Migraines are characterized as intermittently-occurring, painful, throbbing headaches resulting from transient vasodilation of intracranial blood vessels. Estimates suggest that for every 1 million persons in the general population, a total of 3000 migraine attacks will be experienced on a daily basis. Although migraine is among the most common neurological disorders in both men and women, …
Reglan (Metoclopramide) is a medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of gastroparesis or delayed stomach emptying. Gastroparesis often occurs as a result of conditions such as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and diabetes, but is also sometimes experienced by patients following surgery (post-operative). Assuming an individual postpones treatment of ongoing gastroparesis, stomach acid can …
Topamax (Topiramate) is an anticonvulsant agent discovered in 1979 by Bruce Maryanoff and Joseph Gardocki while working for McNeil Pharmaceutical (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson). When compared to other anticonvulsant agents, Topamax is regarded as unique in that it is pharmacologically classified as a sulfamate-substituted monosaccharide derivative, indicating that its chemical structure is similar …
Migraines are characterized as excruciatingly painful headaches commonly accompanied by symptoms of nausea and/or sensory hypersensitivity (such as to light or sound). A small percentage of individuals with migraines are able to prevent future migraine attacks with strategic lifestyle changes such as: reducing stress, adhering to a strict sleep schedule, and/or dietary adjustments. However, many …
Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) that was initially FDA approved in 1964 (under the brand name “Pamelor”) for the treatment of major depression. It is regarded as chemical successor to Amitriptyline based on the fact that Nortriptyline is Amitriptyline’s predominant psychoactive metabolite. Since Nortriptyline has been on the market since the mid-1960s, researchers are …
Amitriptyline (brand name “Elavil”) is a medication that was initially approved by the FDA in 1961 for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Due to its three-ring chemical structure, it is formally classified as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA). Though not formally approved in the United States to treat conditions other than major depression, Amitriptyline is …
Fioricet is a brand name medication comprised of the following ingredients: butalbital (50 mg), acetaminophen (300 mg), and caffeine (40 mg). The combination of a barbiturate (butalbital), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (acetaminophen), and central nervous system stimulant (caffeine) – seem to act synergistically to alleviate various types of headaches. Medically, Fioricet is approved by the …