Adult Skin Problems

Adult Skin Problems




Is your skin itching, breaking out, covered in a rash, or playing host to strange spots? Skin inflammation, changes in texture or color, and spots may be the result of infection, a chronic skin condition, or contact with an allergen or irritant. You can learn to recognize common adult skin problems. Yet, while many are minor, they may signal something more serious, so always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Benzodiazepines: Valium, Xanax

Benzodiazepines: Valium, Xanax



Valium and Xanax are examples of benzodiazepines, another type of depressant. They may be prescribed to treat anxiety, acute stress reactions, panic attacks, convulsions, and sleep disorders (typically for short-term use). Like other depressants, they have reasonable uses but may be abused. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines "can be problematic" but is rarely life-threatening, notes the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).

Commonly Abused Prescription and OTC Drugs

Commonly Abused Prescription and OTC Drugs




Prescribed to ease anxiety or promote sleep, depressants slow the brain's function. Barbiturates are a type of depressant. Phenobarbital is a barbiturate; others are Mebaral, Seconal, and Nembutal. Though helpful when used as prescribed, barbiturates can be addictive. If taken with certain drugs, including alcohol, the heart and breathing can slow, which can lead to death. Slang for barbituates includes "barbs," "reds," red birds," "phennies," "tooies," "yellows," and "yellow jackets."

Commonly Abused Prescription and OTC Drugs

Commonly Abused Prescription and OTC Drugs


Drug abuse isn't just about illicit drugs like marijuana or cocaine. Legal medicines with legitimate uses can be abused -- meaning they're taken by someone other than the patient or in a manner or dose other than what's recommended. Here you'll find pictures of commonly abused prescription drugs (depressants, pain relievers, and stimulants) and some nonprescription (over-the-counter) drugs. Because drugs come in many forms, not all pills and tablets are shown; drug pictures are not to scale.

Cholesterol Drugs

Cholesterol Drugs



High cholesterol affects many people throughout the world. High cholesterol levels can greatly increase the risk of heart disease, including potentially fatal heart attacks. Exercise, weight loss, and a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats can help lower cholesterol levels. However, when these measures fail, cholesterol-lowering medications are usually needed. In this slideshow we'll discuss cholesterol basics, and review the classes of drugs prescribed to lower cholesterol.

A Visual Guide to Erectile Dysfunction

A Visual Guide to Erectile Dysfunction



Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man has repeated problems sustaining an erection. Without treatment, ED can make sexual intercourse difficult. The condition, sometimes called impotence, affects an estimated 15 million to 30 million men in the U.S. While the topic was once taboo, awareness has skyrocketed with recent advances in treatment for ED.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis


Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and loss of bone tissue that may lead to weak and fragile bones. If you have osteoporosis, you have an increased risk for fractured bones (broken bones).