The world's local bank
HEALTHNET
What are anti-inflammatory drugs? Are they the same as antibiotics?
FDA defines anti-inflammatory drugs as medications to reduce inflammation, and antibiotics as "medications to treat or prevent infections from bacteria"...
(Posted on 2 March 2006)
Q1. What are anti-inflammatory drugs? Are they the same as antibiotics?
A1. A page from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States defines anti-inflammatory drugs as medications to reduce inflammation, and antibiotics as "medications to treat or prevent infections from bacteria". They are two entirely different classes of drugs. Their actions and side effects are totally different.
Antibiotics are drugs that can kill off or inhibit the growth of bacteria. The word antibiotic was coined in the old days when these drugs were derived from natural sources and living organisms, e.g. penicillin was isolated from molds. Nowadays they are often synthetic or semi-synthetic. Some people would still prefer calling these drugs "antimicrobials" rather than "antibiotics".
Inflammation is our body's response to any kind of injury, which may be caused by an infection. The process is mediated by chemicals which are secreted by our body in response to injury or infections. Anti-inflammatory drugs work by interfering with the secretion or action of these chemicals.
Antibiotics have no direct effect on the mechanisms of inflammation. But if the inflammation is triggered off by a bacterial infection, the unpleasant sensations of pain, swelling, redness and heat would go away when the infection is controlled by an antibiotic.
Although inflammation gives us unpleasant sensations such as pain, swelling, redness and heat, it is part of the immune system and a stage in the healing process. Anti-inflammatory drugs are most often used when the cause of inflammation is not treatable, or when inflammation is caused by aging, degeneration or injury.
Q2. My wife has had three bladder infections in past 6 months. How to avoid further attacks?
A2. The urinary bladder is a collecting bag for the urinary system. The constant flow of urine is keeping the system free from germs. However, since the opening of the bladder is near to the anus, there is a constant risk of germs normally residing in the large bowel to find a way to invade into the system. When that happens, the surface of the bladder would become red and swollen. The patient would experience a burning sensation and pain when passing urine, and has frequent urges to void. Some patients may have fever and lower abdominal pain and the urine may be found to be stained with blood.
Germs can be introduced into the bladder after sex. To prevent bladder infections, she should drink plenty of fluids and empty her bladder completely before falling asleep. She should avoid using perfumed or deodorant products in the genital area, as these may contain irritant chemicals, although she should maintain reasonable hygiene by cleaning the genital area twice daily. Learn to wipe the genital region from front to back. She should avoid tight underwear and choose cotton clothing instead.
Each attack of bladder infections must be treated adequately with antibiotics as prescribed by her doctors, and remember to follow the doctor's order to complete the course of treatment even though all symptoms have subsided. Studies have found that daily drinking of cranberry juice can prevent bladder infections. Scientists believe that cranberry juice contains a chemical that can keep bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder.
Q3. My doctor said I have iron deficiency anaemia. However I feel sick after taking the iron tablets. What should I do?
A3. You should tell your doctor first, who best understands your body.
Do not just assume that your sickness is causally related to the tablets you are taking. Iron deficiency can be a symptom of chronic blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual flows or from the gastrointestinal tract. The doctor may like to check if other underlying diseases are present and are making you sick.
Iron exists in many different forms and different kinds of iron tablets are available. Some are enclosed in special capsules to avoid irritating the stomach. Your doctor can help you find one that suits you better.
Alternatively, your doctor may advise you on a high iron diet. Iron found in red meats such as beef and liver is most easily absorbed. The absorption is further enhanced by taking lots of citrus fruits or juices high in vitamin C. Iron also exists in fish and poultry, and certain plant food such as green vegetables and beans. On the other hand, some food substances should be avoided. Rye is a grain sometimes used to make bread. It contains a substance called "phytic acid" that can prevent you from absorbing enough iron. The same holds true with tannic acid present in tea, coffee, chocolate and red wines.
Source: Quality HealthCare
