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Zoloft (sertraline) is a medication in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) family. It raises the levels of a molecule called serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is one of the molecules that helps brain cells communicate with one another. When serotonin levels are low, patients become depressed. Zoloft is an effective antidepressant that can help restore normal brain chemistry.

It is also used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Dose

Zoloft is taken in 25, 50, and 100 mg tablets. The recommended daily dose is 50 mg but can range as high as 200 mg.

Common Side Effects

Cost of Zoloft

According to rxsaver.com, one bottle of 30 generic Zoloft tablets (100 mg) starts at around $5 with a coupon.

Where to Get a Prescription for Zoloft

Zoloft is a prescription drug that needs to be prescribed by a licensed prescriber or physician. Did you know? QuickMD can refill your antidepressants remotely through telemedicine and prescribe Zoloft online. No insurance is needed.

Bupropion is used to treat major depressive disorder and smoking addiction. It has a unique mechanism of action, inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine to increase these three molecules in the brain. These molecules help brain cells communicate with one another.

This helps with depression by a mechanism that is not fully understood. The medication also helps with smoking cessation by lowering the stimulant and rewarding effects of nicotine on the brain. Wellbutrin can also be used to help manage anxiety.

Dose

The usual dose is 100 mg twice a day in tablet form.

Common Side Effects

Cost of Bupropion

The price of Wellbutrin ranges between around $6.00 and $35 for a bottle of 60 tablets, strength 150 mg, with a coupon.

How to Get a Prescription for Wellbutrin (Bupropion)

Wellbutrin is a prescription drug that needs to be prescribed by a licensed prescriber or physician. Did you know? QuickMD can treat depression and smoking addiction remotely through telemedicine and prescribe Wellbutrin online.

Azithromycin (Zithromax, also known as Z-pack) is an antibiotic to fight bacterial infections. It belongs to the macrolide family of antibiotics, which work by binding to bacterial ribosomes. Ribosomes are cellular components responsible for making proteins. Azithromycin halts cellular growth and reproduction by stopping protein production, effectively ending the infection. 

Azithromycin is a versatile antibiotic, effective against a wide array of bacterial species and types of infections. It can combat certain eye infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, skin infections, sexually transmitted diseases (particularly chlamydia), sinusitis, throat infections, ear infections, Lyme disease, and urinary tract infections, providing a comprehensive solution to various health concerns. 

Azithromycin works quickly, often allowing patients to feel better one day after beginning treatment and enabling them to return to work or school after three days.

Dose

Azithromycin, available as oral tablets or solution, offers a convenient dosage regimen. The usual dose is 250-500 mg once a day. The Z-pack, a popular choice, contains six pills taken over five days (500 mg on day 1, followed by 250 mg daily on days 2-5), making it easy to remember and adhere to.

Common Side Effects

Cost of a Z-Pack (Azithromycin)

The price of azithromycin ranges from $8 to $12 for a package of six 250 mg tablets with a coupon. Click here to find the cheapest pharmacy near you.

How to Get a Prescription for a Z-Pack

Azithromycin is a prescription drug that needs to be prescribed by a licensed prescriber or physician. QuickMD can treat most infections remotely through telemedicine and prescribe azithromycin online. No insurance is required.

Zestril (lisinopril) is a medication called an ACE inhibitor. ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Its primary function is to lower blood pressure in patients with high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely without putting undue strain on the heart.

It is also prescribed for patients with congestive heart failure and to prevent second heart attacks. In patients with kidney disease, it protects the kidneys by reducing the amount of protein lost through the kidneys and lowering the pressure of blood filtered through them.

Dosage

Lisinopril is available in tablet and solution form. The usual dosage is 20 to 40 mg taken once a day, which can be increased to as much as 80 mg per day if needed.

Common Side Effects

Cost

According to Rxsaver.com, GeniusRx Pharmacy, an online firm, charges $9.00 for a bottle of 90 tablets, 20 mg each.

How to Get a Prescription for Lisinopril

Lisinopril is a prescription drug that needs to be prescribed by a licensed prescriber or physician. Did you know? QuickMD, with its convenient online platform, can treat high blood pressure and heart failure in the comfort of your own home and prescribe lisinopril online, making your healthcare journey easier and more comfortable.

Bactrim, a combination of two antibiotics, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim, was once the first choice for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, every antibiotic has a finite number of times it can be used effectively before bacteria develop resistance.

Bactrim for UTIs

Bactrim is approaching its limit. This is a serious concern, as according to Harvard Medical School, one in three urinary tract infections in healthy young women is now resistant to this antibiotic.

When an antibiotic kills bacteria, some bacteria evolve immunity to it. Over time, these resistant bacteria become common enough to cause a significant percentage of infections. This underscores the importance of responsible antibiotic use. Therefore, it’s crucial that doctors do not prescribe antibiotics for colds and other viral illnesses for which antibiotics are not indicated.

A wide array of antibiotics is available for treating urinary tract infections. Choosing the best drug involves obtaining a urine sample, growing bacteria from it, and testing various antibiotics to determine which one(s) are most effective.

Some antibiotics commonly prescribed for urinary tract infections are:

Beta-lactams

Fluoroquinolones

Tetracyclines

Aminoglycosides

Macrolides

Other

Did you know? QuickMD can treat your urinary tract infection from the comfort of your own home and prescribe antibiotics online. This convenient service ensures you can receive the care you need without the hassle of a traditional doctor’s visit.

Flu season can bring significant discomfort and complications, making effective treatments essential. Tamiflu (oseltamivir) stands out as a widely used antiviral medication designed to treat and prevent influenza. But does it work well against the flu?

Understanding its effectiveness and proper use can help manage flu symptoms and reduce the risk of severe outcomes. This article explores Tamiflu’s benefits, dosage recommendations, and limitations, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering this medication during the flu season.

Effectiveness in Flu Treatment

Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an antiviral medication that effectively prevents and treats influenza. It works by inhibiting the neuraminidase enzyme, which is essential for the influenza virus to replicate and spread within the body.

A study published in PLOS ONE found that starting oseltamivir (Tamiflu) within 24 hours of hospital admission for patients with community-acquired influenza pneumonia leads to better health outcomes. 

Specifically, early treatment reduced mortality rates and shortened hospital stays. Patients treated with Tamiflu also had fewer days with fever and were less likely to develop complications like ear infections and pneumonia. Additionally, these patients had a lower risk of hospitalization compared to those who did not receive the treatment.

According to the National Center for Health Research (NCHR), Tamiflu can shorten the duration of influenza symptoms by about one day. Additionally, it reduces the risk of developing pneumonia by 44% and decreases the likelihood of hospitalization by 63% in documented cases of influenza.

Tamiflu (Oseltamivir): Effectiveness in Flu Prevention

Tamiflu is also effective in preventing influenza. The NCHR states that taking Tamiflu after exposure to a confirmed case of influenza can lower the risk of contracting the disease by as much as 55%. For preventive purposes, it is most effective when taken within two days of exposure to the virus before symptoms develop.

If you’ve been in close contact with someone who has the flu, or if there’s an outbreak in your community, this could be a good time to consider using Tamiflu preventively.

Dosage Recommendations

Limitations of Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)

It is important to note that Tamiflu only benefits patients who have tested positive for influenza. Taking Tamiflu for presumptive flu symptoms, such as sneezing and coughing, is not beneficial if they are actually caused by another type of virus, such as the common cold. 

Additionally, Tamiflu is not a substitute for other preventive measures, such as getting a flu vaccine or practicing good hygiene. It’s important to use Tamiflu in conjunction with these measures for the best protection against the flu.

Availability 

Tamiflu is available over the counter. QuickMD offers services to order a test to determine whether you have Influenza A or B and can provide advice on whether Tamiflu is appropriate for your situation.

Final Thoughts on Tamiflu (Oseltamivir)

Tamiflu (oseltamivir) has proven to be a valuable tool in treating and preventing influenza. Studies have shown that it can significantly reduce the duration of flu symptoms and decrease the risk of complications such as pneumonia and hospitalization. For those who have been exposed to the virus, if taken promptly, Tamiflu can also effectively lower the chances of contracting the flu.

However, it is crucial to use Tamiflu appropriately—primarily for confirmed cases of influenza and within the recommended time frames for both treatment and prevention. While it is ineffective against other viruses that cause cold-like symptoms, it remains a crucial option in managing flu outbreaks.

Individuals seeking guidance on whether Tamiflu is right for them, especially after exposure or at the onset of symptoms, should consult with healthcare providers, such as those available through QuickMD. This can ensure timely and appropriate use of the medication.

Looking back at the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge of infections sweeping across the globe resulted in a lot of fear and anxiety. Many of us had friends and family members who contracted the virus; some of us contracted the virus ourselves.

COVID-19 claimed millions of lives and put severe pressure on healthcare systems worldwide, creating a rise in the popularity of telehealth services. Scientists worked on two fronts to combat this deadly disease. The first was to create vaccines. The second was to discover the best drug cocktail to treat severe manifestations of the disease.

One medication that has been the focus of intense study for its potential in treating COVID-19 is azithromycin. Let’s delve into this medication and explore its role in the fight against COVID-19.

What Is Azithromycin?

Azithromycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic. It is often prescribed for diseases caused by bacteria that can cause ear infections, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, throat infections, and STDs.

It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as macrolides. Different antibiotics have different mechanisms of action in fighting bacteria. Macrolides like azithromycin work by interfering with bacterial protein synthesis. When bacteria cannot synthesize protein, they will die, thus helping the body to fight and get rid of the infection.

Azithromycin and COVID-19

Antibiotics are not used to treat viral infections. The public sometimes assumes that bacteria and viruses are one and the same. In fact, they are two different types of microorganisms. Antibiotics, no matter how strong, are ineffective in treating diseases that have a viral origin.

Azithromycin, however, was initially considered a potential drug for treating COVID-19 due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation occurs in patients who experience severe symptoms of the disease. Therefore, medical professionals carried out a clinical trial to study its efficacy in treating severe symptoms of COVID-19.

The preliminary data analysis from a UK randomized controlled trial found that azithromycin offers no clinical benefit in treating COVID-19. This means that a patient who has contracted COVID-19 will not experience any relief in their symptoms by taking this medication. Instead, azithromycin should only be prescribed if there is evidence of bacterial infection. 

It can also be prescribed in severe COVID-19 cases where bacterial causes of X-ray lung findings (e.g., pneumonia) cannot be excluded.

Our Current Understanding of COVID-19 Treatment

Since the early days of the pandemic, our understanding of COVID-19 and its treatment has advanced significantly. Vaccines have been developed and widely distributed, providing substantial protection against severe illness and hospitalization. Treatments for COVID-19 have also evolved, with antiviral medications such as remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies being used to treat patients with severe symptoms.

The focus has shifted towards vaccines and other treatments specifically targeting the virus rather than repurposing existing antibiotics like azithromycin. Public health measures, vaccination campaigns, and antiviral treatments have been pivotal in managing and reducing the virus’s impact.

Conclusion

Azithromycin should not be routinely prescribed for COVID-19 infections because it does not help fight the disease. Instead, it may actually lead to the development of antibiotic resistance. It can also cause side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and more.

If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, such as fever, dry cough, or fatigue, take control of your health by getting tested as soon as possible and isolating yourself from others to avoid spreading the disease. If you experience shortness of breath, take the responsible step of going to your nearest emergency department. For milder COVID-19 symptoms, you can arrange for a telemedicine consultation via QuickMD for advice and treatment.

As we continue to navigate the pandemic, staying informed about the latest developments and following public health guidelines remain crucial in protecting ourselves and our communities.

Plavix (clopidogrel) and aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) both work to prevent blood clots by inhibiting a process called platelet clumping, which is when platelets stick together. These medications are vital in preventing clots that can block blood flow to the heart muscle (causing a heart attack) or brain tissue (causing a stroke). Various studies have determined the best usage scenarios for each medication.

When Should You Use Clopidogrel, Aspirin, or Both?

Here’s when you should use clopidogrel with or without aspirin for the following conditions:

  1. Stent Placement
    • A stent is a wire mesh device placed into arteries to hold them open and can frequently produce clots. For a month to a year after the stent is installed, Plavix is given to prevent platelet clumping. This extended use of Plavix is necessary to ensure that the stent remains unobstructed and blood flow is maintained.
  2. Serious Chest Pain
    • Serious chest pain can be caused by blockage in the coronary arteries, which feed oxygen-laden blood to the heart muscle. Plavix and aspirin are given during heart attacks or what is known as unstable angina (uncontrolled chest pain due to blockage of the coronary arteries). Plavix is continued for 9 to 12 months after a heart attack for prevention.
  3. Stroke
    • A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident, can be caused by blockages in arteries feeding blood to the brain. After a stroke, either aspirin or Plavix lowers the risk of another stroke, but both drugs do not work better than either one alone and can increase the risk of internal bleeding.
  4. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
    • A TIA, or minor stroke, can occur before a major stroke. When a TIA is diagnosed, Plavix or aspirin can be given for three months, followed by either medication.
  5. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
    • PAD is the narrowing of leg arteries, causing pain when patients walk. Patients with PAD are at increased risk for strokes and heart attacks. Either Plavix or Plavix with aspirin lowers the risk of both.
  6. Aspirin Intolerance
    • Aspirin intolerance can occur due to allergy or stomach sensitivity. Some patients’ platelets do not react to aspirin. Those patients are often prescribed Plavix.

Get Treated Online

Did you know? QuickMD can refill Plavix (clopidogrel) online—from the convenience of your home.

With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting all parts of the world, air travel has been particularly impacted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have updated their guidelines multiple times to adapt to the changing landscape of the pandemic.

Let’s look at the past updates, what you can expect now when attempting to travel with a recent COVID-19 infection, and how telehealth can help you get a documentation of recovery letter.

Previous CDC Requirements for Travel

On December 6, 2021, the CDC required every traveler over the age of 2 years to present a negative COVID test (PCR or antigen) taken within one day of travel to the United States. This rule was updated on June 6, 2022, when the CDC lifted the requirement for a negative COVID test for travelers entering the United States. However, individual airlines could still have their own requirements. 

Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and it’s always best to check the latest guidelines before your travel.

Current CDC Guidelines for Traveling (As of 2024)

As of 2024, the CDC no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry into the United States for both U.S. citizens and non-citizens​ (CDC)​​ (Travel.state)​. 

This reflects the broader easing of restrictions as the public health emergency has ended. However, it is always important to check with your airline and destination country for any additional requirements they may have. 

These could include proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or quarantine upon arrival. Airlines and countries may still have their own rules and regulations, and staying informed about them is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Traveling After a Recent COVID-19 Infection

If you’ve recently recovered from COVID-19, you might still test positive for weeks due to lingering non-infectious virus fragments. This can complicate travel plans, but the CDC provides a solution with a ‘Documentation of Recovery’ letter.

Here’s what you need:

  1. Met Criteria to End Isolation: According to CDC guidelines, you must have ended your isolation period, which typically means:
    • 10 days since your symptoms first appeared or since your positive test if asymptomatic.
    • At least 24 hours with no fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
    • Improvement in other COVID-19 symptoms.
  2. Proof of Positive Test: You need documentation of a positive COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) taken from an official lab within the last 90 days. Home tests are not accepted unless they are proctored.
  3. Letter from a Healthcare Provider: This letter should state that you have recovered from COVID-19, are no longer infectious, and are cleared to travel. QuickMD can provide this letter through a telemedicine visit.

Obtaining a ‘Documentation of Recovery’ Letter

QuickMD offers a hassle-free online consultation service where licensed physicians can provide the required ‘Documentation of Recovery’ letter. This service, priced at $75, includes the telemedicine consultation and the letter, which will be promptly emailed to you in PDF format on QuickMD’s official letterhead, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Conclusion

While the CDC has relaxed many of its travel restrictions, it’s of utmost importance to stay vigilant and informed about current guidelines and requirements from both your airline and destination. If you need a ‘Documentation of Recovery’ letter after a recent COVID-19 infection, QuickMD can help you easily get cleared to travel, empowering you to take control of your travel plans.

Folliculitis is a common yet often misunderstood skin condition that can cause significant discomfort. This inflammation of the hair follicles can result in red, itchy, and sometimes painful bumps on the skin.

While folliculitis can affect anyone, it’s more common in individuals who frequently shave or use hot tubs. By understanding the causes and symptoms of folliculitis, you can take control of your health and effectively prevent and treat this condition.

In this article, we will explore the various types of folliculitis, their causes, and the best treatment options available. We will also discuss how QuickMD, a trusted online healthcare platform, can assist you with convenient online care, including providing online prescriptions for necessary medications and facilitating video visits with our experienced physicians.

What Is Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is an inflammation caused by an infection of one or more hair follicles. Follicles, which are the spaces from which hair emerges from the skin, are small, tube-like structures in the skin that produce hair. When these follicles become infected, they can cause the symptoms of folliculitis.

What Causes Folliculitis?

Folliculitis is usually caused by bacterial or, less commonly, fungal infections. Bacterial folliculitis is typically caused by the overgrowth of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, which normally lives on the skin of healthy people. This can lead to small white bumps that can itch, and while they usually heal spontaneously, extensive cases may require antibiotic ointment or oral antibiotics. 

Fungal Folliculitis

On the other hand, fungal folliculitis, which is less common, is caused by a yeast infection and manifests as chronic red, itchy pustules, typically on the chest and back or on the neck, face, shoulders, and upper arms.

‘Hot Tub Folliculitis’

Pseudomonas bacteria, found in hot tubs and heated swimming pools, can cause a specific variant of folliculitis known as ‘hot tub folliculitis.’ This condition is characterized by the appearance of red, round, itchy bumps a day or two after exposure to the bacteria, and it can be prevented by avoiding hot tubs or ensuring proper maintenance of these facilities.

‘Barber’s Itch’

Pseudofolliculitis barbae, also known as ‘razor bumps’ or ‘barber’s itch,’ is caused by ingrown hairs due to shaving or waxing curly hairs. This can produce scars or keloids. Pityrosporum folliculitis, caused by a yeast infection, manifests as chronic red, itchy pustules, typically on the chest and back or on the neck, face, shoulders, and upper arms.

Folliculitis Treatment

Mild cases usually heal spontaneously in about two weeks. A warm, moist compress can be applied for comfort.

While mild cases of folliculitis usually heal spontaneously in about two weeks, extensive cases, or those that do not clear in a few days, can cause complications such as scarring and hair loss. This underscores the importance of timely and appropriate treatment, which may involve the use of prescription antibiotics and antifungals.

Folliculitis Treatment with QuickMD

QuickMD can treat folliculitis in the comfort and convenience of your home. Our physicians can write online prescriptions for fluconazole or any other antibiotic or antifungal needed to treat extensive folliculitis. We recommend an online video visit so our doctors can examine the affected area more closely.