We have heard it since we were kids, but do we really need to take our vitamins? The answer is yes. Most Americans don’t get the nutrition they need simply from the foods they eat, and supplements insure that our body meets its nutrient “quota” enabling our body to […]
Medication: How To Take
9 posts
ADDERALL XR (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine) ADDERALL XR is a mixed salt amphetamine approved by the FDA for treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Mixed salt amphetamines have been studied and used clinically to treat ADHD since the 1930’s. Amphetamines, as a class of stimulants, increase activity of the brain’s natural stimulants, Dopamine […]
Tenex (Guanfacine) is usually taken once or twice daily. It can be taken 3-4 times/day but it has a 16 hour half life so frequent dosing is not necessary. If taken regularly total blood levels will gradually increase over the first three days and then will level off. Tenex comes […]
Daytrana (methylphenidate) Daytrana is an adhesive patch formulation of methylphenidate (such as Concerta, Ritalin, Focalin). It is the first patch to be approved by the FDA for treatment of ADHD. Although the formal indication is for use in children 6-12 years of age it can be used in all age […]
LAMICTAL (lamotrigine) LAMICTAL (lamotrigine) is formally classified as an anticonvulsant drug. However, it has been used for many years for migraines and pain. It is also effective for treating bipolar depression. WARNING: STOP THE MEDICATION IMMEDIATELY IF A RASH APPEARS. To minimize the possibility of rash: Start at a low […]
WELLBUTRIN SR and XL (Bupropion) Wellbutrin SR comes in two strengths: 100mg blue tablets and 150mg purple tablets. Wellbutrin XL comes in 150mg and 300mg tablets. Wellbutrin enhances the brain’s natural stimulants, dopamine and norepinephrine. These help increase mental energy and motivation/interest. Wellbutrin also helps to control addictions, increase sexual […]
EFFEXOR XR (Venlafaxine) EFFEXOR XR (Venlafaxine) is a slow release capsule and comes in 37.5, 75, and 150mg sizes. It is a broad spectrum medication, which means it works by blocking reuptake of Serotonin (at 37.5 to 75mg) and norepinephrine (at 150mg+). Serotonin and norephinephrine are the two primary stress neuromodulators. […]
SONATA (Zaleplon) Sonata, available in 5mg and 10mg capsules, is a sleeping medication from a class of drugs known as nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics. Insomnia is usually due to hyperarousal. Sonata works by enhancing the brain’s natural tranquilizer called GABA. GETTING STARTED Take one 10mg capsule after going to bed if unable […]
One of my slogans is “The right medication at the right dose.” When starting someone on a medication, I tell them I’m not looking for them to say, “Doctor I think it is helping some.” What I’m looking for is “This medication is great! It has made my life better […]