eMedTV Articles A-Z
This eMedTV resource offers an in-depth look at beta thalassemia, which occurs when there is a problem with the beta-globin chain. Possible symptoms and treatment options are discussed, as are the disease's prevalence and inheritance patterns.
This eMedTV page offers beta thalassemia statistics regarding the disease's prevalence. These statistics show that the condition occurs often in Mediterranean countries, North Africa, and the Middle East, but is less common in the United States.
Beta-sitosterol is a plant sterol commonly used for reducing cholesterol and treating an enlarged prostate. This eMedTV segment explains how beta-sitosterol works, discusses other possible uses for the compound, and lists side effects that may occur.
Beta-Sitosterol and Breastfeeding
It is not known if beta-sitosterol from dietary supplements is safe for breastfeeding women. This eMedTV article offers more information on beta-sitosterol and breastfeeding, and explains why it may be unsafe to use the product while nursing.
It is currently not known whether beta-sitosterol is safe for use during pregnancy. This eMedTV Web page contains more information on beta-sitosterol and pregnancy, and describes the problems that may occur if pregnant women use these products.
A safe and effective beta-sitosterol dosage has not been established. This article from the eMedTV Web site explains what doses were safely used in clinical studies and offers some general precautions and warnings for those taking beta-sitosterol.
Beta-Sitosterol Drug Interactions
Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and ezetimibe may interact with beta-sitosterol. Drug interactions, as this eMedTV page explains, may decrease the absorption of these products into the body. It is best to take these products at different times of the day.
It is unclear exactly what to expect from a beta-sitosterol overdose (or if an overdose is even possible). This eMedTV resource explains why an overdose is not likely to occur with beta-sitosterol and discusses treatment options that are available.
Reported bothersome (but not serious) beta-sitosterol side effects include nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea. This eMedTV resource lists other potential side effects of beta-sitosterol and explains why sexual side effects may occur.
Beta-sitosterol may help with prostate problems and weight loss. This eMedTV Web presentation looks at the supplement, including whether it works, if it is safe, dosing information, and much more.
Betaseron is a prescription medicine that is commonly used for treating multiple sclerosis. This eMedTV segment provides dosing information for Betaseron, describes the effects of the drug, and explains what you should know before starting treatment
It is recommended that women avoid breastfeeding while taking Betaseron (interferon beta-1b). This part of the eMedTV library offers more information on Betaseron and breastfeeding, and explains whether the drug is likely to pass through breast milk.
Depression appears to be a potential side effect of Betaseron (interferon beta-1b). This eMedTV resource further explores the link between Betaseron and depression, and explains what your doctor may recommend if you develop any depression symptoms.
Studies on Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) and pregnancy show the drug may not be safe for pregnant women. This eMedTV segment describes the problems that occurred when Betaseron was given to pregnant animals and explores the risks for pregnant women.
It is usually recommended to start with a low dose and gradually work up to the full Betaseron dosage. This eMedTV article provides a detailed Betaseron dosing schedule and includes information on where and how to give the injections.
Certain medications may interact with Betaseron, including zidovudine and theophylline. This eMedTV resource lists specific zidovudine and theophylline products that may cause Betaseron drug interactions and explains the effects of these interactions.
Betaseron Injection Information
This eMedTV Web page looks at Betaseron injections for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Information covered includes its possible side effects, drug interactions, warnings, and much more.
As this eMedTV segment explains, it is not known what to expect from a Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) overdose, other than the usual Betaseron side effects. This article also lists treatment options available for a Betaseron overdose.