Antacids are alkaline agents (pH > 7) that help in neutralizing the stomach acid and is still one the main medicines used for the treatment of acid reflux and stomach acid disorders. Antacids continue to be a popular over-the-counter (OTC) medicine for indigestion and heartburn even though new generation drugs like proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are very effective in reducing gastric acid production.
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Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is found in foods sourced from animals, like meat, eggs and milk. It plays an important role in the formation and maturation of red blood cells – the key carrier of gases in the blood. Vitamin B12 also helps cells to synthesise DNA and plays a key role in the structure and functioning of the nerves. The body stores about 2.5mg (milligrams) of vitamin B12 and adults only need approximately 2mcg (micrograms) per day while 0.7 mcg is sufficient for children.
Sibutramine is a chemical that is used in weight loss products to suppress the appetite and moderately increase the metabolism. In South Africa, this chemical is present in prescription weight loss drugs like Reductil although minute doses may be found in over-the-counter (OTC) slimming products. Since early 2000 there has been much hype in the United States surrounding the use of sibutramine in the popular scheduled drug Meridia. This prompted many consumer safety groups to petition the FDA and request a ban on the sale of this drug. (Public Citizen : Sibutramine).
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Doxycycline is an antibiotic, meaning that it acts against bacteria, and should only be used when prescribed by a medical doctor. In South Africa, doxycycline is available under several trade names, and is available as a tablet or capsule. It is often used in cases of acne and other skin infections and may also be prescribed for UTI’s (urinary tract infections), chlamydia, gonorrhea and oral infections.
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With the reports of swine flu deaths increasing in South Africa, the focus now lies on identifying high risk groups prone to fatalities from the H1N1 virus and either vaccinating or starting treatment immediately. Globally, the high risk groups were considered to be children, patients with chronic conditions, pregnant women, the elderly and health care workers. However, as the time passes and a clearer ‘disease picture’ emerges, it appears that pregnant women are among the higher risk, while the elderly are less at risk than younger people. South Africa has been the first country to announce immediate treatment for any pregnant woman in the second or third trimester with many other countries now following suit.
