Statin Drugs, CoQ10 and Vitamin D: What You Need to Know and Why

One of the most commonly prescribed drugs for adults is a drug from the Statin class;these drugs are intended to lower cholesterol in an effort to decrease the risk of developing a heart attack

Look around you at your co-workers, family members, friends, or even just those at the supermarket. Either you or one of these people is taking or have taken a Statin drug. It has been estimated that 8 out of 10 adults have taken a Statin drug, with over 200 million new prescriptions written each year (some are written for those who took them the previous year).

Unfortunately, they are also the most common drug that people stop taking because of its side effects. It is estimated that 54% of those taking Statin drugs stop taking them after 2 – 3 months.

Many of the side effects, however, are caused by a deficiency in CoQ10(short for Co-enzyme Q10) resulting from the action of the Statin drug in the liver. It usually takes 3 months for a person to experience the side effects of CoQ10 deficiency.

Statin drugs work in the liver to inhibit the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is responsible for manufacturing 70% of the cholesterol the body uses. However, another use of this enzyme is to manufacture CoQ10 which is essential to the body—meaning the body can make all the CoQ10 it needs so long as this enzyme is working. Without that enzyme, the body cannot make the CoQ10, and the body will suffer if the nutrient isn’t supplemented or taken into the body from the diet.

Looking at the side effects that most trouble someone taking a Statin drug, these are the signs of a deficiency of CoQ10: memory loss, depression, fatigue; shortness of breath; irregular heart rhythm, palpitations; leg cramps or heavy, aching legs; diabetes; and impotence. The main symptoms that causes people to stop taking the drug is the effect on the legs—the pain or heaviness sensation. The second-most common is loss of libido or impotence.

CoQ10 in itself has heart-protective properties. Statin drugs are intended to help reduce the risk of a heart attack; but studies have shown they have little effect on the prevention of a heart attack. Perhaps it is because the drug causes a deficiency in CoQ10.

Several of the other side effects of these drugs are caused by a deficiency of vitamin D; this drug class depletes vitamin D. These side effects are: depression, anxiety, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD); shortness of breath; muscle weakness or osteoporosis; loss of or diminished hearing; increased risk of cancer; rheumatic pain; or decreased appetite or food cravings.

Therefore, unless otherwise contraindicated, it is a good idea to supplement with both CoQ10 and vitamin D daily while taking a Statin drug. Although some doctors are recommending fish oil supplements to their patients, most fish oil supplements do not contain enough of either CoQ10 or vitamin D to offset the deficiency created by the drug. Therefore, it is recommended a person take 100mg CoQ10 and 50,000 IU vitamin D daily.

If you would like to increase your dietary intake of these nutrients, you can find higher levels of CoQ10 in fish, beef and poultry; or in pistachios or peanuts. Although you can find CoQ10 in foods, most have too low of amounts to counteract the deficiency created by a Statin drug. It is best to take a supplement.

For vitamin D, foods rich in this nutrient are cold water seafood, enriched milk, liver, and fortified cereal. If you get 20 minutes of sunshine daily (unprotected by sunscreen), you are likely getting enough vitamin D to offset the deficiency created by the drug.

Since we are talking about supplements, it may be a good idea to take a supplement to protect the liver as Statin drugs are very hard on the liver and over time, liver damage can occur. Consider a supplement such as Milk Thistle, ALA (alpha lipoic acid) or NAC (n-acetyl cysteine) to help protect the liver from damage.

As a note, be aware that a Statin drug interferes with absorption of ALL nutrients ingested; therefore, it is recommended this drug be taken at bedtime so that nutrients from your meals throughout the day get absorbed. But do not take with pomegranate or grapefruit juice as these juices increase the side effects of the drug and can greatly increase the risk of liver damage or disease. It may also cause neuropathy (nerve damage).

As always, talk to someone knowledgeable in both supplements and medical drugs before taking any supplements.

It is possible to take a medical drug and diminish or remove the side effects of that drug—sometime you need to look to nature to do it. Just be wise and make sure what you take from nature is compatible with the drug.

Divalproex Sodium Market – Opportunity Analysis 2018 – 2026

Divalproex sodium is a Food and Drug Administrator (FDA) approved anti-epileptic drug used to treat migraine headaches, manic episodes of bipolar disorders, and certain types of seizures. Divalproex sodium is known for its anticonvulsant properties for the treatment of epilepsy. Divalproex sodium comes under three dosage forms: capsule, tablet, and syrup. Divalproex sodium oral tablet is available in brand-names, Depakote ER and Depakote. Divalproex sodium is also used in various combinational therapies.

Click To Continue Reading on Divalproex Sodium Market

The recommended initial dosage of Depakote for the treatment of bipolar disorders is 750 mg daily, whereas for complex partial seizures, initial dosage starts with 10 to 15 mg/kg/day. Also, recommended starting dose for migraine headache is 250 mg twice daily to achieve therapeutic response.

For instance, according to study published in JAMA Psychiatry Journal 2012, in a combined sample of 61,392 adults from 11 countries, the total lifetime prevalence of bipolar disorder-I was 0.6%, and 0.4% for bipolar disorder-II and subthreshold bipolar disorder was 1.4%, yielding a total prevalence estimates bipolar disorder spectrum of 2.4% globally.

Moreover, rising patient pool around the world affected with epilepsy and migraine headaches is also expected to boost demand for divalproex sodium market significantly. For instance, according to the World Health Organization 2018 key facts, around 50 million people were globally affected with epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological disease, and around 80% of the people with epilepsy live in low- and middle-income countries. According to The Migraine Trust Facts and Figures estimates, the global prevalence of migraine was 14.7% for year 2013, that’s around 1 in 7 people. Furthermore, increasing awareness regarding diseases and various government initiatives to prevent head migraine is expected to propel growth of divalproex sodium market size.

However, black boxed warning given by FDA due to the hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and high fetal risk associated with the use of divalproex sodium tablet and other known adverse reactions such as birth defects, neurobehavioral adverse effects, and suicidal behavior are expected to restrain the divalproex sodium market growth. Based on the region, the global divalproex sodium market is segmented into North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. North America, specifically the U.S. divalproex sodium market, holds a major global position among the geographies. Owing to increased government initiatives and rising research and development for the introduction of new product are expected to aid in growth of the divalproex sodium market in the region.

For instance, In 2011 The National Quality Strategy (NQS) was launched as the national strategy for quality improvement in health care, This was led by Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality on behalf of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). However, introduction of generic products by market giants in the region is expected to hamper the market growth in the region. For instance, in 2008, Mylan launched generic of Abbott’s Depakote ER in the U.S.

SARSAPARILLA AND ITS HEALTH BENEFITS

Sarsaparilla belongs to a member of the Liliaceae (lily) group of vines in a family of plants known as Smilacaceae, which includes more than 300 different plant species. Sarsaparilla was introduced into Western culture as a non-alcoholic drink very similar to the brewing beer. Sarsaparilla is a plant. The root is used in the production of a drug.

The health benefits of sarsaparilla

Sarsaparilla for skin problems: Sarsaparilla also contributes to skin problems such as psoriasis, acne, rashes, and syphilis. In fact, from 1820 to 1910, Sarsaparilla was registered in the US Pharmacopoeia as a syphilis treatment. Sarsaparilla also boosts energy and can improve physical performance.

It acts as a natural blood purifier: Sarsaparilla is very important in the purification of blood and it is also used in solving liver problems. When Sarsaparilla is taken by some individuals, it helps to boost and enhance sexual desire and thus qualifying as an intensifier for sexual desire and a libido booster. Sarsaparilla has also been found to enhance metabolism and aid in breathing.

Sarsaparilla helps in cancer prevention: Research conducted around the world has found that the root and extract of Sarsaparilla contain an antioxidant which is used in the prevention of cancer. There are lots of antioxidants in sarsaparilla which helps to neutralize free radicals.

Used in the treatment of Arthritis Pains: In case you are suffering from inflammatory problems for example gout, arthritis, and even aching muscles and joints, the active ingredients which are present in sarsaparilla can help reduce this pain. The presence of compounds such as saponins, parillin and other flavonoids in sarsaparilla helps to conquer these outbreaks in the body and helps to lessen the pain and discomfort.

Boosts sexual desire: Sarsaparilla can be used traditionally to increase the libido in both males and females in order to enhance fertility. Majority of the organic compounds which are present in the roots extract of Sarsaparilla have been found to enhance blood flow and stimulate the movement of sperm, as a result increasing the chances of conception and improving total sexual desire.

Strengthens the immune system of the body: Natural antibacterial properties of Sarsaparilla berries and the compounds which are found in the root would make this herbal supplement a great way of improving the power of the body’s immune system. Antibacterial properties can also prevent skin infections and generally improve the reaction time to colds and other common illnesses.

Skin Care: One of the reasons why the topical application of this extract (in salves and creams) is so common is due to the antibacterial properties of sarsaparilla. Improvement of the skin appearance and health of the skin is also attributed to its antioxidant content. By removing wrinkles and decreasing the appearance of age spots when applied or consumed can help you look younger!

Sarsaparilla also used for natural hormonal balance: As an herbal remedy, the most important use of Sarsaparilla is in glandular balance. There is the presence of natural plant-based hormones which are used for both men and women. Some of the hormonal problems solved by sarsaparilla include:

Naturally, maintain an appropriate level of testosterone and progesterone
Help your hair grow
Hot flashes
sexual problems
impotence
Women’s Formula from Baseline Nutritionals

For the production of testosterone, sarsaparilla can also be used as a natural steroid, which is useful for both males and females in bodybuilding.

Know About Common Types of Plasters

Subsidence of swelling takes place after a period of 48 hours when complete plaster is done. In Modern science surgeon are using implants to join fracture bone. Siora Surgicals Pvt Ltd is one of top Orthopedic Equipment Manufacturers company in India for importing and exporting Surgicals instrument.

PLASTER FOR UPPER LIMB

SHORT ARM PLASTER

Indications: Short arm plaster is applied in fractures of carpal, metacarpal bones, Colles’ fracture, fracture involving the styloid process of radius and dislocation round the wrist joints. The plaster should reach proximal to the head of metacarpal bones over the dorsal surface of the hand. Movements of the thumb should always be encouraged. Immobilization of thumb is only necessary in fracture of the first metacarpal and fracture of the scaphoid bone.

SPECIAL TYPES OF SHORT ARM PLASTER

Colles’ Fracture: Usually an incomplete plaster is applied as a dorsal slab before completion of the plaster. This is usually completed after 48 hours. The slab should mould round the lateral aspect of the forearm which is maintained in a pronated position; wrist- joint is kept flexed at 10p and in stability ulnar deviated position.

Scaphoid Plaster: Usually no padding is done and a skin- tight plaster is applied. This is mostly completed on the very first occasion. The purpose of immediate completion of plaster is to maintain the apposition of the fractured scaphoid segments from the beginning. The wrist- joint should be in a position of little dorsiflexion and lateral deviation. The thumb should be placed in apposition with the tip of the index finger while application of the plaster is done. The plaster must immobilize the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb.

Interphalangeal joint is spared from the plaster.

LONG ARM PLASTER

Indications: Long arm plaster is applied in fractures of the radius and ulna, fracture involving the bones round the elbow- joint, and undisplaced fracture of the olecranon process.

Technique: The purpose of long arm plaster is to immobilize both the wrist and elbow- joints. The shoulder and finger- joints are left mobile.

Extension of Slab: the dorsal slab extends from about 2” below the axilla to the knuckle.

Position of forearm: In most cases the elbow should be kept at 90p flexion. In fracture of radius and ulna the forearm should be kept in a characteristic position depending upon the site of lesion; this maintains the fractured fragments the fractured fragments in apposition. Shoulder and finger movements must remain free. Evidence of any neurovascular complication must always be looked for. The arm should be rested in a cuff and collar sling.

PLASTER FOR LOWER LIMB

In most cases either short or long leg plasters are used in the lower limbs.

SHORT LEG PLASTER OR BELOW KNEE PLASTER

Indication: Below knee plasters are applied in fractures of the tarsal, metatarsal bones, fractures round the ankle- joints, calcaneum and malleolar fractures. This is also done in distal locations of the ankle, tarsal and metatarsal joints.

Technique: Where chance of swelling of the limb exists, it is customary to use only the dorsal slab initially. The completion of plaster is done after the subsidence of swelling. Bony prominences are protected and the leg is first padded by cotton wool or stockinette.

Position of the Patient: Plaster can be done with the patient’s legs hanging from the edge of the table or while the assistant holds the affected leg up with both hands. Proper padding near the head of fibula and both malleoli is essential. For Orthopedic implants importer and dealer ship, kindly fell free to contact us.

Extension of Plaster: The plaster should extend proximally up to tibial tubercle while the distal end must support the metatarsal heads of the feet. In some cases the plantar aspect of the plaster should extend beyond the toes to provide to the toes.

Position of Ankle- Joint: The ankle- joint should be retained in a neutral position and without any inversion. Failure to do this will produce equinus deformity of the ankle- joint.

Short Leg Plaster with Equinus Position of Ankle: Plaster in equinus position of the ankle is done in cases of avulsion fracture of the calcaneum and following rupture of the Achilles tendon.

Weight Bearing Plaster: Various procedures have been advocated where weight bearing is allowed. Undermentioned techniques are commonly used for this purpose.

Rubber sole type: Rubber sole is cut to size and fitted to the plantar aspect of the plaster with straps. It is detachable.
Rubber heel: Rubber heel can be fixed by few straps of plaster bandage. The heel remains fixed to the plaster.
Walking iron: Walking iron can be fixed to the plaster cast by means of plaster bandage. This technique adds further weight to the plastered limb which is a disadvantage.