On February 26, 2013 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a new pill to treat women experiencing moderate to severe dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse), a symptom of vulvar and vaginal atrophy due to menopause. The new medication goes by the trade name Osphena (chemical name ospemifene), and it is marketed exclusively in the […]
NIASPAN (niacin extended-release) – a controlled release niacin product commonly used to treat lipid disorders and certain types of cardiovascular disease. The mechanism by which niacin extended-release influences serum lipid profiles has not been well defined. It may involve several actions including partial inhibition of release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue, and increased […]
PROCRIT (erythropoietin) – an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) commonly used to treat certain types of anemia, and for reduction of the need for allogenic RBC transfusions. The mechanism by which Procrit stimulates erythropoiesis is the same mechanism as seen with endogenous erythropoietin. FDA approved uses: Procrit is indicated for – • Treatment of anemia due to […]
TOPROL-XL (metoprolol succinate) – a beta-1-selective adrenoreceptor blocking agent commonly used to treat hypertension, angina, and heart failure. The mechanism of the antihypertensive effects of beta-blocking agents has not been elucidated. However, several possible mechanisms have been proposed: (1) competitive antagonism of catecholamines at peripheral (especially cardiac) adrenergic neuron sites, leading to decreased cardiac output; […]