Browse medication monographs, dosing guides, contraindications, interactions, and pharmacology-focused articles.
Yes, PROCRIT (epoetin alfa) is officially classified as a biologic medication, a complex drug derived from living organisms through recombinant DNA technology. As a recombinant protein, it differs fundamentally from chemically synthesized small-molecule drugs and works by mimicking a natural human hormone.
Read MoreWhile oral supplements are the first line of treatment for many forms of anemia, approximately 20% of patients experience gastrointestinal side effects with oral iron, making injections a necessary alternative. Therefore, understanding **what shots do you take for anemia** is crucial for those who cannot tolerate or absorb oral medication.
Read MoreWhile generally considered safe for short-term use, one of the most commonly reported side effects of evening primrose oil (EPO) is gastrointestinal upset [1.3.4]. So, to answer the question, **does evening primrose give you diarrhea?** Yes, it can for some individuals, particularly at high doses [1.2.3].
Read MoreAnemia affects a significant portion of the estimated 31.4 million U.S. adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with its prevalence increasing from 8.4% in stage 1 to 53.4% in stage 5 [1.11.2]. For many, a key question arises: **Can I take EPO on an empty stomach?** This question, however, stems from a misunderstanding of how EPO is administered.
Read MoreAccording to the CDC, approximately 87% of all strokes are ischemic, caused by a blood clot blocking blood flow to the brain. In these life-threatening situations, a rapid-acting thrombolytic is needed. So, what is the name of a drug that can dissolve existing blood clots? The answer lies in a class of powerful medications known as thrombolytics or fibrinolytic drugs.
Read MoreAffecting up to 900,000 Americans annually, dangerous blood clots require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe health consequences. The answer to **what dissolves an existing blood clot?** lies in a powerful class of emergency medications known as thrombolytics, or 'clot-busters,' which are administered rapidly to break down clots and restore vital blood flow.
Read MoreAccording to the National Institutes of Health, bleeding is the most common side effect of blood thinners, making it crucial to understand **what happens if you bleed internally on blood thinners**. These medications inhibit clotting, transforming what would typically be a minor bleed into a potentially life-threatening emergency if not managed promptly.
Read MoreAccording to research, the relative risk for upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding can increase by up to 10% in patients using blood thinners. This highlights a crucial safety concern, prompting many to ask: **Can blood thinners affect your stomach?** The answer is yes, and it's essential to understand both the mild and severe gastrointestinal side effects associated with these medications.
Read MoreBlood clots are responsible for a significant number of strokes and heart attacks each year. By preventing these dangerous formations, blood thinners provide life-saving positive effects for millions of people globally.
Read MoreAccording to Mayo Clinic research, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is amplified when patients receive more than one blood thinner, especially in older adults. For many people, **are blood thinners hard on your stomach?** is a critical question, and it's essential to understand the digestive side effects associated with these vital medications.
Read MoreRecent clinical data indicates that newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are now the preferred treatment for many conditions, leading to a shift in prescribing habits. Among these, apixaban (Eliquis) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto) are widely considered the two most popular blood thinners, offering an alternative to traditional therapy.
Read MoreAn estimated 16,500 deaths in the United States each year are a direct result of NSAID-induced upper gastrointestinal bleeding. This statistic underscores the serious potential for medications to cause complications, including conditions like **what medications can cause blood in the stool**.
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