Tag: Cardiovascular risks

According to Medscape, approximately one third of the 30 million individuals undergoing noncardiac surgery each year in the United States have cardiac disease or major cardiac risk factors. For these patients, and indeed for anyone, the question 'Can anesthesia mess with your heart?' is a critical concern that modern anesthesiology addresses with meticulous care.

Prescription stimulant misuse is a significant public health concern, with one study finding that in 2021 alone, more than 3.7 million Americans misused prescription stimulants like Concerta. Taking Concerta without a medical diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can produce unpredictable and dangerous effects, from overstimulation to serious cardiovascular complications.

According to a 2022 review, severe systemic toxicity from lidocaine is a rare but serious complication, occurring in as few as 1 in 10,000 epidural procedures. When professionals administer a lidocaine injection improperly—such as injecting it directly into a blood vessel—the drug enters the bloodstream, potentially leading to a life-threatening condition called Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST).

Depression and cardiovascular disease have a definite correlation, with up to half of coronary artery disease patients also experiencing depressive symptoms. This relationship underscores the importance of carefully evaluating the potential cardiac effects, and answering the question, 'Do antidepressants affect the heart?'.

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) is a central nervous system stimulant used for treating ADHD and binge eating disorder. Given its powerful effects on brain chemistry and the cardiovascular system, understanding **what medicines should not be taken with Vyvanse** is critical for patient safety, as certain combinations can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions.

More than 3 million Americans were prescribed phentermine for weight loss in 2020, making it one of the most common anti-obesity medications. However, patients often ask, “Can phentermine hurt you?” and understanding its potential risks is crucial for safe use under medical supervision.

Antipsychotic medications, used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, carry a constellation of risks. Among these, some are rare but potentially fatal, while others are irreversible or significantly impact long-term health. Understanding **what is the most serious side effect of antipsychotics?** requires considering these different types of risk and their impact.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the safety and efficacy of topical minoxidil in individuals over 65 years of age have not been sufficiently studied, highlighting a significant knowledge gap. This lack of research is a key reason **why should over 65s not use minoxidil** without a thorough medical evaluation, as potential risks may outweigh the benefits.

Prescribed for short-term weight loss, phentermine is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for abuse. While effective, understanding **what are the cons of phentermine**—including common side effects and serious risks—is crucial before starting treatment.

While Adderall is an effective stimulant for treating ADHD and narcolepsy, it is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence. Understanding **What is the biggest side effect of Adderall?** involves distinguishing between common but manageable issues and serious, less frequent but more dangerous outcomes associated with its use.