About Us
Wanna know more about help-meds.com
Tell a Friend
Like help-meds.com? Recommend us to somebody you know!
Legal Disclaimer
Please read carefully our Terms and Conditions.
Other generic medication pages
The following generic medication pages have been created to provide you with unbiased information. For further information on a medication, simply click on the medication name.
A - B - C - D - E - F - G - H - I - J - K - L - M - N - O - P - Q - R - S - T - U - V - W - X - Y - Z
| Rx | Description |
|---|---|
| Leflunomide | Leflunomide is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Leflunomide decreases the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and slows damage to joints caused by the disease. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lamivudine and Zidovudine | The combination of lamivudine and zidovudine is used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in patients with or without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine and zidovudine are in a class of antiviral medications called synthetic nucleoside analogues. They work by slowing the spread of HIV infection in the body. Lamivudine and zidovudine is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Lamivudine and zidovudine does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people. |
| Lansoprazole/clarithromycin/amoxicillin | Prevpac (lansoprazole, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin) is used to treat Helicobacter pylori infections associated with ulcers. Each daily administration pack contains a single day's dose of lansoprazole, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin. |
| Levodopa and Carbidopa | The combination of levodopa and carbidopa is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement. It also may improve your gait (walk), posture, swallowing, speech, handwriting, vigor, alertness, and sense of well-being and may control excess salivation and seborrhea (oily, crusty, scaly skin). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Levonorgestrel Implant | |
| Lisinopril and Hydrochlorothiazide | The combination of lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure. Lisinopril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. Hydrochlorothiazide is in a class of medications called diuretics ('water pills'). It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. |
| Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide | The combination of losartan and hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure. Losartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. Hydrochlorothiazide is in a class of medications called diuretics ('water pills'). It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. |
| Levocarnitine Injection | |
| Levofloxacin Injection | |
| Linezolid | Linezolid is used to treat infections, including pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and infections of the skin and blood. Linezolid is in a class of antibacterials called oxazolidinones. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. |
| Lopinavir and Ritonavir | The combination of lopinavir and ritonavir is used with other antiviral medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lopinavir is in a class of medications called protease (pro' tee ace) inhibitors. It works by slowing the spread of HIV in the body. In this combination, ritonavir is used to increase the amount of lopinavir in the body so it can work better. Lopinavir and ritonavir is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Lopinavir and ritonavir does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people. |
| Levalbuterol Oral Inhalation | Levalbuterol is used to prevent or relieve the wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing caused by asthma. Levalbuterol is in a class of medications called beta agonists. It works by relaxing and opening air passages, making it easier to breathe. |
| Lidocaine Transdermal | Lidocaine patches are used to relieve the pain of post-herpetic neuralgia (the burning, stabbing pains, or aches that may last for months or years after a shingles infection). Lidocaine is in a class of medications called local anesthetics. It works by stopping nerves from sending pain signals. |
| Lithium | Lithium is used to treat people with bipolar disorder (extreme mood changes from depression or anger to elation). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Levorphanol Oral | Levorphanol is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lorazepam | Lorazepam is used to relieve anxiety. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lomustine | |
| Loperamide | Loperamide is used to control diarrhea. It is available with or without a prescription. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Loxapine Oral | Loxapine is used to treat psychotic disorders and symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and hostility. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Leucovorin Calcium | |
| Lactulose | Lactulose is a synthetic sugar used to treat constipation. It is broken down in the colon into products that pull water out from the body and into the colon. This water softens stools. Lactulose is also used to reduce the amount of ammonia in the blood of patients with liver disease. It works by drawing ammonia from the blood into the colon where it is removed from the body. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Levodopa | Levodopa is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement. It may also improve your gait (walk), posture, swallowing, speech, handwriting, vigor, alertness, and sense of well-being and may control excess salivation and seborrhea (oily, crusty, scaly skin). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Levothyroxine | Levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone, is used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Without this hormone, the body cannot function properly, resulting in poor growth, slow speech, lack of energy, weight gain, hair loss, dry thick skin, and increased sensitivity to cold. When taken correctly, levothyroxine reverses these symptoms. Levothyroxine is also used to treat congenital hypothyroidism (cretinism) and goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Liothyronine | Liothyronine, a thyroid hormone, is used to treat hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Without this hormone, the body cannot function properly, resulting in poor growth, slow speech, lack of energy, weight gain, hair loss, dry thick skin, and increased sensitivity to cold. When taken correctly, liothyronine reverses these symptoms. Liothyronine is also used to treat goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) and to test for hyperthyroidism (a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lindane | Lindane is used to cure infestations of scabies (small bugs that crawl under the skin and cause severe itching) and lice (small bugs that attach themselves to the skin on the head or pubic area ('crabs') and lay eggs called nits in the hair). Lindane is in a class of medications called scabicides and pediculicides. It works by killing the bugs and their eggs. Lindane does not stop you from getting scabies or lice. You should only use lindane if you already have these conditions, not if you are afraid that you may become infested. |
| Lidocaine Viscous | Lidocaine viscous, a local anesthetic, is used to treat the pain of a sore or irritated mouth and throat often associated with cancer chemotherapy and certain medical procedures. Lidocaine viscous is not normally used for sore throats due to cold, flu, or infections such as strep throat. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Labetalol Oral | Labetalol is used to treat high blood pressure. It relaxes your blood vessels so your heart doesn't have to pump as hard. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Leuprolide | |
| Levobunolol Ophthalmic | Levobunolol is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision. Levobunolol decreases the pressure in the eye. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lovastatin | Lovastatin is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in the blood. Lovastatin is in a class of medications called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body. Buildup of cholesterol and fats along the walls of the blood vessels (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body. Lowering blood levels of cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. |
| Lomefloxacin | Lomefloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis and urinary tract infections. It also is used to prevent urinary tract infections before surgery. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Loracarbef | Loracarbef is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such as pneumonia; bronchitis; and ear, nose, skin, throat, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lisinopril | Lisinopril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is used in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Lisinopril is also used to improve survival after a heart attack. Lisinopril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently. |
| Levomethadyl | Levomethadyl is used in treatment programs for people addicted to narcotics. |
| Lodoxamide Ophthalmic | Lodoxamide is an antiallergy medication used to treat certain eye conditions. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Lamotrigine | Lamotrigine is used in adults with epilepsy to control a type of seizure called partial seizures. It is also used in adults and children with generalized seizures related to Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Losartan | Losartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Losartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels so blood flows more smoothly. |
| Lansoprazole | Lansoprazole is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Lansoprazole is used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori |
| Lamivudine | Lamivudine (Epivir) is used in combination with other medications to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine is not a cure and may not decrease the number of HIV-related illnesses. Lamivudine does not prevent the spread of HIV to other people. Lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) is used to treat hepatitis B infection. Lamivudine is in a class of medications called nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. It works by stopping the spread of the HIV and hepatitis B viruses. |
| Latanoprost | Latanoprost is a topical eye medication used to reduce pressure inside the eye. It is used to treat eye conditions, including glaucoma and ocular hypertension, in which increased pressure can lead to a gradual loss of vision. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. |
| Loratadine | Loratadine is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. Loratadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Loratadine may cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines. |
| Levofloxacin Oral | Levofloxacin is used treat infections such as pneumonia; chronic bronchitis; and sinus, urinary tract, kidney, and skin infections. Levofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by eliminating bacteria that cause infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. |
| Letrozole | |
| Levetiracetam | Levetiracetam is used in combination with other medications to treat seizures in adults with epilepsy. Levetiracetam is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. |
| Laxatives (Oral) | Oral laxatives are medicines taken by mouth to encourage bowel movements to relieve constipation. There are several different types of oral laxatives and they work in different ways. Since directions for use are different for each type, it is important to know which one you are taking. The different types of oral laxatives include: Bulk-formers Bulk-forming laxatives are not digested but absorb liquid in the intestines and swell to form a soft, bulky stool. The bowel is then stimulated normally by the presence of the bulky mass. Some bulk-forming laxatives, like psyllium and polycarbophil, may be prescribed by your doctor to treat diarrhea. Hyperosmotics Hyperosmotic laxatives encourage bowel movements by drawing water into the bowel from surrounding body tissues. This provides a soft stool mass and increased bowel action. There are three types of hyperosmotic laxatives taken by mouth-the saline, the lactulose , and the polymer types. The saline type is often called ''salts.'' They are used for rapid emptying of the lower intestine and bowel. They are not used for long-term or repeated correction of constipation. With smaller doses than those used for the laxative effect, some saline laxatives are used as antacids. The information that follows applies only to their use as laxatives. Sodium phosphate may also be prescribed for other conditions as determined by your doctor. The lactulose type is a special sugar-like laxative that works the same way as the saline type. However, it produces results much more slowly and is often used for long-term treatment of chronic constipation. Lactulose may sometimes be used in the treatment of certain medical conditions to reduce the amount of ammonia in the blood. It is available only with your doctor's prescription. The polymer typeis a polyglycol (polyethylene glycol), a large molecule that causes water to be retained in the stool; this will soften the stool and increase the number of bowel movements. It is used for short periods of time to treat constipation. Lubricants Lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, taken by mouth encourage bowel movements by coating the bowel and the stool mass with a waterproof film. This keeps moisture in the stool. The stool remains soft and its passage is made easier. Stimulants Stimulant laxatives, also known as contact laxatives, encourage bowel movements by acting on the intestinal wall. They increase the muscle contractions that move along the stool mass. Stimulant laxatives are a popular type of laxative for self-treatment. However, they also are more likely to cause side effects. One of the stimulant laxatives, dehydrocholic acid, may also be used for treating certain conditions of the biliary tract. Stool softeners (emollients) Stool softeners encourage bowel movements by helping liquids mix into the stool and prevent dry, hard stool masses. This type of laxative has been said not to cause a bowel movement but instead allows the patient to have a bowel movement without straining. Combinations There are many products that you can buy for constipation that contain more than one type of laxative. For example, a product may contain both a stool softener and a stimulant laxative. In general, combination products may be more likely to cause side effects because of the multiple ingredients. In addition, they may not offer any advantage over products containing only one type of laxative. If you are taking a combination laxative, make certain you know the proper use and precautions for each of the different ingredients. Most laxatives (except saline laxatives) may be used to provide relief:
Saline laxatives have more limited uses and may be used to provide rapid results:
Most laxatives are available without a prescription; however, your doctor may have special instructions for the proper use and dose for your medical condition. They are available in the following dosage forms:
|
| Laxatives (Rectal) | Rectal laxatives are used as enemas or suppositories to produce bowel movements in a short time. There are several different types of rectal laxatives and they work in different ways. Since directions for use are different for each type, it is important to know which one you are taking. The different types of rectal laxatives include: Carbon dioxide-releasing Carbon dioxide-releasing laxatives (e.g., potassium bitartrate and sodium bicarbonate) are suppositories that encourage bowel movements by forming carbon dioxide, a gas. This gas pushes against the intestinal wall, causing contractions that move along the stool mass. Hyperosmotic Hyperosmotic laxatives (e.g., glycerin; sodium phosphates) draw water into the bowel from surrounding body tissues. This provides a soft stool mass and increased bowel action. Lubricant Mineral oil coats the bowel and the stool mass with a waterproof film. This keeps moisture in the stool. The stool remains soft and its passage is made easier. Stimulants Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl; senna), also known as contact laxatives, act on the intestinal wall. They increase the muscle contractions that move along the stool mass. Stool softeners (emollients) Stool softeners (emollient laxatives-e.g., docusate) encourage bowel movements by helping liquids mix into the stool and prevent dry, hard stool masses. This type of laxative has been said not to cause a bowel movement but instead allows the patient to have a bowel movement without straining. Rectal laxatives may provide relief in a number of situations such as:
Some of these laxatives are available only with your doctor's prescription. Others are available without a prescription; however, your doctor may have special instructions for the proper use and dose for your medical condition. They are available in the following dosage forms:
|
| Leucovorin (Systemic) | Leucovorin (loo-koe-VOR-in) is used as an antidote to the harmful effects of methotrexate (a cancer medicine) that is given in high doses. It is used also to prevent or treat certain kinds of anemia. Leucovorin acts the same way in the body as folic acid, which may be low in these patients. Leucovorin is also used along with fluorouracil (a cancer medicine) to treat cancer of the colon (bowel). Leucovorin is available only with a prescription and is to be given only by or under the supervision of your doctor. It is available in the following dosage forms:
|
| Leuprolide (Systemic) | Leuprolide (loo-PROE-lide) may be used for a number of different medical problems. These include treatment of:
Leuprolide is similar to a hormone normally released from the hypothalamus gland. When given regularly to men and boys, leuprolide decreases testosterone levels. Reducing the amount of testosterone in the body is one way of treating cancer of the prostate. When given regularly to women and girls, leuprolide decreases estrogen levels. Reducing the amount of estrogen in the body is one way of treating endometriosis. By shrinking tumors in the uterus, leuprolide helps stop anemia by decreasing the vaginal bleeding from these tumors. Iron supplements should be used to help treat the anemia. When given to boys and girls experiencing early puberty, leuprolide slows down the development of the genital areas in both sexes and breast development in girls. This medicine delays puberty in a child only as long as the child continues to receive it. Suppressing estrogen can cause thinning of the bones or slowing of their growth. This is a problem for adult women whose bones are no longer growing like the bones of children. Slowing the growth of bones is a positive effect in girls and boys whose bones grow too fast when puberty begins too early. Boys and girls may benefit by adding inches to their adult height when leuprolide helps their bones grow at the proper and expected rate for children. Leuprolide is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Levamisole (Systemic) | Levamisole ( lee-VAM-i-sole) is used with another cancer medicine (fluorouracil) to help make it work better against cancer of the colon. Levamisole is available only with your doctor's prescription in the following dosage form:
|
| Levocarnitine (Systemic) | Levocarnitine (lee-voe-KAR-ni-teen ) is used to prevent and treat a lack of carnitine. It is used to prevent and treat this condition in patients with kidney disease on dialysis. It is given to people whose body cannot properly use carnitine from their diet. Lack of carnitine can lead to liver, heart, and muscle problems. Your doctor may treat lack of carnitine by prescribing levocarnitine for you. Carnitine comes in two forms. Levocarnitine (L-carnitine) should not be confused with the D,L-carnitine form (labeled as "vitamin B T"'). Only the L-form of carnitine is used by the body to treat serious carnitine deficiency. The D,L-form does not help the body use fat and can actually interfere with and cause a lack of levocarnitine. Certain levocarnitine products have been specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for medical use and are available only with your doctor's prescription. Other levocarnitine products are sold without a prescription as food supplements and should not be used to treat serious levocarnitine deficiency. Levocarnitine is available by prescription in the following dosage forms:
|
| Levodopa (Systemic) | Levodopa is used alone or in combination with carbidopa to treat Parkinson's disease, sometimes referred to as shaking palsy. Some patients require the combination of medicine, while others benefit from levodopa alone. By improving muscle control, this medicine allows more normal movements of the body. Levodopa alone or in combination is available only with your doctor's prescription. It is available in the following dosage forms:
|
| Lincomycin (Systemic) | Lincomycin belongs to the family of medicines called antibiotics. These medicines are used to treat infections. They will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Lincomycin is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Lindane (Topical) | Lindane (LIN-dane) , formerly known as gamma benzene hexachloride, is an insecticide and is used to treat scabies and lice infestations. Lindane cream and lotion are usually used to treat only scabies infestation. Lindane shampoo is used to treat only lice infestations. Lindane is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the U.S. and some forms are available in Canada without a prescription in following dosage forms:
|
| Lithium (Systemic) | Lithium (LITH-ee-um) is used to treat the manic stage of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness). Manic-depressive patients experience severe mood changes, ranging from an excited or manic state (for example, unusual anger or irritability or a false sense of well-being) to depression or sadness. Lithium is used to reduce the frequency and severity of manic states. Lithium may also reduce the frequency and severity of depression in bipolar disorder. It is not known how lithium works to stabilize a person's mood. However, it does act on the central nervous system. It helps you to have more control over your emotions and helps you cope better with the problems of living. It is important that you and your family understand all the effects of lithium. These effects depend on your individual condition and response and the amount of lithium you use. You also must know when to contact your doctor if there are problems with the medicine's use. Lithium may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Lomustine (Systemic) | Lomustine ( loe-MUS-teen) belongs to the group of medicines known as alkylating agents. It is used to treat some kinds of cancer. Lomustine interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal body cells may also be affected by lomustine, other effects will also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may not occur for months or years after the medicine is used. Before you begin treatment with lomustine, you and your doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it. Lomustine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Loperamide (Oral) | Loperamide ( loe-PER-a-mide) is a medicine used along with other measures to treat diarrhea. Loperamide helps stop diarrhea by slowing down the movements of the intestines. In the U.S., loperamide capsules are available only with your doctor's prescription, while the liquid form and the tablet form are available without a prescription. In Canada, all the dosage forms are available without a prescription. Loperamide is available in the following dosage forms:
|
| Loxapine (Systemic) | Loxapine ( LOX-a-peen) is used to treat nervous, mental, and emotional conditions. Loxapine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Lypressin (Systemic) | Lypressin (lye-PRESS-in) is a hormone used to prevent or control the frequent urination, increased thirst, and loss of water associated with diabetes insipidus (water diabetes). Lypressin is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Loracarbef (Systemic) | Loracarbef (loe-ra-KAR-bef) is used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. This medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Loracarbef is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Lodoxamide (Ophthalmic) | Lodoxamide ( loe-DOX-a-mide) ophthalmic solution is used in the eye to treat certain disorders of the eye caused by allergies. It works by acting on certain cells, called mast cells, to prevent them from releasing substances that cause the allergic reaction. Lodoxamide is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Levocabastine (Ophthalmic) | Levocabastine (lee-voe-KAB-as-teen) is used to treat certain disorders of the eye caused by allergies. It works by preventing the effects of a substance called histamine, which is produced in certain cells in your eyes and which causes the allergic reaction. Levocabastine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Levomethadyl (Systemic) | Levomethadyl (lee-voe-METH-a-dil) belongs to the group of medicines known as narcotic analgesics (nar-KOT-ik an-al-GEE-zicks) . It is used as a substitute for illegal narcotics in addiction treatment programs. This medicine is not a cure for addiction. It is used as part of an overall program that may include counseling, attending support group meetings, and other treatment recommended by your doctor. Levomethadyl helps prevent the withdrawal symptoms that may occur when an addict stops using other narcotics. In detoxification programs, the amount of levomethadyl used is slowly decreased until an addict becomes drug-free. In maintenance programs, it is used on a long-term basis to help narcotic addicts stay away from street drugs. With long-term use, levomethadyl may decrease an addict's craving for other narcotics. Another narcotic, methadone, is also used in detoxification and maintenance programs. Methadone begins to work faster than levomethadyl does when treatment is started, but it has to be taken every day. Levomethadyl starts to work slowly, but it does not have to be taken every day. Therefore, some people may start treatment with methadone and then change over to levomethadyl after several weeks. Other people may receive only one medicine or the other during the entire time of treatment. Your doctor and your counselor at the clinic will decide on the best treatment plan for you. In the U.S., levomethadyl is available only in government-approved treatment clinics, in the following dosage form:
|
| Losartan (Systemic) | Losartan ( loe-SAR-tan) is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the work load of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. Losartan works by blocking the action of a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, losartan relaxes blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure. Losartan is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Lamotrigine (Systemic) | Lamotrigine ( la-MOE-tri-jeen) is used to help control some types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. This medicine cannot cure epilepsy and will only work to control seizures for as long as you continue to take it. Lamotrigine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Lansoprazole (Systemic) | Lansoprazole (lan-SOE-pra-zole ) is used to treat certain conditions in which there is too much acid in the stomach. It is used to treat duodenal and gastric ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which the acid in the stomach washes back up into the esophagus. Sometimes lansoprazole is used in combination with antibiotics to treat ulcers associated with infection caused by the H. pylori bacteria (germ). Lansoprazole is also used to treat Zollinger-Ellison disease, a condition in which the stomach produces too much acid. Lansoprazole works by decreasing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
|
| Lamivudine (Systemic) | Lamivudine (la-MI-vyoo-deen) is used in the treatment of the infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B virus. HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine is taken together with zidovudine (AZT) or other medications used to treat HIV. Lamivudine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Lamivudine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medicine may continue to have other problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Lamivudine is not a cure for the hepatitis B virus; the long-term effects of the drug on the infection and the liver are unknown at this time. Lamivudine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Letrozole (Systemic) | Letrozole (LET-roe-zole) is used to treat certain types of breast cancer in women. Female hormones that occur naturally in the body can increase the growth of some breast cancers. Letrozole works by decreasing the amounts of these hormones in the body. This medicine is meant to be used only by women who have already stopped menstruating. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Lamivudine and Zidovudine (Systemic) | Lamivudine ( la-MI-vyoo-deen) and zidovudine (zye-DOE-vyoo-deen ) combination is used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lamivudine and zidovudine combination will not cure or prevent HIV infection or the symptoms of AIDS; however, it helps keep HIV from reproducing, and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of serious health problems usually related to AIDS or HIV infection. Lamivudine and zidovudine combination will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive this medicine may continue to have other problems usually related to AIDS or HIV infection. The zidovudine component of this combination medicine may cause some serious side effects, including bone marrow problems. Symptoms of bone marrow problems include fever, chills, sore throat, pale skin, and unusual tiredness or weakness. These problems may require blood transfusion or temporarily stopping treatment with lamivudine and zidovudine combination. Check with your doctor if any new health problems or symptoms occur while you are taking lamivudine and zidovudine combination. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Loteprednol (Ophthalmic) | Loteprednol (loe-te-PRED-nol ) belongs to the group of medicines known as corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicines). It is used to treat inflammation (redness) of the eye, which may occur with certain eye problems or following eye surgery. This medicine is also used to temporarily treat the symptoms of the eye caused by a condition known as seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal eye allergy). This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Latanoprost (Ophthalmic) | Latanoprost (la-TA-noe-prost ) is used to treat certain kinds of glaucoma. It is also used to treat a condition called hypertension of the eye. Latanoprost appears to work by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye. This lowers the pressure in the eye. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s):
|
| Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide (Systemic) | Losartan ( lo-SAR-tan) and hydrochlorothiazide (hye-droe-klor-oh-THYE-a-zide ) is a combination medicine that belongs to the class of medicines called high blood pressure medicines (antihypertensives). It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. Losartan works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, losartan relaxes blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide helps reduce the amount of salt and water in the body by acting on the kidneys to increase the flow of urine; this also helps to lower blood pressure. This combination also may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s):
|
| Lidocaine and Prilocaine (Topical) | This medicine contains a mixture of 2 local anesthetics ( an-ess-THET-iks) , lidocaine ( LYE-doe-kane) and prilocaine ( PRIL-oh-kane) . It is used to produce numbness or loss of feeling before certain painful procedures, such as injections, drawing blood from a vein, or removing small growths (warts, for example) from the skin. This medicine deadens the nerve endings in the skin. It does not cause unconsciousness as general anesthetics used for surgery do. In the U.S., this medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. In Canada, it is available without a prescription. However, your doctor may have special instructions on the proper use and dose, depending on the reason you are using this medicine.
|
| Leflunomide (Systemic) | Leflunomide (le-FLUN-o-mide) is used to relieve some symptoms caused by rheumatoid arthritis, such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. This medicine works by stopping the body from producing too many of the immune cells that are responsible for the swelling and inflammation. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s):
|
| Lyme Disease Vaccine (Systemic) | Lyme disease vaccine is an active immunizing agent used to prevent infection by Lyme disease bacteria. It works by causing your body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the bacteria. Lyme disease causes rash, fever, weakness, and joint and muscle pain. The disease is caused by bacteria passed to humans by the bite of infected ticks. The risk of getting tick-borne infections can be lessened by such precautions as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, tucking pants into socks, treating clothing with tick repellent, and checking for and removing attached ticks. This medicine is no longer commercially available. |
| Levalbuterol (Inhalation-Local) | Levalbuterol (lee-val-BYOO-ter-ole) belongs to the family of adrenergic bronchodilators. Levalbuterol is used to prevent or treat chest tightness, shortness of breath, troubled breathing and wheezing associated with bronchospasm. This medicine is breathed in through the mouth by using a nebulizer and compressor or by using an inhaler. Levalbuterol opens up the bronchial tubes (air passages) of the lungs. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Lidocaine (Topical) | Lidocaine ( LYE-doe-kane) belongs to the family of medicines called local anesthetics (an-ess-THET-iks) . When lidocaine is applied to the skin, it produces pain relief by blocking the signals at the nerve endings in the skin. Lidocaine topical systems are used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with herpes zoster virus infection of the skin (shingles). Lidocaine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s):
|
| Levetiracetam (Systemic) | Levetiracetam ( lev-a-tear-AS-e-tam) is used to help control some types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. This medicine cannot cure epilepsy and will only work to control seizures for as long as you continue to take it. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
|
| Levobetaxolol (Ophthalmic) | Levobetaxolol (lee-voh-be-TAKS-oh-lol ) is used to treat glaucoma and other conditions of the eye in which the pressure in the eye is too high (ocular hypertension). This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:
|
| Levodopa and Benserazide (Systemic) | Levodopa and Benserazide ( lee-voe-DOE-pa AND ben-sir-A-zide) is used to treat Parkinson's disease, sometimes called shaking palsy or paralysis agitans. This medicine works to increase and extend the effects of levodopa, and may help to slow the progress of Parkinson's disease. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
Importance of Diet
|