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The Opioid Pendulum: Balancing Risks and Benefits
Appropriate use of opioids for pain relief requires delicately balancing risks and benefits. Too much of an opioid can be dangerous or even deadly, but too little leaves the patient in pain.
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Appropriate use of opioids for pain relief requires delicately balancing risks and benefits. Too much of an opioid can be dangerous or even deadly, but too little leaves the patient in pain.
Milnacipran (Savella) is one of three medications the FDA has approved to treat fibromyalgia (FM). It raises the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Milnacipran treats the widespread pain of FM as well as helping with FM’s depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Side effects are usually mild, but milnacipran can interact with other medications that raise serotonin levels leading to a hazardous condition known as serotonin syndrome.
Amlodipine, available as amlodipine besylate, is a prescription medication used to lower blood pressure or to reduce chest pain. Common amlodipine brands include Amvaz, Katerzia, and Norvasc. Amlodipine does not cause weight gain, hair loss, or headaches. You may take it with or without food, including grapefruit juice.
Antibiotic overdoses are rarely dangerous, but stomach upset and diarrhea may occur. Taking the wrong antibiotic is a problem if someone is allergic to the drug. Misuse of antibiotics is a problem for many reasons: an infection might not be cured, antibiotic-resistant organisms can develop, or, if a specific antibiotic is needed, it might not be effective.
Benzonatate is an anesthetic drug and cough suppressant. When benzonatate capsules are swallowed, the medication acts directly on the lungs to reduce coughing. Benzonatate is only approved for use in individuals 10 years of age and older. Younger children who take benzonatate may experience serious toxicity or even death.
Montelukast is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat asthma and allergies. It is a leukotriene receptor blocker that reduces inflammation, relaxes smooth muscles, and prevents fluid buildup in the airways. Although montelukast is generally well-tolerated, it is associated with side effects such as headache, abdominal pain, and sore throat.
Poison statistics for the Washington, DC metro area (2014)
Omeprazole is a medication that decreases the amount of acid the stomach produces. Known as a “proton pump inhibitor”, omeprazole is used to treat acid reflux and gastrointestinal ulcers. Omeprazole is available over-the-counter and as a prescription medication, but should be used with caution due to its interactions with other medications and dietary supplements.
Fluvoxamine is a medication that has been used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Recent clinical trials have shown that it may be effective for preventing hospitalizations and complications of COVID-19 infection, but it is not quite ready for prime time.
Poison statistics for the Washington, DC metro area (2017)
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