Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics with a broad spectrum of activity. They work by inhibiting protein synthesis, which leads to bacterial cell death. The common tetracyclines prescribed in the United States are tetracycline, minocycline,...
Electrolytes, such as sodium, calcium and potassium, are important minerals in the body responsible for maintaining acid levels, fluid balance, and muscle functioning. A number of factors can lead to electrolyte imbalance, such as excessive...
There are several medical treatments for rosacea, an inflammatory disease of the skin that can be chronic. The disease generally affects adults and can progressively get worse if left untreated. Rosacea can appear as facial red areas, pustules...
It may sound a little too simple, but one way to prevent excessive urination, or polyuria, is to keep track of how much fluid you drink in the course of a day. It may be useful to keep a beverage diary, charting how much you drink, when and what...
Over-the-counter fiber supplements are known as cilium or psyllium. Cilium is used to absorb liquid in the intestines helping the stool to bulk up. These supplements are used to treat diarrhea and constipation in addition to helping lower...
Retin-A is a powerful prescription medication that is mainly used to treat acne. It is also used to improve the overall quality of the skin by improving discolorations caused by acne scars and even smoothing out fine lines. Retin-A is best used...
Epsom salts refer to a crystallized form of magnesium sulfate, a naturally occurring compound that has many health benefits. It's an over-the-counter product used as a home remedy for the following: a bath for aches and pains; a natural laxative;...
The acidity of the blood is tightly controlled by the kidneys, respiratory system and chemical buffers in the blood. Normal blood pH levels are 7.4. If blood pH drops below 7.35, symptoms of acidosis may occur. A study in the May 2010 issue of the...
Low sodium levels, or hyponatremia, can lead to confusion, a coma or even death. It is the most common electrolyte disorder in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Low sodium levels must be treated promptly to...
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells that are able to invade neighboring tissues. The cells divide over and over, forming a tumor. Cancers can develop anywhere in your body, and many of them can metastasize, or spread. They can be rapid- or...
Metamucil, an over-the-counter fiber product, can be used as a dietary supplement or laxative. Although stomach pain is not a common side effect of the product, it may occur. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the way...
Electrolytes are minerals in your body that help control various physiological functions. While anyone can experience an electrolyte imbalance at some time, people with diabetes insipidus are prone to this condition. Diabetes insipidus occurs when...
In the 2005 edition of "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease," director of the USDA's Jean B. Mayer human nutrition laboratory, Richard J. Wood, Ph.D. defines iron as a "biologically essential element involved in the metabolism of all living...
Commonly used as an over-the-counter laxative, psyllium is derived from the husk and seeds of the Plantago ovata herb. Psyllium use can, however, interfere with the proper function of several types of drugs, including blood thinners like Warfarin....
Urinary tract infections account for more than 8.3 annual doctor visits, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Disease Information Clearinghouse. More common in females, urinary tract infections cause considerable discomfort involving...
Amoxicillin is a medication that belongs to a group of antibiotics called penicillin-like antibiotics. It has potential use in treatment of a number of ailments caused by harmful bacteria in your body. Acidophilus, formally known as Lactobacillus...
Magnesium citrate, a combination of magnesium carbonate and citric acid, is a dietary supplement used primarily for the treatment of magnesium deficiency. In larger doses, magnesium citrate also has strong laxative properties. Although widely...
Excessive thirst is a not a simple matter; it is a medical symptom called polydipsia. Although excessive thirst may be a symptom of serious conditions, taking too many vitamin supplements is also a possible cause. Vitamins are necessary nutrients...
Zinc is an essential trace element that plays an important role in cellular metabolism and proper functioning of the immune system. The National Institute of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 2 to 12 mg of the zinc per day,...
Physicians prescribe drugs to treat or prevent diseases, disorders and medical conditions. People also often choose to take nutritional supplements for the same reason. However, nutritional supplements can effect the safety and efficacy of certain...