Carafate :: Multiple pharmacies comparison.

Nurse Practitioner - New levofloxacin use

admin — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 03:11:02 +0000

Ortho-McNeil’s levofloxacin (Levaquin) tablets and injection are now approved for the treatment of penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae in community acquired pneumonia (CAP). Levofloxacin is already approved for the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe CAP caused by other pathogens, acute maxillary sinusitis, and acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, as well as mild to moderate uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, complicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), acute pyelonephritis, and uncomplicated UTIs.
Nausea and diarrhea were the most common adverse events associated with levofloxacin in clinical trials.

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Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, as well as sucralfate, metal cations (such as iron), multivitamin preparations with zinc, and didanosine (Videx) chewable/buffered tablets or pediatric powder for oral solution should be taken at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after levofloxacin administration.
Copyright Springhouse Corporation Jun 2000
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved

Validation Times - Chinese API maker looks to state for calibration service

admin — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 14:46:02 +0000

FDA’s May 28-June 1, 2001, inspection of API make Northeast General Pharmaceutical Factory of Shenyang, China, netted the maker of bulk sucralfate U.S.P. four citations on the Oct. 2 warning letter for stability records and calibration lapses. The Division of Manufacturing & Product Quality at the Center for Drugs informed the firm that CDER would recommend withholding approval of NDAs listing Northeast’s product as a component.

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The agency cited the firm for lack of documentation that would allow tracing of three samples of sucralfate used in stability testing back to the batches from which they were drawn. According to the warning letter, the three batches were produced after Northeast filed a “DMF amendment” [drug master file]. FDA commented that “data submitted in the amendment is different from data obtained for the release of these batches.” The agency added that Northeast could not “satisfactorily” explain the reason for its termination of the stability study.
Northeast’s response to the 483 apparently rebutted that the firm’s customer, Pharmaceutical International of Hunt Valley, MD, had completed the stability study out to 43 months, but the agency wanted to see it in writing. The 483 was penned by investigator John White and chemist Nasir Ali.
The warning letter noted that Northeast’s calibration of an HPLC did not include integrator and detector linearity, injector reproducibility or accuracy of temperature settings for the column heater and detector. A gas chromatograph took a calibration hit as well, with FDA stating that the calibration work did not include flow rate, temperature accuracy in the column, injector port temperature and reproducibility, and detector linearity. Doc. 10992W
FDA commented that Northeast would have to assure the reliability of calibration work undertaken by the State Measurement Institute, which the firm stated it would hire to handle calibration. The warning letter advised Northeast to revise its procedures accordingly, describing the lapse as “significant” and requiring “immediate corrective action.”
COPYRIGHT 2001 Washington Information Source, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning

Drug Store News - Alpharma launches unit-dosed sucralfate suspension

admin — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 04:01:03 +0000

Alpharma USPD has launched Sucralfate Suspension in 1g/10 mL unit dose cups. Equivalent to the active ingredient in Aventis’ Carafate Suspension, Sucralfate Suspension will be marketed in a 50-cup case uncer the Xactdose label. Sucralfate Suspension is indicated for the short-term (up to eight weeks) treatment of active duodenal ulcer and will compete in the $4.3 million Sucralfate Suspension unit dose market.

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This product will be the fourth unit dose gastrointestinal product available under the Xactdose label that is marketed by Baltimore-based Alpharma USPD.
COPYRIGHT 2000 Reproduced with permission of the copyright holder. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibited without permission.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning

British Medical Journal - Bleeding and pneumonia in intensive care patients given ranitidine and sucralfate for prevention of stress ulcer: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

admin — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 10:01:03 +0000

Abstract
Objectives To determine the effectiveness of ranitidine and sucralfate in the prevention of stress ulcer in critical patients and to assess if these treatments affect the risk of nosocomial pneumonia.
Design Published studies retrieved through Medline and other databases. Five meta-analyses evaluated effectiveness ill terms of bleeding rates (A: ranitidine v placebo; B: sucralfate v placebo) and infectious complications in terms of incidence of nosocomial pneumonia (C: ranitidine v placebo; D: sucralfate v placebo; E: ranitidine v sucralfate). Trial quality was determined with an empirical ad hoc procedure.

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Main outcome measures Rates of clinically important gastrointestinal bleeding and nosocomial pneumonia (compared between the two study arms and expressed with odds ratios specific for individual studies and meta-analytic summary odds ratios).
Results Meta-analysis A (five studies) comprised 398 patients; meta-analysis C (three studies) comprised 311 patients; meta-analysis D (two studies) comprised 226 patients: and meta-analysis E (eight studies) comprised 1825 patients. Meta-analysis B was not carried out as the literature search selected only one clinical trial. In meta-analysis A ranitidine was found to have the same effectiveness as placebo (odds ratio of bleeding 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.30 to 1.70, P = 0.46). In placebo controlled studies (meta-analyses C and D) ranitidine and sucralfate had no influence on the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia. In comparison with sucralfate, ranitidine significantly increased the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia (meta-analysis E: 1.35, 1.07 to 1.70, P = 0.012). The mean quality score in the four analyses (on a 0 to 10 scale) ranged from 5.6 in meta-analysis E to 6.6 in meta-analysis A.
Conclusions Ranitidine is ineffective in the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients in intensive care and might increase the risk of pneumonia. Studies on sucralfate do not provide conclusive results. These findings are based on small numbers of patients, and firm conclusions cannot presently be proposed.
Introduction
Ranitidine and sucralfate are widely used to prevent stress ulcers in patients admitted to intensive care units.[1] A meta-analysis published by Cook et al in 1996 showed that [H.sub.2] receptor antagonists (such as cimetidine and ranitidine together) are more effective than placebo for this clinical indication.[2] With regard to sucralfate, this meta-analysis found a small but significant reduction in overt bleeding but no effect on clinically important events. The meta-analysis did not resolve the question of an increased risk of nosocomial pneumonia related to the use of [H.sub.2] receptor antagonists.
Several arguments emphasise the need for up to date information on this issue. Firstly, ranitidine has become the main [H.sub.2] receptor antagonist used for prophylaxis for stress ulcers, and cimetidine has generally been abandoned[1]; secondly, new findings have been published on effectiveness and complications of ranitidine; and, thirdly, a meta-analytic comparison of ranitidine versus placebo has never been carried out, and, as the comparison of sucralfate and placebo made by Cook et al gave no proof of the effectiveness of this drug, ranitidine and sucralfate might both be ineffective. Another problem is that the most recent randomised studies on this topic did not include a group with no prophylaxis and compared supposedly active treatments with one another.[3 4]
We conducted a literature search to identify randomised trials, and we carried out a meta-analysis to update the results of Cook’s study with regard to effectiveness and infectious complications.
Methods
Searching
Our Medline search covered the period from 1966 to 20 June 2000 and was based on four key words (stress, pneumonia, ranitidine, sucralfate) and on the extraction of studies published in English. Randomised studies were identified by using the key words “randomized controlled trial” or “random” according to a validated literature search.[5]
This search was supplemented by examining the Iowa-IDIS system (Iowa Drug Information, Iowa University, United States) from 1966 to December 1999 and Drugdex (CD Rom Drugdex, vol 104, Micromedex, Englewood, Colorado, United States).
Selection
We carried out five meta-analyses that evaluated data on effectiveness in terms of rates of bleeding (meta-analysis A: ranitidine v placebo; meta-analysis B: sucralfate v placebo) and incidence of nosocomial pneumonia (meta-analysis C: ranitidine v placebo; meta-analysis D: sucralfate v placebo; meta-analysis E: ranitidine v sucralfate). Eligible studies were included in meta-analysis A or B if they met the following criteria: patients were admitted to an intensive care unit or were undergoing mechanical ventilation, or both; randomised design; assessment of gastrointestinal bleeding. In meta-analyses C, D, and E the inclusion criterion gastrointestinal bleeding was replaced by the assessment of pneumonia.

Chemical Market Reporter - Euticals S.p.A.(profile of the company)(Brief Article)

admin — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 12:21:03 +0000

Euticals S.p.A., a GMP producer of bulk active ingredients for the pharmaceutical industry, is located in Lodi, Italy, near Milan. The facility occupies a total area of 23,000 square meters, of which about 10,000 square meters are covered. The company employs 70 people.
For 2001, sales are expected to be 16 million euros (roughly $16 million), with domestic sales accounting for 40 percent and exports 60 percent.

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Euticals produces bulk generics and active ingredients, such as disopyramide, hydroxyurea, meclocycline, mianserin, pirenzepine, sucralfate, sucrose octaacetate, …

Read the rest of this article with a Free Trial at HighBeam Research.

Medicines and Drugs to Treat Peptic Ulcers

admin — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:26:02 +0000

What is an ulcer?
An ulcer is damage to the inner lining (the mucosa) of the stomach or the upper part of the intestine (duodenum). A bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, is the main cause of ulcers in this area.
Antibiotics:- Several combinations of antibiotics kill H. pylori. Most of the medications are equally effective. However, for the treatment to work, it’s essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Antibiotics most commonly prescribed for treatment of H. pylori include amoxicillin (Amoxil, Wymox), clarithromycin (Biaxin), metronidazole (Flagyl) or tetracycline (Achromycin V). Some pharmaceutical companies package a combination of two antibiotics together, with an acid suppre. Drugs for decreasing acidity are used for peptic ulcer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD-see Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)), and many forms of gastritis. Some drugs are used in regimens for treating H. pylori infection. Drugs include proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, antacids, and prostaglandins
Colloidal Bismuth or Tripotassium Dicitrato Bismuthate TDB (Trymo, Denol)
This is also used for the same purpose as sucralfate. The dose is 240 mg, twice daily, half an hour before meals. It causes blackening of the stools and tongue, dizzines diarrhoea and bismuth toxicity. It detaches H pylori and kills them. So it is used in eradication regime also.
Eradication of H. Pylori Infection in Peptic Ulcer
H-pylori is responsible for causing chronic gastritis, dyspepsia, peptic ulcer and stomach tumor in many cases 90% cases of gastric and duodenal ulcers have H. pylori in their stomachs. Eradication of this organism is difficult with single drug. Therefore a combination of two or three drugs is used.
Reflux, Esophagitis
It is a very common problem presenting as sour eructations, heartburn and water brash. The symptoms occur particularly after a large meal and increase on lying down. In this disorder the acid contents of stomach rise in the lower part of food pipe (esophagus). The lower end of food pipe has a valve like mechanism to prevent reguritation of acid contents. When this valve (sphincter) becomes lax or weak, the acid burns the lining of food pipe causing erosions, ulcers and heartburns. In many cases of night-time attacks of asthma, reflux is found to be a common problem. If untreated the food pipe is ultimately narrowed not allowing hard food to pass down (dysphagia). There is a risk of cancer development. Therefore, it should be treated vigorously.
Dosage: Omeprazole 20 mg, twice a day or lansoprazole 15 to 30 mg, daily for 4 to 8 week are better than H2 blockers (ranitidine or famotidine). These are often combined with prokinetic drugs. Common formulations are Omidom, Domstal-O (Omeprazole Domperidone), Pentadom (Pantoprazole Domperidone) and Zerocid (Lansoprazole Domperidone).
Precautions: Persons suffering from reflux esophagitis should take light early dinner. The foot end of the bed should be raised to provide much relief. Weight reduction can also help.
Sodium alginate
It forms thick frothy layer on the gastric juice and thus prevents acid regurgitation. It is combined with antacids.

Preventing Peptic Ulcer

admin — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 07:51:03 +0000

Peptic ulcer occurs when inside your stomach and duodenum increased levels of acid are produced. This acid injures the line of stomach and duodenum and so ulcer appears.

The level of acid inside the stomach increases because some factors interfere in its production. For example, following a treatment with NSAIDs for a long time could increase the level of produced acid inside your stomach. To prevent ulcer from occurring your current doctor will prescribe some antacids, inhibitors of the proton pump (Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole), and H2-Receptor antagonists (Famotidine, Cimetidine, Nizatidine, and Ranitidine).

There is also a bacterium responsible for peptic ulcer: Helicobacter Pylori. For killing the bacterium, the doctor will prescribe antibiotic drugs. The most efficient antibiotic drugs are: Metronidazole, Tetracycline, Clarithromycin and Amoxicillin. This treatment must be followed for at least two weeks. Bismuth salicylate is also useful for killing the bacterium and is available over the counter. It also protects the stomach from the damage produced by the acid.

Also, a lifestyle change must be done. Smoking and drinking alcohol and coffee must be eliminated or at least reduced. Stress is also a factor that contributes to the extent of ulcer, so you should avoid getting stressed.

Try to avoid the following aliments because they only injure your stomach line: pepper, chilly, peppermint, citrus fruits, cocoa, chocolate, cola, and fried fatty foods. This list can be adjusted according to your tolerances but the doctors should be consulted about it too. Cranberries, apples, onions kill the H. Pylori; fruits and vegetable that are rich in fiber are also good for you. If you have an alcohol problem your doctor can advise you on receiving appropriate care.

Pay attention to the foods that cause you pain and burnings and try not to eat them any more.

For protecting the line of your stomach and duodenum, you will receive antacids like TUMS and ROLAIDS that will preserve the lining from the acids action.

Also if ulcer lesions are present, Sucralfate is helpful because it covers them up and helps them heal faster.

The most indicated drugs in ulcer are the proton pumps because they decrease gastric acid production. They are: esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole.

There are some rare cases when treatment is not effective and other measures must be applied. Surgery is a solution for treating peptic ulcers but only the doctor will be able to pronounce whether you need a surgery or not.

For more resources about Ulcer or especially about Peptic Ulcer please click this link http://www.ulcer-center.com/Peptic-Ulcer.htm

What Is Best Treatment For Acid Reflux?

admin — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:31:04 +0000

Acid reflux disease (GERD) is a medical condition wherein the esophagus becomes inflamed or irritated because of the backing up of acids from the stomach. Acid reflux disease treatment can be done in several methods.
Most often, physicians are suggesting rubric modifications of lifestyles when they recommend non-pharmaceutical GERD treatments for their patients. However, most dietary involvements are anecdotal. Only the head bed’s elevation and weight loss were supported by some evidences.
Diet
Acid reflux disease treatment can be done through avoiding lifestyles and foods which are promoting such condition. Too much amount of Vitamin C supplement, alcohol, and coffee can stimulate secretion of gastric acid. Never take these substances before bedtime because it can trigger evening reflux. Quit smoking and eating high fatty foods to maintain the capability of the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent delayed stomach emptying. It is also beneficial to eat smaller meals instead of large meals. Other types of food to be avoided include peppermint, chocolate, spicy foods, cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, onions, Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower), acidic foods (tomatoes and oranges, good if eaten fresh), and milk, as well as milk related products containing fat and calcium.
Positional Therapy
This acid reflux disease treatment focuses on the implementation of head bed positioning. Implementing a pharmacologic therapy combined with avoiding restricted foods before bedtime plus proper head bed elevation can give a patient a feeling of complete relief. In incomplete relief cases, further conservative measures are adopted to optimize response to the treatment.
Head bed elevation is accomplished through using blocks or other items such as wooden or plastic bed risers that support bed legs or posts, a bed wedged-pillow, or an inflatable lifter mattress which can fit in between the box spring and the mattress. Keep in mind that the elevation’s height is critical. The required minimum height is 15-20 centimeters (6-8 inches) to hinder gastric fluids backflow effectively. Some patients are even claiming that utilizing more than 6-8 inches blocks is more effective.
Drug Treatment
Acid reflux disease treatment through the use of various drugs is effective. Some medication forms are most often recommended in many Western countries. These drugs can be utilized in combination with other medications.
- Proton pump inhibitors. Reduce secretion of gastric acids most effectively by stopping the acid production source.
- Antacids. Increase the level of pH and lessen gastric acidity. Effective if taken before meals and after the symptoms start.
- Alginic acid or Gaviscon. Coats the mucosa, decrease reflux, and increase the levels of pH. The meta-analysis of controlled randomized trials shows that Alginic acid is one of the most efficient non-prescription treatments.
- H2 receptor gastric blockers (famotidine or ranitidine). Reduce secretion of gastric acid. These medications are antihistamines which also relieve complaints to almost 50 percent of patients having GERD.
- Prokinetics. Speed up emptying the stomach and support the LES.
- Sucralfate. Helps in healing and preventing esophageal damages. Taking this drug for several times a day with two hours interval from medication and meals is also effective.
Surgical Treatment
Acid reflux disease treatment can be also done through a surgery. This treatment is applicable if all the above mentioned forms of medications failed. The Nissen fundoplication is performed laparoscopically by wrapping the stomach’s upper part on the LES for strengthening the sphincter, preventing acid reflux, and repairing hiatal hernia.
Always remember, before deciding on an acid reflux disease treatment, always consult a doctor.

Chronic Gastric Diseases

admin — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 05:16:02 +0000

Definition: Chronic Vomiting

- Acute vomiting that fails to respond to appropriate symptomatic therapy

- Untreated vomiting that persists longer than two weeks

Consistent

Intermittent or episodic

Approach to Vomiting

- Primary GI

Gastric

Small intestinal

Colonic

- Secondary GI

Systemic illness that affects GI function

Secondary GI Causes of Vomiting

SYSTEM

- Kidneys

- Liver

- Exocrine pancreas

- Endocrine pancreas

- Adrenals

- Peritoneum

- CNS

- Thyroid

- Uterus

- Systemic infection

Disease:

- Renal failure

- Hepatic disease

- Pancreatitis

- DKA

- Addisons

- Peritonitis

- Cerebral or vestibular disease

- Hyperthyroidism

- Pyometra

- Sepsis

Overview:

Gastric Causes of Chronic Vomiting

- Chronic gastritis

Lymphocytic/plasmacytic

Eosinophilic

Associated with GHLOs

Parasitic

Reflux gastritis

- Gastric foreign body

- Gastric ulceration

- Gastric motility disorders

- Gastric neoplasia

Overview:

Intestinal Causes of Chronic Vomiting

- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

- Intestinal neoplasia

- Duodenal ulcers

- Fungal enteritis

- Chronic intussusception

- Foreign bodies

- Colitis

Chronic Vomiting: History

- Characterize vomiting

Onset

Duration

Frequency

Progression

Relationship to eating

Specific features (blood, foreign material, undigested food, projectile, etc.)

Response to changes in diet or feeding schedule, medication, other changes

Associated clinical signs-

Appetite changes

Weight loss

Diarrhea

Changes in attitude (lethargy)

PU/PD

Cough, tachypnea, dyspnea

Other

- Potential exposures prior to onset:

Medications

Plants

Toxins

Garbage

Potential foreign bodies

Other sick animals

- Dietary history

- Deworming history

- Vaccination status

- Past medical history

- Past surgical history

Approach to Vomiting:

- Primary GI

Gastric

Small intestinal

Colonic

- Secondary GI

Systemic illness that affects GI function

Chronic Vomiting:

Diagnostic Steps

- CBC, biochemistry profile, UA

- Fecal

- Survey abdominal radiographs

- Cats:

T4 if over 6 yrs, FeLV, FIV

occult heartworm test

- Elimination diet

- Endoscopy

- Abdominal ultrasound

- Barium series

- Laparatomy

Approach to Chronic Vomiting

CBC, biochemistry profile, UA, fecal

Survey abdominal radiographs

Cats: T4 if over 6 yrs, FeLV, FIV (occult heartworm test)

Mild Signs:

- Elimination diet

Significant Clinical Signs:

- Endoscopy

- Abdominal ultrasound

- Barium series

- Laparotomy

Overview:

Gastric Causes of Chronic Vomiting

- Chronic gastritis

Lymphocytic/plasmacytic

Eosinophilic

Associated with GHLOs

Parasitic

Reflux gastritis

- Gastric foreign body

- Gastric ulceration

- Gastric motility disorders

- Gastric neoplasia

Chronic Gastritis

Classified by etiology, breed, and/or histopathology

Types of Chronic Gastritis

Lymphocytic/plasmacytic gastritis (Chronic non-specific gastritis, IBD)

Eosinophilic gastritis

Granulomatous gastritis

Atrophic gastritis

Gastritis associated with GHLOs

Parasitic gastritis

Reflux gastritis

Etiopathogenesis of Chronic Lymphocytic/Plasmacytic Gastritis

- Non-specific reaction to many insults

- Either wall defects allow antigen absorption from stomach stimulating immune response OR breakdown in immune tolerance (auto-immune gastritis)

- Mucosal damage allows back-diffusion of acid

- Gastric inflammation compromises motility, secretions and plasma proteins lost into lumen

Chronic Lymphocytic/Plasmacytic Gastritis: Clinical Features

- Persistent intermittent vomiting exacerbated by eating

- Diarrhea occurs if animal has concurrent IBD of intestines

- PE, CBC, chemistries, UA, fecal, and survey radiographs typically NAF

Chronic Lymphocytic/Plasmacytic Gastritis: Diagnosis

- Obtain endoscopic biopsies or full-thickness biopsies by laparotomy

- Infiltration of the gastric mucosa predominantly with lymphocytes and plasma cells

- Mucosa may be normal thickness (simple gastritis), increased (hypertrophic), or decreased (atrophic)

Note: Mucosal hypertrophy can cause outflow obstruction

Chronic Lymphocytic/Plasmacytic Gastritis: Treatment

PRIMARY THERAPY

- /- NPO or no food for 24-48 hours

- Multiple small daily meals

Easily digested diet (i/d)

Novel protein diet (e.g. venison and rice)

Hydrolyzed protein diet (z/d, HA)

- Gastric protectant (Sucralfate)

- Treat for ulceration if indicated

SECONDARY THERAPY

- Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg PO q12 hr, tapered

- Usually reserve antiemetics for acute exacerbations

Eosinophilic Gastritis

- Clinical signs like L/P gastritis

- Inflammatory infiltrate dominated by eosinophils

- May have peripheral eosinophilia

- May be associated with:

Generalized eosinophilic gastroenteritis (dogs and cats)

Eosinophilic granulomas (dogs)

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (cats)

Eosinophilic Gastritis

- Suspected etiologies

Parasites

Dietary hypersensitivity

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (cats) neoplastic-

Eosinophilic Gastritis: Treatment

- Therapeutic deworming

- Treat as for L/P gastritis except use prednisolone as part of primary therapy

- Cats usually require higher doses of steroids for control (2-3 mg/kg q12 hr)

- If refractory, add azathioprine

- Resect granulomatous masses

Eosinophilic Gastritis: Prognosis

- Eosinophilic gastritis /- enteritis: Good prognosis for control of clinical signs

- Hypereosinophilic syndrome in cats: Very guarded prognosis

Hashimoto’s Disease - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

admin — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 23:41:02 +0000

Hashimoto’s disease is a disease characterized by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland. . A family history of thyroid disorders is common, with the HLADR5 gene most strongly implicated conferring a relative risk of 3 in the UK. The person may experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism at first when the thyroid may actually produce too much thyroid hormones. It is caused by a reaction of the immune system against the thyroid gland. Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, causes inflammation of your thyroid gland that often leads to underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Lymphocytic thyroiditis may also occur as a self-limited condition which lasts 2-6 months, resolving spontaneously, and leaving most patients with normal thyroid function. Chronic thyroiditis or Hashimoto’s disease is a common thyroid gland disorder that can occur at any age, but it is most often seen in middle aged women. It is more prevalent in women than in men (8:1), and its incidence increases with age Blood tests of thyroid function are used to detect Hashimoto’s disease. Patients with this form of thyroiditis sometimes exhibit so few symptoms that the disease may go unnoticed for many years, but eventually it may destroy so much thyroid tissue that hypothyroidism develops.

Many people with this disease have no symptoms. Hashimoto’s Disease is often referred to as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, autoimmune thyroiditis, lymphadenoid goiter, struma lymphomatosa, and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is not uncommon. Many people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis have other endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, an underactive adrenal gland, or underactive parathyroid glands, and other autoimmune diseases, such as pernicious anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjgren’s syndrome, or systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). In many cases, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis usually results in hypothyroidism, although in its acute phase, it can cause a transient thyrotoxic state. Hashimoto’s disease progresses slowly over a number of years and causes chronic thyroid damage, leading to a drop in thyroid hormone levels in your blood. Less commonly, Hashimoto’s disease occurs with hypoparathyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, and fungal infections of the mouth and nails in a condition called type 1 polyglandular autoimmune syndrome. The thyroid gland typically becomes and the antibodies the body normally produces to protect the body and fight foreign substances such as bacteria, are found to ‘attack’ their own thyroid tissue. Treatment with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement medication usually is simple and effective. Natural treatment options also exist.

Causes of Hashimoto’s disease

The common causes and risk factor’s of Hashimoto’s disease include the following:

The exact cause of Hashimoto’s disease is unknown.

A reaction of the immune system against the thyroid gland.

If someone in your family has had thyroid disease, you may have an increased risk for Hashimoto’s disease.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is most common among women, particularly older women, and tends to run in families.

It may rarely be associated with other endocrine disorders caused by the immune system.

A combination of factors including heredity, and age may determine your likelihood of developing the disorder.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is seen more frequently in people taking extra iodine in their diets.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease

Some sign and symptoms related to Hashimoto’s disease are as follows:

Fatigue.

Enlarged neck or presence of goiter.

Small or atrophic thyroid gland.

Dry skin.

Joint stiffness.

Excessive sleepiness.

Dry, coarse hair.

Facial swelling.

Hair loss.

Heavy and irregular menses.

Hoarse voice.

An elevated blood cholesterol level.

Intolerance to cold.

Most often, people with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis suffer from symptoms of Hypothyroidism (fatigue, lethargy, decreased metabolic rate).

Treatment of Hashimoto’s disease

Here is list of the methods for treating Hashimoto’s disease:

Iron supplements.

If Hashimoto’s disease causes thyroid hormone deficiency, you may need replacement therapy with thyroid hormone.

Antibiotics to fight infection.

Hormones to suppress or replace thyroid function.

Sucralfate, an ulcer medication.

Long-term prognosis is very good. Most people with the disease can be easily treated.

Cholestyramine (Questran), a medication used to lower blood cholesterol levels.

Replacement therapy with thyroid hormone is given if the hormone is deficient or may be given if there is evidence of mild thyroid failure.