what treatment options have the least severe long-term effects?

Medication

 · Relaxation techniques are often recommended as part of a treatment plan. They help to reduce stress and decrease muscle tension. Relaxation techniques include: meditation massage yoga Yoga also has...

Procedures

 · Late effects that may occur depend on the part of the brain that was treated and may include: memory loss. problems doing math. problems concentrating. slow processing of information. personality changes. movement problems. In rare cases, radiation to the brain can cause radiation necrosis.

Self-care

Inpatient treatment, also referred to as residential mental health treatment, takes place in a residential facility on a 24/7 basis. This level of care is best suited for those who need constant medical supervision as well as those with relatively severe, long-term symptoms who have not shown significant progress after outpatient mental health intervention.

Nutrition

 · Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) Theophylline. Combination inhalers that contain both a corticosteroid and a LABA. Quick-relief medications (rescue medications) Taken as needed for rapid, short-term relief of symptoms — used to prevent or treat an asthma attack. Short-acting beta agonists such as albuterol.

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 · Bisphosphonates are usually the first choice for osteoporosis treatment. These include: Alendronate (Fosamax), a weekly pill. Risedronate (Actonel), a weekly or monthly pill. Ibandronate (Boniva), a monthly pill or quarterly intravenous (IV) infusion. Zoledronic acid (Reclast), an annual IV infusion.

What are the long term effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy?

Eszopiclone (Lunesta, Sunovion) is a non-BZD hypnotic agent approved for the long-term treatment of insomnia. 46 A six-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study of approximately 800 patients demonstrated that eszopiclone was effective for the treatment of insomnia as measured by sleep latency, total sleep time, and wake time after sleep onset. 47 …

What are the treatment options for mental health problems?

 · Loratadine and pseudoephedrine (Claritin-D) Nasal sprays and drops Nasal decongestant sprays and drops relieve nasal and sinus congestion if used only for a short time. Repeated use of these drugs for more than three consecutive days may result in a cycle where congestion recurs or gets worse. Examples include: Oxymetazoline (Afrin)

Are there any late effects of cancer treatment?

What are the long term effects of corticosteroids?

What is the safest pain reliever to use?

Acetaminophen is generally considered safer than other nonopioid pain relievers because it doesn't cause side effects such as stomach pain and bleeding.

What are the long-term effects of medication?

Some of the long-term effects of prescription drug abuse include organ damage, tolerance to the effects of the drugs, psychological cravings, withdrawal symptoms, mental health disorders, and decreased cognitive function.

What is the safest drug for rheumatoid arthritis?

Hydroxychloroquine. Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial drug which is relatively safe and well-tolerated agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

What pain medicine is not addictive?

There are many non-narcotic pain meds that are safer and less addictive....8 non-narcotic pain medsAleve (naproxen) ... Bayer Aspirin (aspirin) ... Motrin, Advil (ibuprofen) ... Tylenol (acetaminophen) ... Corticosteroids. ... Muscle relaxants.More items...•

What is a long-term medication?

Long-term control medicines are slow acting, which means they can take days or even weeks to begin working. They don't provide immediate relief of symptoms and shouldn't be used when treatment is needed quickly. This requires faster-acting medicines (known as quick-relief medicines) that can work right away.

What are the short term and long-term effects of drug use?

Short-term effects: Relaxation, indifference to emotional or physical pain, drowsiness, constipation, slow breathing, and death. Long-term effects: Highly addictive. As the body builds up tolerance for the drug, more is needed to maintain the desired feeling. Withdrawals can be long and physically painful.

What RA Med has the least side effects?

Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) are used for mild rheumatoid arthritis. They are not as powerful as other DMARDs, but they usually cause fewer side effects.

What is the safest treatment for arthritis?

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Medications Pain relief drugs you can buy at the pharmacy, like acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as Advil or Motrin), are usually easy to get and don't cost a lot. Acetaminophen can ease mild arthritis pain.

What is the best and safest treatment for arthritis?

NSAIDs. NSAIDs are considered one of the most effective OTC drugs for pain stemming from osteoarthritis, which causes inflammation. These drugs reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling from arthritis. A common examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

What are alternatives to opioids?

There are many non-opioid pain medications that are available over the counter or by prescription, such as ibuprofen (Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin (Bayer), and steroids, and some patients find that these are all they need.

What can replace tramadol?

What can I take instead of tramadol (Ultram)? You can try non-opioid alternatives for pain relief such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and naproxen (Aleve), but each have daily limits that you should not exceed.

How do you treat pain without opioids?

Some options may work better and have fewer risks and side effects than opioids.Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®)Topical Ointments (for example lidocaine)Exercise therapy, including physical therapy.Interventional therapies (injections)Exercise and weight loss.More items...•

What is the best medicine for back pain?

Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is usually recommended as a first line treatment for mild to moderate pain, such as from a skin injury, headache or musculoskeletal condition. Acetaminophen is often prescribed to help manage osteoarthritis and back pain.

Who is the pain management specialist at Mayo Clinic?

Vivien Williams: Mayo Clinic pain management specialist Dr. Mike Hooten says what is clear about these painkillers is the risk associated with taking them.

Is acetaminophen safe to take with alcohol?

Benefits and risks. Acetaminophen is generally considered safer than other nonopioid pain relievers because it doesn't cause side effects such as stomach pain and bleeding. However, taking more than the recommended dose — or taking acetaminophen with alcohol — increases your risk of kidney damage and liver failure over time.

Does acetaminophen block cyclooxygenase?

Doctors don't know exactly how acetaminophen works. Some scientists believe there may be a third type of cyclooxygenase, COX -3, that acetaminophen blocks. Acetaminophen doesn't affect the other two cyclooxygenase enzymes, and it doesn't target inflammation — only pain. It may be less effective than NSAIDs.

Do NSAIDs have a ceiling effect?

Bear in mind that NSAIDs also have a ceiling effect — a limit as to how much pain they can control. This means that beyond a certain dosage, they don't provide additional benefit. Exceeding the recommended dose may not relieve your pain and may increase your risk of serious side effects.

What is the best pain reliever for a sprain?

NSAIDs are most effective for mild to moderate pain that's accompanied by swelling and inflammation. These drugs are commonly used for arthritis and pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, or menstrual cramps.

Can painkillers be used in conjunction with a doctor?

The approach you choose should include more than just medication, but painkillers are likely to play a role. Learn about the risks and benefits of common pain medications so that you can make safe choices as you seek your solution.

What are the late effects of cancer?

Late effects are problems caused by cancer treatment that may not show up for months or years after treatment. These problems are specific to certain types of treatments and the dose received. Like side effects that you may have during treatment, late effects differ greatly from person to person. You may have problems that are very different from someone else’s, even if they had the same type of cancer and treatment. When you discuss follow-up care with your doctor, you may want to ask about which late effects to watch for. Early medical attention can prevent or help better manage late effects. See Follow-Up Medical Care to learn more.

How to reduce bone loss after cancer treatment?

You can help lower your risk of bone loss by: Not smoking or using other tobacco products. Eating foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D.

What are the changes in the endocrine system?

Endocrine System Changes. Some cancer drugs and radiation to the head and neck can damage parts of the endocrine system. The endocrine system is a collection of organs and glands that control body functions such as growth, sexual development, reproduction, sleep, hunger, and the way the body uses food.

What to do after cancer treatment?

After cancer treatment, you should have regular check-ups. If you have symptoms of brain changes, you will have tests to see whether they are due to the cancer or are late side effects of your treatment. If you have late side effects, your doctor or nurse: Will talk with you about ways to manage late side effects.

Can chemotherapy cause brain cancer?

Brain Changes. Some chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy to the brain can cause problems months or years after treatment ends. Late effects may include: Radiation to the brain can cause radiation necrosis. This problem may happen when an area of dead tissue forms at the site of the brain tumor.

Can cancer side effects show up after treatment?

Cancer treatment also can cause side effects that may not show up for months or years after you’ve finished treatment. Late effects are specific to certain types of treatments and the dose received. When you and your doctor discuss your follow-up care, your doctor should talk with you about which late effects to watch for.

Can radiation therapy cause heart problems?

Certain cancer drugs and radiation therapy to the chest may cause heart problems that don’t show up until years after treatment. Drugs that tend to cause heart problems include:

What is the best medication for pain?

NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are medications meant to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They are available over-the-counter, and when needed, stronger doses may be prescribed. Many people are already familiar with NSAIDs because they are used to treat headaches, fevers and other common ailments safely at home. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen (Aleve) are two basic NSAIDs that will reduce pain and inflammation temporarily.

How to prevent joint damage?

Keeping RA in “tight control” can prevent long-term joint damage. These goals primarily focus on: Reducing inflammation. Preventing further or permanent damage. Improving the quality of life. Reducing daily and long-term side effects. Following a strict treatment regimen could bring RA into remission.

Can corticosteroids cause permanent side effects?

Studies have shown that using corticosteroids over long periods of time can result in more serious and permanent side effects. These include:

Can you take corticosteroids as a pill?

They can be taken as pills, liquids or given as an injection by a provider. Some of the prescribed forms of corticosteroids include Methylprednisolone, Prednisolone, and Prednisone. Corticosteroids offer pain relief, but they also come with the potential for side effects. Possible side effects include:

How do corticosteroid pills work?

They work in your body similar to hormones as they try to slow the progression of the disease and stop the immune system from attacking healthy tissue. They can be taken as pills, liquids or given as an injection by a provider.

Do weaker NSAIDs slow down disease?

Weaker NSAIDs come with little side effects or risks but they also only manage symptoms and pain — they will not help with slowing disease activity.

Does RA cure?

Treating RA will not cure the disease, but certain treatments can significantly reduce the pain and prevent permanent damage to the body. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, the goals of treatment will be to gain “tight control” of RA, meaning the disease’s activity is kept steadily at a low level. Keeping RA in “tight control” can prevent long-term joint damage.

Organ damage caused by COVID-19

Although COVID-19 is seen as a disease that primarily affects the lungs, it can also damage many other organs, including the heart, kidneys and the brain. Organ damage may lead to health complications that linger after COVID-19 illness.

Blood clots and blood vessel problems

COVID-19 can make blood cells more likely to clump up and form clots. While large clots can cause heart attacks and strokes, much of the heart damage caused by COVID-19 is believed to stem from very small clots that block tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in the heart muscle.

Problems with mood and fatigue

People who have severe symptoms of COVID-19 often have to be treated in a hospital's intensive care unit, with mechanical assistance such as ventilators to breathe. Simply surviving this experience can make a person more likely to later develop post-traumatic stress syndrome, depression and anxiety.

Many long-term COVID-19 effects still unknown

Much is still unknown about how COVID-19 will affect people over time, but research is ongoing. Researchers recommend that doctors closely monitor people who have had COVID-19 to see how their organs are functioning after recovery.

What are some good complementary therapies for mental health?

In addition to psychotherapy and medications, there are many other types of mental health treatment options people may want to consider. Support groups and 12-step programs may be good complementary therapies for people who are undergoing psychotherapy and/or taking medication.

What are complementary and alternative mental health treatments?

Complementary and alternative mental health treatment options may be used in addition to traditional forms of treatment such as therapy and medication. Some of the most common types of complementary treatments include:

What is the purpose of medication?

Medication. Medications can be used to treat the symptoms of mental illness. Medications are often used in combination with psychotherapy and are offered in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. Medications used for mental health treatment include: 3.

What is individual therapy?

There are many different types of psychotherapy available, such as: Individual therapy: Individual therapy is a form of talk therapy where an individual works one on one with a therapist to address unresolved feelings, traumas, and mental health problems using a variety of different strategies and approaches. 2.

What is talk therapy?

During talk therapy, a person or group discusses their issues with a therap ist who can help them process their feelings and learn new coping skills.

Why do addictions need to be treated?

Both disorders need to be simultaneously treated to maximize the chances of a full recovery. For example, if an addicted person has a co-occurring anxiety disorder, they may relapse to self-medicate the unmanaged anxiety. Treating the underlying mental health conditions and traumas that contribute to the addiction can help prevent relapse and maintain sobriety in the long-term.

What is dual diagnosis treatment?

Dual diagnosis treatment offers comprehensive mental health services for those struggling with both a mental health condition and an addiction or substance use disorder. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses and treats both conditions simultaneously.

What is a long acting beta agonist?

Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) These bronchodilator (brong-koh-DIE-lay-tur) medications open airways and reduce swelling for at least 12 hours. They're used on a regular schedule to control moderate to severe asthma and to prevent nighttime symptoms.

What is the best medicine for asthma?

Mometasone (Asmanex Twisthaler) Beclomethasone (Qvar RediHaler) Ciclesonide (Alvesco) In children, long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids can delay growth slightly, but the benefits of using these medications to maintain good asthma control generally outweigh the risks.

How long does it take for asthma medication to work?

Often called rescue medications, they can ease worsening symptoms or stop an asthma attack in progress. They begin working within minutes and are effective for four to six hours. They're not for daily use.

What is the most commonly used LABA for asthma?

The most commonly used LABA for asthma is salmeterol (Serevent).

How long do you need to take corticosteroids for asthma?

They reduce swelling and tightening in your airways. You may need to use these medications for several months before you get their maximum benefit.

What is ipratropium used for?

Ipratropium (Atrovent) Oral and intravenous corticosteroids (for serious asthma attacks) Medications for allergy-induced asthma. Taken regularly or as needed to reduce your body's sensitivity to a particular allergy-causing substance (allergen) Allergy shots (immunotherapy) Allergy medications. Biologics.

What is a leukotriene modifier?

Leukotriene modifiers. Long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) Theophylline. Combination inhalers that contain both a corticosteroid and a LABA. Quick-relief medications (rescue medications) Taken as needed for rapid, short-term relief of symptoms — used to prevent or treat an asthma attack. Short-acting beta agonists such as albuterol.

What is the best medication for osteoporosis?

Ibandronate (Boniva), a monthly pill or quarterly intravenous (IV) infusion. Another common osteoporosis medication is denosumab (Prolia, Xgeva). Unrelated to bisphosphonates, denosumab might be used in people who can't take a bisphosphonate, such as some people with reduced kidney function.

How often does Denosumab need to be given?

Denosumab is delivered by shallow injections, just under the skin, every six months. If you take denosumab, you might have to do so indefinitely unless your doctor transitions you to another medication. Recent research indicates that there could be a high risk of spinal fractures after stopping the drug, so it's important that you take it consistently.

Does Raloxifene help with bone density?

Current recommendations say to use the lowest dose of hormones for the shortest period of time. Raloxifene (Evista) mimics estrogen's beneficial effects on bone density in post menopausal women, without some of the risks associated with estrogen. Taking this drug can reduce the risk of some types of breast cancer.

Can you stop taking bisphosphonate?

So your doctor might suggest that you temporarily stop taking this type of drug. This practice is known as a drug holiday. However, even if you stop taking the medication, its positive effects can persist. That's because after taking a bisphosphonate for several years, the medicine remains in your bone.

Which osteoporosis medication is usually tried first?

Which osteoporosis medications are usually tried first? Bisphosphonates are usually the first choice for osteoporosis treatment. These include: Alendronate (Fosamax), a weekly pill. Risedronate (Actonel), a weekly or monthly pill. Ibandronate (Boniva), a monthly pill or quarterly intravenous (IV) infusion.

Can you take abaloparatide with teriparatide?

Teriparatide and abaloparatide require daily injections. Studies in laboratory rats found an increase in the risk of bone cancer, so these medications are not used in people at high risk of bone cancer. So far, an increase in bone cancer has not been found in people who have taken these medications.

What is the recommended sequence of medication trials?

The recommended sequence of medication trials is:25

How long does insomnia last?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention further classifies insomnia as episodic (lasting at least one month but less than three months); persistent (lasting three months or longer); or recurrent (two or more episodes within one year).24

How to treat insomnia?

Regardless of the type of therapy used, the treatment of chronic insomnia has two primary objectives: improving sleep quality and quantity , and improving daytime impairments . Initial approaches to treatment usually include at least one behavioral intervention, such as stimulus control therapy or relaxation therapy. Biofeedback therapy is also used. When pharmacotherapy is required, the choice of a specific drug within a class should be directed by: 1) symptom pattern; 2) treatment goals; 3) past treatment responses; 4) patient preference; 5) cost; 6) the availability of other treatments; 7) comorbid conditions; 8) contraindications; 9) concurrent medication interactions; and 10) potential adverse effects. 25

What are the two main chemicals that regulate sleep?

Sleep is regulated by a variety of chemicals in the body. In the forebrain and hypothalamus, neurons release gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and histamine. These neurotransmitters have opposing actions on the sleep–wake cycle. Increased GABA and decreased histamine release induce NREM sleep by deactivating the cortex and thalamus. The sleep–wake cycle is also affected by neurotransmitters released by reticular activating system (RAS) neurons, such as norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and serotonin. These neurotransmitters contribute to maintaining wakefulness and significantly decrease during REM sleep. Orexin, which is produced in the hypothalamus, is a neuropeptide that plays an important role in maintaining wakefulness. It is hypothesized that the action of orexin changes the activity of the neurotransmitters involved in the regulation of sleep/wake states. Melatonin is a hormone that plays an integral role in diurnal rhythms. It synchronizes the body with the environment’s light–dark cycle, peaking during the night and dipping during the day, to stabilize the body’s natural circadian rhythm.1,3

Why do people use corticosteroid drops?

Corticosteroid eyedrops are used to relieve persistent itchy, red or watery eyes when other interventions aren't effective . A physician specializing in eye disorders (ophthalmologist) usually monitors the use of these drops because of the risk of problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma and infection. Examples include:

When is immunotherapy used?

Immunotherapy might be used when other treatments aren't effective or tolerated. It is also helpful in reducing asthma symptoms in some patients .

Can corticosteroids cause high blood pressure?

Long-term use can cause cataracts, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, stomach ulcers, increased blood sugar (glucose) and delayed growth in children. Oral corticosteroids can also worsen high blood pressure.

What are the side effects of corticosteroid sprays?

Corticosteroid sprays prevent and relieve stuffiness, sneezing and runny nose. Side effects can include an unpleasant taste, nasal irritation and nosebleeds. Examples include:

Can decongestants cause headaches?

Decongestants are used for quick, temporary relief of nasal and sinus congestion. They can cause trouble sleeping, headache, increased blood pressure and irritability. They're not recommended for people with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma or hyperthyroidism.

What is the best medicine for itchy eyes?

Eyedrops. Antihistamine eyedrops, available over-the-counter or by prescription, can ease itchy, red, swollen eyes. These drops might have a combination of antihistamines and other medicines. Side effects might include headache and dry eyes.

What is the effect of antihistamines on the immune system?

Antihistamines block histamine, a symptom-causing chemical released by your immune system during an allergic reaction.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Acetaminophen

COX-2 Inhibitors

Antidepressants and Anti-Seizure Medications

Opioids

Organ Damage Caused by Covid-19

Blood Clots and Blood Vessel Problems

• These medications were developed with the aim of reducing common side effects associated with traditional NSAIDs. COX-2 inhibitors are commonly used for arthritis and pain resulting from muscle sprains, strains, back and neck injuries, or menstrual cramps. They are as effective as NSAIDsand may be the right choice if you need long-term pain control...

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Problems with Mood and Fatigue

Many Long-Term Covid-19 Effects Still Unknown