Why Swiss Medica's O24 Works for Pain Relief

Noted Herbalist Discusses the Active Mechanisms of Swiss Medica's (OTC BB: SWME) O24(TM) According to Mike Vertolli, who is recognized as one of Canada's foremost herbalists, "Although it is still in its infancy, research of herbal products and essential oils has increased significantly in the last ten years."

Vertolli was a member of Health Canada's advisory panel on natural health products (Canada's equivalent of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration). He believes there are constituents within the O24(TM) Essential Oil pain relief product, which may act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents. Vertolli explained that the constituents within the O24(TM) pain relief product have undergone rigorous clinical testing. This could help explain why O24(TM) has become widely accepted in a short period of time.

Take for example carnosol, which is a naturally occurring phytopolyphenol found in rosemary. In a study published in the June 2002 issue of Carcinogenesis, biochemists researching anticarcinogenic properties at the College of Medicine's Institute of Biochemistry at National Taiwan University found that carnosol may suppress nitric oxide production. That may help explain the anti-inflammatory action of the rosemary essential oil component in O24(TM). Nitric oxide, which is released during inflammation, is a free radical that can damage DNA. Because cancer is often associated with states of chronic inflammation, O24(TM) may be a potential alternative to anti-inflammatory medicines prescribed to cancer patients. Historically, rosemary was used as an antispasmodic, but recent research confirms its medicinal properties may be broader.

According to the American Chemical Society, which recently named the 1,8-cineole its "Molecule of the Week," there may be a scientific reason why the O24(TM) Essential Oil Pain Neutralizer product has out-performed other topical products in comparative testing. The cineole molecule is a major constituent of white camphor, eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils. It is also a minor component of peppermint essential oil. Cineole produces analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting prostraglandin, thromboxane and leukotriene synthesis. Prostaglandin synthesis is one of the culprits which causes chronic pain to last for weeks, months or years.

An entire class of anti-inflammatory drugs has come into this culture in an effort to numb chronic pain by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandin. Over the past few months, it has come to the general public's attention that this method of remedying chronic pain can be deadly, i.e. the solution is worse than the problem. "Most people look upon inflammation as if it is something bad," said Vertolli. "Like every physiological response, it has a purpose. Inflammation is an integral part of the healing process. If we apply a product that simply interferes with inflammation, it is going to interfere with healing as well. With O24(TM) that is not an issue because of the rubefacient (local vasodilator) effects, which increase blood flow to the region (thereby providing greater access to oxygen and nutrients and facilitating the removal of waste products and toxins) and because there are constituents in these herbs that actually stimulate tissue healing.

What Vertolli may be suggesting is that a functional solution for most people suffering from pain may have been right under their noses throughout the twentieth century to this present day: essential oils. What are essential oils? They are not the same as perfume or fragrance oils, some of which are artificially created or contain artificial substances. Essential oils contain the true essence of the plant from which the oil is derived. Often, an essential oil does not have an oily feeling because it is a liquid generally distilled from a plant's leaves, stems, flowers, bark or roots. Essential oils are highly concentrated and a little goes a long way.

Mr. Vertolli cited key components within O24(TM)'s US-patented proprietary blend of essential oils may be the reasons why this topical pain reliever has been quickly and widely accepted. In the case of the 1,8-cineole, also known as eucalyptol, recent clinical research has demonstrated the molecule's efficacy in reducing inflammation and pain, and in promoting leukemia cell death. In southeastern Asia, cineole-rich oil is a well-known remedy for the discomfort of bruises, sprains, and pulled muscles. Many use cineole-rich oil to stimulate blood circulation near the point of application. Four components of the US-patented O24(TM) pain relief product contain cineole: white camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint. "Cineole is only one of many constituents of O24(TM) that have scientifically documented anti-inflammatory action," said Vertolli, "The action of this product is a result of the synergistic interaction of hundreds of chemical constituents. Cineole may be an important one, but it is inaccurate to suggest that it is the only constituent that is important."

Other important constituents include camphor (white camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary), pinene (eucalyptus, rosemary, white camphor), menthol (peppermint, white camphor), limonene (lemon, sweet orange, eucalyptus, rosemary, peppermint), menthone (peppermint), carnosol (rosemary), linalool (sweet orange, rosemary, lemon), geraniol (sweet orange, lemon), anthraquinone glycosides (aloe), and dozens of others.

Not a Placebo

Components within the essential oils have long been recognized to alleviate pain. Some people might wonder whether the benefits of O24(TM) are psychologically induced. That's what skeptics call the 'placebo effect.' In other words, O24(TM)'s fast-acting and long-lasting efficacy tends to leave some consumers with the thought: "Was it O24(TM) or did it make me feel better because I believed it would work?" That's called the placebo effect.

Scientifically, there are molecular reasons why components within O24(TM)'s essential oils quickly bring about pain relief and then extend the relief for longer than one might expect from a topical analgesic. Most topicals contain either capsaicin, often derived from chili peppers, or salicyclates. The former create a numbing effect and has historically used as an animal deterrent - added to bird seed to prevent squirrels from eating it. A new form is being proposed as a paint additive for boats to repel barnacles. There are also formulations for keeping dogs, cats and raccoons out of garbage areas. Dozens of arthritic creams incorporate capsaicin for relief from arthritic pains. Unfortunately, it may just provide those suffering from pain a distraction as opposed to effectively reducing inflammation.

Salicyclates, on the other hand, inhibit prostaglandin and thromboxane release. As with all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, they bring about an analgesic impact on the body when topically applied. They work in the same way as aspirin does and attempt to provide a similar relief from pain, but on a topical level.

Both tend to give all topical pain relievers a bad name. With the addition of mineral oils, creams, paraffin or other additives (water, alcohol, glycerin or another binding agent), its pain-relieving properties can be diluted. This tends to explain why the scientific community denigrates topicals as an effective solution to pain. Medical doctors shy away from the general body of topical analgesics because relief is fleeting, or lead their patients to believe it is a "placebo effect."

Yet various forms of vapor rubs, to relieve the pains of congested chests and sinuses, have sold throughout the world for decades. Such brand names, or their generics, have been doctor recommended for as long a time. Many have active ingredients that include camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol and carry the phrase, topical analgesic, on their labels.

How do these differ from the O24(TM) brand? Because many topical pain relievers contain some synthetic binding agent, its additives interfere with the deep penetrating and healing actions reportedly found in the essential oils. O24(TM) is different because its patented process does not require binding agents such as alcohol or other ingredients. Because O24(TM) is in a purer form than other topical relievers, many users have reported that the O24(TM) brand works faster to relieve their pains and provides a longer-lasting relief from their aches and pains.

The dramatic impact O24(TM) has had on those suffering from acute or chronic pain can be quite puzzling. Some have announced, "It's a miracle!" Many are bewildered as to why O24(TM) can effectively and consistently produce relief from pain, and it is often easier to question the pain relief. Understanding the mechanism of why O24(TM) works may help dismiss the inherent, and expected, skepticism many have (until they actually try it for themselves).

Inhibiting Prostaglandin and Thromboxane Synthesis

There are specific components within the essential oils, which parallel the actions of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. This requires a brief overview of how aspirin, aspirin-like drugs (such as the class of COX-1 inhibitors: ibuprofen, naproxen) and the COX-2 inhibitors (generically the coxibs sold as brand names: Vioxx(R), Celebrex(R) and Bextra(R)) impact the body.

Those with arthritis or rheumatism may be familiar with prostaglandins. These are pain mediators in the human body, and are found in nearly all tissues and organs. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances, a group of lipid compounds derived from fatty acids. They are produced from a precursor molecule called arachidonic acid by cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2). The arachidonic acid pathway is one of the main pain- and inflammation-producing mechanisms. Not only are the prostaglandins produced, but so are thromboxane and the leukotrienes (which cause asthma symptoms). While prostaglandins participate in the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles, the dilation and contraction of blood vessels, the control of blood pressure and the modulation of inflammation, thromboxane (A2) is involved in the constriction of vascular and respiratory smooth muscles.

Discovered in 1971 that aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories could inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase, biochemist Sir John Vane and his colleagues won the 1982 Nobel Prize in Medicine. Their research demonstrated that the potency of the anti-inflammatory medicines were proportional to how well they performed as COX-1 inhibitors. But, they also discovered that cyclooxygenase inhibition led to toxic side effects: non-steroidal anti-inflammatories cause erosive gastritis and renal toxicity.

"Wonder drugs," such as Celecoxib and rofecoxib, were designed to prevent gastric bleeding (gastric bleeding reportedly causes more than 16,000 deaths annually and has been called a "silent epidemic"). The COX-2 inhibitors are said to interfere with the prostaglandin production process. This restraining action is what made COX-2 inhibitors popular. By hindering prostaglandin synthesis, someone in chronic pain was able to alleviate his or her suffering. Unfortunately, because of the recent controversy surrounding the COX-2 class, such as Vioxx(R), Celebrex(R) and Bextra(R), many arthritis sufferers have returned to the COX-1 inhibitors (gastric bleeding that reportedly results in more than 100,000 hospitalizations annually). Common COX-1 inhibitors are probably found in your medicine cabinet: ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin.

In Vertolli's research into why O24(TM) works, he found evidence suggesting that constituents within several of the essential oils inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. He wrote, "Anthraquinones, the primary active constituents in oil-based extracts of whole aloe leaf, reduce inflammation by dilating local blood vessels via inhibition of thromboxane and prostaglandin synthesis." He also noted menthol, which is found in numerous topical pain relievers, and is a major component of peppermint essential oil. Vertolli wrote, "Menthol produces analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibition of prostaglandin, thromboxane and leukotriene synthesis. It also increases local circulation by dilating the blood cells."

Vertolli is very enthusiastic about the rosemary essential oil in O24(TM). Rarely is it found in a pain relief product, which is odd because of clinical research on the anti-inflammatory action of a main constituent, carnosol, discussed earlier in this article. He explained, "Rosemary reduces inflammation by protecting blood vessels, blood cells, and blood fats from oxidative stress. It also reduces inflammation and pain by inhibition of complement proteins. Rosemary essential oil improves local circulation by dilating the blood vessels (relaxing the smooth muscles that line the blood vessels) and reduces tissue swelling by reducing capillary leakage." Blood leakage physically manifests itself as a bruise on the skin. Dr. Allan N. Fields, Swiss Medica's medical spokesman, has recommended O24(TM) for bruises, as a mean to reduce swelling and to accelerate the recovery period.

Finally, Vertolli returns to cineole, which he calls a "fairly strong constituent" and is found in white camphor, eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint. Vertolli also writes, "I specifically focused on the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, relaxant and antispasmodic properties because that is what the product is being used for. I am confident you would find that O24(TM) might reduce congestion in the nasal passages and lungs if applied to the chest. It might even help relieve tension headaches if massaged on the temples, although it is premature to recommend the use of O24(TM) for headaches."

COPYRIGHT (C) 2007 by StockInterview, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

James Finch contributes to StockInterview.com and other publications. StockInterview's "Investing in the Great Uranium Bull Market" has become the most popular book ever published for uranium mining stock investors. Visit http://www.stockinterview.com

The Effects of Inhalable Insulin

Since the 1920s, diabetics have had to go through the hassle of daily insulin injections. During that time, German researchers tried to discover more accessible and safer methods for diabetics to get their insulin needs and focused on an inhalable form of insulin. Their ideas eventually lead to the core concept of Exubera by Pfizer.

Pfizer Incorporated, based in New York (NYSE: PFE), is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. It produces the number-one selling drug Lipitor (Atorvastatin, used to lower blood cholesterol); the oral antifungal medication Diflucan (fluconazole), the long-acting antibiotic Zithromax (azithromycin), the well-known erectile dysfunction drug Viagra (sildenafil citrate), and the anti inflammatory Celebrex (Celecoxib) (also known as Celebra in some countries outside USA and Canada, mainly in South America).

Delivering Insulin by Inhalation Exubera is a type of inhalable insulin. It is administered through an inhaler, which sprays a form of human insulin into the lungs. Exubera works on similar principles as to how oxygen is absorbed. Oxygen flows into the lungs with a deep breath, makes contact with circulating blood, blood absorbs the oxygen, and is administered throughout the body. Exubera too is absorbed into the blood and regulates the amount of sugar within your blood. The inhaler is about the size of your hand when it is compacted, and about one foot long when it is being used. Some folks refer to it as a "bong".

The drug Exubera is a powdered insulin that is sprayed into the lungs. This insulin is derived in the lab by using recombinant DNA technology. This method involves the use of laboratory 'factory cells'. Scientists expose these cells to specific chemical signals that result in the mass production of insulin. Scientists produce in the insulin in this way because it is difficult to synthesize consistently and in high quantities. The insulin they recover from these cells is the basis for what is sprayed into your lungs. This is a very innovative method for producing biological substances in mass quantities.

Exubera works by going into the blood and regulating glucose levels. In a normal pancreas, insulin is produced when blood sugar levels get too high in the blood. In other words, insulin is used to regulate high levels of blood sugar and low levels of blood sugar. Those who would benefit from Exubera are those with type 1 diabetes because of their daily need for insulin. Exubera is different from other forms of insulin intake because it is taken through an inhaler instead of an injection. Human insulin, derived from recombinant DNA technology, is put inside an inhaler. Then, a blister surrounds the insulin, acting like a medicine capsule to safely deliver the insulin into the body. Some of the insulin is absorbed and degraded inside the lung and some of it is absorbed into the blood.

Exubera's Safety Concerns

Exubera may sound like the end to needles for Type 1 diabetes patients who have to administer insulin intravenously. However, there are many issues and ongoing concerns with this drug. The first and foremost concern with the drug is the controversial approval by the FDA. Exubera is the first protein sprayed into the lungs that has been approved by the FDA. There has been much criticism of the FDA since 2004, and Exubera only adds to the list. Approval by the FDA was questioned by critics because of inconclusive clinical trials. For example, the effect of Exubera on those who have been smoking for the past 6 months is very serious. Lungs of smokers have the tendency to absorb more insulin, thereby decreasing blood sugar at a higher rate. Therefore, smokers run a higher risk of hypoglycemia. Absorption rates are increased anywhere from 2 to 5 times higher of non-smokers.

Many users, after the FDA had already given their approval, have reported trouble breathing after inhalation. There has been recent scientific discussion on decreasing lung capacity and damaging lung tissue. Although the FDA has approved of Exubera, there are still clinical trials testing for the long term effects on lung tissue. Exubera has been known to be especially dangerous with those with underlying lung disease. It is difficult to characterize those with stable or unstable lung disease. Because Exubera is so heavily dependent on healthy lung function, and the difficulty to characterize the stability of one's lungs, Exubera runs the risk of overdosing many patients.

The National Institute of Health in the United Kingdom did not approve of Exubera. Their opinion on the matter was that Exubera "should not be recommended because it could not be proven to be more clinically or cost effective than existing treatments." Their reaction reflected that the use of Exubera did not better control blood sugar more accurately or consistently or at a more competitive price. In fact, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence Exubera estimated Exubera to be about $60 a year more than insulin injections. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices has also shown concern about its prescription to users. The dosage of Exubera is not consistent with the units of traditional insulin injections. For example, Exubera is usually described in mg (milligrams) while insulin is described in units. This leaves room for error. Also, there is a non-linear relationship between mg and units of insulin. For example, 1mg is equivalent to 3 units of injected insulin. However, 3mg is not equivalent to 9 units of injected insulin. This non-corresponding relationship only increases the danger of dosage. This is a real danger because Exubera is oftentimes prescribed in addition to insulin injections.

FDA Fast Stamp of Approval

Critics believe the accuracy is nowhere close to the FDA's normal standards. The implications caused by lung disease, especially ones that are undetectable, create a risk for all users. This inaccuracy could have serious health risks. The only positive aspect of Exubera is that it is needle-free and may be less of a hassle during social situations. However, I do not think this is much of a positive aspect because if one were to use this inhaler in public, one should do it in a safe area such as a restroom. There are not many more locations you can use Exubera in that you can't also administer insulin intravenously. Also, the fact that it is more expensive puts Exubera in a worse position than before. Using Exubera requires routine trips to the doctor to ensure healthy lung function. These trips are not always covered by insurance companies, resulting in hidden fees and higher cost to the user. HMOs will likely not approve the costs of the Exubera treatments which are double the cost of insulin injections. Side effects for drugs are always an issue. The FDA generally decides if the health benefits outweigh the cost of side effects. Administering insulin with an injection has little side effects if the user is trained. Exubera, at the cost of compromising lung capacity and lung tissue damage, merely eliminates the user error.

At this point, it is remarkable how Exubera has been approved by the FDA. Upon closer inspection, there have been some controversial techniques of marketing the drug to the public. Dr. Edward Ryan, a Canadian Endocrinologist, commented on the convenience and efficiency of the drug, claiming that Exubera is "obviously an advantage...I would say the majority like it." Although this may appear wholesome, the Canadian Diabetes Association has found his research to be funded by Pfizer, the manufacturer and producer of Exubera.

The FDA has been under heavy criticism in the past few years. After knowingly allowing the drug Vioxx to stay in the market for four years, despite its proof of serious side effects, the FDA has come under careful scrutiny. The approval of Exubera has lead to ever closer investigations. Of the nine voting board members, three have been found to have consulted with or spoken with Pfizer. Which is more surprising is that the panel chairman has stock with Pfizer as well.

Should you use Exubera?

If you are considering Exubera, the best decision you can make is an informed one and of course talk to your doctor. Be aware that the side effects are much more serious than other FDA approved drugs and may be a large price to pay just to avoid insulin injections. Exubera is an alternate delivery method of insulin, nothing more. Remember, the FDA approval is not an indication of safety. It is an indication of research; be sure to know all of its effects on your body. Pfizer has pulled Exubera from the market, there are other similar products in the pipeline from competitors. Although inhalable insulin has been associated convenience with some diabetics, it should also be associated with consumer caution.

Mr. Sudeep Misra is a research associate for http://www.BlueSparrowMedical.com - Innovations in Diabetic Care. He is a senior undergraduate student in the bio-medical program at the University of California, Irvine. His research interests are in endocrinology and nephrology.

Living Your Life In Spite of Pain

What we perceive as "pain" is an interaction between several chemicals in the brain and spinal cord. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters conduct nerve impulses from one nerve cell to another, and on to the brain. They do this by stimulating receptors found on the surface of nerve and brain cells, which function somewhat like gates, opening and closing to allow messages to pass from one nerve cell to the next. Many pain-relieving drugs work by acting on these receptors.

Pain can be roughly divided in to two types: Acute pain, and chronic pain. Pain is described as acute when it basically doesn't last very long - it is usually caused by an injury, illness, or surgery, and subsides as your body heals.

Chronic pain is usually said to persist for at least 6 months after your body has healed from the illness or injury that first caused the pain in question. There are forms of chronic pain that defy diagnosis. This usually adds to the emotional lows, anger, and self esteem problems that can already arise from experiencing the chronic pain in the first place. Many patients who experience chronic pain can also find that it interferes with the day to day activities of their lives.

Up to one-third of the entire population of the United States is affected by acute or chronic pain during the course of a year1.

Given the passage of a significant amount of time, all of these problems, compounded with anxiety, can lead to poor response to treatment, and set up a vicious cycle of unending discomfort.

You can, however, take steps to reclaim your life, and break the hold that pain can have over you!

Find, and Bond With Your Doctor

If you, like many other people, have had care from many different physicians, you may want to pick one, and stick with them. In addition to your family physician, you may want to consider also seeing a speCialist, if you know what is causing your symptoms. If you don't, you may want to consider a pain management speCialist. Bear in mind that you will still need to have a primary care physician to coordinate care and manage your general health. This is especially important in avoiding harmful drug interactions or conflicts in therapy.

When you're choosing a doctor, you'll want to make sure that, besides being someone that you feel you can trust, they are also knowledgeable about chronic pain issues. Beyond that, they should encourage and allow you to ask questions, and even to disagree with them. You should have a positive, proactive outlook on the road ahead, and your doctor should also share that.

Tell Your Doctor Everything

Your doctor can only help you if you give him or her as much information about your pain as possible. You should explain to your doctor the nature of your pain, where it is, how bad it is, and how often it occurs. If there are triggers that cause your pain, explain them also. Also, tell your doctor if anything makes the pain better. Don't forget to think about other, external factors that may not be readily apparent. Changes in your day-to-day schedule or even activities within the course of your day may be affecting you without your knowledge.

Your doctor will want to also go over other health problems with you. Besides directly affecting your pain, they may also affect his or her choice of treatment for you.

All of this will also assist in what is traditionally the first step in treating chronic pain: assessing the cause.

Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe various combinations of different therapies and medications to treat your pain. Generally, treatment can take the form of physical, behavioral, or occupational therapy, combined with various pain relievers, antidepressants, or anti-inflammatories.

Physical therapy can include walking, biking, etc, according to your situation, while behavioral therapy can teach you other pain control methods, such as meditation. Occupational therapy involves teaching you to more safely and efficiently accomplish everyday tasks, to minimize the risk of injury.

A little about drugs:

There are many pain-relieving drugs being used today. Opioid drugs block pain by locking onto opioid receptors in the brain. Other drugs control pain outside the brain, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs, including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, inhibit hormones called prostaglandins, which stimulate nerves at the site of injury and cause inflammation and fever. Newer NSAIDs, including Celebrex (Celecoxib) and Vioxx (rofecoxib) for rheumatoid arthritis, primarily block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase-2. Known as COX-2 inhibitors, these drugs may be less likely to cause the stomach problems associated with older NSAIDs, but their long-term effects are still being evaluated2.

To learn more about purchasing prescription drugs online, please visit http://www.prescriptiondrugplanet.com

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes can be invaluable in the treatment of chronic pain. If you smoke, or drink alcohol fairly frequently, you may want to modify your behavior. Quit smoking and drinking, or at the very least, cut back drastically.

A healthy diet will help not only directly, but indirectly, by reducing the strain on your cardiovascular system, and reducing stress.

Using recreational drugs can also impact your health in a myriad of ways that you could not possibly foresee.

Again, communication with your doctor is paramount. You and your primary care physician can map out all the things that you can do to try to reduce pain, and, if they work, you can modify your treatment accordingly. The key is to identify goals and obstacles to reducing pain, and tackling those goals and obstacles one at a time; then you can move on to the next challenge. Don't set unrealistic goals, because this will only lead to failure and frustration.

It is most important for you to take a long, hard look at your life, and how your pain has affected the way you live it. Then, take the necessary steps to "take your life back' - to change your behavior to reflect that you will no longer allow yourself to be controlled by pain.

References

1. NIDA Research Monograph, No. 36 (1986)


2. FDA Consumer Magazine, March/April 2004. Pub No. FDA 04-1336C

To learn more about purchasing prescription drugs online, please visit http://www.prescriptiondrugplanet.com.

Facts and Treatments Regarding Lupus

Lupus is a chronic inflammtory disease which affects both women and men, (especially women) and usually occurs on different parts of the body, such as skin, blood, joints. As we know, the body systems produces antibodies which have the role to fight against bacteria and viruses. In addition, lupus appears when the body system stops to work properly and produces antibodies known as auto-antibodies causing inflammation and pain. Much more there are two forms of lupus: one of them is called erythematosus (SLE) and usually affects the skin, muscles, joints, lungs and even heart, causing in most cases muscle and joint pain. Another common form of lupus is known as discoid lupus, which appears on the skin, producing rash on the head, scalp and neck.

First of all, lupus symptoms don't occur to all people in the same measure. For instance some people can face an easy form of lupus and on the other hand other people may show severe symptoms that can easily lead to complications. Some of the most common lupus symptoms are: muscle and/or joint pains, swelling and redness of other parts of the body, severe headaches, fatigue, sensitivity to light, fever, weight and hair loss, swelling of the feet or legs and others.

Lupus is an affection that has been known for more than 100 years and it shows its presence through different forms still. It is important to know that people can find out if they suffer from lupus only by visiting a doctor. So, after a special examination of the symptoms and various tests, the physician can easily settle a proper diagnosis. Even though, lupus can cause severe complications and needs specific treatments and even hospitalization, it is not considered a fatal disease and patients can have a normal life if they follow the medical instructions.

Furthermore, lupus like any other disease needs a special treatment and it depends on how severe or not is the affection. By asking medical help, people who are diagnosed with lupus should fallow a treatment which usually includes non-steroidal anti-imflammatory, drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics. Moreover, these drugs have the role in diminishing discomfort and symptoms that lupus produces by reducing pain and sweeling in the affected areas. However, NSAIDs have a negative part too, taking more medicines than is necessary may lead to other complications such as ulcers or bleeding. During the years has been discovered different methods to heal lupus, methods which are sub-classes of NSAIDs. Some of theses are frequently prescriebed and are known as Cox-2 inhibitors, Celecoxib, rofecoxib, valdecoxib and meloxicam. Moreover other prescribed medicines for treating lupus are Acetaminophen which are pain killers; Corticosteroids, used in diminishing swelling and inflammation, balancing the immune system too; Anti-Malarials medications usually help in removing, skin rashed, the fatigue and joint pain and not in the last place a medicine which has the role in improving the quality of life and it is known as Nutricol.

In spite of the long term experience gained in more than 100 years of practice, diagnosing acute appendicitis is still a tricky and doubtful charge. This is why surgeons often choose to risk removing a healthy appendix instead of gambling other complications like perforation or gangrene of the organ. The pain in appendicitis is most assembling to aches caused by other major abdominal pathology; cases of negative appendicectomy are found in about 20% of the situations.

Although sometimes negative appendicectomy might seem common and without risks, there are studies confirming high rates of complications and mortality in such mistakes; much higher than in well diagnosed appendicectomy.

The use of scoring system Alvarado has proved to decrease at about 0-5% the risk of negative appendicectomy. A closer and more objective or specialized expertise of the case can highly lower the further explorations until making them unnecessary. Replacing clinical skills of the surgeon by newest domain technology can have, in spite of the expectations, high risks.

In a study comparing patients suspected of acute appendicitis diagnosed by clinical exams and patients investigated through ultrasound technology, scientists have proven no major differences between the two methods. Patients undergoing ultrasound examination got earlier to the operation room as the others but the rate of negative appendicectomy remained high. No major changes were discovered although the operation was restricted to the patients with an Alvarado score of 4-8.

Other clinical studies proved no important differences. Concluding, we can assert that the Para clinical such as ultrasonography is highly dependent on the physician executing it.

The most helpful radiological investigation in avoiding negative appendicectomy seems to be computerized tomography. It reveals differential diagnosis and other possible abdominal pathology and offers more clear images of the explored area. More recent studies have verified the hypothesis that CT-scan reduces the risk of a false appendicitis diagnosis.

Despite of the major benefits of the computerized tomography this type of new technology isn't always available to the clinician in emergency cases when suspecting appendicitis.

So if you want to find more about Lupus or more details about symptoms of lupus please follow this link http://www.lupus-guide.com

Pain Medication You Can Legally Order Online

Millions of American live with pain. Chronic pain, daily pain, short term severe pain. Of all the medications sold by online pharmacies, by far the most common type is pain relievers. You might think then that online pharmacies are a great source of pain relievers.

Well, did you know the Drug Enforcement Agency of the United States (DEA) has busted and close over 5000 online pharmacies? Did you know that many online pharmacies sell counterfeit medication? Did you know it is a federal crime for you to order prescription drugs from outside the United States?

It is true, online pharmacies are a great source of pain relief medication. This article teaches you to order pain medication legally, from within the United States, with a legal prescription. It's the only way to go!

First, the caveats: You cannot legally order medication from outside the United States, even if you have a prescription. We always hear about the elderly taking buses to Canada to buy cheap medicine. The fact is, as of this writing, this course is illegal. Also, you cannot legally order medicine from a pharmacy without a prescription. Many online pharmacies (including my own) have physicians on staff who review your medication request and write you a prescription if they think it's safe. In addition, NEVER order narcotics through the mail. Forget codeine, Tylenol #3, oxycontin, demerol, percodan and percocet. You can be charged with a federal crime for buying these substances. Lastly, regardless of the medication you buy, be sure to read the package insert (or a monograph on my web site). Drugs interact with each other and with your body- the package insert will tip you off to potentially dangerous behavior with respect to the medication you ordered.

The following are quick summaries of common pain relief drugs you can order through the Internet with very little risk:

Fioricet (butalbital)

Fioricet is a combination drug. It is made up of Acetaminophen, caffeine and butalbital. Acetaminophen is the same medication in Tylenol You know caffeine from coffee (or even your favorite candy bar.) Butalbital is a mild barbiturate. It relaxes you.

Medical Science does not have an explanation for the reason this combination of drugs works so well, but the fact is Fioricet (and its generic form butalbital) is highly effective for tension headache. Presumably, it relaxes the muscles in the head and neck which typically tighten during tension headaches.. This is the top selling drug at our pharmacy month after month- it really helps headaches!

Soma (carisoprodol)

Soma is a muscle relaxant. It acts by blocking electrical signals among nerves in the reticular formation of the brain and in the spinal cord. Carisoprodol, combined with rest and physical therapy, is prescribed for the short term relief of painful muscle conditions- particularly muscle spasm (where the muscle tightens and does not relax). Most back strains result in muscle spasm, so patients find carisoprodol highly effective in relieving back pain.

Celebrex (Celecoxib)

Celebrex is used in the treatment of symptoms of arthritis. This includes joint pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation. The medication does not cure arthritis, but does provide symptomatic relief. It s a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which relieves pain and inflammation. The drug works by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins contribute to the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.

Ultram (Tramadol)

Ultram is used for treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain. It binds to the opiod receptors on nerves (the same mechanism used by narcotics), but it has a far lower potential for dependency. It's the closest medication to a narcotic you can order legally in the US online. It is not a NSAID (nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drug) and does not carry the risk of stomach ulceration and internal bleeding which can accompany the use of such medications. It is often prescribed for pain associated with shingles, fibromyalgia and other chronic diseases.

Ulracet

Ultracet is a combination of Acetaminophen and Tramadol. It is typically prescribed for the short term (up to five days) relief of moderately severe acute pain. It is often prescribed for post-surgical pain or after dental procedures.

The Ultram mechanism as described above is very similar to the mechanism employed by narcotics. Acetaminophen of course is the active ingredient in Tylenol. It works by increasing the threshold to pain (i.e. it takes more pain stimulus to cause the sensation of pain). These two drugs work by different mechanisms, and they combine to be more effective than either drug alone.

Pain relief medication can be ordered safely online, but one should exercise appropriate caution before doing so. Specifically, it's important to determine whether you need to see a physician before ordering pain medication. If you have a sudden onset of pain which is not readily explained, you should consult a physician first. If in doubt, go to the emergency room. If however you are a patient who has been diagnosed, and pain is a recurring problem, you can conveniently order pain medication online- typically at a lower cost than the combined cost of a doctor's appointment and the medication itself.

Copyright 2005 DeepDiscountPharmacy.net

David Altfeder is the owner of http://www.onlinepharmacyzone.com and http://www.buyfioricet.biz . He has written a series of articles on medication, medicine, health and the pharmacy industry.