthy, omega-3 fatty acids are also proven by doctors and researchers to combat autism, low birth issues and some psychological disorders. It is also beneficial to people who are suffering from:

• Diabetes
• Menstrual cramps
• Asthma
• Burns
• High cholesterol levels
• Arthritis
• Allergies due to inflammation

Herbal Green Peel

• What Is Herbal Green Peel?
• How Does Herbal Green Peel Work?
• How Is The Procedure Done?

Skin Problems Treated by Herbal Green Peel:

• Acne
• Very oily skin
• Scarring
• Enlarged pores
• Aging skin
• Wrinkles
• Sagging skin
• Sun damaged skin
• Rough and dry skin
• Dry and unhealthy hands
• Freckles
• Skin pigmentation
• Skin discoloration
• Cellulite
• Stretch marks

Common Facts About Botox

Botox is a process in keeping the skin look young and healthy. It is a known method in reversing the aging process of the skin. Compared to having face lists and plastic surgery, Botox is a lot cheaper, easier process, quicker results and shows very minimal side effects.

Botox is actually a protein which is obtained from botulism toxin (is a neurotoxin which is known to attack nerve cells). It is injected underneath the skin which then promotes smoother skin. It is also very effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The process does not really take a very long time to perform. Usually, it is only done in two hours or less.

Botox is not a permanent solution to problems regarding skin aging. The younger appearance obtained by a person after administration of Botox to the skin may last somewhere between four to six months. This is because of the fact that the muscles will again begin to contract and wrinkles will again start to appear. It is therefore one can repeat Botox treatments to smoothen the skin again.

Individuals who are not allowed to undergo the Botox Treatment are those with:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS
• Heart disease
• Lambert-Eaton syndrome
• Myasthenia gravis
  

Just like any other health procedures, there will always be risks but it is always very rare in Botox procedures. The most common side effects are:

• Allergic reaction to Botox – there are individuals who are allergic to botulinium toxin. It is important to let your physician know if you are allergic to any drug related to this toxin.
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Respiratory infection
• Severe headache
• Double vision

Note: Difficulty in swallowing and neck pains occur only when inaccurate and too much amount of Botox has been injected to the skin. It can also result to having the right measurement of Botox which has been injected to the wrong muscle.

So be sure to contact a licensed physician who will make the procedure for you to avoid complications.

Faitox-25 Your Botox Alternative

• Common Facts About Botox

FAITOX-25 is another revolution in reversing the skin's aging process and is now termed as the real alternative to Botox procedure. It smoothly blends on the skin and is quickly absorbed by the pores leaving the skin fresh and not greasy. It is hypo-allergenic which suites most skin types.

Benefits from using FAITOX-25:

• lightens deep wrinkles and deep furrows within 30 days
• retains skin firmness
• keeps the skin hydrated
• even out skin tone
• restores clarity
• promotes collagen and elastin formation.

FAITOX-25's major components are:

• Argireline (25%) – is a peptide (hexapeptide) which has been proven to relax the muscles and decrease its movements therefore reducing the depth of wrinkles and has been tested to minimize the production of new lines.
• Hyasol-BT (50%)- (hyaluronic acid) is a lubricant which promotes moisture to the skin by leaving a thin invisible surface film. It also smoothens, fixes elasticity and tones the skin.
• Matrixyl 3000 (15%) – (combination of two peptides: palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3) is known to stimulate the matrix molecules (the skin's collagen – responsible in the skin elasticity) hence, reducing the appearance of wrinkles by firming the skin.
• Snap-8 (10%) – (octapeptide) is the peptide which is responsible in keeping the muscles relaxed even when smiling or winking. The idea behind this substance is that the more the muscles are relaxed, the production of fine lines will also be less.
• It also contains important typical antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E.

Product specifications:

• Bottle size: 1 oz. (30 mL)
• Price: ranges from US$ 58 – 80 per bottle

Depression

• What is Depression?

Categories/types and symptoms of depression:

I. Major depression – this type of depression is considered to be the most serious category. It has a higher number and severity of symptoms. There is still no official diagnosis about major depression up to this time.

Symptoms of major depression:

1. Rapid weight loss or extreme weight gain
2. Increased appetite
3. Either having difficulties in sleeping or having extended hours of sleeping
4. Too much movement or slowing down which are generally observed by the people around
5. Decrease in self-confidence
6. Quick loss of energy and fatigue
7. Excessive feeling of guilt
8. Difficulty in focusing, concentrating, thinking
9. Difficulty in making own decisions
10. Although not all people under this category attempt suicide, most of them do atleast think about committing death

II. Dysthymic disorder – is the type of depression which attributes to a low to moderate level which has been occurring for the patient's last two years (atleast or even longer sometimes). People suffering from dysthymic depression are known to be more resistant to treatment compared to those who are suffering from the major type.

Symptoms of dysthymic disorder or dysthymia:

1. Increased appetite
2. Difficulty or increased hours sleeping hours
3. Fatigue and decreased amount of energy
4. Very low self-confidence
5. Difficulty concentrating and thinking

III. Manic depression – which is also known as Bipolar disorder is another type of this illness which covers periods of mania and depression. This type of depression is comprised of a constant increased or extreme irritable mood which usually lasts for about a week.

Symptoms of manic depression or bipolar disorder:

1. Slow but recognizable decrease in self-esteem
2. Decreased hours of sleep
3. Either became more talkative or less talkative compared before
4. Distracted easily even by small things
5. Excessive movement
6. Sudden increase in social, school, work or sexual interests
7. Too much involvement in very risky but pleasurable things like overspending and unwise approach in business engagements and decisions

Dark Underarms

• How To Avoid/Treat Dark Underarms

Reasons why underarms get dark:

• The natural growth of underarm hair is one most common reasons why it darkens in color. Usually, people who suffer from this are those whose hair follicles are a lot thicker compared to others. So, at any hour of the day when the hair starts sprouting out of the underarm skin, the skin therefore starts to become darker, too.
  
• Sweating also is a reason for having dark underarms. This is because of the fact that underarm sweat mixed with dead skin cells of the skin will accumulate on that area making it look darker.
  
• Others say that using deodorants promotes underarm darkening. This is not actually true although using very strong deodorants might cause irritation to sensitive skin thus leading to unsightly skin color. So, when choosing a deodorant, make sure that is compatible with the type of skin you have. The main reason why using deodorants lead to skin darkening is that the leftover residues of deodorants stick to the skin even if we take a shower everyday. If it isn't scrubbed away, it will stay there covering the natural lighter color of your underarms.
  
• Blouses or shirts having very tight underarm holds also lead to skin darkening. Underarms are one of the most sensitive areas of the body. Tight clothing which squeezes them promotes pressure and heat which then result to underarm discoloration.
  
• Genetics is also one great factor in having hyperpigmented underarms.

Eye Bags

• What Are Eye Bags?
• Tips To Prevent Eye Bags
• Tips On How To Minimize The Appearance Of Eye Bags
• Tea Bags For Eye Bags
  
• Extraderm Age-Defy Wrinkle-Correct Eye Cream
  

Some factors which possibly cause eye-bag formation:

• Experts say that this usually happens especially to people who have taken too much amount of water or liquid or have eaten salty foods before going to bed. The swelling around the eyes usually diminishes after a few hours when the fluids have been re-absorbed by the body.
  
• There are people who still wake up having puffy eyes even though they have had enough hours sleeping overnight. Please consider the fact that it might also be due to allergic reactions. Say for example, you might have eaten something you are allergic from or perhaps, your pillows are not suitable for your skin type.
  
• Most women may also suffer from eye bags especially during their menstrual visits. This is because of the monthly hormonal changes in the body.
  
• Aging is another factor for having eye bags. While we age, our skin also ages. Through the years, the skin located around the eyes becomes thinner and thinner. The skin also loses its elasticity therefore causing the underlying fat around the eyes bulges out resulting to what we call eye bags.
  
• If the swelling around the eyes is similar to round pouches rather than just simple puffiness, consult your physician immediately as it might be a sign of underlying disease, usually connected to a thyroid condition commonly known as Grave's disease. It can also be related to kidney issues.

Bio-Oil - Scar and Stretch Mark Treatment

Bio-Oil is a new skincare preparation available in the market today containing Pur-Cellin Oil.

The product has been tested and proven to eliminate scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone with continued use. It also helps the skin reverse its aging process while keeping the skin hydrated. Below are short summaries on how Bio-Oil helps eliminate unwanted skin conditions:

• Bio-Oil improves the condition of the skin having scar tissues therefore slowly minimizes the appearance of both the new and old scars.
• Bio-Oil prevents the occurrence of stretch marks which usually start appearing when there is a quick change in the body size during pregnancy, adolescence and weight loss. It also diminish the appearance of other exisiting stretch marks.
• Bio-Oil minimizes uneven skin pigmentations and blemishes.
• Bio-Oil improves the skin's elasticity thus reversing the aging process of the skin. It repairs wrinkled areas of the skin and makes skin smooth.
• Bio-Oil protect the skin from drying and losing water. It therefore promote skin hydration, soothing the skin and preventing it from chapping.

Other important ingredients of Bio-Oil are Vitamins A and E, Calendula, Lavender and Rosemary Oils, Chamomile Extract, Mineral Oil, Triisononanoin, Cetearyl EthylHexanote, Isopropyl Myristate, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sunflower Oil, Soybean Oil, BHT, Bisabolol, Perfume and Cl26100 which is also known as Red 17. If you are allergic to any of the mentioned components, please consult your physician or dermatologist first before trying it on your skin.

The product is available in 60 mL (price ranges from US$12-15), 125 mL (price ranges from US$20-24) and 200 mL (price ranges from US$28-33) bottles.