Jul 31, 2024
Key TakeawaysA neck lump should be evaluated promptly to rule out serious conditions like thyroid cancer.Diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and fine-needle biopsy, are crucial for an accurate diagnosis.Early detection allows for timely intervention and improves treatment success.After thyroidectomy, levothyroxine therapy is essential for...
Read MoreJul 29, 2024
Key TakeawaysSymbicort reduces asthma symptoms and improves quality of life by combining anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.SMART approach integrates Symbicort as both maintenance and reliever therapy, simplifying treatment and improving adherence.Proper inhaler technique is crucial for optimal drug delivery and effectiveness.Regular...
Read MoreJul 24, 2024
Key Takeaways SSRIs are effective for treating depression and anxiety with a better side effect profile than older antidepressants.SSRIs improve quality of life but do not cure mental illnesses or guarantee happiness.The neurotransmitter imbalance theory can be challenged; a broader approach considering multiple factors is needed for effective...
Read MoreJul 1, 2024
Author’s note: This is a personal story in the sense that someone close to me (let us call him ‘Dan’) had atrial fibrillation. To honor his memory and protect my family’s privacy, I have altered details sufficiently to mask his identity. One detail remains, which is quite true: Eliquis (apixaban) extended his life and...
Read MoreJun 25, 2024
Myoclonic seizures, brief yet sudden involuntary muscle spasms, present a unique challenge within the spectrum of neurological disorders. While often overlooked, their impact on individuals can range from minor annoyances to significant disruptions in daily life, depending on frequency and intensity. The pathophysiology behind these seizures is...
Read MoreJun 14, 2024
The landscape of psoriasis treatment is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the introduction of novel biologic therapies and technological advancements in drug delivery systems. Recent clinical trials have highlighted the efficacy of targeting specific cytokines, offering hope for more personalized and effective management of the...
Read MoreJun 5, 2024
Author’s note: ‘Bob’ is a composite of several patients I’ve treated for high cholesterol. In this sense, Bob is several actual patients, but his privacy is being preserved by mixing up the facts about his case.Key TakeawaysSimvastatin effectively lowers LDL cholesterol levels, improving lipid profiles in patients with...
Read MoreJun 3, 2024
Author’s note: ‘Jared’ is an actual patient; however, the details of his history have been altered to preserve his privacy. Nevertheless, Jared’s successful asthma management is a true story repeated several times in my practice.Key TakeawaysMontelukast helps with asthma controlSix months of Montelukast use results in a...
Read MoreMay 27, 2024
Wegovy ® (semaglutide), a clinically approved pharmaceutical agent for weight management, operates through a fascinating biochemical pathway involving GLP-1 receptor agonism. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, mimics the incretin hormones, which play a pivotal role in regulating insulin secretion in response to meals. By enhancing this natural...
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