What is Obstructive Airway Disease?

Obstructive airway disease or obstructive lung disease is a name for respiratory diseases that make it difficult for the affected person to breathe properly due to the narrowing of airways and reduced exchange of gases in alveoli.

In a healthy respiratory system, alveoli (commonly called air sacs) are responsible for extracting oxygen from the inhaled air and supplying it to the blood vessels that run along with them as well as to take carbon dioxide from the blood and remove from the body during exhalation.

However, in people suffering from an obstructive lung disease, this process of exchange of gases gets affected because the alveoli do not receive a sufficient amount of air.

There are multiple underlying factors that can affect air flow and regular breathing pattern and it is on the basis of these factors that obstructive lung disease is divided into the following types:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Cystic fibrosis

Symptoms of Obstructive Lung Disease

Shortness of breath is the key symptom of obstructive lung disease. At first, it only occurs during and/or after physical activity, but as the disease gets worse with time, the breathing problem can occur at any time, even while resting.

Some other symptoms that are common in all types of obstructive lung diseases include:

• Wheezing
• Chronic cough that may also produce mucus
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Tightness in the chest
• Loss of energy
• Swelling in the feet and legs
• A bluish tint to the nail beds and/or lips
• Weight loss
• Feeling as if there is mucus in the back of the throat, especially after waking up in the morning.

The number and severity of these symptoms may vary across patients, depending on the type of obstructive lung disease they are suffering from and how much it has advanced.

Treatment for Obstructive Lung Disease

Since obstructive lung disease cause tightening of the smooth muscles that line the airways, which then leads to their narrowing, treating the disease involves using drugs that reverse this process of bronchospasm i.e. relaxes the muscles and expand the airways.

The medications that are used for this purpose are called bronchodilators. There are many different types of bronchodilators available and Proventil is one of them. These drugs are often prescribed along with certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet.

How Proventil HFA Helps With Obstructive Lung Disease?

Proventil HFA works the same way as other bronchodilators. However, what makes it different is that it affects the smooth muscles of all airways – from the trachea to the bronchioles. Also, it is effective against all spasmogens; substances that initiate spasms.

Clinical trials have also found that the effects of Proventil on the respiratory system are more pronounced than other bronchodilators, such as isoproterenol, and the side effects are fewer.

Limitation of Use

Proventil HFA cannot be used in children under four years of age.

Is Proventil HFA a Rescue Medicine?

Yes. Proventil HFA is a rescue medicine i.e. it is used to treat acute bronchospasm and flare-ups.

Availability

Proventil HFA is supplied in the form of an inhalation aerosol that has a dose indicator attached to it to help patients keep track of their dosages and prevent overdose.

One aerosol canister of Proventil HFA contains 200 inhalations and each actuation delivers 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate.

Recommended Dosage of Proventil HFA

Two inhalations taken after every 4 to 6 hours is the general recommended dose of Proventil HFA for the prevention of asthma symptoms as well as the treatment of acute flare-ups.

However, the dosage may vary, depending on the severity of the disease and the patient’s response to the medicine. One inhalation taken after every 4 hours is sufficient for some patients.

The general recommended dosage for preventing exercise-induced bronchospasm is two inhalations taken 15 to 30 minutes before exercise or a vigorous-intensity physical intensity.

How Long the Effects of Proventil Last?

The effects of albuterol sulfate last for about four to six hours.

Things to Remember While Using Proventil HFA Inhaler

Here are a few things that you should know and follow while using this bronchodilator:

• Just like all other sprays, prime the Proventil HFA inhaler before using it for the first time, when it is not used for more than two weeks, and if it has been dropped.

For those who do not know, priming the inhaler means shaking the canister well and then spraying it in the air for four times (make sure the mouthpiece is away from your face).

• Wash the mouthpiece of the inhaler at least once a week to prevent the medicine from building-up and blocking the passageway. Make sure to air dry the mouthpiece completely before using it again.
• Shake the inhaler well before every use.
• Only use the inhaler with the actuator that comes with it.
• Do not allow young children to use Proventil HFA, or any other inhaler, on their own as they can mistakenly overdose.
• Throw away the canister when the dosage indicator shows zero, even if it is not completely empty.
• Store the of Proventil HFA inhaler with the mouthpiece down.
• Do not expose the inhaler to temperatures over 120 degrees Fahrenheit as they may cause the canister to burst.
• Do not puncture or burn the canister.
• The medicine works best at room temperature, so store the canister at room temperature, ideally between 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees centigrade).

What to Tell Your Doctor before Taking Proventil HFA?

While it is common knowledge that you shouldn’t use of Proventil HFA, or any other medicine, if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, there are some other factors that should also be considered to determine if albuterol is safe for you. And your overall health comes at the top of this list.

Make sure your doctor knows about any other health conditions you may be suffering and any medications you may be taking; prescription, non-prescription, herbal, and/or dietary supplements. In particular, tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• Any type of arrhythmia; heart rhythm disorder
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Any disease that causes seizures, such as epilepsy
• Overactive thyroid
• Low blood potassium levels
• Diabetes

The effects of Proventil HFA on the fetus are not known. Therefore, it is recommended that your doctor knows if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, so any precautionary measures, if needed, can be taken. Your doctor may also suggest you register your name in a pregnancy registry the effects of albuterol on the fetus can be monitored and tracked.

It is also not known if albuterol sulfate taken through an aerosol inhaler passes into breast milk or if it can cause any harm to the nursing baby. Therefore, make sure to discuss with your doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using Proventil HFA.

Possible Side Effects of Proventil HFA

Although Proventil HFA is a highly effective medicine for treating and preventing bronchospasm associated with any obstructive lung disease, some people may experience a few adverse effects with its use.

Here are some of the common side effects of Proventil HFA:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Upset stomach or diarrhea
• Back pain
• Body aches
• Nervousness
• Sinus pain
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Shaking or trembling of hands, arms, legs, and/or feet

Serious Side Effects of Proventil HFA

While the chances are rare, Proventil HFA may cause some serious side effects in some patients. To be on the safe side, watch out for the following effects while you are taking the medicine (at least until you know how it affects your body) and call you doctor immediately if you experience any of them:

• Wheezing, choking, or any other breath problem after using the medicine
• Fast or pounding heartbeat
• Fluttering in the chest
• Chest pain
• Low blood potassium level – symptoms include extreme thirst, tingling or numbness, irregular heartbeat, fluttering in the chest, increased urination, muscle weakness, leg cramps, and/or constipation.
• High blood sugar level – signs include increased thirst and urination, dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsiness, hunger, fruity breath odor weight loss, and/or dry skin.

Possible Drug Interactions

As mentioned above, it is highly important that your doctor knows about all the medicines that you are taking because Proventil HFA can interact with some other drugs and cause negative effects.

Here are some of the medicines that are known to interact with or alter the effects of Proventil:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), such as methylene blue injection, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid rasagiline, tranylcypromine,and
• Beta-blockers, such as labetalol, atenolol, metoprolol, carvedilol, sotalol, and propranolol.
• Antidepressants, including, but not limited to desipramine, doxepin, amitriptyline imipramine, and nortriptyline.
• Diuretics, commonly known as water pills.
• Digoxin
• Any other bronchodilator or inhaled medicine.

Prescription Assistance for Proventil HFA

Proventil is one of the most commonly prescribed inhalers for the treatment and management of obstructive airway diseases, like asthma and COPD, because of its effectiveness. However, the drug is out of reach for a large number of patients due to its high price – the price for one Proventil HFA inhaler is about a hundred dollars. What makes the situation even worse is that there is no generic alternative medicine available for it.

If you are also one of those countless people who are prescribed Proventil by their doctors, but cannot afford to buy it, we have good news for you. There are some ways for you to get this medicine at low cost; thanks to the prescription assistance program run by the company that manufactures the drug.

Known as Merck Helps, the patient assistance program provides a number of Merck medicines at discounted rates or free of cost to the eligible patients – Proventil HFA is one of them.

Want to know if you are eligible for the Merck Patient Assistance Program?

Visit Merck Helps website to check out the eligibility criteria and to know how you can apply for it.

Don’t lose hope in case you don’t qualify for the assistance program offered by Merck & Co. You can get the inhaler at reduced price with a GoodRx Coupon. Click here to get the discount coupons for Proventil, for different pharmacies.

For those who do not know, insulin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps maintain the levels of glucose in the blood by initiating its utilization or storage, as per the body’s requirements. When there are higher concentrations of glucose in the blood, insulin signals the liver, fat cells, and muscles to take in glucose. If, at that time, the body is low on energy, the body starts metabolizing the glucose to release energy. But, if the body has sufficient energy, the liver converts glucose into glycogen and stores it for future use.

In people suffering from diabetes, either the pancreas stop producing insulin because of the initiation of autoimmune response within the body (Type 1 diabetes) or the body becomes less sensitive or resistant to insulin and loses its ability to respond to the hormone (Type 2 diabetes).

Humalog – The Man-Made Insulin

Humalog is a manufactured replacement insulin that performs the same function in the body as the natural hormone. However, it acts faster and lasts for a short amount of time as compared to regular insulin. The effects start appearing about 30 minutes after administration and lasts for about 5 hours.

Sold as prescription medicine, Humalog is prescribed to help manage diabetes to both adults and children and works by stimulating the process of glucose absorption by cells, so it can be metabolized and used for energy.

Available Dosage Forms and Strengths of Humalog

Humalog is available in 100 units/ml (U-100) and 200 units/ml (U-200) strengths and in the following varieties:

Humalog 100 units/ml:

• 100 ml vials
• 3 ml vials
• 3 ml cartridges
• 3 ml Humalog KiwiPen (prefilled)
• 3 ml Humalog Junior KiwiPen (prefilled)

Humalog 200 units/ml:

• 3 ml Humalog KiwiPen (prefilled)

Dosage

The right dosage of Humalog for a person depends on a variety of factors and hence, varies across patients. Some of the factors that play a key role in determining the right dosage are:

• The metabolic needs of the individual
• Route of administration
• Blood glucose monitoring results
• Glycemic control goal

The patient needs to be regularly monitored while taking insulin lispro and the dosage may need to be adjusted if there are changes in:

• Meal patterns. This includes both the timings of food consumption as well as the nutrient content of the food.
• Physical activity
• Hepatic or renal function
• Changes in overall health

Humalog dosage may also need to be adjusted if:

• The patient is suffering from an acute illness.
• It is administered along with certain other drugs.

What Should You Do In Case Of an Overdose?

Taking an excessive amount of insulin can cause hypoglycemia i.e. low blood sugar. In some cases, it may also cause hypokalemia i.e. low blood potassium.

While mild cases of hypoglycemia can be easily treated by oral administration of glucose, a drastic drop in the blood glucose level needs to be treated by intravenous administration of concentrated glucose or intramuscular glucagon.

In rare cases, severe episodes of hypoglycemia may cause neurologic impairment, coma, or seizures.

In case you mistakenly take an overdose of Humalog, continue to monitor your blood sugar levels and immediately drink fruit juice or any other sugary drink if there is a drop in glucose level. Continue to monitor and consume carbohydrate for some time, even after you have apparently recovered because hypoglycemia may recur after some time as the medicine continues to function inside your body.

Seek medical help if the glucose level doesn’t become normal by oral consumption of sugary drinks.

Administration of Humalog

The manufactured insulin can be administered by injection or by an insulin pump.

Taking Humalog via Injection

While there are two ways to administer Humalog via injection i.e. subcutaneous injection and intravenous injection, the latter method is only used by doctors, as and when needed. When a patient is prescribed to take Humalog via injection, it is always through the first method.

Subcutaneous Injection

Humalog needs to be administered about 15 minutes before a meal or immediately after it into the subcutaneous tissues of upper arms, thighs, abdominal wall, or buttocks.

When administered this way, the fast-acting insulin is generally taken along with intermediate or long-acting insulin.

Both dosage strengths of Humalog i.e. U-100 and U-200 can be taken via subcutaneous injections.

Note: It is recommended to change the injection site, within the same area, every time you administer Humalog. This is to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy – a disorder of adipose tissues that causes selective loss of body fat.

Taking Humalog via Insulin Pump

Using insulin pump is also a method for subcutaneous infusion of Humalog, but it provides a continuous supply of insulin in small doses as opposed to the quick infusion in slightly higher dosage via injection.

If you are prescribed to administer insulin lisprovia an insulin pump, remember that you should only use Humalog U-100 – Humalog U-200 should not be used via an infusion pump.

Consult your doctor to determine the right infusion rate, both at meal times and otherwise and stick to the recommendations to avoid the chances of overdose.

Note

Make sure to follow the following instructions when you are using Humalog through an insulin pump:

• Change the infusion set and the insertion site after every 3 days.
• Change the insulin in the pump reservoir at least after every 7 days.
• Do not dilute or mix Humalog with any other type of insulin
• Make sure to not expose the insulin in the pump reservoir to temperatures higher than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Centigrade).

Important Instructions

Here are some of the things that you should know and follow while using the manufactured insulin:

• Never share your Humalog pen, cartridge, or syringe with anyone, even after changing the needle.
• Store unopened Humalog in the refrigerator – do not freeze.
• Do not use the insulin if it has been frozen
• Humalog doesn’t need to be stored in the refrigerator while in use. However, make sure to store it at temperatures below 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Centigrade) and use within 28 days of opening.
• Discard the opened Humalog after 28 days, even if you have not used it completely.
• Protect the manufactured insulin from direct light and heat.

How Long Does Humalog remain in the Patient’s Body?

As mentioned earlier, the effects of Humalog starts appearing after half an hour and last for about 5 hours.

Possible Side Effects of Humalog

While manufactured insulins are generally safe to use, they may cause some side effects in some cases. This section highlights the effects that you may experience with Humalog.

Common Side Effects

The most common effects that people experience, often due to overdose, are:

• Hypoglycemia; low blood sugar
• Hypokalemia; low blood potassium

However, patients may also experience itching, swelling, and/or redness at the site of injection. While these local allergy reactions usually disappear with a few days (they may take a few weeks in some patients), the patient may need to discontinue the use of Humalog in some cases.

Negative Effects of Humalog Observed In Clinical Trial

Humalog has shown a range of side effects during clinical trials. While the frequency of their occurrence was low, one should be always vigilant and consult a doctor if any of the effects last for a long time.

Adverse Effects of Humalog in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes

• Bronchitis
• Nausea
• Cough
• Fever
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Flu syndrome
• Rhinitis
• Pharyngitis
• Different types of infections, such as urinary tract infection
• Myalgia
• Dysmenorrhea
• Asthenia

Adverse Effects of Humalog in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

• Flu syndrome
• Rhinitis
• Pharyngitis

Long-Term Effects of Humalog

The long-term usage of Humalog may cause:

• Lipodystrophy, particularly in case of repeated infusions or injections at the same site
• Sodium retention and peripheral edema, particularly in cases where intense insulin therapy is undertaken to improve poor metabolic control
• Weight gain
• Long-term administration of insulin may cause severe, generalized allergies in some patients that could be life-threatening. Generalized insulin allergy may cause body rash, wheezing, anaphylaxis, tachycardia, wheezing, dyspnea, hypotension, or diaphoresis.

Possible Drug Interactions of Humalog

Just like most other medications, Humalog can interact with some drugs and cause negative effects.

The use of Humalog with the following drugs may put the patients at an increased risk of hypoglycemia:

• Antidiabetic agents
• ACE inhibitors
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Salicylates
• Sulfonamide antibiotics
• Fluoxetine
• Pramlintide
• Disopyramide
• Fibrates
• Pentoxifylline
• Propoxyphene
• Angiotensin II receptor blocking agents
• Somatostatin analogs, for example, octreotide.

Following drugs can reduce the effectiveness of Humalog in lowering blood glucose levels:

• Corticosteroids
• Isoniazid
• Niacin
• Estrogens
• Oral contraceptives
• Phenothiazines
• Danazol
• Diuretics
• Sympathomimetic agents, such as epinephrine, albuterol, and terbutaline
• Somatropin
• Atypical antipsychotics
• Glucagon
• Protease inhibitors
• Thyroid hormones

Lithium salts, clonidine, beta-blockers, and alcohol can also increase or decrease the effectiveness of Humalog in reducing blood glucose levels.

Tell Your Doctor If You Are…

• Pregnant or planning to get pregnant
• Suffering from renal or hepatic impairments
• Nursing mother. While it is not known that whether insulin lispro passes into breast milk or not, caution should be exercised while administering Humalog to nursing mothers.

Who Should Not Take Humalog?

Although Humalog is considered safe for use in both adults and children, its effects have not been studied in children under 3 years of age. So, it should not be used for toddlers unless prescribed by a registered physician or diabetic consultant.

Prescription Assistance for Humalog

The Lilly Cares Foundation Inc. is a non-profit organization that offers patient assistance program to help qualifying patients get prescribed medicines at no cost. The foundation has recently launched a new program to make diabetes medicines more accessible to patients who are not insured or underinsured and cannot afford to buy them either.

If you have not already been registered with a prescription assistance program, call 1-833-808-1234 to get in touch with the Lilly Diabetes Solution Center or visit the RX Assist website to check your eligibility for Lilly Care programs

You can also check out the list of programs that offer prescription assistance to diabetic patients at the American Diabetes Association’s website.

Due to the fact that Effexor typically has strong side effects, it is generally recommended only to those patients who do not benefit from SSRIs (the most commonly used antidepressants).

In order to be prescribed with Effexor, a patient should be experiencing at least four of the following symptoms and not finding relief from any SSRI medicine:

• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Change in appetite
• Increased fatigue
• Loss of interest in everyday tasks or usual activities
• Impaired concentration and/or impaired thinking
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Psychomotor agitation and/or retardation
• Suicidal thoughts and/or suicidal attempt

How Effexor Works

The medicine helps patients suffering from depression or other psychiatric disorders, like generalized anxiety disorder, get relief from the symptoms and experience improved energy levels and mood by restoring the balance of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.

Serotonin and norepinephrine are naturally occurring neurotransmitters that are involved in the regulation of behavior, mood, and emotions.

Serotonin, commonly known as the happy hormone, controls the brain processes that regulate one’s emotions, mood, appetite, sleep, memory, and perception.

On the other hand, norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is a stress hormone that controls parts of the brain related to attention and also plays a role in the flight or fight responses. It is also responsible for boosting the flow of blood to the muscles, releasing glucose from the reserved energy in the body, and increasing heart rate in certain situations.

Patients suffering from depression and anxiety feel down, sad, and hopeless because of the reduced levels of these regulatory hormones. According to mental health experts, the nerve cells of patients suffering from depressive disorders produce these neurotransmitters in lesser quantities.

To counter this condition, SNRI medications prevent the reabsorption of norepinephrine and serotonin into the nerve cells. Reabsorption of the neurotransmitters is a natural process, called reuptake, in which the nerve cells take back the neurotransmitters after they have performed their work.

Effexor’s effects on these neurotransmitters mainly depend on the dosage. When taken in smaller amounts, Effexor only blocks the reuptake of serotonin. But, when a higher dose is taken, Effexor prevents the uptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine.

Availability

The antidepressant medication is available in the form of an extended-release capsule.

Dosage

The dosage of Effexor varies across patients, depending on the severity of their condition and their body’s response. Usually, doctors start with a low dosage and then gradually increase it as the patient builds a tolerance.

The dosage of Effexor can range from 37.5 mg to 300 mg per day. But, on average, the extended-release capsule is prescribed to be taken once a day.

An important thing to note here is that it may take you several weeks to really experience the benefits of Effexor. Many people stop taking the medicine on their own because they can’t feel improvement in their condition, which is a mistake. Make sure to continue taking the medicine as per your doctor’s recommendation to experience the effects.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose?

In case you miss a dose of Effexor, take it as soon as you remember. However, you should skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose of Effexor at the same time to make up for the missed one.

What Should You Do In Case Of an Overdose?

If you mistakenly take too much of Effexor, immediately call your doctor, seek emergency medical treatment, or call a poison control center.

How Should The Medicine Be Taken?

The medicine should be taken orally with food, at the same time every day. Do not crush, chew, divide or dissolve the medicine in water. However, if you have difficulty in swallowing the capsule, you can sprinkle its contents onto a spoonful of apple sauce and immediately swallow it without chewing. Also, drink a glass of water immediately after taking the medicine.[1]

How Long Does Effexor Remain in the Patient’s Body?

The amount of time for which the drug stays in a patient’s system depends on the dosage. Effexor has a half-life of about 5 hours (+/- 2 hours), which is less than that of most antidepressants.

This means half of the taken dosage is cleared from a patient’s system within the first 5 hours of administering it. It will take the body another 5 hours to clear half of the remaining amount from the system. This process continues until the patient’s body is completely free of the drug.

In addition to the dosage, some other factors also play a role in determining how long the body takes to flush the drug out of the system. These include age, liver function, genetics, and body composition. It is due to these factors that two people taking the same dosage of the drug at the same time may require different amounts of time to fully clear the drug from the system.

Possible Side Effects of Effexor

Just like all other prescription medicines, Effexor should only be taken when and as prescribed by your doctor. While most people do not experience any major side effects when taking Effexor, sticking to the prescribed dosage is recommended to avoid misuse, overdose, or addiction. However, in some cases, the side effects may occur even when the medicine is taken as recommended.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Effexor include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation
• Trouble sleeping
• Excessive yawning
• Nervousness
• Blurred vision
• Excessive sweating

Effexor may also cause an increase in blood pressure, so it is highly important to regularly check your blood pressure while you are taking this medicine.

Serious Side Effects of Effexor

In rare cases, Effexor may cause some serious side effects. These include:

• Shortness of breath
• Excessive bleeding or bruising
• Chest pain
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Pounding or severe headaches
• Tremors or shaking
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Bloody or black stools
• Swelling, redness, or pain in eyes
• Changes in vision, such as seeing rainbow colors around lights, at night.
• Widened pupils
• Seizures
• Decreased sexual desire and changes in sexual ability

Although it’s rare, Effexor may possibly cause an increase in the levels of serotonin in the body and could lead to ‘serotonin syndrome’. Therefore, it is important to be cautious of the symptoms you experience while taking venlafaxine and immediately consult your doctor if you experience any serious effects or symptoms that don’t go away within a few days of starting the medicine.

Following are some of the common symptoms of serotonin syndrome that you should watch out for when taking Effexor:

• An irregular or fast heartbeat
• Loss of coordination
• Twitching muscles
• Severe dizziness
• Unexplained fever
• Severe nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting
• Excessive or unusual restlessness or agitation
• Hallucinations

Long-Term Effects of Effexor

Just like all other antidepressants, taking Effexor for a long time can create dependency.

As it has long been identified by the Federal Drug Administration, antidepressants may also increase the risks for suicidal thoughts and/or suicidal attempts among patients.

While some healthcare professionals refute this claim, some believe that long-term use of antidepressants can lead to the development of type II diabetes.

In view of all these factors, it is highly important to be careful in using Effexor or any other anti-depressant and immediately report to your doctor if you experience any negative effects.

Effexor Addiction

While this antidepressant medication is not known to cause addiction like some other drugs, patients may develop a dependency on the effects. This is more likely to happen when antidepressants are taken without a prescription or when wrongly prescribed.

According to a research study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, majority of the people who are taking antidepressants do not qualify for them. Researchers found that around 69% of the people taking antidepressant medications did not meet the criteria for clinical depression, also called major depressive disorder. Furthermore, 38% of the people did not even meet the criteria for other psychiatric disorders that may need antidepressants, such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, or social phobia.

Following are some signs and symptoms associated with Effexor misuse, so if you or a loved one is taking the medicine, it is important to be vigilant for the following signs:

• Change in appetite
• Bloodshot eyes
• Slurred speech
• Changes in sleeping patterns or strange sleep habits
• Diminished appearance
• Difficulty in concentrating or managing things that often leads to financial difficulties

Who Should Not Take Effexor?

Effexor should be avoided during pregnancy, especially during the last three months, because it can cause harm to the fetus.

Effexor has also been found to transfer into breast milk and hence, should be avoided by nursing mothers.

It is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or a nursing mother. Since Effexor can cause developmental damage to the baby, especially in the long-run, it is only prescribed to pregnant and nursing women when severely needed, even then for shorter periods.

You should also avoid Effexor if you are suffering from uncontrolled angle-closure glaucoma or are allergic to any ingredient present in Effexor.

Possible Drug Interactions of Effexor

Since many medicines can interact with other drugs and cause negative effects, it is important to tell about all the medications you are already taking whenever you go to a doctor for any problem.

Effexor may interact with many over-the-counter and prescription medicines and hence, should be avoided to be used with them. For example, taking Effexor with blood thinners, like Aspirin, may cause bruising and bleeding.

NSAIDs, like naproxen and ibuprofen, should also be avoided while taking this antidepressant medicine.

Medicines that fall into the category of inhibitors and inducers can affect the metabolism of Effexor by interfering with the enzyme that is responsible for the task. Inhibitors reduce its functioning whereas inducers cause enhanced activation of the liver enzyme that metabolizes Effexor.

Effexor can also interact with the medications used for:

• Anxiety
• Pain relief
• Seizure
• Migraine
• Weight loss

The medicine should also not be used with:

• Diuretics
• Sedatives
• Cimetidine
• Clozapine
• Duloxetine
• Haloperidol
• Imipramine
• Indinavir
• Ketoconazole
• Linezolid
• Lithium
• Methadone
• Methylene Blue
• Phentermine
• Ritonavir
• Sibutramine
• Tramadol

Do not take Effexor if you are taking or have taken, within the last 14 days, any medication that falls into the category of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).  MAOIs should also not be taken within 7 days of discontinuing Effexor. Methylene blue and linezolid are some of the common MAOIs.

Prescription Assistance for Effexor

Pfizer Rx Pathways, a patient assistance program that is jointly run by the Pfizer Inc. and the Pfizer Patient Assistance Foundation, connects patients to many assistance programs that offer free medicines, co-pay help, and insurance support.

If you have not already been registered with a prescription assistance program, visit the Pfizer Rx Pathways’ website, enter the name of the desired medicine, and answer a few questions to find out the right program(s) for you.

You can also check out the eligibility for Pfizer Patient Assistance Program at RX Assist’s website.

Since Effexor is manufactured by Pfizer, Pfizer Rx Pathways provides prescription assistance for the medicine.

[1] https://www.effexorxr.com/faqs#taking-eff

According to the Federal Drug Administration, Dulera is only meant to be used to for asthma patients whose disease is not adequately controlled by a long-term asthma controlled medication, like an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).[1]

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways of the lungs. It specifically causes the narrowing of bronchioles due to tightening of the muscles around them, accumulation of mucus, and/or the inflammation of their lining. Bronchioles are the smaller airways through which air moves in and out of the lungs during the respiration process.

As a result of the narrowing of the bronchioles, the affected person experiences difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, severe cough, congestion, and wheezing.

Asthma treatment generally includes using one or a combination of medications that help to reduce inflammation and dilate the airways.

Dulera Mechanism of Action

Mometasone furoate is a synthetic corticosteroid that is similar to cortisol – a natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It belongs to the category of anti-inflammatory corticosteroids, which means it helps to reduce swelling of the airways.

Formoterol, on the other hand, is a long-term bronchodilator that helps to relax the muscles around the airways. As a result, the airways are dilated and the patient gets relief from the symptoms of asthma, like cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Limitations

Dulera is not meant to be used as a rescue inhaler to get relief from an asthma exacerbation and/or acute bronchospasm.

Also, the medicine should not be used for children under 12 years of age.

Dosage of Dulera

The dosage of Dulera varies across patients. A patient’s history of asthma treatment and the severity of the disease are the two major factors that need to be considered to determine the right dose of Dulera.

Typically, doctors start with one inhalation of 200mcg/10mcg, twice a day at 12 hour distance and then may increase to two inhalations twice a day, if needed.

Maximum Dosage

The maximum dosage of Dulera is 800mcg/20mcg in a day – do not exceed this amount unless prescribed by your doctor.

Important: Dulera should strictly be administered when and as prescribed by the doctor. Do not change the dosage or discontinue the medicine on your own as it can cause negative effects.

What Should You Do In Case Of a Missed Dosage?

In case, you forget to take Dulera, skip the missed dosage and take the next regular dosage on its time. Never take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

What Should You Do In Case of Overdose?

An overdose of Dulera may cause irregular heartbeat, tremors, chest pain, and severe trouble in breathing. It may also cause you to faint. To avoid the serious effects, immediately get medical help if you have mistakenly overdosed.

If there isn’t any other option available, call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (for the US residents only).

How to Use Dulera

Use Dulera the same way you use your regular asthma inhaler. Make sure to shake the inhaler well before use. Also, if you are to take to inhalations or if you are using another inhaler at the same time, take at least a minute’s gap after one inhalation and then take the other.

Always gargle and/or rinse your mouth with water after using Dulera to prevent oral thrush, and irritation and dryness in mouth and throat. Make sure to not swallow the water and spit out all of it.

How Long Does Dulera Take to Provide Relief?

Dulera inhaler may take about a week before a patient experiences the full benefits of the medicine. However, it may take a little longer in some cases.

Possible Side Effects of Dulera

The most common side effects of Dulera include:

• Nasopharyngitis i.e. the swelling of the back of the throat and nasal passage, also called upper respiratory infection
• Stuffy nose
• Throat irritation, dry mouth, or hoarseness
• Headache
• Sinusitis

Tell your doctor if these conditions do not go away in a week or worsen with time.

Serious Side Effects of Dulera

While the serious side effects of Dulera are rare, it is better to be cautious and immediately report to the doctor if you experience any of them. Some possible serious negative effects that a patient using Dulera may experience include:

• Serious allergic reactions, like swelling of the mouth, tongue, and face, hives, or rash.
• Oral thrush i.e. yeast infection in mouth and throat.
• Increased susceptibility to infections and the worsening of existing infections, ocular herpes, and tuberculosis. Some common signs of infection include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, body aches, and fatigue.
• Worsening of breathing problems, such as increased wheezing right after inhalation. It is recommended to always have a rescue inhaler at hand so you can treat sudden aggravation of breathing issues.
• Eye issues, like blurred vision, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• Increase in the blood sugar level.
• Decrease in the level of potassium in the blood.
• The medication may also lead to lower bone mineral density in people who are already at a higher risk of it, for example, people who are at the risk of osteoporosis.
• Patients shifting from oral corticosteroid medicines to the inhaled corticosteroids, may experience reduced adrenal function with Dulera usage.

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:

• Worsening of breathing issues
• No improvement in asthma symptoms after regularly using Dulera for two weeks
• An increased need for using your rescue inhaler
• Need to use four or more inhalations of your regular rescue inhaler for at least two consecutive days
• Decreased effectiveness of your regular rescue inhaler in relieving asthma symptoms

Who Should Not Use Dulera?

Do not use Dulera if:

• Your disease is well controlled with other asthma medications
• You are allergic to any of its ingredients – do check the list of ingredients before you start using the medicine

Dulera should also be avoided if you suffer from certain diseases or health conditions or develop any of them while you are on Dulera treatment. Make sure to tell your doctor is you have or develop:

• Hypertension
• Heart problems
• Diabetes
• Seizures
• Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism
• Osteoporosis
• Liver problems
• Eye issues, like changes in vision, cataracts, glaucoma, or increased pressure in the eye
• Aneurysm i.e. swelling of an artery
• A weak immune system or any disease that affects the immune system
• Tumor of the adrenal gland
• If you are suffering from or have a history of infections, like herpes and tuberculosis
• If you are using any prescription and/or non-prescription medicines and herbal products

In addition to these, make sure to tell your doctor if you are:

• Allergic to any medications
• Scheduled to have a surgery
• Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• A nursing mother

Contraindications

Dulera can cause hypersensitivity if used with the primary treatment medications for status asthmatics, acute bronchospasm, and/or exercise induced bronchospasm.

Dulera usage should also be avoided with any medication that contains LABA due to the risk of overdose. When overdosed, LABA may cause a sudden decrease or increase in blood pressure, irregular or fast heartbeat, weakness, dizziness, nervousness, headache, tremor, seizure, and/or chest pain.

The following medications may increase the effects of formoterol (one of the active ingredients in Dulera) on blood pressure and heart and hence, should be avoided to be used with or within 14 days of their discontinuation:

• Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), for example tranylcypromine

Certain drugs can reduce the breakdown of mometasone furoate by the liver enzymes. As a result, the level of the drug increases in the body, which then will increase or worsen the negative effects of Dulera. Some of the drugs that can have this effect are:

• Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
• Atazanavir (Reyataz)
• Itraconazole (Sporanox)
• Indinavir (Crixivan)
• Telithromycin (Ketek)
• Nelfinavir (Viracept)
• Ketoconazole

Dulera can also cause negative effects if used with:

• Medications that have an immunosuppressant effect
• Anti-fungal medicines, like ketoconazole
• Anti-HIV medication, especially the ones that contain cobicistat and ritonavir. Some of the medicines that contain ritonavir are NORVIR (both oral solution and soft gelatin capsules) and KALETRA.

Precautions

As mentioned above, Dulera can increase a patient’s susceptibility to infections as well as can worsen the existing ones. Therefore, it is recommended for patients taking Dulera to avoid contact with people who are suffering from infections that can spread to others, like flu, measles, and chickenpox.

Dulera is not generally meant to be used for very long periods of time because it can affect the body’s ability to respond to physical stress. This is why doctors only prescribe it when other asthma medications do not work. Even when prescribed, Dulera is usually administered only for a limited period of time to control the symptoms of asthma. Once the disease is under control, doctors gradually move the patients to alternative medications, in most cases.

Storage[2]

Dulera should be stored at room temperature between 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 25 degrees centigrade).  Since the canister of the medicine contains drugs under pressure, it should not be stored at a high temperature or near heat and open flame. Storing Dulera above 120 degrees Fahrenheit may cause the canister to burst.

After priming, the 60 actuation inhaler should be stored with the mouthpiece sideways or down.

Where to Buy Dulera From

In view of the possibility that some uncertified sellers may be selling fake medicines, always buy all your medications from a certified pharmacy; whether retail or online.

Do not be tempted to buy from pharmacies that are selling medicines at significantly lower rates – there is a high likelihood that they are not original.

If you cannot afford to buy Dulera, or any other medicine, and do not even have the insurance, look for a prescription assistance program and apply for it to get all your prescribed medicines at low-costs or for free.

What is a Prescription Assistance?

For those who do not know, prescription assistance programs are sponsored programs that have been designed to ensure the availability of prescription medicines to people who are uninsured, underinsured, not eligible for the medical aid programs run by the government, and cannot afford to buy them on their own.

Many prescription drugs manufacturers offer such programs, so you are sure to find one that offers the medicines that you need.

Applications for prescription assistance programs are free. The only requirements to qualify for them are:

• You have to be a US permanent resident or citizen
• You should be able to demonstrate financial needs due to limited earnings
• Prove that you have limited or no prescription drug coverage from a private source or government

Prescription Assistance for Dulera

Merck Patient Assistance Program provides prescription assistance for Dulera. It is a private program that provides free of cost medicines to the eligible individuals. If you are not already registered with a prescription assistance program, visit www.merckhelps.com/DULERA to determine your eligibility for the Merck’s program.

[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022518s000lbl.pdf

[2] https://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/d/dulera/dulera_ppi.pdf

COPD is one of those diseases that often do not show any symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. The conditions are often diagnosed when the lungs have already been significantly damaged.

While symptoms of COPD can vary across patients, the diseases are mainly characterized by:

• Shortness of breath that continues to increase with time, if not treated. A patient can experience breathlessness while performing a physical activity
• Regular coughing, both with and without mucous
• Wheezing
• A feeling of tightness in the chest
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Swelling in the legs, feet, and/or ankles
• Chronic cough that may also produce greenish, yellow, white, or clear mucus
• Waking up with an excess of mucus in the lungs. A patient may require to clear their throat immediately after waking up
• Lack of energy
• Weight loss during the later stages of the disease
• One of the main symptoms of chronic bronchitis is daily cough with mucus production for about three months a year, for two consecutive years.

People suffering from a COPD condition often experience several day-long episodes during which their symptoms get worse than usual.

Treatment for COPD

Depending on the severity of the condition, causes, family history and the overall health of a patient, the treatment plan for COPD may include one or a combination of bronchodilators, steroids, enzyme inhibitors, and anticholinergics. The doctor may also prescribe mucolytic agents and antibiotics as well as may also suggest the patient to perform yoga or endurance exercises.

While not very common, the doctor may suggest a surgery for treatment of COPD. These surgeries include lung volume reduction, bullectomy, and in worst cases, a lung transplant.

No matter what treatment plan the doctor lays out for a patient, it almost always includes using a bronchodilator.

What Is a Bronchodilator?

A bronchodilator is a medicine, or a combination of medicines, that helps to relax the muscles surrounding the airways. As a result, the airways get enlarged or dilated, which then will make it easier for the air to flow through the respiratory passage.

Bronchodilators are available in two types: short-term and long-term.

Combivent Respimat for COPD

As mentioned earlier, Combivent Respimat is prescribed to patients suffering from narrowed airways, but do not find relief from other generally used COPD medications.

How Combivent Respimat Works

While both the drugs found in Combivent Respimat are bronchodilators, their mechanism of action is different.

Albuterol sulfate is a type of drug that falls into the category of beta-2 agonist bronchodilators.  The drugs that belong to this category specifically act on beta-2 receptors found on the muscle cells on the lining of the airways and cause them to relax. As a result, the airways get opened and the patient finds relief from breathlessness.

Ipratropium bromide, on the other hand, helps to suppress or cancel the effects of acetylcholine in the nasal passage and airways. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that the cholinergic nerves use to regulate functions like, airway smooth muscle contraction, airway tone, vasodilation, and mucus secretion.

In patients of COPD, the cholinergic nerves that go to the lungs produce excessive amount of acetylcholine, which causes increased contraction of muscle cells surrounding the airways. As a result, the patient experiences shortness of breath due to narrowing of airways.

Ipratropium bromide promotes muscle relaxation and dilation of airways by blocking out the effects of cholinergic nerves and acetylcholine.

Can Combivent Respimat Be Used as a Rescue Inhaler?

No, Combivent’s mechanism of action is not fast enough to provide immediate relief in case of flare ups. For most patients, the medicine takes around 15 minutes to provide relief.

Availability

Combivent Respimat inhalation spray is available in two varieties: 90/18 mcg and 100/ 20 mcg per actuation

Each actuation of the inhaler provides 90 or 100 mcg albuterol sulfate and 18 or 20 mcg ipratropium bromide.

Recommended Dosage

Belonging to the category of short-acting bronchodilators, Combivent Respimat only stays in the patient’s body for 4 to 6 hours. Hence, it needs to be administered multiple times in a day.

On average, one inhalation of Combivent Respimat is prescribed to be administered four times a day. Some patients may be recommended to take more inhalations, if necessary, however, the dosage should not exceed six inhalations in 24 hours.

Always consult your doctor to determine the right dosage for yourself and do not change it on your own. If you feel that the prescribed dosage is not providing enough relief, talk to your doctor and do not increase the dose of the medicine on your own.

Possible Side Effects of Combivent Respimat

While a lot of patients who use Combivent Respimat do not experience any side effects at all, there is a probability that you may experience on or more of the following effects while on this medication:

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Nervousness
• Tremors
• Constipation
• Cold and flu like symptoms, such as sore throat, cough, sneezing, and/or stuffy nose
• It may also cause an increase in the blood pressure

Infrequent Side Effects of Combivent Respimat

Some patients may experience following effects when on Combivent Respimat[1]:

• Backache
• Severe trouble in sleeping
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Excessive sweating
• Fever
• Hyperactivity
• Indigestion
• Cramps in legs
• Ringing in the ears
• Inflammation of nose
• Water retention
• Migraine
• Uncoordinated movements

Serious Side Effects of Combivent Respimat

While not common, Combivent Respimat may also cause some serious side effects, such as:

• The worsening of breathing issues and bronchospasms.
• Urinary retention
• Irregular or fast heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Palpitation
• Ocular or visual changes

Immediately discontinue the usage, if you experience any of the serious effects and tell your doctor as soon as possible.

Possible Drug Interactions of Combivent Respimat

Combivent Respimat may interact with the medications taken for the following health conditions:

• Urinary or bladder issues
• Parkinson’s disease
• Depression
• Blood pressure
• Heart diseases
• ADHD
• Stomach ulcer
• Motion sickness
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Diet pills
• Diuretics, commonly known as water pills

The drugs found in the bronchodilator may also interact with the chemicals found in some over-the-counter allergy and cold medicines.

In view of the possibility of interaction, it is recommended to always tell your doctor about any and all the medications and supplements you are using.

While it is unknown if the drugs found in Combivent Respimat pass into breast milk or if they can have any negative effect on the baby, the medicine is not recommended to be used by nursing mothers.

Who Should Not Take Combivent Respimat?

People suffering from following diseases or health conditions should not use the bronchodilator:

• Hypertension
• Ketoacidosis
• Abnormal heart beat
• Seizures
• Reduced or inadequate blood flow through the arteries of the heart and to the heart muscles
• Urinary bladder blockage
• Closed angle glaucoma
• Enlarged prostate
• Low levels of potassium
• Excessive amount of body acid

Combivent Respimat should be used with caution in patients suffering from the following conditions:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Convulsive disorders
• People who are highly sensitive or overly responsive to any of the drugs

Bottom Line

Combivent Respimat is a prescription medication that is highly effecitve for treating narrowing of the airways, called bronchospasm, caused by any of the COPD conditions. Since Combivent Respimat contains two active drugs, it is more powerful than a regular bronchodilator and hence, is only prescribed to patients who do not benefit from a regular medication and need a second or a stronger dosage.

The medicine may cause some side effects and drug interactions, so it should never be used without consultation with a doctor. Even when prescribed by a pulmonologist, watch out for any negative effects and immediately tell the doctor, if you experience any side effect. Lastly, do not change the dosage or the frequency of Combivent Respimat on your own.

Combivent Respimat Prescription Assistance

Have you been prescribed Combivent Respimat by your doctor, but you do not have insurance and cannot afford to buy it on your own?

Don’t worry – prescription assistance for Combivent Respimat is available!

Boehringer Ingelheim Cares Foundation, INC. offers this medicine at a very low-cost, or even for free, under their patient assistance program. For details about the assistance program and how to apply,visit the website of Partnership for Prescription Assistance or click here to check out the eligibility criteria to receive assistance for Combivent Respimat.

[1] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-161259/combivent-respimat-inhalation/details/list-sideeffects

The prevalence of the respiratory diseases and the fact that they not only affect the patients’ quality of life, but can also be genetically transferred, make them a huge concern for the government – the reason being the lost productivity of the affected individuals and the high healthcare costs.

Treatment of Respiratory Diseases

While there is no cure for respiratory diseases, like asthma and COPD, they can be significantly controlled to ease symptoms, reduce the rate of progression and chances of complications, and to improve the overall quality of life.

There are many reliable medicines that make life easier for asthma and COPD patients; Advair is one of them.

Advair

Advair is the brand name for a combination medication with the active ingredients fluticasone propionate and salmeterol. Used for treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Advair is an FDA-approved prescription medicine that comes in the form of an inhaler in two varieties – Advair Diskus and Advair HFA.

Advair is only prescribed to severe asthma patients who do not find relief from other commonly used medications. It can also be prescribed to patients suffering from COPD and emphysema. Since it is a strong medication, the doctor may discontinue it once the disease is under control. But, generally, patients of COPD are required to take the medication for a longer period of time than the patients of asthma.

What Is The Difference Between Advair Diskus And Advair HFA?

Both the varieties of Advair contain the same combination of medicine, but what sets them apart is the delivery method of these drugs. Advair Diskus comes in powder form, whereas Advair HFA delivers the medicine in an aerosol form.

How Does Advair Help With Asthma And COPD?

Fluticasone Propionate is a steroid drug that can reduce inflammation in the lungs by reducing or preventing the release of inflammation-causing substances in the body. Salmeterol, on the other hand, is a bronchodilator that helps improve breathing by relaxing the muscles of the airway.

Fluticasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that is similar to the hormone naturally produced by the adrenal gland i.e. cortisol or hydrocortisone and has strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Salmeterol, on the other hand, is a type of beta-2 agonist bronchodilator. Medicines that belong to this category get attached to the naturally found beta-2 receptors on the muscle cells around the airways and cause them to relax. As a result, the airways are opened and make breathing easier.

Advair also helps to prevent flare-ups and worsening of the diseases.

How Should Advair Be Used?

As mentioned earlier, Advair is a strong medicine and hence, should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

You should never change the dosage or take the medicine for more than the prescribed period; using Advair for extended periods can cause some serious side effects.

Does Advair Work for Asthma Attacks?

No! Advair’s mechanism of action is not fast enough to provide relief in bronchospasm and/or asthma attacks. Hence, it cannot be used as a rescue medicine.

In case of attacks, patients should use the fast-acting inhaler and consult a doctor as soon as possible because it may call for a change in the dosage of Advair. However, as mentioned earlier, do not change the dosage of the medicine on your own.

What to Do In Case You Miss a Dose

If you miss a dose of Advair for any reason, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, then you should skip the missed dose and take the next dosage on its time.

Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one because overdose can cause:

• Chest pain
• Increased heart rate
• Shortness of breath
• Makes you feel shaky

Immediately seek medical help if you have overdosed on Advair.

Who Should Not Take Advair?

Advair should not be taken by people who are allergic to salmeterol, serevent, fluticasone , or milk proteins.

The medicine should also be avoided in case a patient is experiencing severe symptoms of COPD or having a severe asthma attack.

Precautions While Taking Advair

When on Advair, you should avoid being near people who have an infection or are sick. Also, you should immediately seek medical help if you get chicken pox or measles because when you are using a medicine that contains steroid (fluticasone in case of Advair), even these relatively harmless conditions can have serious effects. Although rare, but they can even be fatal.

Types of Advair

As mentioned earlier, Advair is available in two forms:

1.     Advair Diskus

The powdered formula of Advair can be prescribed to asthma patients aged 4 years and older. It comes in the form of a round disk-like inhaler that contains measured dosages in form of blister packs. Every time, you open the inhaler for use, a blister pack is loaded. This ensures that you only get the required amount of medicine and not overdose on it. The unique shape of Advair Diskus pumps the drug into the airways of the patient.

To prevent the ingestion of any residue, the Diskus needs to be regularly cleaned.

Availability

Advair Diskus is available in three different combinations of fluticasone propionate and salmeterol xinafoate – 100/50, 250/50, and 500/50.

In all three forms, the quantity of salmeterol is the same; only the amount of fluticasone changes.

Limitations

Use of Advair Diskus is not advised for patients of acute bronchospasm.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Advair Diskus is 1 inhalation or spray twice a day, with at least 12 hours gap. However, always consult a doctor to determine the right dosage for yourself.

Administration

Advair Diskus should only be orally inhaled and you should always rinse your mouth immediately after the inhalation, without swallowing. This is to reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis, commonly known as oral thrush.

How Long Does The Medicine Take To Provide Relief?

The action of Advair Diskus starts within 30 to 60 minutes of administering a dosage. The effects of the medicine can last for more than 12 hours.

Are There Any Side Effects of Advair Diskus?

While Advair Diskus falls into the category of safe medicines and does not have any serious side effects, it does have a few effects (scientists have yet to come up with a medicine with zero side effects).

Some of the common side effects of Advair Diskus are:

• Body ache
• Headache
• Sneezing
• Dry throat
• Upset stomach
• Changes in voice
• Congestion
• High blood pressure
• Difficulty in swallowing food
• High-pitched breathing sounds
• Choking

In rare cases, a person taking Advair Diskus might experience one or more severe side effects, such as:

• Tremors
• Chest pain
• Throat and mouth infections
• Allergic reactions
• Breathlessness soon after taking the dose
• Irregular heartbeat
• Vision problems
• Increased anxiety
• Increased vulnerability to infections

No matter what kind of side effects you experience, severe or less severe, immediately inform your doctor about them. In case of serious side effects, discontinue the drug as well.

2.     Advair HFA

Available in the form of a regular inhaler, Advair HFA serves the same purpose as the Advair Diskus i.e. to relieve breathing issues and to help prevent asthma attacks.

Availability

Advair HFA is also available in three different concentrations of fluticasone – 45, 115, and 230 mcg. The amount of salmeterol stays same in all forms i.e. 21 mcg.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Advari HFA is 2 inhalation or spray twice a day. However, the lowest effective dosage is recommended to be used, so always consult a doctor to determine the right dose for you.

Side Effects of Advair HFA

Some of the common side effects of Advair HFA are:

• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Headache
• Nervousness
• Diarrhea
• Mild pain in bones and muscles
• Irritation and/or swelling in throat
• Tremors

Although severe side effects of Advair HFA are quite rare, it is better to be aware and careful. Immediately discontinue the medicine and consult your doctor if you experience any of the following conditions:

• Extreme mood swings
• Severe allergic reactions
• Feeling of tightness in the chest
• Numbness
• Blurred vision
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe muscle cramps
• Symptoms associated with hypertension
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Persistent pain in the bones
• Seizures
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or odor
• Worsening of the symptoms of COPD or asthma
• Weight gain

Possible Drug Interactions of Advair

The drugs present in Advair can interact with the following medicines:

• Ritonavir (Norvir), Telithromycin (Ketek), Indinavir (Crixivan), Nelfinavir (Viracept), Clarithromycin (Biaxin), Atazanavir (Reyataz), Itraconazole (Sporanox), and Ketoconazole may reduce the rate of flucticasone breakdown by liver enzymes. As a result, the levels of fluticasone will increase, which then could increase the severity of the side effects of Advair.

• Advair should not be used with or within two weeks of using monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MOAIs) and tricyclic antidepressants because they can increase the effects of salmeterol on the blood pressure and heart.

• Asthma patients should avoid taking beta-blockers unless absolutely necessary because they block the effects of salmeterol. Beta-blockers may also initiate severe bronchospasm in asthma patients. Even when necessary, only mild beta-blockers should be used.

Where to Buy Advair From?

Any medication, prescribed or over-the-counter, should always be bought from a registered/certified seller. The chances of falling prey to uncertified sellers, who may be selling fake products, are higher when you buy medications from online pharmacies.

Not all online pharmacies are uncertified though. So, always confirm if the seller is reliable and certified before purchasing.

Prescription Assistance for Advair

For patients in the U.S. who cannot afford to buy Advair or any other medication, there are many prescription assistance programs and facilities available in almost every state that provide the prescription medications at a low-cost or for free.

All you have to do is to find a prescription assistance program and apply for it by filling out an application form.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance is a website that helps uninsured or underinsured patients find the right prescription assistance programs for their medications.

Rx Assist is another similar platform that helps patients find their required medications at a low-cost or for free. You just have to enter the name of the medicine that you need and it will provide you the list of assistance programs that offer it. For example, according to RX Assits’s database, both Advair Diskus and Advair HFA are provided by the GSK patient Assistance programs.

Being not able to afford a medication doesn’t mean you should compromise on your health. With hundreds of prescription assistance programs, available all over the country, you will surely find one you qualify for.  Apply for it and receive all your prescription medicines at minimal rates or for free.

[1] https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/respiratory-diseases

Know Your Macronutrients

Macronutrients come in three major categories: fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Balancing these three groups is necessary to maintaining your health at an older age. Generally, 10-30% of your daily calories should come from protein, with the other 70% coming equally from carbohydrates and fats.

Fats

Fats help store energy, absorb key minerals vitamins, builds cell membranes (the exterior for each shell), and helps build nerve sheathing. Fat has a high calorie content, clocking in at 9 calories per gram, as opposed to protein and carbs (which total 4 calories per gram). There are three types of fat: trans-fat, saturated fats, and mono/poly-saturated fats. Trans fat have no health benefits and were often found in deep-fried goods and sweets. Even small amounts of trans-fats can hurt the body and should be avoided at all costs.

Saturated fats occur in products like whole milk, cheese, coconut oil, and red meat. While it can be a contributor to heart disease, saturated fats are fine in moderation. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are known as the “good” fats and are found in nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fish. Polyunsaturated fats are essential for proper bodily function and include sardines, salmon, walnuts, canola oil, and extra virgin olive oil. Many of these contain omega-3s, which have been shown to reduce blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart attack.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are your body’s preferred fuel for energy; carbs are digested by your body and turned into glucose (sugar) by the body, which is absorbed by the small intestine. If the body’s glucose stores are filled, the excess glucose will be converted into fat for later energy uses. Insoluble fiber from vegetables can help protect from digestive tract diseases and are indigestible by the body. Soluble fiber is digestible in the body and includes oats, legumes, and the inner parts of some fruits and vegetables. Having enough dietary fiber can benefit your blood sugar levels and keep your heart healthy. Carbohydrates are the primary source of fuel for your body.

Proteins

Protein is a major building block of many of the body’s cells, making up more than 50% of the dry weight of cells. Protein can be found in legumes, cheese, nuts, milk, fish, poultry, dairy, and meat. Protein is more important because the body breaks protein down into amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle in the human body. Protein also helps build healthy skin, hair, and bones. While protein is not primarily responsible for fueling the body, it accounts for a large percentage of the health of your antibodies, hormones, and other important regulatory processes.

Senior Nutrition

Having a healthy, balanced diet – along with a solid workout program – can go a long way in preventing chronic disease and promoting longevity. Carbs are the fuel of your body, fats are the storage, and proteins are the building blocks: a healthy balance of all three of these macronutrients can lead to an overall better quality of life.

The Rx Solution is a full-service prescription assistance program service that helps uninsured and under-insured Americans pay for their prescription medications.

1. Victoza can help slow down food evacuation from the stomach, which can regulate the amount of GLP-1 that is released from your small intestine when you eat. By slowing down the process of food leaving your stomach, your blood sugar levels will remain stable.
2. Victoza regulates the amount of sugar that your liver produces. This can help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
3. If your blood sugar levels are too high while on Victoza, Victoza can encourage your pancreas to produce more insulin in the body. Beta cells help control blood sugar, and Victoza helps control blood sugar by regulating the production and release of insulin.

 Side Effects of Victoza

Victoza is used to treat a serious condition known as type 2 diabetes. As such, this medication may come with complications. Some common side effects of Victoza may include:

• Redness or rash where the medicine was injected
• Skin rash
• Tired or feeling tired or a tired feeling
• Cold symptoms
• Back pain
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Indigestion
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sneezing, stuffy nose, sore throat, sinus pain

There are, however, serious side effects of Victoza that must be immediately reported to your doctor. If you have any of the serious side effects listed below, contact your doctor as soon as possible. A discontinuation of the medicine may be in order:

• Unusual weakness
• Mouth sores
• Weight gain
• Pancreatitis
• Signs of incfection, such as fever, sore throat, flu symptoms, or chills
• Pounding heartbeats, heart palpitations, or fluttering in your chest
• Increased thirst or urination
• Loss of appetite
• Confusion
• Weakness
• Hoarse voice or trouble swallowing
• Swelling or a lump in your throat

Victoza Cost

Victoza, coupled with a healthy diet and exercise, can help greatly reduce the symptoms of type 2 diabetes by controlling high blood sugar. Since there is no generic version of Victoza, the payment options for uninsured Americans is limited. Even with a manufacturer’s coupon, the average price is around $920, which is $100 off the retail price of the drug. The $920 price tag pays for 1 carton (3 pens) of Victoza 18mg/3ml.

For the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes, 0.6 milligrams of Victoza should be injected under the skin once a day for a week. Depending on the level of blood sugar control that is required, your doctor may up the dosage. For the treatment of obesity, it is common to be prescribed 3mg per week.

Victoza Prescription Assistance

The Rx Solution understands the importance of readily available medication, especially for patients who suffer from serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes. For uninsured and under-insured Americans, choosing between the mortgage and their prescription medication is a very tangible reality. This is why the Rx Solution was founded. We help facilitate the enrollment of prescription assistance programs for qualified individuals. These programs can dramatically lower the cost of medications like Victoza. To find out if you qualify, contact us at (888) 823-0042 or visit our contact page today!

• Kidney disease
• Fatty liver disease
• Pregnancy issues
• Sleep apnea
• Multiple types of cancer
• High blood pressure
• Hypertension
• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Strokes
• And others…

Losing weight can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, as more than 87% of adults afflicted with diabetes are overweight or obese. Being overweight can cause insulin resistance, which prevents blood sugar from being taken by cells in the body. This can cause a buildup of sugar; a prolonged state of insulin resistance can ultimately lead to type 2 diabetes as these cells begin to fail.

Let’s not focus on the negatives of obesity. This article contains some useful and helpful tips to help you lose the weight and help keep it off.

1. Cut alcohol intake

Drinking alcohol and high-sugar cocktails can do a number to your waistline. Alcohol is one of the biggest factors in weight gain, as it can also cause decreased inhibitions; that 1000-calorie plate of chicken wings looks a lot more appetizing once you have 3 200-calorie drinks in you! People can often consume twice their daily intake of calories during a night out on the town. If you’re going to drink, try low-calorie mixers such as diet soda and low calorie liquor. Compared to beer, it can save you a couple hundred calories during a night out.

2. Sleep More

Everyone says they want to get 7-8 hours of sleep a night, but putting that dream into practice proves difficult, if not impossible, for the majority of Americans. The cause? Many.

Try setting your phone alarm two hours before bed and ditching the electronics. Blue light from television and phone screens can interfere with your body’s natural rhythms and lead to less sleep on a daily basis. Sleep is an incredibly important facet of living a healthy life and controlling weight.

3. Avoid Sugar-Free Substitutes

Diet soda, sugar-free jam, and artificial sweeteners have been shown to increase levels of weight in the general population. Chemicals can interfere with important hormones and enzymes in the body that regulate healthy waistlines. Diet soda can also increase the cravings for sugary foods.

4. Change Your Vocabulary

Change your words from “I should” to “I want to” or “I am going to” … How you talk to yourself can play a big role on how you treat yourself. Instead of wanting to go workout, workout! Instead of wishing that you ate a better diet, ditch the cookies and crackers in the break room for apples and bananas. Instead of wanting to go for a run, buy some new jogging shoes and get to it!

5. Brush Your Teeth after Dinner

Having a clean mouth can help deter you from late-night snacking. It’s also a great ritual and habit to perform every night, especially if you regularly forget to brush your teeth.

6. Track Your Calories and Exercise

There are many useful only applications, phone apps, and calculators that can help you calculate your daily maintenance calories and how many calories you need to consume each day. Try not to mindlessly snack and eat in front of the television.

There are many ways to exercise, so find the method that works for you! Many people enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, weight lifting, yoga, running, biking, group sports, hiking, walking, and other outdoors activities. And speaking of the outdoors… people who spend more time in green areas outside report lower levels of depression, anxiety, and body fat. Try to exercise outside every day!

7. Say “No” To Office and Work Treats

You can’t prevent someone from bringing in donuts to work. You can, however, choose not to eat a coworker’s donuts, birthday cake, or holiday treat. Don’t think of it as deprivation, think of it as treating your body right. Guard your body and focus on your nutritional needs, not on how you are missing out on sugary snacks.

8. Eat Right

It goes without saying that most people know what a healthy diet is. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains… you’ve heard it before. Ditch the sugary snacks, the sodas, the diet sodas, the artificial sweeteners, the fried and processed foods, and packaged foods. If you look at the back of a container of orange juice or other “healthy” sports or breakfast drinks, you’ll be surprised at the amounts of sugar in these drinks. A good rule of thumb? If it has a television commercial, it may not be that healthy…

Prescription Assistance Programs

At The Rx Solution, we believe that preventative means and medicine is the best first-line of defense. We offer prescription assistance programs for people that suffer from diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension, and other diseases caused by obesity. If you are struggling to pay for your prescription medications and are an uninsured or under-insured American, give us a call at (888) 823- 0042 or visit our contact page for more information.

Ways to Boost Testosterone

• Exercise

Exercise is one of the most important aspects of living a healthy life. Everything from disease prevention, to healthy body composition, to boosting levels of testosterone, incorporating exercise is a necessary component of a healthy life. People that exercise regularly – regardless of age – enjoy higher levels of testosterone, as well as fitness levels and reaction time. Many studies even suggest that exercise is more beneficial for increasing levels of testosterone when compared to a healthy diet. Weight lifting and high intensity interval training have been found to be the most effective treatments for low testosterone. Caffeine and creatine monohydrate have also been shown to be effective testosterone boosters when combined with a training program.

• Get Some Sun

Research has shown that vitamin D – which is produced naturally by your body when exposed to the sunlight – is a potent testosterone booster. A 12-month study proved that vitamin D supplementation increased average testosterone levels by about 25%. Try supplementation or regular exposure to sunlight to increase your levels of testosterone.

• Take your Vitamins

In a study, zinc and vitamin B supplements ends up increasing sperm quality by around 74%. Other studies have shown that vitamins E, C, and A can play important roles in the development of sex hormones. The best advice? Eat a diet rich in whole foods. Magnesium has also been found to increase levels of testosterone. Some foods that include these minerals would be flax seeds, dark greens, pumpkin seeds, and fatty fishes.

• Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Abuse of alcohol and drugs has been linked to lower testosterone in males and females. Alcohol and drugs negatively affect many different parts of your body, and the glands and hormones associated with sex hormone production are no exception. Cell damage, hormonal reactions, and no exercise due to hangovers are just a few of the dangers of alcohol.

• Sleep

A lack of sleep has been linked to a multitude of health problems, including issues associated with low testosterone. Getting enough quality sleep is paramount when you are trying to optimize testosterone production. Aim for eight hours a night.

Optimizing Testosterone Production

Building healthy levels of testosterone is a multi-faceted process that involves a healthy diet, regular exercise, proper amounts of sleep, and smart supplementation and sun exposure. Try these tips out for a few months and then get a blood test! You’ll probably be surprised at how your levels will jump.

AndroGel Coupon 2019

If you need help paying for additional testosterone supplementation such as AndroGel, The Rx Solution has you covered. We specialize in prescription assistance programs, programs that help uninsured and under-insured Americans pay for their prescription medications that they would have otherwise been unable to afford.