Dihydropyridine

Products Dihydropyridines are commercially available in many countries in the form of film-coated tablets, sustained-release tablets, capsules, and injectables. Nifedipine from Bayer (Adalat) was the first active ingredient from this group to enter the market in the mid-1970s. Today, amlodipine (Norvasc, generics) is most commonly prescribed. Structure and properties The name 1,4-dihydropyridines is derived from … Dihydropyridine

Off-Label Use

Definition In drug therapy, “off-label use” refers to deviations from the officially approved specifications in the drug information leaflet of approved drugs that are ready for use. Frequently, this concerns the areas of application (indications). However, other changes also fall under the definition, for example with regard to the dose, duration of therapy, patient groups, … Off-Label Use

First-Pass Metabolism

The effect of the first liver passage For a perorally administered pharmaceutical agent to exert its effects at the site of action, it usually must enter the systemic circulation. To do so, it must pass through the intestinal wall, the liver, and part of the circulatory system. Despite complete absorption in the intestine, the bioavailability … First-Pass Metabolism

Nifedipine: Drug Effects, Side Effects, Dosage and Uses

Products Nifedipine is commercially available in the form of sustained-release tablets (generics). It was first approved in the mid-1970s. Sales of the original Adalat were discontinued in many countries in 2019. Structure and properties Nifedipine (C17H18N2O6, Mr = 346.3 g/mol) is a dihydropyridine. It exists as a yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in … Nifedipine: Drug Effects, Side Effects, Dosage and Uses

Nifedipine Cream for Anal Fissure

Effects Nifedipine is an active ingredient of the dihydropyridine group and has a relaxing effect on vascular smooth muscle. When used topically or orally, it dilates blood vessels, improves blood flow and thus wound healing, is anti-inflammatory, and relieves anal sphincter spasms. Dihydropyridines inhibit the influx of calcium into smooth muscle cells by inhibiting L-type … Nifedipine Cream for Anal Fissure

Altitude Sickness

Symptoms Symptoms of altitude sickness are nonspecific and usually appear 6-10 hours after ascent. However, they can also occur after as little as one hour: Headache Dizziness Sleep disorders Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Fatigue and tiredness Rapid heartbeat Accelerated breathing, shortness of breath Severe symptoms: Cough Shortness of breath even at rest Tightness … Altitude Sickness

Labor Inhibitors

Indications Inhibition of labor during pregnancy to prevent preterm delivery Active ingredients Minerals: Magnesium (e.g. magnesium diasporal). Calcium channel blockers: Nifedipine (Adalat, generic, off-label). Progestins: Progesterone (Utrogestan) Probiotics: Lactobacilli (vaginal suppositories to prevent infections). Oxytocin antagonists: Atosiban (Tractocile). Sympathomimetics: Hexoprenaline (Gynipral) Fenoterol (no indication in many countries). Salbutamol (Ventolin, no indication in many countries). Other … Labor Inhibitors

Diffuse Esophageal Spasm

Symptoms Diffuse esophageal spasm manifests as seizure-like pain behind the breastbone (chest pain) and difficulty swallowing. The pain may radiate to the arms and jaw, similar to angina. Other possible symptoms include shortness of breath, cramping and burning. The duration of attacks varies, ranging from seconds to minutes. They are often triggered by food intake, … Diffuse Esophageal Spasm

Photosensitivity

Symptoms Photosensitivity often manifests like sunburn in extensive skin redness, pain, a burning sensation, blistering, and hyperpigmentation after healing. Other possible skin reactions include eczema, itching, urticaria, telangiectasia, tingling, and edema. The nails may also be affected less frequently and may peel off in front (photoonycholysis). The symptoms are limited to the areas of the … Photosensitivity

Gingival Hyperplasia: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Gingival hyperplasia is a growth of the gums. It belongs to the group of periodontal diseases. What is gingival hyperplasia? Gingival hyperplasia is a growth of the gums. It is classified in the group of periodontal diseases (periodontopathies). The term gingival hyperplasia is composed of the Latin terms “gingiva” (gums) and “hyperplasia” (excessive formation of … Gingival Hyperplasia: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Nifedipine: Effects, Uses & Risks

Nifedipine is a drug used to lower blood pressure, the action of which is based on the inhibition of calcium influx into the smooth muscle cells. The active ingredient belongs to the group of calcium antagonists of the 1,4-dihydropyridine type. The drug, which used to be widely used for high blood pressure, has largely lost … Nifedipine: Effects, Uses & Risks