Chronic Disease Management

Overweight obese man with hypercholesterolemia, teleworking and eating pastries

Simvastatin for High Cholesterol

Jun 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...

Sad tired sick asthmatic teenager with scarf around neck temperature check using thermometer

Management of Moderate Persistent Asthma in a 15-Year-Old Boy

Jun 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...

How Does Wegovy Work

May 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...

Semaglutide Insulin injection pen or insulin cartridge pen for diabetics.

Ozempic or Wegovy for Weight Loss? Doctors Urge Caution

May 22, 2024

The recent surge in the popularity of Ozempic® (semaglutide) and Wegovy® (semaglutide) injection as weight loss solutions has captured public attention, but medical professionals caution against their uninformed use. These medications, primarily designed for managing diabetes, have shown promising results in weight reduction, which may lead...

Woman rubbing her head to relieve the pain

A 35 Year Old Woman with Migraines Treated with Sumatriptan

May 14, 2024

Key TakeawaysSumatriptan effectively relieves migraine pain when used early.Fast-disintegrating sumatriptan formulations may speed up pain relief onset.Sumatriptan is recommended by the American Migraine Foundation.Research aims to improve sumatriptan's effectiveness and safety.Author’s Note: Janet is a real woman with migraine headaches...

Ozempic Dosing

Apr 12, 2024

The popularity of prescription GLP-1 medications has grown tremendously, largely because these medications have been associated with substantial weight loss. Ozempic has become one of the more recognizable medications within this class of drugs originally formulated for blood sugar management in type 2 diabetes. As more people seek to...

Ozempic Side Effects and Safety

Apr 8, 2024

With the rise in prominence of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for weight loss in addition to their traditional use for diabetes, questions are also raised about their safety. As intriguing as its weight loss potential can be, people are also concerned about potential side effects. For instance, the potential for developing an “Ozempic...

Eliquis Users Beware of Foods to Avoid

Feb 11, 2024

When taking Eliquis, it is essential to be mindful of the foods we consume, as they can potentially interact with the medication and impact its effectiveness. While some foods may seem harmless, they can have significant implications for those on Eliquis. From grapefruit to coffee, certain dietary choices may warrant caution. Additionally,...

Doctor man giving some pills to the observer

Eliquis vs. Warfarin: Choosing the Right Anticoagulant

Feb 6, 2024

For individuals living with atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis, the decision between anticoagulant medications can be critical, impacting their quality of life and health. Among the available options, two commonly prescribed anticoagulants are Eliquis (apixaban) and warfarin. Both medications prevent blood clots, yet they operate...