Fetzima (Levomilnacipran) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. Although it is similar to the drug Savella (Milnacipran), Fetzima exhibits unique pharmacodynamics in that it functions as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with a 2-fold affinity for norepinephrine reuptake inhibition – relative to serotonin reuptake inhibition. In other words, …
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is an eight-carbon organosulfur compound derived from caprylic acid (octenoic acid). It is widely understood that alpha lipoic acid is manufactured endogenously within the human body and that its presence is essential for aerobic metabolism, or the means by which the body generates energy via breakdown …
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that remains popular throughout south China and Southeast Asia wherein it is referred to as “qingcha” or dark green tea. When translated from Chinese to English, the term “oolong tea” roughly means “black dragon tea.” Similar to both green and black tea, oolong tea is a product created …
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication prescribed for the treatment of hypertension and edema (fluid accumulation and retention in bodily tissues) resulting from various medical conditions and prescription medications (e.g. corticosteroids). Other medical conditions for which hydrochlorothiazide is sometimes prescribed to treat include: congestive heart failure, diabetes insipidus, renal tubular acidosis, and kidney stones (as a …
Propranolol, sometimes referred to as “Inderal” (brand name), is a non-cardioselective sympatholytic beta blocker that was first synthesized by British scientist James Black in 1964. As a non-selective beta blocker, propranolol prevents endogenous catecholamines (e.g. norepinephrine and epinephrine) from activating Beta-1 and Beta-2 adrenergic receptors within the CNS (central nervous system) and PNS (peripheral nervous …
Mirena is a small T-shaped intrauterine device (IUD) that releases the progestin hormone “levonorgestrel” to prevent: pregnancy, heavy menstrual periods, and/or excessive build of the uterus lining in persons on estrogen replacement therapy. When properly inserted within the uterus, Mirena is programmed to release 20 micrograms of levonorgestrel per day, and is expected to remain …
Buspar (buspirone) is a medication [of the azapirone classification] that’s most commonly administered for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Although Buspar is solely approved by the FDA for the treatment treat anxiety disorders, it is occasionally prescribed for other medical conditions like: major depressive disorder (as a standalone or adjunct); cerebellar ataxia; sexual …