Author: Andrew Parker, MD
Andrew Parker, MD
Dr. Andrew Parker is a board-certified internal medicine physician with over 10 years of clinical experience. He earned his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and has worked at leading hospitals including St. Mary’s Medical Center. Dr. Parker specializes in patient education and digital health communication. He now focuses on creating clear, accessible, and evidence-based medical content for the public.
Comprehensive Guide to Adenosine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Adenosine? Adenosine is a naturally occurring nucleoside used as a medication to diagnose and treat specific heart rhythm disorders, primarily supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). As an antiarrhythmic agent, this drug slows electrical conduction in the heart by acting on adenosine A1 receptors, effectively restoring normal heart rhythm. Marketed under brand names like Adenocard and Adenoscan, the treatment is administered intravenously in clinical settings and is valued for its rapid onset and short duration of action. The medication’s benefits include its efficacy in terminating SVT episodes and aiding in diagnostic…
Comprehensive Guide to Adalimumab: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Adalimumab? Adalimumab is a biologic medication used to treat a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions by targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a protein involved in inflammation. As a monoclonal antibody, this drug binds to TNF-α, reducing inflammation and immune system overactivity in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis. Marketed primarily as Humira, the medication is administered via subcutaneous injection and is widely recognized for its efficacy in managing chronic inflammatory disorders. Its benefits include symptom relief, improved quality of life, and disease progression control, making…
Comprehensive Guide to Adapalene: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Adapalene? Adapalene is a topical retinoid medication primarily used to treat acne vulgaris in adolescents and adults. As a third-generation retinoid, this drug targets abnormal skin cell growth and inflammation, making it effective for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. Available in gel, cream, or lotion forms, the treatment is marketed under brand names like Differin and is valued for its ability to unclog pores, reduce acne lesions, and prevent new breakouts. The medication’s benefits include its targeted action on acne pathophysiology, a favorable safety profile when used as…
Comprehensive Guide to Albendazole: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Albendazole? Albendazole is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic medication used to treat a variety of parasitic worm infections, such as neurocysticercosis, hydatid disease, and intestinal helminthiases. As a benzimidazole derivative, this drug works by inhibiting parasite microtubule polymerization, leading to their death. Marketed under brand names like Albenza, the treatment is administered orally and is highly effective against tapeworms, roundworms, and flukes, making it a critical tool in global health, particularly in regions with high parasitic disease prevalence. The medication’s benefits include its wide-ranging efficacy, oral administration, and established safety…
Comprehensive Guide to Aztreonam: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Aztreonam? Aztreonam is a monobactam antibiotic used to treat severe bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-negative bacteria. This medication inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, making it effective against pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Marketed under the brand name Azactam and as generics, it is available as an intravenous or intramuscular injection. Aztreonam’s benefits include its utility in penicillin-allergic patients, but it requires monitoring for side effects like diarrhea or rash. Overview Generic Name: Aztreonam Brand Name: Azactam, generics Drug Group: Monobactam antibiotic This medication is used to: Treat…
Comprehensive Guide to Azathioprine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Azathioprine? Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medication used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients and to manage autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. As a prodrug, this drug is metabolized into 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), which inhibits DNA synthesis and suppresses immune responses. Marketed under the brand name Imuran and as generics, the medication is available as tablets or an intravenous formulation. Azathioprine’s benefits include its role in long-term disease control, but it requires careful monitoring for side effects like leukopenia or hepatotoxicity. Overview Generic…
Comprehensive Guide to Atovaquone: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Atovaquone? Atovaquone is an antiprotozoal agent used to prevent and treat Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) and to treat mild to moderate cases of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. By inhibiting mitochondrial electron transport in parasites, this medication disrupts their energy production. Marketed under the brand name Mepron and as generics, the drug is available as a suspension. Atovaquone’s benefits include its efficacy against opportunistic infections, but it requires monitoring for side effects like rash or gastrointestinal upset. Overview Generic Name: Atovaquone Brand Name: Mepron, generics Drug Group: Antiprotozoal…
Comprehensive Guide to Atomoxetine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Atomoxetine? Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) used primarily to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults. By increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain, this medication helps improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Marketed under the brand name Strattera and as generics, the drug is taken as a capsule. Atomoxetine’s benefits include its non-stimulant nature, but it requires monitoring for side effects like increased heart rate or mood changes. Overview Generic Name: Atomoxetine Brand Name: Strattera, generics Drug Group: Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (NRI) Commonly Used…
Comprehensive Guide to Atazanavir: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Atazanavir? Atazanavir is an antiretroviral protease inhibitor used to treat HIV-1 infection in combination with other medications. By inhibiting the HIV protease enzyme, this drug prevents viral replication, helping to manage the progression of HIV. Marketed under the brand name Reyataz and as generics, the medication is taken as a capsule or oral powder. Atazanavir’s benefits include its once-daily dosing and efficacy in HIV management, but it requires monitoring for side effects like jaundice or kidney stones. Overview Generic Name: Atazanavir Brand Name: Reyataz, generics Drug Group: Protease…
Comprehensive Guide to Asenapine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More What is Asenapine? Asenapine is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, including manic or mixed episodes. As a sublingual tablet, this medication works by modulating dopamine and serotonin receptors to stabilize mood and reduce psychotic symptoms. Marketed under the brand name Saphris and as generics, the drug offers a unique administration method. Asenapine’s benefits include its efficacy in psychiatric management, but it requires monitoring for side effects like sedation or weight gain. Overview Generic Name: Asenapine Brand Name: Saphris, generics Drug Group: Atypical antipsychotic Commonly…