Author: Noel Austin
Managing Opioid Constipation: How Peripherally Acting Mu Antagonists Work
PAMORAs like methylnaltrexone, naloxegol, and naldemedine treat opioid constipation without reducing pain relief. They work in the gut, not the brain, and can restore bowel function in over 40% of patients. Learn how they compare, who they help, and why cost remains a barrier.
Vancomycin Ototoxicity vs Nephrotoxicity: Balancing the Risks in Modern Clinical Practice
Vancomycin remains vital for treating MRSA, but its risks of kidney and hearing damage require careful management. Learn how modern dosing, combination therapies, and monitoring tools are changing how clinicians balance efficacy with safety.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: Breath Tests and Treatment Explained
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) causes bloating, gas, and IBS-like symptoms. Breath tests are the main diagnostic tool but have major flaws. This article breaks down how they work, their accuracy, treatment options, and why fixing the root cause matters more than just antibiotics.
Vitamin K Supplements and Warfarin: How to Keep INR Stable
Low-dose vitamin K supplements can help stabilize INR levels in people on warfarin by reducing dietary inconsistencies. Learn how 150 mcg daily may cut dangerous INR swings and improve anticoagulation control - without expensive monitoring or new drugs.
How to Protect Controlled Medications from Theft When Traveling
Traveling with controlled medications requires careful planning to avoid theft, legal issues, or loss of access. Learn how to pack, document, and secure your prescription drugs safely-whether flying domestically or crossing international borders.
Medications with a Narrow Therapeutic Index and Expiration Risk: Why Expired Drugs Can Be Dangerous
NTI medications like warfarin, lithium, and digoxin have a tiny margin between effectiveness and toxicity. Expired versions can lose or gain potency, leading to deadly consequences. Never use them past their expiration date.
Mental Health and Medication Non-Adherence: What Actually Helps
Medication non-adherence in mental health is a silent crisis affecting millions. Learn what actually works - from pharmacist-led care to injectables - and why simple fixes like once-daily dosing can save lives.
Where to Find Detailed Side Effect Information for Your Medications
Learn where to find accurate, up-to-date side effect information for your medications using FDA-approved sources like DailyMed, MedlinePlus, OnSIDES, and VigiAccess. Avoid outdated or biased databases with this practical guide.
Glomerulonephritis Explained: How the Immune System Attacks Kidney Filters
Glomerulonephritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system damages kidney filters, leading to serious complications. Learn about its causes, symptoms, diagnosis challenges, current treatments, and emerging therapies. This article explains how this immune attack affects millions and what's being done to improve care.
Codeine Overdose Risk: Understanding CYP2D6 Ultrarapid Metabolizers
Codeine can be dangerous for some people due to genetic differences in how they process it. CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers convert codeine to morphine too quickly, risking overdose. Learn why the FDA restricts codeine for children and what safer alternatives exist.