From the Guidelines
Medication refers to any substance used to treat, cure, prevent, or alleviate symptoms of diseases or abnormal conditions. In the context of healthcare, medication encompasses various forms of treatments including pills, tablets, syrups, injections, ointments, and traditional herbal remedies. The term is commonly used in daily conversations, medical settings, and pharmacies throughout the world. Understanding this term is essential for anyone navigating healthcare systems or communicating about medical needs.
Key Points
- Medication can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, from acute illnesses to chronic diseases.
- Different types of medications are available, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as traditional and alternative therapies.
- Medications can have various effects on the body, including relieving symptoms, curing diseases, and preventing future health problems.
- It is essential to use medications responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of adverse effects and maximize their benefits.
Evidence-Based Recommendations
According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, many commonly used medications are associated with weight gain, and clinicians should select therapies least likely to cause weight gain among options with similar efficacy. Additionally, medications such as metformin and topiramate can be used to counteract the effects of weight gain-promoting agents. It is crucial to counsel patients on the risk of weight gain and monitor their weight trajectory when prescribing medications that promote weight gain.
Considerations for Medication Use
When using medications, it is essential to consider the potential risks and benefits, as well as the individual's medical history, current health status, and lifestyle. Medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and patients should be educated on the proper use, potential side effects, and importance of adherence to their medication regimen. By using medications responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, individuals can maximize the benefits of their treatment and minimize the risk of adverse effects.
From the Research
Definition of Medication
- Medication refers to substances used to prevent, diagnose, or treat diseases or medical conditions [ 2, 3 ]
Types of Medication
- Pharmacological therapies, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), varenicline, bupropion, and cytisine, are used to treat smoking dependence 2
- Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), including interferons, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators, fumarates, cladribine, and monoclonal antibodies, are used to treat multiple sclerosis 3
Importance of Medication
- Medication can reduce subsequent cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with smoking dependence 2
- Medication can reduce clinical relapses and MRI lesions in patients with multiple sclerosis 3
Considerations for Medication Use
- The clinician should customize the medication strategy based on currently available scientific evidence and patient's preference 2
- Medication use can have adverse effects, such as infections, bradycardia, heart blocks, macular edema, infusion reactions, injection-site reactions, and secondary autoimmune adverse effects 3