Irbesartan

Irbesartan along with Candesartan, eprosartan, losartan, olmesartan, telmisartan, and valsartan are angiotensin-II receptor antagonists (blockers) with many properties similar to those of the ACE inhibitors. Irbesartan, is used to treat hypertension, and to help protect the kidneys from damage due to diabetes. The medicine works by blocking the action of angiotensin-II. This is a naturally occurring substance in the body that constricts blood vessels. The action of Irbesartan prevents this from happening causing the blood vessel walls to relax (widen); this in turn reduces blood pressure. However, unlike ACE inhibitors, they do not inhibit the breakdown of bradykinin (a peptide found within the body that helps to enlarge or open blood vessels.) and other kinins, and thus are less likely to cause the persistent dry cough which can complicate ACE inhibitor therapy and are a useful alternative for individuals who have fallen victim to the persistent dry cough complication.

Irbesartan is being evaluated for the treatment of some other conditions, such as heart failure. This condition is usually treated by the use of ACE inhibitors.

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Information based on taking medication where the active ingredient is Irbesartan.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Vasodilator and Antihypertensive medicine – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol should also be avoided as it may increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of Irbesartan.
• Aprovel tablets contain lactose (e.g. lactose). If your doctor has told you that you are intolerant to some sugars, discuss it with him/her before taking this medicine.
• Take with a glass of water. You can take the tablets with or without food.
• Try to take your medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses (become habit forming).

Side Effects

You may if prescribed Irbesartan suffer one or more of these side effects in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, It does not automatically follow that being on Irbesartan will cause you unwanted adverse effects.

Very common: (affects 1 to 10 users in 100): Drowsiness, if you suffer from high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes with kidney disease, blood tests may show an increased level of potassium.
Common (affects 1 in 100 users in 10,000): dizziness, feeling sick/vomiting, fatigue and blood tests may show raised levels of an enzyme that measures the muscle and heart function (creatine kinase enzyme). In patients with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes with kidney disease, dizziness when getting up from a lying or sitting position, pain in joints or muscles.
Uncommon (affects less than 1 user in 1000): heart rate increased, flushing, cough, diarrhoea, indigestion/heartburn, sexual dysfunction (problems with sexual performance), chest pain.
rare allergic skin reactions (rash, urticaria), as well as localized swelling of the face, lips and/or tongue. If you show any sign of these symptoms get in touch with your doctor immediately.

The side effects listed here are the most common to the most rare problems reported by patients using Irbesartan. It may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here.

Prolonged Use

Although there would be no special problems when taken over a long period of time periodic blood checks on your potassium levels may need to be performed.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

It is unlikely to cause driving or operating machine problems. However, it is possible that dizziness and weariness can occur during treatment of high blood pressure, from time to time, you should avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how Irbesartan affects you or seek advice from your doctor. Alcohol should be avoided as it may increase blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of Irbesartan.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

You will need to discuss the taking of Irbesartan with your doctor, safety in both pregnancy and breast-feeding is not known. Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists should be avoided in pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you might be while taking Irbesartan speak with your doctor.

Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists may adversely affect fetal and neonatal blood pressure control. Skull defects and oligohydramnios (a deficiency of amniotic fluid) have also been reported.

Not recommended if you intend to breast-feed.

Patient information has Irbesartan classified as a pregnancy Category C (first trimester) and Category D (second and third trimesters) medicine. Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
Category D… There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Surgery or Dental Treatment

It would be best to let any professional such as a doctor/dentist know prior to surgery or general anaesthetic that you take medicine with the active ingredient Irbesartan. It may need to be stopped prior to surgery or general anaesthetic. This may also apply if you take other drugs.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, vitamins, herbal and complimentary/alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor or pharmacist about.»

Over 60’s & Children

It may be necessary to administer a reduced dose to the elderly over 75 years of age. The safety and efficacy (desired effect) of Irbesartan has not yet been fully established and should not be used in children or adolescents under the age of 18 years.

Overdose

If an unintentional extra dose is taken it would be unlikely to cause problems. In cases of overdose Irbesartan may cause a drop in blood pressure (hypotension) and irregular heart beat (too fast or too slow). Notify your Doctor immediately.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

You may need to have blood checks if you take:

• Potassium supplements, ciclosporin and potassium-sparing duretics (such as: amiloride, triamterene, spironolactone) are enhanced when taking Irbesartan. leading to raised potassium levels in the blood.
• Salt substitutes containing potassium.
• Medicines containing lithium. (Irbesartan increases the blood levels and toxicity of lithium).
• Some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs may reduce the blood-pressure effects of Irbesartan.

Missed A Dose

Skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

It is important that you do not stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor. It is possible that the symptoms will recur.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

Blood pressure lowered within 1 – 2 weeks. For maxium benefits this would take 4 – 6 weeks from the start of your treatment. The duration of the action last up to 24 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• If your due to have treatment like an operation or dental work tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• When you buy any medicines over-the-counter check with the pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
• Never take Irbesartan if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C or above a working area where high condensation may exist.
• Keep Irbesartan in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely. without causing unwanted effects on our enviroment.

If Irbesartan has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

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Reference:

The link below assumes you already have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. You will need it to read the Patient Information Leaflet. If you have not you can down load Adobe Acrobat Reader free from Adobe.com.

• sanofi-aventis Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) last updated on electronic Medicines Compendium eMC: 05/07/2011. Aprovel 150mg film coated tablets (sanofi-aventis)
• Sanofi Pharma Bristol-Myers Squibb SNC Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) last updated on electronic Medicines Compendium eMC: 15/09/2011. CoAprovel 150/12.5 mg, 300/12.5 mg and 300/25 mg Film-Coated Tablet (sanofi-aventis Bristol-Myers Squibb SNC)
• British National Formulary – 61st Edition (March 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Xenical

Xenical capsules contain the active ingredient orlistat, which is a type of medicine called a lipase inhibitor. It is used to help those who suffer from over-weight or obesity. According to the (PIL) Patient Information Leaflet, Xenical works in your digestive system to block about one-third of the fat in the food you eat from being digested. Xenical attaches its self to the enzymes in your digestive system (lipases) and blocks them from breaking down some of the fat you have eaten during your meal. The undigested fat cannot be absorbed and is eliminated by your body.

Xenical should be taken with a well-balanced, calorie controlled diet that is rich in fruit and vegetables and contains an average of 30% of the calories from fat. Your daily intake of fat, carbohydrate and protein should be distributed over three meals. ie.take one capsule at breakfast time, one capsule at lunch time and one capsule at dinner time. Because Xenical only works in the presence of dietary fat. If you miss a main meal or if you have a meal containing no fat, Xenical need not be taken.

Orlistat can be sold to the public for the treatment of obesity in adults over 18 years with a body mass index of 28 kg/m2 or more, taken in conjunction with a mildly hypo-caloric, lower-fat diet (max. daily dose 180mg).

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Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• lipase inhibitor medication with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Prescription only drug – NO.
• Alcohol Avoidance – LIMIT.
• Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol it may undermine the desired effects of Xenical.
• The capsule should be swallowed with water. Immediately before, during a meal or up to one hour after a meal.
• Take Xenical exactly as your doctor has told you.
• Do not take more than three capsules per day (max. 360mg).

Side Effects

You may if prescribed Xenical suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all. It does not follow that being on this medication will cause you unwanted adverse effects.

Very Common (affects more than 1 user in 10): Headache, abdominal pain/discomfort, urgent or increased need to open the bowels, flatulence (wind) with discharge, oily discharge, oily or fatty stools, liquid stools, low blood sugar levels (experienced by some people with type 2 diabetes).
Common (affects 1 to 10 users in 100): Rectal pain/discomfort, soft stools, incontinence (stools), bloating (experienced by some people with type 2 diabetes), tooth/gum disorder, irregularity of menstrual cycle, and tiredness.
The use of an additional contraceptive method is recommended to prevent possible failure of oral contraception that could occur in case of severe diarrhoea. Which is a common side effect of this medication.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using Xenical. It may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common/very common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer some other side effects not listed here.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Xenical has no known effect on your ability to drive a car or operate machinery. Weight loss programs normally recommend limiting The intake of alcohol. While there is no fat in alcohol the calorie count may be high. It would be best to speak with your doctor on this matter.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

The safety of this medicine in pregnancy has not been established. Taking Xenical during pregnancy is not recommended. Do not breast-feed your baby during treatment with Xenical as it is not known whether Xenical passes into the breast milk. Only given in pregnancy if the benefits to the individual outweigh the risks.

Your doctor should discuss with you the risks and the positive results that you get from the use of orlistat during pregnancy.

Before You Take Xenical

Manufacturer advice Do not take Xenical If:

• You are allergic (hypersensitive) to orlistat or to any of the other ingredients of Xenical.
• You have chronic malabsorption syndrome (insufficient absorption of nutrients from alimentary tract).
• You have cholestasis (liver disorder).
• You are breast-feeding.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary/alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Children

Xenical is not recommended for infants or children. However, if the child is 12 years, or older Orlistat may be prescribed, but only on the advice of a specialist. [unlicensed use].

Overdose

If you take more capsules than you have been told to take, or if someone else accidentally takes your medicine, contact a doctor, pharmacist as you may need medical attention.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help, without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

This is important as using more than one medicine at the same time can strengthen or weaken the effects of other medicines. Losing weight can also mean you need adjustments to the dose of these medicines. Xenical may modify the activity of:

• Anticoagulant drugs (e.g. warfarin).
• Co-administration with ciclosporin is not recommended. Your doctor may need to monitor your ciclosporin blood levels more frequently than usual.
• Iodine salts and/or levothyroxine.
• Amiodarone (medication used for irregular heart beat). You may ask your doctor for advice.
• Orlistat may cause an imbalance when taken with anticonvulsant medication. (decreasing absorption of antiepileptic drugs, thus leading to convulsions).
• Xenical reduces the absorption of supplements of some fat soluble nutrients, particularly beta-carotene and vitamin E.

Missed A Dose

Xenical only works in the presence of dietary fat. Therefore, if you miss a main meal or if you have a meal containing no fat, Xenical need not be taken.

Stopping Medication

Tell your doctor if, for any reason, you have not taken your medicine exactly as prescribed. Otherwise, your doctor may think that it had no effect on you or caused you problems and may change your treatment unnecessarily.

Safety and Storage

• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• If your due to have treatment like an operation or dental work tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• When you buy any medicines over-the-counter check with the pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
• Never take Xenical if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C or above a working area where high condensation may exist.
• Keep Xenical in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely. without causing unwanted effects on our inviroment.

If Xenical has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

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Reference:

• Roche Products Limited Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) last updated on electronic Medicines Compendium eMC: 01/06/2011. Xenical 120mg hard capsules.
• British National Formulary – 61st Edition (March 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Update On Alzheimer’s

Well if like me you are a fish lover then according to new research I’m five times unlikely to ever suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease, memory loss and other key brain functions. Just by eating fish once a week.

According to Dr Raji’s team at the University of Pittsburgh USA. eating fish either baked or grilled helps to preserve the Grey matter volume in brain area’s that are at risk from the disease that affects more than 460,000 individuals here in the UK.

The down side to this good news is if you are a fish and chip lover and do not like the idea of baked or grilled, fish then you won’t be receiving any protection from Alzheimer’s. This is because the nutritious benefits are not present in the fried meal.

Read the full story.

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Image: Suat Eman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Dark Chocolate and Exercise

Well its looking like another plus for Dark Chocolate eaters. Researchers while studying the effects of a compound called epicatechin (found in coco) on mice found that their energy levels went through the roof and also were able to exercise for longer periods of time.

The team are now looking to see if it will have a similar effect on humans. Their hope is that it will delay or counteract age related muscle wasting.

Dr Malek of Wayne State University Detroit said: “More mitochondria means more energy is produced, so more work can be performed”. He went on to say “Our study found epicatechin seems to cause the same response particularly in the heart and and skeletal muscles”. However, NHS Choices (certified member The Information Standard) point out large amounts of chocolate can have many negative effects on our body and the study does not show that eating large amounts of dark chocolate is beneficial, or that it is a substitute for exercise in humans and, that Epicatechin is found also in other food.

The website also has links to the various newspapers that reported the story.

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Image: dan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Stop Alzheimer’s In Its Tracks

For Some time now I have posted about much research that is being done to combat Alzheimer’s Disease and although it can not help those who suffer, like yesterday, the promising results are still some if not many years away yet.

This post is on the same subject but this time with a difference. Scientists are working on creating tiny molecules that attack and destroy harmful proteins. These particular proteins kill nerve ending which leads to memory loss and confusion.

Professor David Allsop of Lancaster University hopes to have a drug ready to use on humans within the next 5 to 6 years. Although still some time away before it begins it testing on humans, it is definitely much soon than other research I have posted on Alzheimer’s.

Hopefully his research will bring a much brighter light to the end of the tunnel, for those individuals who suffer this terrible disease, and their families who at the moment can only watch on as their loved one slowly loose their ability to think and much, much more. More than you would ever want to wish on your worst enemy (I would hope).

Read more about Professor Allsop’s and his teams research hopes.

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Image: jscreationzs / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Piroxicam 0.55w/w Gel

Piroxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). It is used to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by rheumatic disorders only if other NSAIDs have been ineffective.

Piroxicam works by blocking a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase which is involved in the production of irritant chemicals in response to conditions such as arthritis. By blocking the action of cyclo-oxygenase, piroxicam reduces the symptoms of pain and inflammation.

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Piroxicam is also available as a topical preparation to be applied directly to the skin to help relieve inflammation, pain and stiffness. The information that follows here is for use of Piroxicam 0.5 w/w Gel only.

Piroxicam is a mild to moderate anti-inflammatory pain and stiffness relieving preparation which, when applied to the skin, provides relief from muscular or joint pain caused by rheumatism or injury, pain from arthritis such as knee problems, pain or swelling from a sprain, back sprain, bruise or tennis elbow.

The body produces a chemical called prostaglandin in response to injury or certain diseases. Prostaglandins are responsible for causing swelling, pain and inflammation. Piroxicam 0.55w/w in the Gel reduces these effects as well as improving the blood supply to the skin.

Before Using

Do not use Piroxicam if you have or have had:

• An allergic reaction to piroxicam or any of the other ingredients of Piroxicam gel.
• Asthma that is made worse by aspirin or other painkilling medicines.
• An allergic reaction to aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory painkillers (an example) if you had an itchy red rash, hay-fever like symptoms or asthma after taking these medicines.

Directions for use:

You should follow the directions given you by your doctor or pharmacist. If this gel was given you by your doctor he will have given instruction on the use of the gel on your prescription. These instruction will then be printed by the pharmacist on to a label which will be adhered to the carton/tube.

The manufacturers guide lines are: Squeeze about 1 and a quarter inches (3cm) from the tube on to your finger or hand and gently massage it in to the skin around the injury. The massage as you rub the gel into the skin is an important part of the treatment. Do not apply the gel and leave to soak in. You should not apply Piroxicam more than four times daily. After a four week period has elapsed if symptom still persist speak to your doctor. You should wash your hands immediately before and after applying the gel, unless your hands are the area being treated. Piroxicam Gel is not to be used on broken or inflamed skin.

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Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Piroxicam 0.5%w/w gel If accidentally swallowed Contact a doctor or go to A&E at your local hospital.
• Dependency is said to be – NOTHING NOTEWORTHY.
• Prescription only medication – NO.
• If obtainable on prescription – YES.
• Alcohol Avoidance – NOTHING NOTEWORTHY.
• Not to be used on children under 12 years of age.
• This product is for external use only.
• Do not swallow or use near sensitive areas such as: eyes, moist membranes (mouth, nasal passages) or ano-genital region.
• Do not apply to inflamed or broken skin (e.g. cuts or grazes).)
• The gel can sometimes make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Side Effects

You may if prescribed Piroxicam gel suffer one or more of these side effects in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all. It does not follow that being on this treatment will cause unwanted adverse effects.

If you experience any of the following side effects Speak to your doctor immediately.

• Breathlessness.
• Rash, bruising or blistering of the skin.

Other Side Effects may include:

• Skin becoming red, sore, itchy, painful, numb or tingly (contact dermatitis).
• Itchy rash(scale-like) caused by sun light.

Rare: feeling sick. upset stomach.

These side effects should disappear when you stop using the gel. If the side effects become serious or you experience side effects not listed here you should tell your doctor or pharmasict.

Piroxicam gel does not normally cause unwanted side effects however, having said that it is possible that the gel may cause unwanted side effects in some individuals with sensitive skin. If any of the side effects listed give you problems you should stop using the gel and tell your doctor or pharmacist about the problem you have encountered. Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes and the moist membranes lining the inside of certain parts of the body, eg mouth, nasal passages (mucous membranes). Rinse with cold water if accidental contact occurs.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or pharmacist.

Prolonged Use

Do not use Piroxicam Gel for more than 4 weeks. If symptoms persist see your doctor.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

No problems would be expected. This also applies to alcohol.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

Consult with your doctor before using the gel. Do not use piroxicam gel if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or think you may be pregnant.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

There are no problems associated with adults or the elderly. Piroxicam gel should not be used on children under 12 years of age, and those with sensitive skin.

Special Warning

Piroxicam gel Is for external use only. If you do accidentally get this medicine in your mouth, nose or eyes wash out immediately then contact your doctor. If some is accidentally swallowed manufactures guide lines state you should contact a doctor immediately, failing this go to the A&E department at your local hospital. Take the container with you.

Missed A Dose

If you do forget to use it this would not be a problem, use as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to your next application when you remember, do not take the missed one just continue when you next require it. Do not double the amount of gel to make up for a missed one. Do not use more than 4 times daily.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not use this medicine for more than 4 weeks.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

Usually brings fast relief.

Storage and Safety

• Never use more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• If your due to have treatment like an operation or dental work tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• When you buy any medicines over-the-counter check with the pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
• Never take Piroxicam Gel if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C or above a working area where high condensation may exits.
• Keep Piroxicam Gel in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely. without causing unwanted effects on our environment.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Alzheimers Only A switch Away

It looks very much like Alzheimer’s Disease will in the not to distant future become just a bad memory. I have had first hand experience of individuals suffering this debilitating illness and believe me it is something you would not wish on your worst enemy. It is heart breaking to work alongside individuals caring for some loved one suffering this progressive degenerative brain syndromes which affect memory, thinking, behaviour and emotion.

My heart goes out to those families (anyone) who cares and supports a member of their family with this illness and have no other choice but watch on as they loved one becomes confused forgetting the names of people, places, appointments and recent events becoming so confused they even forget who the person caring for them is, until eventually, they will need help with all their daily activities, and I mean all.

Can you imagine what it must feel like to go from being a husband, wife, etcetera the brain damage gradually eating away their loved ones memories of the life they shared till in the end you become a nothing to this person you are caring for. Nothing but an interfering busybody (was one term I heard used). I can’t, and pray god I never have a need to find out.

Anyway the reason for this post is about something I read not so long ago. It appears researchers from the University of Southern California tested their new invention on rats drugged to forget and found when it was switched on the drugged rats immediately remembered the correct lever to press to get water. When it was switched off they were unable to remember the correct switch to press. More of this story.

Sussane Sorensen head of research for the Alzheimer’s Society is reported as saying: “Finding ways to combat symptoms caused by changes in the brain is an on-going battle for researchers. An implant like this one developed for the study could provide an exciting new prospect with real potential.”

The University now plan to develop a device to use on monkeys with a long term aim, of using it on Humans.

It is also reported that as well as the benefit it will be to Alzheimer sufferers it will also help stroke victims and people with brain injuries.

An overview accompanied with a video of Alzheimer’s disease can be found on the NHS Choices homepage, ‘Your health, your choices’

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Image: smokedsalmon / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Pancreatic Cancer And Vitamin A

If like me you believe in making sure you take a regular in-take of vitamins to keep the doctor away (so to speak) you will be well aware of the benefits of vitamin A.

Some of the benefits we receive from vitamin A are it aids our vision. It is also responsible for healthy skin and keeps our mucus membranes working efficiently. The mucus membranes when clogged can cause ear infections, headaches and sore throats, as well as bronchial and lung infections. Those are just some of the complaints the lack of vitamin A can do for you. It also helps with the growth of our teeth, and bones and can be used as a treatment for acne.

Sources Of Vitamin A are green vegetables, carrots, tomatoes, Full fat dairy produce, fish liver oils, liver, kidney, eggs, apricots and peaches.

It now appears that Vitamin A is not just capable of helping to keep our body topped up, researchers have found by injecting vitamin A into healthy cells surrounding cancerous cells helped to combat the cancer. Checkout the full story

Around 7,800 people are diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer each year. It is the fifth most common cause of death from cancer, accounting for 5% of all cancer cases. Read more on how this kind of cancer may be avoided, watch a video of how sufferers of this complaint cope day to day with such a devastating illness.

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Image: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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