Treatment for Strep Throat Infections

Strep throat is an infection of the throat that is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. Signs and symptoms include difficulty swallowing, swollen glands, headache, fever, and stomachache. The condition is contagious, and can be transmitted through coughing or sneezing. If not treated, the condition may lead to other conditions, such as an ear infection, sinus infection, or tonsillitis. Although many sore throats are caused by viruses and cannot be treated with antibiotics, a diagnosis of bacterial strep throat should be treated with antibiotics.

Oral antibiotics are usually prescribed by a doctor after a diagnosis of strep throat has been made. Penicillin, amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox), azithromycin (Zithromax) or clarithromycin (Biaxin) may be prescribed. Cephalexin (Keflex) is a cephalosporin type antibiotic that also may be prescribed. Pain relieving medications may also be used, including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain in the throat and fever reduction. A saline nasal spray (Ocean Spray) also may be used to help moisturize nasal passages. Adequate rest and hydration are other non-medication therapies recommended for relief of symptoms. A humidifier also may be useful for relief of cough and nasal congestion.

Variety of Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered an autoimmune condition. It is characterized by joint inflammation and swelling. Fatigue, fever, and stiffness are common signs and symptoms of the condition. The smaller joints of the wrists, hands, ankles, and feet are likely to be affected first, followed by progression to larger joints, such as the shoulders, hips, and knees. The condition typically fluctuates between periods of flares and remissions. Genetics may make certain persons more susceptible to developing RA.

Medications are available to decrease inflammation and relieve pain, as well as damage to the joints. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) are available over the counter for relief of inflammation and pain. Steroid medications, such as prednisone and methylprednisolone (Medrol), decrease inflammation and pain, and slow joint damage. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) work to slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs include methotrexate, infliximab (Remicade), etanercept (Enbrel), adalimumab (Humira), and golimumab (Simponi). Several medications may be prescribed at the same time.

Antibiotics Prescribed for Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other parts of the body. This condition is characterized by thickened secretions that come from the lungs, pancreas, intestines, and other major organs. Respiratory symptoms include a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and chronic bronchitis. Staphylococcus aureus, haemophilus influenza, and pseudomonas aeruginosa are bacteria that likely live in the airway of a person with cystic fibrosis.

Antibiotics are used to treat respiratory episodes in persons with cystic fibrosis. They are usually prescribed to be taken by mouth for several weeks for a mild episode caused by methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). The list of antibiotics commonly prescribed include dicloxacillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin), cephalexin (Keflex), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra), and doxycycline (Adoxa, Doryx). For methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin or linezolid may be prescribed. Tobramycin (TOBI), an aminoglycoside antibiotic, or colistin are antibiotics given by inhalation for those infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Severe cases may require ceftazidime (Fortaz), cefepime (Maxipime), aztreonam (Azactam), tobramycin, or amikacin.

Inherited Condition May Require Anticoagulants

Factor V Leiden is a common cause of inherited thrombophilia. People with the inherited factor V Leiden gene are at an increased risk of blood vessel thrombosis. A change in this factor may cause resistance to a substance called activated protein C. This all leads to a defect in the body’s anticoagulation system. Activated protein C is a natural body substance that serves as an anticoagulant. People with factor V Leiden have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Treatments for factor V Leiden may not be necessary, unless there are other risk factors for thrombosis present, such as surgery or pregnancy. If a person with factor V Leiden experiences a VTE, treatment usually includes heparin, and then anticoagulation therapy with the oral tablet warfarin (Coumadin). Heparin is an anticoagulant, which prevents the formation of a blood vessel thrombus. Low-molecular weight heparins include enoxaparin (Lovenox) and dalteparin (Fragmin). Warfarin requires frequent monitoring of drug blood levels. Foods containing vitamin K may decrease the effects of warfarin, and should be consumed in a consistent amount to avoid fluctuations.