Category: Blog

  • What percentage of Prostate Cancer is Castration-Resistant?

    What percentage of Prostate Cancer is Castration-Resistant?

    Abiraterone 250 mg

    Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer that initiates in the prostate gland cells, which is found only in males. The prostate gland is a tiny walnut-shaped gland that produce seminal fluid that helps in the locomotion and nourishment of the sperms.

    CRPC i.e. Castration-resistant prostate cancer, is a developed form of prostate cancer. The cancer is no longer entirely responding to medications that down testosterone, with CRPC. It certainly shows the indications of growth, such as increasing prostate-specific antigen even with low testosterone levels. Among prostate cancer patients, almost 10% to 20% are castration-resistant, and among them, 16 percent of the patients do not show evidence for cancer stretching out at the time of diagnosis of castration resistance.

    Abiraterone acetate can help to treat metastatic castration-resistant. Abiraterone acetate tablets advance survival for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients before and even after chemotherapy. It has a favorable impact on patients’ health-related aspects of life and anguish.

    Abiraterone acetate tablets 250 mg

    Abiraterone 250 mg is a medication used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Precisely it is used concurrently with corticosteroids for mCRPC (metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer) and mCSPC (metastatic high-risk castration sensitive prostate cancer). It is a steroidal compound having antiandrogen activity.

    Abiraterone impedes the enzymatic action of steroid 17 alpha-monooxygenase that catalyzes the steroid intermediates 17 alpha-hydroxylation, which is involved in testosterone synthesis. It simply works by avoiding the production of androgen i.e. male hormone, which is certainly done by hindering the CYP17 enzyme. This is how it helps to slow down the advancement of prostate cancer. The price of Abiraterone 250 mg is Rs. 28500/bottle.

    Administration of Abiraterone tablets

    Dosing may be diverse as per the patient’s condition. This is an oral dosage form medication. It must be taken as directed by the physician. Consume the medication via the mouth on an empty stomach at least two hours after or one hour before a meal. This tablet should be taken once a day. Consuming Abiraterone 250 mg with food can thoroughly increase the amount of this drug in the body and advance the risk of side effects. Do not break, chew or crush the tablet and swallow it as a whole. Do not miss a dose and take medication on time. Do not overdose with the medication.

    Side effects of Abiraterone 250 mg

    Most of the patients consuming Abiraterone  250mg may experience some common side effects. The side effects of Abiraterone acetate are always predictable based on the onset, duration, and severity of the tablet. These side effects are often reversible and may go away as the therapy progresses. These side effects may be relatively manageable. There are various alternatives to prevent or minimize Abiraterone’s side effects.

    Some common side effects are as follows:

    • Fluid retention
    • Intensified liver enzymes (AST)
    • Increased triglycerides

    Some less common side effects:

    • Discomfort
    • Muscle aches
    • Joint swelling
    • Diarrhea
    • Cough
    • Urinary tract infection
    • Peripheral Edema means swelling of feet and hands
    • Hypokalemia
    • Increased ALT

    Contact the physician immediately if any of the following side effects are experienced

    • Chest pain or irregularity in heart rate
    • Difficulty in breathing
    • Higher Fever and chills
    • Dizziness
    • Significant headache
    • Severe fatigue
    • Increase in blood pressure
    • Unusual bruising or bleeding
    • Yellowing of eyes or skin
    • Change in stools

    Precautions to be taken while consuming Abiraterone 250 mg

    • Tell the doctor about any medications before starting this medication if any medications are going on.
    • This medication strictly should not be taken by pregnant women without the proper consultation of a physician. While the ongoing treatment of this drug, getting pregnant or breastfeeding should be avoided.
    • The risk of QT prolongation may increase if the patient has certain medical conditions. So consult the doctor.
    • Men should use a condom or other birth control method during treatment as excretion of abiraterone acetate in semen is not known. Therefore, proper precautions should be taken.
  • Are People with HIV at Higher Risk for Heart failure?

    Are People with HIV at Higher Risk for Heart failure?

    HIV is a human immunodeficiency virus and can lead to Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) that attacks the body’s immune system and weakens the victim to fight against the infections.

    The cardiovascular influence for the patients with HIV prolongs to end-stage situations like heart failure or cardiac arrest. A recent study has found that the patients who are HIV positive are at a higher risk of heart failure as compared to the people who are not victims of this virus. According to this study findings, the maximum number of patients with HIV are prone to develop cardiac failure compared to the community without human immunodeficiency virus. Though HIV-positive patients are getting intensive care and medical attention, if by chance some misleading happens while checking the regular recovery and the risk factor of developing heart failure increases, it would be fatal. The Maraviroc is a medication generally given to HIV patients who have already obtained HIV treatment earlier.

    Maraviroc

    Maraviroc is an antiretroviral medication in the CCR5 receptor antagonist class used to treat human immunodeficiency virus. It is used in combination with other drugs in the therapy of HIV.

    Maraviroc would not prevent or cure AIDS or HIV infection; instead, it will help resist the reproduction of HIV and hence slow down the destruction of immune response. This will certainly assist in delaying the development of situations that generally occur from HIV or AIDS disease. This drug will not safeguard the patient from spreading AIDS to other patients. Though people receiving this medication will not lose much of their body’s immunity, they may persist in having some of the issues related to AIDS. This medicine is only allowed for dispensing if with a proper prescription.

    Mechanism of action of Maraviroc

    Maraviroc acts as an entry inhibitor. The maraviroc is CCT5’s negative allosteric modulator found on the distinct human cells. CCR5 is a chemokine receptor which is an essential co-receptor for maximum strains of HIV and mandatory for the entrance operation of the virus into the host cell. The drug blocks the gp120 HIV protein from correlating with the receptor by binding to CCR5. Thus, the virus cannot enter human host cells.

    Administration and dosage of Maraviroc

    This medication is available in both solution and tablet form. The dose of this medication differs according to the patient’s condition and the strength of the drug, which is prescribed properly by the respective physicians. Do not miss the dose.

    This medicine can be taken with or without food. If a tablet dosage form is consumed, then swallow it as a whole, do not crush, break or chew it and if liquid dosage forms, then the proper oral dose should be taken.

    Side effects of Maraviroc

    Along with the beneficial results, side effects can also be caused by a drug. According to the severity of the side effects, immediate medical attention is needed.

    The most common side effects of Maraviroc are as follows:

    • Hurting or burning of the skin
    • Body pain and aches
    • Headache
    • Loss of voice
    • Chills
    • Dizziness while getting up abruptly from a sitting or lying posture
    • Tenderness or pain around the cheekbones and eyes
    • Sneezing
    • Breathing issues
    • Runny nose and cough stimulating mucus
    • Fatigue and tiredness
    • Improper bowel movement
    • Loss or increase in appetite

    Some of the less common side effects of maraviroc are as follows:

    • Jaw, arm, or back pain
    • Itchy eyes that may feel dry or burning
    • Heaviness and chest pain
    • Dark colored urine or blood in the urine
    • Change in stools
    • Drowsiness
    • Rash and itchiness
    • Loss of taste
    • Anxiety
    • Seizures
    • Irritability
    • Heartburn
    • Weight gain or loss
    • Warts in the genital region

    Some side effects generally do not require medical attention and may go away with the treatment; however, seek proper medical attention if it lasts. And always consume the medicines only with proper prescription by the physician.

     

  • How to Manage Low Platelet Count due to ITP or HCV Infection?

    How to Manage Low Platelet Count due to ITP or HCV Infection?

    Trombopag 25mg/ 50 mg

    The decrease in the number of platelets due to the effect of the hepatitis c virus remains a great problem among individuals. There can be many problems introduced due to the effect of the virus. There can be the rise of many other diseases that can accompany the infection. In the patients that possessed a chronic form of the virus, there is an decrease in the count of the platelets. Thrombopoietin refers to a growth factor formed in the liver, and now it binds itself to the receptors present in the platelets. When there is a decrease in the count of the platelets, it leads to a rise in the level of the growth factor and kick starts the rise in platelets formation by the megakaryocytes. This condition can become serious when the liver patients reach a chronic stage.

    How can this situation be managed amid the HCV infection?

    In some cases, the patients that possessed a lower platelet count could not receive the treatment properly due to the introduction of the growth factor. So when the platelet counts go to a minimum, there is a high risk for the patient under the therapy via antivirals. Hence the treatment is likely to be interrupted at this stage. Once the count of the platelets goes down, there is a high probability that the patient will develop a chance of thrombocytopenia.

    The decrease in the platelet could be because it could be related to an advanced version of a disease. In such cases, even the retroviral therapies lead to a decrease in the number of platelets. Hence there are high chances for the ineffectiveness of the therapies in such situations. So the treatment might not be offered to them due to the rise in the risks. However, the solution for the problem has been brought in the form of Eltrombopag Olamine (trombopag) that has helped maintain the rise in the count of the platelets. Hence, receiving treatment effectively will benefit the patients for sure.

    Analyzing the benefits of the new drugs

    Trombopag 25 mg refers to a drug introduced to cure the low number of platelets observed in the patients due to the impact of the hepatitis c virus. These drugs help so that anti-retroviral therapies can also be offered to the patients along with the administration of these drugs. Hence it is a win situation since it can help the patients to receive better treatment and maintain the platelet count.

    How to administer the drug?

    Trombopag are taken in oral form. They are taken daily with water. However, the drug should be consumed only as per the doctor’s directions. It is better to consume the drug before consuming meals or milk products. The drug must be taken cautiously if the patient has experienced previous allergic reactions. It is better to take proper advice from the doctor before consuming the drug.

    Trombopag 50 mg also serves the same purpose and can help in raising the count of the platelet for the patients that were unable to receive an effective form of treatment. The side effects of the drug were not serious, as per the observations from the doctor. Commonly seen were nausea and rashes in the skin along with a slow loss of hair.

  • Erlotinib for Pancreatic and Lung Cancer: A first-line Treatment

    Erlotinib for Pancreatic and Lung Cancer: A first-line Treatment

    Erlotinib 150 mg (Erlotinib Tablet)

    The pancreas drips enzymes that help in digestion and secretes hormones required to regulate sugar metabolism. Pancreatic cancer initiates in the pancreatic tissues, but the most predominant type of pancreatic cancer begins in the cell linings of the duct carrying digestive enzymes. Lung Cancer begins at any part of the lungs. There are two major types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer that usually includes causes such as exposure to particular toxins, smoking, and ancestry history. Pancreatic metastases appear in the near end-stage of small cell lung cancer. Though it is rare, the major hazards of these lesions are obstructive jaundice and acute pancreatitis. For treating this pancreatic and lung cancer, Erlotinib 150 mg is used.

    The Erlotinib 150 mg is helpful and safe for non-smoker patients to treat advanced Adenocarcinoma.

    Erlotinib 150 mg is a specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor specified for Non-Small Cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and Pancreatic cancer medication. Erlotinib contains erlotinib hydrochloride, and it is a film-coated tablet. It is prescribed for the first-line therapy of sufferers with locally progressive or metastatic NSCLC (Non-Small Cell lung cancer) with EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) triggering mutations or for the patients with stable ailment after first-line chemotherapy. The Erlotinib price in India.

    Victims with locally developed and metastatic non-small lung cancer can take this drug with a combination of gemcitabine as a first-time therapy but only as per the proper prescription.

    Usage and Dosage of Erlotinib 150 mg

    Erlonat 150 mg or Erlotinib 150 mg is an oral dosage form, it must be consumed by the mouth because it is aimed at having a systematic effect, circulating to the various parts of the body through the bloodstream.

    For better effects, it is suggested to be taken at the same time every day, and it can be taken with or without food. Do not try to crush or halve the tablet before swallowing nor chew it swallow it as a whole. Take the medication as directed by the doctor.

    Medication should be kept going until the ailment advancement, or incompatible toxicity occurs.

    Side effects of Erlotinib tablets

    Dry skin, joint and muscle pain, dry eyes or irritation in the eyes or redness, diarrhea (sometimes severe conditions) may occur.

    Just keep in mind that your doctor has prescribed this medication by judging the benefits greater than the risk factor of side effects. Several patients dealing with this medication usually do not have severe side effects.

    Serious side effects of Erlotinib tablets

    Some of the serious side effects of the Erlocip 150 mg includes the following:

    • Kidney or Renal problems- change in volume of urine.
    • Signs of liver disease include nausea, loss of appetite, yellowing of skin/urine/eyes, vomiting, and stomach ache.
    • Shortness of breath
    • Chest or left arm pain
    • Weakness
    • Seizures
    • Signs of dehydration include dizziness, muscle cramps, etc.
    • Black stools, easy bleeding, eye pain, optical changes.

    Precautions while using Erlotinib tablets

    • Pregnant women should avoid Erlotinib 150 mg, and this drug is not suggested while they are breastfeeding.
    • Before consuming this drug, be sure you are not having any liver or kidney problems, eyes, stomach bleeding, or any lung or breathing issue.
    • If the patient is often smoking cigarettes, they are advised to stop smoking as smoking cigarettes shows reduced drug exposure.
    • This Erlotinib 150 mg should not be used in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy.
    • Patients are advised to quickly contact their doctor if any signs or symptoms such as redness in the eye, light sensitivity, eye pain, blurred vision, or visual changes are noticed.

    As Erlotinib 150 mg comes with certain usefulness and side effects, it should never be used without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.

  • Hepbest 25mg: A Drug for Long Term Hepatitis B

    Hepbest 25mg: A Drug for Long Term Hepatitis B

    HepBest 25mg (Tenofovir Alafenamide)

    Hepatitis B is a life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The virus causes damage and inflammation in the liver. The hepatitis B infection may continue for more than six months in some patients, which means the infection becomes chronic. Having a chronic HBV might increase the chance of liver failure, liver cancer, or cirrhosis (a disorder in which permanent scars are formed on the liver). Largely, adult patients recover completely even if their symptoms and signs are serious. While children and infants are more potential to develop long-lasting or chronic Hepatitis B infections.

    Hepatitis is a vaccine-avoidable liver infection. It can be transmitted via semen, blood, or other body fluids from an infected to a healthy person. The best way to stave off hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated. But now, a tablet named hepbest is used as a medication for chronic Hepatitis B.

    Hepbest 25mg

    Hepbest 25mg is an antiviral medicine used to treat hepatitis B infected patients, either adults or adolescents 12 years or older, weighing at least 35 kg. The hepbest 25mg includes tenofovir alafenamide, which is the antiviral medicament in the hepbest. Tenofovir alafenamide is an HBV (hepatitis B virus) nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitor to treat chronic hepatitis B infection in grown-ups or adults with compensated liver infection.

    The hepbest tablets inhibit the virus from propagating and hence control the infection. It interferes with the regular functioning of the enzyme DNA polymerase in Hepatitis B and reverses transcriptase in HIV that is crucial for the viruses for reproduction.

    The hepbest 25mg Mylan price is almost Rs. 1,099/ box comprising 30 tablets.

    Usage and dosage of Hepbest 25mg

    Always take the prescribed dose of hepbest 25mg as directed by your physician. It is an oral dosage form. Do not break, crush or chew the tablet and swallow the tablet as a whole with plenty of water. Some patients may take this medication by mouth with food prescribed by doctors as the adsorption of medicine in the body increases. The dosage may vary according to the patient’s condition and response to the medication. Before taking medicine, inform your doctor about your condition, all the prescribed or non-prescribed, or any herbal drugs you take daily for better diagnosis. For effective results, take your medication on time. Do not take less dose or overdose yourself than the prescribed dose.

    Side effects of Hepbest 25mg

    Most side effects do not need medical attention and vanish as the body adapts to the medicine. Some of the common side effects of hepbest tablets are as follows-

    • Diarrhea
    • Rashes
    • Itchiness
    • Bloating
    • Tiredness
    • Dizziness
    • Headache
    • Nausea
    • Stomach pain
    • Joint pain
    • Vomiting

    Among all the above-mentioned side effects, the most common is a headache, so to overcome this side effect, drink plenty of water. To overcome rashes, apply moisturizer daily to hydrate and soothe the skin and avoid hot water bathing.

    Precautions to be taken while taking Hepbest 25mg

    • A pregnant woman should not take this medicine without a proper prescription by a doctor.
    • Hepbest 25mg should be used with care by breastfeeding women and should not be consumed unless and until it’s very necessary with proper consultation of a doctor.
    • Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking this medication.
    • If the patient has a severe kidney disorder, consult your doctor before consuming the medicine.
    • Do not take the medicine if you notice any severe allergic reactions to the medicine. Consult the doctor directly.
    • Do the HIV test if you are unsure whether you have it because alone this medicine can worsen the HIV infection. Therefore, a combination drug therapy is used for it.

    Lastly, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine.

  • Ledifos Tablet: A combination medicine for Hepatitis C

    Ledifos Tablet: A combination medicine for Hepatitis C

    Ledifos Tablet 90 mg/400 mg (Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir)

    Ledifos TabletHepatitis C is an infection caused by a virus that stimulates liver inflammation that periodically may lead to severe liver damage. The HCV (Hepatitis C) is a blood-borne virus that spreads via infected or contaminated blood, such as from sharing syringes or unsterile tattoo devices. The hepatitis virus can result in both acute and chronic hepatitis varying in stringency from a mild ailment to a severe.

    Until previously, hepatitis C therapy needed oral medications and weekly injections that many HCV-infected patients couldn’t take due to other health issues or unwanted side effects. But now that’s changing. Currently, chronic Hepatitis C is generally curable with only oral medications that need to be taken every day for about two to six months, depending upon the patient’s condition and prescription of the doctor. Antiviral drugs such as ledifos tablets can cure Hepatitis C of chronic type.

    Ledifos Tablet

    The ledifos tab is a combination of the two antiviral medicines. Ledifos tablet is a fixed-dose combination of Ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. The healing rate of Hepatitis infected patients with genotype 1 is 94-99%.

    Ledipasvir/sofosbuvir is a two-drug combination used to treat Hepatitis C. It is an oral dosage form administered as a single pill regularly comprising 90 mg of ledipasvir, a viral NS5A inhibitor, and 400 mg of sofosbuvir, a nucleotide inhibitor of the viral RNA polymerase. Ledipasvir is generally used in a mixture with sofosbuvir for patients infected with chronic hepatitis C of genotype 1, and this drug has shown efficacy. Sofosbuvir is also utilized to treat hepatitis C of genotypes 1,2,3 and 4 in combination with the pegylated interferon and ribavirin or with ribavirin alone. Sofosbuvir is used in hepatitis C infected patients with an HIV coinfection.

    The ledifos price in India is almost Rs. 13,000/strip and Rs. 3000-6500/ bottle.

    Usage and Dosage of Ledifos Tablets

    Ledifos tab 90mg/400mg should be consumed in the prescribed dose and extent as suggested by the doctor. It should be taken at the same time regularly. It can be taken with or without food as per the patient’s wish, or sometimes the doctor may suggest according to the patient’s condition. It is strictly advised not to consume more than the prescribed dose without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.

    Inform your doctor everything about the health condition such as kidney or liver disorders so as per the requirement regular dose can be prescribed.

    Side Effects of Ledifos Tablet

    The common side effects of ledifos are headaches and tiredness. The patient should drink a sufficient amount of fluid and consume a healthier diet to overcome or avoid the side effects of the drug. Before taking medicine, you should inform your doctor whether you are regularly consuming any other supplement or medicine. Most side effects do not need any medical attention and fade away as the body adapts to the medicine.

    Some of the major and minor side effects of ledifos are as follows-

     

    • Nausea
    • Diarrhea
    • Irritability
    • Loss of appetite
    • Chest pain (rare)
    • Muscle cramps and pain
    • Vomiting
    • Insomnia
    • Abdominal pain (rare)

    Precautions while using Ledifos Tablets

    • Unless and until necessary, this medicine is not recommended for pregnant women and breastfeeding women.
    • This medication should be taken with severe caution if the patient has a history of Hepatitis B. The drug may increase the threat of reactivation of that infection of hepatitis B.
    • This medicine is not used for children below 12 years of age.
    • Patients having kidney diseases may experience adverse effects due to this drug.

    Lastly, do not consume any drug on your own without proper consultation with your doctor or a pharmacist.

  • The Most Active Element for treating Metastatic Prostate Cancer in Adult Male Patients

    The Most Active Element for treating Metastatic Prostate Cancer in Adult Male Patients

    Abiraterone acetate, also known as abiraterone 250 mg, is an oral drug for adult male patients with prostate cancer. It is a type of hormone therapy and is used along with prednisone or prednisolone. The abiraterone acetate 250 mg tablets are taken to create an interference with the growth of androgen or testosterone hormones, blocking them in the area of the tumor, adrenal gland, and testes. The enzyme needed for the production of androgen is also blocked with the help of abiraterone acetate. Since this medicine is not an over-the-counter medicine, the individual showing symptoms of such a disease should consult the doctor immediately and get the right prescription. Moreover, the drug is strictly for adult male patients, and not children or adolescent patients. Moreover, if the male patient takes part in any sexual activity, they should take birth control measures to avoid pregnancy as the dust of the medicine that can enter through the skin can harm the unborn child. The abiraterone acetate 250 mg is given to the patients when

    – Chemotherapy does not seem to have any effect on the individual and is not needed at the current stage, that is, the beginning stages.

    Administration of the abiraterone acetate 250 mg:

    The tablets should be taken orally as directed by the physician. It should be taken on an empty stomach, at least an hour before the meals or two hours after. Do not crush or chew on the tablet, rather swallow it whole with the help of water. Taking medicine with food can increase the effects of the medicine on the body and risk health. Moreover, the individual should not discontinue the drug or take more than what has been prescribed. This can lead to overdosing and even cause death.

    When should the abiraterone acetate 250 mg be avoided or taken cautiously?

    – If the patient has a medical history of diabetes or takes medicines for diabetes.

    – If the patient is suffering from or has a medical history of liver problems.

    – If the patient is suffering from or has a medical history of heart diseases.

    – If the patient has a medical history of high blood pressure or is currently suffering from the illness.

    – Consult the doctor if the patient is also taking medicines to treat seizures because of epilepsy.

    – Some inactive elements present in the medicine can cause allergy in the patient. So it is advised to discuss the allergies with the physician as well.

    – The patient should make it clear before taking this drug if they are on any herbal medicines like st John’s wort and all.

    Most common side effects of abiraterone acetate 250 mg:

    – Headache

    – High blood pressure

    – Joint pain

    – Common cold

    – Bone fractures as well as painful feet and legs

    – Increased and painful urination. There may also be a little bleeding.

    – Diarrhea

    – Breathlessness as well as chest pain.

    – Fatigue.

    Although this is not the complete list of side effects, these are the most common ones. None of the effects are too serious and should stop after a few weeks of taking medicine. If you experience any abiraterone acetate 250 mg side effects, go to the doctor and consult what to do further. If there are any allergic reactions after taking medicine, the person should also visit the doctor. With this medicine, cancer will not be completely cured, but it prolongs the lifeline by stopping the growth of the cancer cells.

  • The Treatment for Prostate Cancer with this Oral Therapy Drug

    Prostate Cancer Treatment – Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate)

    Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate) consists of abiraterone, and is responsible for treating metastatic prostate cancer in adult male patients. The Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate) belongs to a class of medicines called antineoplactic agents. The patients have to take this oral therapy drug to fight the cancer cells and prednisone or prednisolone to avoid and prevent the risk of getting high blood pressure, any fluid retention in the body, and a decrease in the potassium levels in the blood. This medicine can also be taken along with androgen deprivation therapy to lower testosterone levels in case of an early hormonal sensitivity in prostate cancer.

    The abirapro 250 mg inhibits the androgen production inside the patient’s body and sensitively binds the androgen. It also activates through the inhibition the enzyme CYP17A1. This leads to a decrease in serum levels in testosterone, hence stopping the growth of the cancer cells. This anti-cancer drug can be taken by adult male patients when:

    – Chemotherapy does not seem to have any effect on the individual.

    – The patient is in the early stages of prostate cancer and has been showing mild symptoms but has yet to receive chemotherapy.

    – Hormonal therapy alone fails to work on the adult.

    Administration for the Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate):

    The abirapro 250 mg should be taken orally as directed by the physician. This anti-cancer drug should not be taken without a prescription from a professional doctor. This tablet should be taken an hour before the meals or two hours after having the meals. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Rather, swallow it whole with the help of water. The doctor will prescribe how long the patient will have to continue on the dosage, given the condition and situation of the person. Do not stop abruptly, especially not without any instructions from the doctor. Avoid drinking things like grape juice as it can harbor unwanted side effects.

    When should the Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate) be avoided or taken cautiously?

    – If the person has a medical history of liver problems or diseases.

    – If the person is allergic to the ingredients of the medicine, specially abiraterone. Consult the doctor before this.

    – If the patient has a medical history of breathing problems or any issues with the lungs.

    – If the person has a medical history of heart diseases.

    – If the person takes medicines for diabetes, fungal infections, heart diseases, epilepsy, etc.

    – Do not take the Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate) with Ra-223 as that drug is used for treating prostate cancer, and the combination of these two medicines together can result in severe bone fractures or, worse, death.

    – This medicine is strictly for adult men. So it should be taken by a male child or adolescent.

    Most common side effects of Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate):

    – Fluid retention in the legs or feet.

    – High blood pressure.

    – Chest pain and irregular heartbeat.

    – Bone fractures.

    – Diarrhea.

    – Decrease in the potassium levels in the blood.

    – Bleeding while urination as well urinary tract infection.

    – Cholesterol levels are increased.

    – Liver damage elevates.

     Uncommon side effects of Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate):

    – Lung irritation.

    These side effects remain for the first few weeks and eventually subside. If the effects prolong – it is advisable to consult the doctor. If the patient under this medication is partaking in any sexual activity, then the right protection and birth control methods should be applied to avoid further complications. As this medicine is not over the counter, talk to a doctor and discuss the problems. If it is needed, the individual will be prescribed this Abirapro (Abiraterone Acetate). Otherwise, the doctor may give them another alternative, depending on the person’s condition.

  • Want the Best Cure for Blood Cancer? Rely on Veenat 400 (Imatinib)!

    Want the Best Cure for Blood Cancer? Rely on Veenat 400 (Imatinib)!

    Veenat 400 (Imatinib) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and finds immense use in treating various types of blood cancer (like chronic myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

    It is to be taken for the entire duration that has been advised by the medical practitioner, which will depend on the degree of responsiveness of the patient’s body towards the drug. It’s advisable to administer the medicine at the same time every day, and it should be administered along with food. An incorrect administration of the drug might cause harmful effects. It might take days or even months for any noticeable change to occur, but the medication is not to be stopped unless and until the doctor advises it.

    Common allergic reactions to this drug are:

    • Nausea
    • Muscle Cramps
    • Edema
    • Musculoskeletal Pain
    • Fatigue
    • Vomiting
    • Rash
    • Abdominal Pain
    • Diarrhea

    The practitioner may advise monitoring of the patient’s liver functions and blood cells. Any unexpected weight gain must be reported to the concerned doctor. The patient is also advised against driving and doing other activities that require mental focus on the part of the doer if they experience a blurry vision with accompanying dizziness, which is normal.

    Physicians should positively check the compatibility of this drug with any other medications that the patient would be undergoing simultaneously to prevent any unhealthy interactions between the two and the ensuing irritation.

    Benefits of Veenat 400 (Imatinib)

    • In Blood Cancer (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia), cancer in the blood-forming tissues decreases the body’s infection-fighting abilities. This drug helps by killing or retarding the multiplication of the cancerous cells. This is a very potent drug, and the patient is advised to avoid alcohol consumption and stay hydrated during the medication.
    • In the case of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, another form of blood cancer, this medication is quite effective.
    • In the case of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST), Veenat 400 (Imatinib) cures by killing the cancerous cells and stopping the growth of tumors in the Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC).

    Side Effects of Veenat 400 (Imatinib)

    Common side-effects of the drug are Edema (Swelling), Nausea, Muscle Cramp, Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle, or joint) pain, Diarrhea, Rash, Fatigue, and Abdominal Pain. The patient may develop one or more of these side effects at the onset of the medication, but it generally goes away once their body adapts to the medication. However, the patient is advised to consult their medical practitioner if the symptoms persist or exacerbate.

    Mode and Way of Administration

    The drug is to be administered strictly following the dosage prescribed by the practitioner. The tablet is to be swallowed as a whole. The patient is advised against chewing, crushing, or breaking the tablet. It’s advisable to take the drug with food. If the patient accidentally misses a particular drug dose, they are advised to skip it altogether and stick to the normal schedule. There’s no need to double the next dose.

    Working of Veenat 400 (Imatinib)

    Veenat 400 (Imatinib) is a cancer-curing drug that induces apoptosis (planned cell death) in the bcr-abl positive cells (cancer cells). Bcr-abl tyrosine kinase is a protein-secreting enzyme that causes cancer cells to proliferate abnormally.

    Interaction With Other Drugs

    The practitioner is advised to check for possible interactions that this drug may have with any other drugs that the patient would be taking. Some of the drugs which can cause serious side effects if they interact with Veenat 400 (Imatinib) are Atorvastatin, Carbamazepine, Fluvastatin, and Lovastatin.

  • Facts of Encephalopathy-Definition, Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

    Facts of Encephalopathy-Definition, Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What does Encephalopathy mean?

    It is a disease that hampers our brain. It changes your brain’s working way or a change in your body that impacts your brain. All such changes leave you confused and cause an altered mental state where you don’t act normally. It is a group of disorders that is caused due to several reasons. It isn’t a single disease. It is considered a serious health issue that can damage your brain either temporarily or permanently if left without proper treatment.

    Due to the similarity in words, you can confuse this word with encephalitis, but in reality, both are different health conditions. Encephalitis refers to the inflammation or swelling of the brain. On the other hand, encephalopathy is considered a mental state that is caused due to different types of health issues. It can be caused by encephalitis too.

    Types of encephalopathy

    Reverse and irreversible both are the main types of this brain disorder.

    The causes of Reversible encephalopathy are-

    -it happens to patients with chronic liver disease

    • Hashimoto’s

    – linked to Hashimoto’s disease, which is a thyroid condition

    • Metabolic

    – happens due to health conditions like kidney failure, diabetes, heart and liver disease

    • Brain tumors
    • Nonconvulsive status epilepticus
    • Encephalitis, meningitis, or other infections of the brain as well as in the urinary tract
    • Exposure to toxins like drugs, radiation, industrial chemicals, paints, solvents, and industrial chemicals

    The causes of Irreversible encephalopathy are-

    • Hypoxic-ischemic

    – caused after cardiac arrest, drug overdose, carbon monoxide poisoning, and when sufficient oxygen doesn’t reach your brain

    • Chronic traumatic

    – caused due to repeated head injuries that damage the brain, especially in high impact sports like boxing and football

    Symptoms 

    The cause and type of encephalopathy determine the symptoms. But some common symptoms are-

    • Loss of memory
    • Change in personality
    • Facing trouble in focusing or thinking clearly
    • Confusion
    • Tremors
    • Sleepiness
    • Muscle weakness
    • Uncontrollable eye movements

    Diagnose

    The doctor suggests the below tests for a proper diagnosis of this disorder-

    • Urine and blood test
    • EEG test to check the electrical activity in the brain
    • Nutritional supplements
    • Imaging scans like MRI (magneton resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography)
    • Spinal fluid tests
    • Changing your food habits
    • Asking to stop a medication
    • Medicine to reduce levels of ammonia
    • Dialysis and transplant of any organ if problems in liver or kidney are causing the issue

    The tests are conducted so that the doctors know three main things

    1. Whether a person has encephalopathy
    2. What is the underlying cause behind it
    3. Type of encephalopathy the person has

    How to prevent this disease? 

    It is always not preventable. However, one can reduce their risk by having a well-balanced and healthy diet, reducing consumption of alcohol, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals.

    Complications 

    Complications in encephalopathy may cause unconsciousness or even coma. In serious and rare cases, it has also caused permanent damage to the brain or death of the patient. In such conditions, the doctor helps the patient to recover by putting him on life support.

    Outlook towards encephalopathy

    It has a broader range of conditions that hampers the functionality of our brain and leads to brain diseases and damages. Often it is treatable, and patients have fully recovered with proper treatment. The doctor helps to reverse the impaired function of the brain. But certain forms of encephalopathy are life-threatening. For example, infectious encephalopathy is caused due to a rare disease called prion disease, which causes loss of life.