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Seroquel

Seroquel

 
Seroquel is the brand name of the drug Quetiapine, which is a drug that is used to treat mental disorders, particularly schizophrenia and bipolar behavior.  Unlike other medications designed to treat these symptoms, Seroquel is slow-release, which is useful to moderate the medication that enters the body.  It does however have the effect similar to a sedative, which has been shown to have adverse effects on the body.  Generally speaking, Seroquel is largely safe and effective, but only when prescribed at appropriate doses and for the right reasons, with consideration for side effects and label warnings.  There is a chance one can be prescribed Seroquel inappropriately.  This is generally not an issue with the manufacturer, but rather the pharmacist or medical professional.  If you are prescribed Seroquel inappropriately, then are sickened because of it, it is within your rights as a patient to sue for damages.
 
 
Standards to sue for damages
 
 
When working on a medical malpractice case related to Seroquel prescriptions, know that the standard to collect damages always involve real damages done to the patient that result from the use of the drug only.  Any complications or worsening condition that is found to be independent of the effects of Seroquel will not be used as a standard to collect any forms of damages.
 
 
Disproven claims about Seroquel
 
 
Seroquel at one point was prescribed to patients with dementia, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s.  Not only was Seroquel found ineffective for the treatment and improvement of cognitive function, but also increased the risk of death for these patients.  The FDA has provided no approval for the treatment of dementia with the use of Seroquel. As such, you will be able to make a case for damages if you or a loved one is prescribed Seroquel for dementia and the patient is then injured or harmed while on the medication.
 
 
Obligations of the patient
 
 
The patient is not entitled to collect any damages if they overdose on Seroquel by failing to follow instructions.  The instructions and other information must be provided to them at the very least on the label and with additional documentation as needed.  The doctor and pharmacist will also explain the use of Seroquel to the patient.  The patient cannot be held accountable for incorrect information passed to them by a medical professional and when wrong dosing directions are given, the patient will be able to file medical malpractice against them for prescribing Seroquel incorrectly.
 
 
Other risks
 
 
Anti-depressants, such as Seroquel are likely to increase suicidal thoughts in younger adults and children and there is a general age restriction on the use of Seroquel for people of this age unless the doctor believes that Seroquel is necessary for treatment and that a combination of other mental issues will not affect the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and other issues.  When a minor is affected by the Seroquel medication, you will need to speak with a Seroquel to determine to what extent certain risk factors could have been mitigated, as well as the likelihood that the harm could have been avoided.  As is the case with all medical malpractice issues, the damage don’t by Seroquel must be directly related to the interaction of the medication with risk factors and not unrelated complications.
 
 
Informing the doctor
 
 
There is a general obligation of the patient to inform the doctor of certain risk factors and other issues that might preclude the prescription of Seroquel.  This includes recent surgery, pregnancy and family history of disease.  The doctor still however, has the obligation to check for notable risk factors, run necessary tests and take all other reasonable measures to ensure that side effects and other factors will not occur when dosing Seroquel for mental issues.
 
 
Meeting with an attorney for Seroquel litigation
 
 
There are some grounds to pursue litigation, especially for patients with dementia or those that had had severe side effects caused by the medication.  When discussing the legal matter with the Seroquel attorney, you will have to disclose the measures taken by the doctor to determine the safety and suitability of Seroquel for your symptoms.  You will also note the instructions provided to you for the proper dosage, if any.  That is the most important factor in determining fault for an overdose.  You will also need to account for the damages done to you, though there might not be enough time remaining in the consultation.  Should you accept legal services, be prepared to account for damages to be sought at a later date.
 
 
Accounting for damages
 
 
The Seroquel attorney helps you to account for the damages done to you, though the final determination is made in court if you win or if you accept a settlement prior to going to court.  Factors considered when determining compensatory and non-economic damages include:
 
 
Medical expenses for the initial visit with the doctor
 
 
Cost of seeking medical treatment for the side effects
 
 
Cost of missing work (i.e. lost wages)
 
 
Impact of unrelated mental disorders that should have been treated by Seroquel
 
 
Ongoing pain and suffering
 
 
What you collect varies on the determined negligence of the other party.  The Seroquel can help you anticipate what you will collect but this is never a guarantee.
 
 
Finding and paying Seroquel attorneys
 
 
You will pay contingency fees for the service provided to you by the Seroquel attorney.  The contingency fee is a percentage collection from the damages won on your behalf and this percentage is noted in any fee agreement you have with the Seroquel attorney
 
 
A number of attorneys will specialize in litigation over certain medication, such as Seroquel.  If possible, work with these experienced attorneys on that matter.  Seroquel attorneys will be well aware of similar cases and have better benchmarks for acceptable compensation.  The easiest way to find Seroquel attorneys will be to use the internet but if you need local results, contact the state or local bar association for more information about lawyer referral services and directories to find a Seroquel attorney.
 
 

Advair Strengths

Advair Strengths

 
What are Advair strengths?
 
 
Advair strengths include reducing inflammation and irritation in the airways.  This is important in the management of asthmatic symptoms prior to attacks or just in everyday activity.  Advair effects include stopping wheezing and helping patients to breathe better, though this depends very heavily on the patient and their receptiveness to the medication.
 
 
How do I maximize the Advair strengths?
 
 
To get the maximum Advair effects, it needs to be used daily, rather than when one feels the symptoms.  You have to follow the dosing instructions as well.  While some might be instructed to take the medication once a day, the typical dosage of this drug for maximum Advair effects is twice a day, twelve hours apart.  Though you do not clean the inhaler, you should rise out afterward to remove residual medication as there are no benefic Advair effects to having the medication in the mouth.
 
 
Can I use a quick relief inhaler to maximize Advair strengths?
 
 
The instructions for Advair effects state that the use of a quick-relief inhaler is redundant and therefore should only be used in an emergency.  The doctor’s dosing instructions will better qualify what this means and when you can use the quick-relief inhaler.
 
 
To ensure you get the maximum Advair strengths as well as avoid overdoses and other issues, you will need to disclose all inhalers and other medications used to the doctor.  Never use new medications without first consulting with the doctor for warnings and other possible Advair effects applicable to your health situation.  Some medication ns must be taken to avoid unnecessary withdrawal or other premature reactions, but only the doctor can determine which Advair effects are applicable and what else must be done to your dosing regimen.
 
 
When should I consider Advair?
 
 
If you have chronic issues with breathing related to asthma, then the Advair strengths are applicable to you and you should explore your options with the doctor.  The doctor will ask you about the medications you are taking as well as run some necessary tests.  You will proceed to take a prescription written for Advair to a trusted pharmacy.  If you seek an Advair coupon, go directly to the manufacturer or drug’s website.  No other source has a reliable discount that will be accepted.  In generally, there are no free samples, but you can commit to try the drug for thirty days under some arrangements with the manufacturer, as long as one has a prescription to have the medicine dispensed by a pharmacy.
 
 
Advair is also prescribed for chronic bronchitis and other lung diseases, but the doctor will need to review patient's medical history before this course of action can be taken.
 
 
Do I have a cheaper alternative to Advair strengths?
 
 
There is no approved generic for Advair as the company still holds the applicable patent.  Until that time you must work with coupons when made available by the manufacturer to afford this medication.
 
 

Serzone

Serzone

 
Dangerous Drug Facts: Serzone (Nefazodone)
 
 
For what is Serzone (Nefazodone) used?
 
 
Serzone’s main purpose is to treat depression, and like other antidepressants, is used to balance certain chemicals in the brain like serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and others.  Serzone is a serious and dangerous drug if used incorrectly, and this article will discuss the dangers of the drug, precautions, multiple side effects, and other important facts about the Ser.  
 
 
If you are taking Serzone and researching the drug for side affects you are experiencing, you need to contact your doctor right away.  
 
 
Serzone’s Dangerous Side Effects
 
 
During the testing of Ser. in clinical study, a small number of children, teenagers, and young adults up to 24 years old started to become suicidal. The suicidal thoughts associated with Serzone’s use normally appear around the start of taking the medication, and effects can also typically appear when a patient changes doses.  
 
 
If you have any of the following symptoms while taking Ser., you need to tell a family member and contact your doctor immediately: 
 
 
New or worsening depression
 
 
Thoughts of harming or even killing yourself
 
 
Extreme worry
 
 
Agitation
 
 
Panic attacks 
 
 
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
 
 
Aggressive behavior 
 
 
acting without thinking
 
 
Erratic excitement 
 
 
You need to discuss family history with depression, bipolar disorder, or any other type of mental illness with your doctor before they can prescribe Serzone.  
 
 
Other Precautions to Serzone
 
 
Apart from talking about family history for mental illness, you also need to take other precautions with your doctor before trying Ser.  Some precautions before taking Serzone are listed below: 
 
 
tell your doctor if you’ve experienced one of Serzone’s (Nefozodone) allergic reactions, an allergic reaction to trazodone (Desyrel), or even any other medications
 
 
If you’re taking astemizole, carbamazepine, cisapride, pimozide, terfenadine, or triazolam, your doctor will usually avoid prescribing Serzone
 
 
tell your doctor of ALL prescription and nonprescription medications you’ve taken or all herbal products you planning on taking along with Serzone’s prescription
 
 
tell the doctor if you’ve had a history of seizures, heart attacks, chest pain, stroke, or any other type of heart disease
 
 
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast feeding, and if you become pregnant while taking Ser., you need to call your doctor right away
 
 
If you are having surgery, tell the surgeon or dentist you are taking Ser. 
 
 
avoid driving machinery when starting the medication because Serzone’s effects can make you drowsy or affect your motor skills in some cases
 
 
avoid drinking any amounts of alcohol while taking Ser., as the combination of these drugs can become dangerous and even deadly in some cases
 
 
if you have just started the medication, Serzone’s effects can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting if you stand up too quickly after lying down—try getting out of bed slowly while taking Ser. 
 
 
notify your doctor if you start experiencing any diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration, as these symptoms with Serzone can cause a drop in blood pressure
 
 
Side Effects Associated with Serzone’s Use
 
 
Serzone’s use can cause mild and serious side effects in some cases, even if you are taking the medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor.  Some common side effects associated with Ser. that may become serious (in which you should notify your doctor) include: 
 
 
Headache
 
Difficulty concentrating
 
Dry mouth
 
Heartburn
 
flushing or feeling warm
 
Pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in hands or feet
 
Constipation
 
 
More serious side effects associated with Ser. include the following: 
 
 
Rash
 
hives
 
itching
 
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
 
swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eye, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
 
Hoarseness 
 
Slow heartbeat 
 
Memory problems
 
Blurred vision or vision changes
 
Confusion
 
Seizures
 
Painful erection lasting more than 4 hours
 
 
Serzone’s use can cause multiple other minor and serious side effects, and you need to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any abnormal changes while taking this medication.  If you have a new severe allergic reaction to Serzone, your doctor may submit a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program to educate the public about other effects associated with Ser. 
 
 
How am I Supposed to Use Serzone (Nefazodone)?
 
 
The pill is taken by mouth around the same times every day.  Serzone’s frequency is usually twice a day, but your doctor may start you on a very low dose that will be taken only once a week and gradually increase in dose.  
 
 
Oppositely, if your doctor wants you to stop taking Serzone, they will usually decrease the dose slowly so there are not dramatic changes.  If you are feeling better after taking Serzone, you should never stop taking the medication, and you should follow all directions from your doctor and the information packet that comes with the medication.  If you have any questions about Serzone’s use, ask your doctor.  
 
 
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of Serzone?
 
 
If you have forgotten to take the medication, you should take the dose of Ser. as soon as you remember—unless it is almost time for your next dose.  If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and start your regular schedule, and DO NOT EVER take two doses of Ser. 
 
 
Signs and Steps for Suspected Overdose
 
 
If you know some that has been taking the medication or a related medication for Serzone’s purposes, you need to call the local poison control center at (800) 222-1222.  If the victim suspected of overdosing from Serzone’s use is collapsed or not breathing, you need to call the local emergency services at 911.  Common symptoms of Ser. include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and lack of response from the victim.  
 
 
If you have any other questions about this drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist.  Don’t ever abuse this medication, and never give the medication to another person.  Abusing prescriptions is a felony!
 
 

Symbyax

Symbyax

 
Dangerous Drug Facts: Symbyax
 
 
Common Uses of Symbyax
 
 
Symbyax’s (Olazapine and Fluoxetine HCI Capsules) uses include treatment of treatment-resistant (TRD) and bipolar I depression in adults.  Symbyax was first developed to treat bipolar I depression, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later approved the medication for treatment with TRD.
 
 
Treatment-resistant depression is defined as a major depressive disorder in adults who do not respond to 2 or more separate trials of different antidepressants in significant doses and duration.  Symbyax’s release on the market has helped numerous individuals, but the drug has also shown serious and sometimes fatal side effects. 
 
 
If you are experiencing any of the side effects listed within this article associated with Symbyax’s use, you need to tell a family member and contact your doctor right away.  
 
 
Dangerous Side Effects of Symbyax
 
 
Antidepressants like Sym. have been known to increase thoughts of suicide and similar behavior in children, teens, and young adults.  Sym is prescribed to adults, but if you or anyone you know show signs of new or worsening depression symptoms, unusual changes in behavior, or thoughts or suicide, you need to contact a doctor immediately.  
 
 
The symptoms associated with Symbyax’s use may appear more frequently during the first couple of months of treatment or if the dose amount is changed by a physician.  Sym. is not prescribed to child or adolescents because of its high correlation with increased suicidal thoughts, and the medication is not prescribed to elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.  
 
 
What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Symbyax?
 
 
Your doctor will review your medical history and past medications when thinking about prescribing Sym.  You should never take Symbyax if you’ve taken a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) in the last two weeks, and you should never take an MAOI within 5 weeks of stopping Sym.  The side effects associated with Symbyax’s use and a MAOI at the same time can be serious and deadly.  
 
 
Your doctor will not prescribe Sym. if you’ve already take Mellaril (thioridazine) or the antipsychotic medicine pimozide (Orap).  Additionally, your doctor will not prescribe Sym. if you take any olanzapines liked Zyprexa, Zyprexa Relprew, or Zyprexa Zydis or take any fluoxetine hydrochlorides like Prozac, Prozac Weekly, or Sarafem.  You should also discuss all other prescription and over-the-counter drugs (including herbs) you take while discussing Symbyax’s use with your doctor.  
 
 
Additionally, you’ll want to discuss any health concerns you’ve had in the past or may have in the future before taking Symbyax.  Your doctor may avoid prescribing Sym. if any of the following conditions apply: 
 
 
Heart problems
 
Seizures
 
Diabetes or high blood sugar levels
 
High cholesterol or triglyceride levels
 
Liver problems
 
Low or high blood pressure
 
 
Strokes or “mini-strokes”
 
bleeding problems 
 
Alzheimer’s disease or family history
 
Narrow-angle glaucoma
 
Enlarged prostate 
 
Bowel obstruction
 
Breast cancer
 
Plans to become pregnant or if you are already pregnant 
 
 
Common Side Effects Associated with Symbyax
 
 
Symbyax’s use can cause common side effects, and a doctor will only prescribe Sym. if they believe the positive benefits of the medication outweigh the negative effects.  A doctor will usually start a patient out with a small dose of Symbyax and gradually work them up to a normal dose of 3mg/25mg, 6mg/25 mg, 6mg/50mg, 12mg/25mg, or 12mg/50mg of olanzapine/fluoxetine.  
 
 
Side effects may increase or decrease depending on Symbax’s dose amount, and some common side effects associated with the drug include the following: 
 
 
Tiredness 
 
feeling weak
 
increased appetite 
 
sleep for long periods of time
 
blurred vision
 
Tremors or shakes
 
Dry mouth
 
swelling of the hands and feet
 
 
There are other side effects associated with Symbyax’s use, and you’ll want to read the information packet that comes along with your medication in order to identify related side effects in the future.  
 
 
Other Serious and Dangerous Side Effects While Using Symbyax
 
 
Symbyax’s use can cause other serious side effects apart from suicidal thoughts or actions.  Most people will show no side effects while taking Sym. but others may face any of the serious side effects: 
 
 
1. High Blood Sugar (hyperglycemia) – taking Sym. will usually increase everyone’s blood sugar a bit, but having a history of diabetes can pose a serious risk to your well-being, and common signs of high blood sugar include the following: 
 
 
feeling abnormally thirsty
 
need to urinate more than usual
 
feeling very hungry
 
feeling weak or tired
 
feeling sick to the stomach
 
Feeling confused
 
Fruity smelling breath 
 
 
2. High Cholesterol and Triglycerides- Symbyax’s use can cause very high fat levels in the blood if the patient took olanzapine before they were 18
 
 
3. Increase Weight- Symbyax’s use will usually cause a person to gain some weight, and some individuals may gain more weight than others
 
 
4. Severe Allergic Reactions- Symbyax’s use can cause severe and life threatening allergic reactions, and you need to contact a doctor immediately if you experience hives or a rash, high fever and joint pain, swelling of the face, eyes, or mouth
 
 
5. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome- NMS is rare but can cause death if not treated, and you need to contact your doctor if you experience any high fever, excessive sweating, rigid muscles, confusion, or changes in breathing, heartbeat, or blood pressure while taking Symbyax
 
 
6. Tardive dyskinesia- Symbyax or coming off of Sym. can cause uncontrollable movements (especially of the face and tongue)
 
 
7. Serotonin syndrome- Symbyax’s use can cause this serious syndrome, and you need to tell your doctor if you experience any hallucinations, over-active reflexes, nausea, vomiting, or racing heart beat
 
 
8. Abnormal bleeding- Symbyax can cause unusual bleeding and bruising, especially when taken with a blood thinner, anti-inflammatory, or even aspirin 
 
 
9. Low Salt Levels- Symbyax’s use can cause hyponatremia, and you need to tell your doctor right away if you feel weak or confused, have problems concentrating, or have constant headaches
 
 
The use of Sym. can cause other serious side effects, and you need to discuss all proper side effects and precautions with your doctor before considering Symbyax.  
 
 

Zelnorm

Zelnorm

 
Is Zelnorm a Dangerous Drug?
 
 
Zelnorm, a drug known in its generic form as Tegaserod, was used in the United States and Canada for five years.  After being used for thousands of patients, Zelnorms stopped being marketed after evidence revealed they may have been more dangerous than was indicated by initial clinical tests.  If you took Zelnorm at any point while it was being sold, you may wonder what dangers the drug posed.  This guide will explain the uses of Zelnorm, its common side effects, and the dangers that took it off the market in 2007.  You'll also learn how to contact an attorney to help you if you believe Zelnorms may have injured you.
 
 
What is Zelnorm Used For?
 
 
Irritable bowel syndrome can take several forms.  While Tegaserod was used for irritable bowel syndrome, it was not for all types of IBS.  Generally, the only people who took Zelnorms were those who had constipation as their primary IBS symptom.  The drug was not used to treat Crohn's Disease or any kind of IBS or inflammatory bowel disease presenting diarrhea as its primary symptom.
 
 
Zelnorm aided IBS sufferers and people with unexplained constipation to live with significantly less discomfort and bloating.  It helps fecal matter move through the gastrointestinal tract, stimulating the reflexes that lead to bowel movements.  This helped to reduce straining and pain during bowel movements for those taking Zelnorms.
 
 
What Are the Side Effects of Zelnorm?
 
 
Zelnorms have a wide variety of side effects that users should be aware of.  The most common side effects associated with the drug include insomnia, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, leg pain, back pain, and nasal congestion.  While these side effects may seem like they are just nuisances, there are also several more serious side effects of Zelnorm.
 
 
Allergic reactions to Zelnorms are rare but have been reported.  Patients experiencing any symptoms of an anaphylactic response including a rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat, may be experiencing a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.  It is important not to take Zelnorms if you have a history of allergic reactions to it or any related medications.
 
 
IBS patients who take Zelnorm to control their symptoms may be dismayed to learn that patients taking this drug required abdominal surgery, including gallbladder surgery, significantly more often than those who did not take it.  In some instances, Zelnorms can also cause an IBS sufferer to develop colitis, which leads to rectal bleeding and diarrhea.
 
 
How Serious are Reported Side Effects of Zelnorm?
 
 
While these other side effects can be quite severe for IBS sufferers, these were still not the effects that took Zelnorms off the market permanently.  Instead, new evidence showed that people who used Zelnorm were up to 10 times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke.  The federal Food and Drug Administration rapidly acted to stop the medication from being sold in 2007.  Canada and India quickly followed in banning the drug from pharmacy shelves.  For a brief time in 2007 and 2008, patients could still obtain Zelnorms through a special program, but this was discontinued after less than a year.
 
 
Have You Been Injured by Zelnorm?
 
 
If you have suffered from severe side effects after taking Tegaserod, you may want to consider talking to an attorney.  Dangerous drugs attorneys can make sure that you are fairly compensated for any side affects you experienced.  If you or a loved one suffered a stroke or heart attack after taking Zelnorms, you may have a case for one of these lawyers.  Often, you can use a lawsuit to get compensation not only for your economic damages (like hospital bills and compensation for missed work), but also for your pain and suffering or loss of quality of life.  Because cardiovascular events are often associated with high levels of suffering and negative impacts on life quality, these lawsuits can sometimes be quite lucrative.
 
 
If you have decided to hire an attorney, you may be overwhelmed by your options.  Web searches don't always reveal the results you want.  If you can't find what you're looking for, consider finding an attorney through a lawyer referral service.  These services are often offered by county and state bar associations, and can give your local options for legal representation.  Usually, placing a call to a lawyer referral service is free and takes just a few minutes.  You'll tell the referral clerk a little about your legal situation, and will then be referred to a lawyer in your area who takes cases like yours.
 
 
Affording a Dangerous Drugs Lawyer
 
 
Many people are scared to pick up the phone and contact a lawyer about the side effects they experienced on Zelnorm, just because they believe they will not be able to afford legal services.  The truth is, if you have been injured after taking Zelnorms, you may be able to hire an attorney even if you have no money to pay a lawyer upfront.  Often, lawyers will take dangerous drugs cases on a contingency fee basis, allowing you to pay a percentage of your settlement or jury verdict rather than a set fee.
 
 
If you sign a contingency fee agreement with your dangerous drugs attorney, you will only pay legal fees if you win.  Depending on where you're located and the complexity of your case, you can generally expect to pay 25 to 40 percent of your winnings to your lawyer.  Typically, most lawyers will charge a higher percentage rate for cases that go to trial than cases that settle out before a lawsuit can be filed.
 
 
Attorneys only accept cases on contingency if they feel they have a good chance of winning the case and collecting money.  The only way to tell if your specific case will qualify for contingency fee representation is to talk to an attorney.  When you schedule your half-hour consultation after being referred by a lawyer referral service, you can talk to your prospective attorney about fee structures and whether you qualify for this type of fee.
 
 

Zoloft

Zoloft

 
 
Is Zoloft a Dangerous Drug?
 
 
More Americans are using sertraline (brand name Zoloft) to treat their depression than ever.  As of 2007, Zolofts were taken by more Americans than any other medication in its class.  If you've been prescribed this drug, you may want to know if it has the potential to be dangerous.  If you've already experienced severe side effects, you may want to know what your legal options are and what your next steps should be.  This guide will explain how Zolofts are used and the side effects, both minor and serious, of this medication.  You'll also learn how to consult with an attorney if you've been hurt by this potentially dangerous drug.
 
 
What is Zoloft Used For?
 
 
Zolofts belong to a category of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.  This is the most common type of antidepressant, and drugs like Prozac and Wellbutrin are related to it.  These drugs help alleviate the symptoms of depression by changing the balance of serotonin in the brain.  Zoloft is commonly used as a substitute for tricyclic antidepressants, which can have extremely severe (and very common) side effects.
 
 
Sertraline is considered more effective than several other antidepressants in its class, and studies have shown that it can also make a positive impact on symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobias, body dysmorphic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  Zolofts can also be used to assist women who have pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe type of PMS that interrupts daily activities.
 
 
What Are the Side Effects of Zoloft?
 
 
Although Zolofts can be superior to other drugs in their class for treating some types of depression, their side effects can range from disconcerting to deadly.  Nearly half of patients who have been prescribed Zoloft experience sexual dysfunction, typically including a loss of sexual interest and (in men) a physical inability to achieve erection.  Orgasm dysfunction is also common, with many men and women having difficulties achieving orgasm after beginning treatment.  In rare cases, orgasm may no longer lead to pleasure and the genitals may feel numb.  These side effects may persist for years after you have stopped taking Zoloft.
 
 
Diarrhea and nausea are also common side effects, as is sweating that is unexplainable due to temperature.  Dry mouth is commonly reported, as is drowsiness, dizziness, and tremors.  Rarely, sertraline causes insomnia as well.  One unusual side effect of Zolofts is called akathisia, which consists of restlessness and inability to refrain from moving.  Unlike sexual side effects, akathisia usually stops very quickly after a patient stops taking Zoloft.
 
 
For pregnant women, taking Zolofts is a particularly dangerous proposition.  Sertraline crosses the placental barrier in the womb, exposing the developing fetus to high amounts of the chemical (up to a third of the mother's exposure).  Using Zolofts in your first trimester of pregnancy may result in birth defects including missing limbs, undeveloped anuses, and problems with the septum, which divides the baby's nostrils.
 
 
How Serious are Reported Side Effects of Zoloft?
 
 
While most side effects of Zoloft are not life-threatening, several major side effects can be deadly if patients and their doctors don't watch out for it.  Like many antidepressants, Zolofts can actually heighten suicidal ideation and increase the likelihood of a suicide attempt.  The reasons for this counterintuitive effect are still being debated, but it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience feelings of hopelessness or feel suicidal after starting to take Zoloft.
 
 
Zoloft is also potentially deadly in two specific circumstances: when patients overdose, and when they stop using the medication suddenly.  Overdoses can lead to a fast, irregular heartbeat, vomiting, and seizures.  Overdosing on this medication can be fatal, so if you believe you have taken too many Zolofts, you should contact your local Poison Control Hotline or go to the emergency room immediately.
 
 
Stopping your medication suddenly can also be very dangerous.  Intense mood swings and vivid nightmares are common when people stop taking Zoloft all at once, and some people report strange headaches or “electrical” feelings in their bodies.  These side effects can be dangerous on their own, but are even more dangerous if they trigger a major depressive episode or suicide attempt.  Anyone attempting to stop taking Zolofts should contact their doctor for a medication protocol that slowly lowers your dosage.
 
 
Have You Been Injured by Zoloft?
 
 
If you or a loved one has been hurt because they took Zolofts (including women whose babies had congenital defects as a result of sertraline use in the first trimester), you should contact a product liability attorney as soon as possible.  Some product liability attorneys specialize in suing companies that manufacture and sell dangerous drugs like Zoloft.  You may be eligible to receive compensation for your economic damages, as well as your pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
 
 
One of the best ways to find an attorney to take this kind of case in your area is to talk to your local bar association's lawyer referral service.  Often, these services can link you for free to an attorney in your area who can take your case.  You'll tell the referral service what issues you have had and why you need a lawyer, and will be referred to attorneys who specialize in cases like yours.  Usually, this process takes only a few minutes, and can save you time instead of doing long web searches that fail to yield a lot of useful information.
 
 
Initially, you'll schedule a half-hour consultation with the attorney you are referred to.  This consultation is generally free or very low cost, and allows you to get a feel for the lawyer before committing to hiring them for your case.  You can ask any questions you like during this consultation, and even if you don't hire the attorney you speak with, they are obligated to keep your information confidential.  Make sure to bring all documentation relating to your Zoloft prescription, as well as information about your injury, to your initial consultation.
 
 

Narcotics

Narcotics

What are Narcotics?


Narcotics is a broad term that is associated with opioids, commonly heroin, morphine and their derivatives. As a term, narcotics, is imprecisely clarified; when used in a legal context, a narcotic is a prohibited drug or one that is in direct violation of governmental regulation. From a pharmacological or medical standpoint, the term can refer to psychoactive compounds or any substance that possesses an intoxicating power. 
Narcotics are used for a variety of legal purposes, such as to treat pain, alleviate diarrhea and induce anesthesia. Narcotics are administered in a variety of ways. Some may be taken orally or injected. When used for recreational purposes, narcotics are often snorted, injected or smoked. The effects of narcotics use will depend on the dose, previous exposure to the drug and the route of administration. 
Statutory classifications of drugs as narcotics typically increase the attached penalties for violating particular drug control laws. For example, federal law classifies amphetamines and cocaine as Schedule II drugs, however, the penalties attached to possession of cocaine is more stringent than that of amphetamines, because cocaine—unlike an amphetamine—is classified as a narcotic. The United States, under the nation’s Code of Federal Regulations, defines narcotics as the following:
• The term narcotics means any of the following—whether produced directly or indirectly or independently through a chemical synthesis or as a combination of chemical synthesis and extraction:
o Opiates, Opium, derivatives of opium, including their esters, ethers, salts, isomers
o Poppy straw and concentrate of poppy straw
o Cocaine and its salts (Coca leaves)
o Ecgonine, its salts and derivatives
o Any mixture, compound or preparation that contains any quantity of any of the above listed substances.
o A non-narcotic is defined as any drug that relieves pain; non-narcotic allergy medications and narcotic analgesics used to alleviate severe pain are not attached with federal penalties for use, possession or distribution. 
A more informal description of narcotics will simplify the class of drugs—narcotics are a colloquialism used to describe any illegal drug. This confusion between specific terminology and generic use has gotten so out of whack, that many experts have simply replaced ā€œnarcoticsā€ with ā€œopioidsā€. 

The Effects of Narcotics:
Narcotics will affect the human body in a number of ways. The highly addictive nature of the drugs, combined with their ghastly side effects rationalize the stringent regulations placed on the use, possession, manufacturing and distribution of narcotics. Although narcotics may hold specific medical uses, the laws regulating the illegal use (without a prescription) are rigid. Side effects of narcotics include drowsiness, respiratory depression, urinary retention, severe withdrawal symptoms, loss of appetite, cardiac arrest, seizures and in severe cases (common with chronic use) death. 
Even though a recreational user of narcotics will experience an overall sense of euphoria while high, there are several dangers associated with ingestion. The most common dangers associated narcotics are the ever-increasing risk of disease, infection and overdose. With repeated use of narcotics, a user will invariably build a dependency and tolerance towards the drug. The development of tolerance is characterized by a decreased high and a shortened duration of the high. 

Important Facts You Must Know About Street Drugs

Important Facts You Must Know About Street Drugs

What are Street Drugs?




Street Drugs is a colloquial term that is used to
classify an illegal drug that possesses a market of supply and demand in an
urban or suburban environment. Common street drugs include: Crack cocaine,
powder cocaine, marijuana, heroin and ecstasy. These drugs are all illegal in
nature—with the exception of marijuana which has been rendered legal or
decriminalized in 12 states throughout the country—and highly addictive. As a
result of their addictive characteristics, street drugs possess a constant
market—there are always buyers and sellers in a given community.
 

Street drugs are addictive as a result of their
psychological and physical side effects. Although each street drug administers
a different feeling on its user, all street drugs possess some sort of worth to
its buyer. For example, ecstasy transforms the user into a euphoric and
forgiving individual, while marijuana enables the user to relax and put his or
her mind at ease. These psychological side effects, however, are not infinite
in nature and as a result, yield a horrible withdrawal period, causing the user
to become addicted.
 


What is Recreational Drug Use?




Recreational drug use refers to the use of a drug,
typically a psychoactive substance or street drugs, with the intention of
creating or enhancing an individual’s recreational experience or activity. This
form of use, however, is highly controversial and often labeled as drug abuse,
particularly when the drug in question is classified as a dangerous street
drug. The recreational use of street drugs, in the majority of jurisdictions
throughout the United States, is deemed illegal.
 

The penalties attached to the use, distribution or
possession of street drugs will vary depending on the drug in question, the
quantity and the intent of the individual. In addition, if the individual has a
long history of abusing or selling street drugs the penalties attached will
invariably be more severe.


Classifications of Street Drugs:


Depressants: These types of street drugs are
psychoactive in nature, meaning they temporarily diminish the function or
activity of a specific part of the body or mind. Examples of such effects
include: sedation, anxiolysis and hypotension. Due to these effects, such forms
of street drugs possess a ā€œdownā€ quality to them. These types of street drugs
are held in contrast to ā€œuppersā€ or stimulants which cause the user to feel a
heightened sense of awareness and an overwhelming feeling of strength.
 


Antihistamines: These types of street drugs will
inhibit the release or action of histamine; these are legal or over the counter
forms of medication that may be used and sold for an illegal purpose.
 


Hallucinogens: These types of street drugs can be
subdivided into three broad categories: dissociatives, delirants and
psychedelics. Hallucinogens may cause subjective changes in thought, emotion
consciousness and perception. Unlike other forms of street drugs, this
classification does not merely amplify familiar states of mind, but induces
experiences that differ from ordinary states of consciousness.
 


Methadone

Methadone

What is Methadone?


Methadone is a synthetic opioid used recreationally and medically as an analgesic and anti-addictive for patients with opioid dependency. Although methadone is different from morphine and heroin in a chemical sense, the drug utilizes the same opioid receptors as these drugs, and thus, yields the same side effects. 
Methadone is a synthetic drug—it is made in a laboratory from various chemicals. As stated above, Methadone behaves like an opiate drug in the human brain. Unlike natural opiates, however, methadone is long-lasting—a characteristic that diminishes the likelihood of a high. Methadone blocks the brain’s receptors that are naturally stimulated by opiates. 
Even with an accepted medical use, Methadone is classified as a Schedule II drug by the United States Federal Government. This legal status is derived from the drug’s potential for abuse; when used improperly, methadone is extremely dangerous. 
Legal Use of Methadone:
Methadone is beneficial in the treatment of opioid dependence. Methadone possesses cross-tolerance qualities with other opioids including morphine and heroin, offering uniform side effects and a long duration of said properties. When taking orally, methadone can mitigate opioid withdrawal syndrome. Moreover, a higher dose of methadone can impede the euphoric effects of morphine, heroin and similar opioids. Because of these properties, when properly administered, methadone can reduce or stop a patient’s use of other addictive opioids. 
The use of methadone is rendered legal in different nations; the drug is commonly used as an analgesic—and as stated before—for opioid dependence. Methadone should never be used to reduce the effects or addiction to methamphetamines, alcohol or cocaine. 
Methadone will be prescribed by licensed medical practitioners for the following reasons:
• Methadone may be administered for the treatment of moderate to severe pain if the patient is not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics. 
• Methadone may be administered for detoxification treatment for opioid addiction 
• Methadone may be administered as treatment for opioid addiction, in conjunction with appropriate medical and social services 
Adverse Effects of Methadone:
The Food and Drug Administration has reviewed reports of life-threatening side effects and even death for patients receiving high doses of methadone. These effects may occur because the drug may build up in the body to a toxic level. Methadone has a series of toxic effects on the heart; physicians who prescribe methadone must be familiar with methadone’s duration of analgesic action (approximately 4 to 8 hours) and toxicities. 
Adverse effects of methadone include the following:
• Nausea
• Low Blood pressure
• Itching, Welling, Skin Rashes
• Seizures
• Impotence
• Hallucinations
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Vomiting
• Stomach Pains
• Mood Changes
• Insomnia
• Seizures
• Agistation
Legal Status of Methadone:
Methadone has been legally used in the United States to wean patients off of Heroin and Morphine addictions since 1947. Methadone, as defined by the FDA, is a Schedule II controlled substance. This classification denotes Methadone’s medically-accepted use and high potential for addiction and abuse. Because of the drug’s addictive traits, penalties for possession and sale of illegal methadone will be quite harsh. The precise punishments for illegal distribution or use will vary from state to state; however, first possession charges can result in hail time in some areas, while multiple offenses can result in life in prison. 
The FDA requires doctors—who prescribe methadone for treatment—to attend training sessions to better understand the drug’s profile and how to properly prescribe it. Doctors who finish the training are awarded a special license to prescribe methadone to patients. 

Advair 250 50 Dosage

Advair 250 50 Dosage

A brief guide to Advair 250 50 dosages

The prescription medication Advair can be assigned in doses of 100, 250 or 500 milligrams (mg) to patients suffering from asthma or other breathing difficulties. The Advair 250 50 dosage is the only dosage level prescribed to patients alternative breathing conditions, such as emphysema. These Advair 250 50 dosages are intended for long-term relief, while Advair dosages for asthma are assigned as short-term relief.

The Advair 250 50 dosage indicates that 250 mg of the drug are its active ingredient, while 50 mg comprise the powder that is ingested. This dry powder medication is ingested through an inhaler. Advair 250 50 dosages are taken twice a day, spaced twelve hours apart. Do not take more than this amount in an attempt to control serious symptoms, which will endanger your health.

If you are asthmatic, you will not initially be prescribed an Advair 250 50 dosage. Instead, you will begin your course of treatment with a 100 mg Advair dosage. If symptoms still persist without any negative side effects, your prescription will be increased to Advair 250 50 dosages. Should this increase still fail to control your symptoms, your Advair 250 50 dosage may be increased to 500 mg. Patients breathing conditions different Asthma, will only be prescribed Advair 250 50 dosages.

Immediately report any adverse effects you notice after beginning a course of treatment. If you have difficulty breathing following ingestion of an Advair 250 50 dosage and an emergency inhaler does not help, visit an emergency room or other medical care facility immediately. Be alert to skin rashes or other dermatological conditions that result after beginning your course of Advair 250 50 dosages. These are indications that your body is experiencing an allergic reaction to an Advair 250 50 dosage and you may need to discontinue use.

Whatever the strength of your prescription, extended use of the drug by asthmatics increases the risk of asthma-related fatality. Once Advair 250 50 dosages have curtailed your serious symptoms, a doctor will create a plan to slow down and discontinue use of the medication entirely. Prolonged ingestion of an Advair 250 50 dosage can also weaken your immune system, increasing your risk for pneumonia and other illnesses. Report any feeling of weakness or sickness to your doctor immediately.

Proper supervision by a physician when taking Advair 250 50 dosages should include warning you about all potential adverse effects and discontinuing use as indicated. If a doctor does not safeguard your health and serious side effects ensue, you may have grounds for a malpractice lawsuit. Consult a lawyer if you wish to consider a lawsuit relating to ingestion of an Advair 250 50 dosage. Do not attempt self-representation in an attempt to save money. Proving a direct connection between your medication and long-lasting health damage is a complicated task best handled by a lawyer experienced in such litigation.