Drug Interactions, Side Effects, and Pharmacological Safety

Why is it critical to understand medication interactions, withdrawal symptoms, and the systemic side effects of common pharmacological treatments?

Prescription Drugs

Female doctor listening to woman's chest

Zyrtec & Cardiac Side Effects

Published Aug,14 2017 | By Kathy Jutila

Histamine is a substance produced by the body in response to allergic reactions that triggers immune response symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Antihistamines are a class of drugs that block the action of histamine and reduce these symptoms.

Effexor Long-Term Side Effects

Published Aug,14 2017 | By Kathy Jutila

Effexor is used to treat depression and belongs to a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or SNRIs.According to MedlinePlus, Effexor increases the available amount of the brain messenger chemicals, serotonin and norepinephrine.

Kathy Jutila has been writing health-related articles since 1979. Her work has appeared in "Infection and Immunity," "American Review of Respiratory Diseases," "Inflammation" and "Circulation." Jutila received a Bachelor of Science in biology, and a Master of Science in microbiology from Montana State University. She also holds a Doctorate of Medicine from the University of New Mexico.