Product Types/Conditions

• Arthritis
• Cough & Cold
• Diarrhoea
• Galenicals for Pharmacy use
• Skin Care
• Traditional Medicines
• Vitamin Supplement
• Weight Management
• Biotech’s offer for these conditions – at a glance

Arthritis

Arthritis affects more than 2 million Australians!

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is the medical name for inflammation of a joint, and there are many conditions, which can be classified as arthritic conditions:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Gout

Joint destruction, swelling, loss of range of motion, chronic pain, fatigue can be some of the effects of arthritis in a person. Arthritis can bring about significant amount of pain, however, the severity and duration depends on the type of arthritis.

What is Rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease in which inflammation affects the joints and sometimes other organs of the body. It can affect people of all ages. However, it most commonly develops between the ages of 25 and 50.

RA is an ‘auto-immune’ disease (a condition in which an individual's immune system starts reacting against his or her own tissues, causing diseases such as lupus, RA etc). The reason why this occurs is unknown, although the researchers have suggested that it may be related to a combination of genetic, environmental and random factors.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA), or degenerative joint disease is one of the oldest and most common types of arthritis. It is characterized by the breakdown of the joint’s cartilage. Cartilage is the part of the joint that cushions the ends of bones. Cartilage breakdown causes bones to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, joint stiffness and loss of movement.

The pain in OA can range from very mild to very severe. OA affects hands and weight bearing joints such as knees, feet, and the back.

What causes Osteoarthritis?

There are many factors that can cause OA:

• Although age is a risk factor, research has shown that OA is not an inevitable part of aging.
• Obesity may lead to osteoarthritis of the knees.
• People with joint injuries due to sports, work-related activity or accidents may be at increased risk of developing OA.
• Genetics has a role in the development of OA, particularly in the hands. Some people may be born with defective cartilage or with slight defects in the way that joints fit together. As a person ages, these defects may cause early cartilage breakdown in the joint.  

What are the available treatment options for osteoarthritis?

There are a number of available treatment options available for managing osteoarthritis:

Over-the-Counter (OTC) products:

Glucosamine:

Clinical studies have proven that the glucosamine (Arthroflex) is an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. Glucosamine (Arthroflex) decreases the symptoms (joint pain, swelling etc.) and the progression of osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine (Arthroflex) works by helping your body to regenerate the living articular cartilage that osteoarthritis destroys. Articular cartilage is a white, shiny material that covers the ends of bones. It absorbs shock and provides a smooth surface for movement. As the cartilage re-grows with Arthroflex treatment, there is an increased cushioning effect and this then helps reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis. Glucosamine (Arthroflex) also possesses a mild anti-inflammatory action, which helps reduce the pain (without the possible side effects of NSAID treatments).

Rubefacients

The process of rubbing rubefacients, such as Gold Cross Methyl Salicylate Compound Cream on to the skin may help stimulate blood flow and create some warmth, which may contribute to some pain relief.

Analgesics

Regular paracetamol (simple analgesic) are used in mild to moderate OA. Combination analgesics (e.g. paracetamol plus codeine) are also used. However, the simple analgesic should be tried first.

 Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Topical NSAIDs (e.g. diclofenac gel/cream) are usually used for muscular aches and pains, but the evidence for use in osteoarthritis is limited.

Oral NSAIDs

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or prescription medications such as diclofenac, piroxicam, celecoxib etc. are occasionally recommended in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is not normally an inflammatory condition, but occasionally the irritation and cartilage repair results in some inflammation. In such conditions these NSAIDs are recommended. However, NSAIDs are not used unless regular paracetamol has been triad first.

NSAIDs are intended to relieve pain only. They cannot modify the root cause of OA. In addition they are often associated with various gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, ulceration or bleeding etc.

What else can be done to help arthritis patients?

• Reduce excess weight. Excess weight can put increased pressure on already degenerated joints, causing more pain.
• Carefully selected exercise (for knees, hips, spine) can be a valuable part of the treatment for arthritis. They can help encourage flexibility and more pain-free movement of joints.
• Maintain a healthy diet.

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Cough & Cold

What is a Common Cold?

A common cold is an infection, mainly of nose & throat, which is caused by a virus. Generally lasts for 2-5 days and does not cause serious illness to healthy people.

What are the common symptoms of Common Cold?

• Blocked nose
• Nasal discharge
• Sneezing, coughing
• Mild fever, headache, earache
• Red, watery eyes

What are the available treatment approaches for Common Cold?

• Topical decongestants: e.g. Oxymetazoline, Xylometazoline nasal sprays, Ephedrine nose drops (David Craig Ephedrine Nose Drop) etc. – Constrict nasal blood vessels to unblock a stuffy nose.
• Oral decongestants: e.g. Pseudoephedrine based tablets- e.g. Day & Night formulas – Help to dry up a runny nose.
• Inhalations  & Chest rubs: e.g. Volatile oils such as menthol & camphor, steam inhalation products (Gold Cross Menthol & Eucalyptus Inhalation), Inhalation rubs (Gold Cross Herbal Vapor Gel) – Help to releive congestion.
• Combination products: e.g. Decongest & paracetamol/ibuprofen, Decongestant plus paracetamol plus Vitamin C supplement, Decongestant plus antihistamine etc.
• Supplements: e.g. Vitamin C, Echinacea (Gold Cross Echinacea plus Vitamin C Chewable Tablets), Garlic, Horseradish (Gold Cross Horseradish Garlic c film coated tablets), beta-carotene, Zinc etc) – Help reduce the severity of cold.

What is a Dry Cough?

A dry cough (non-productive) is generally result of a recent virus, head cold or flu (post viral cough). A dry cough may be a sign of other problems – asthma, GERD, medicine-induced cough etc.

What are the common symptoms of Dry Cough?

• The cough is dry, non-productive, and irritating, sometimes with a tickly throat.
• People generally feel well, chest is not congested and breathing is not impaired.

What are the available treatment approaches for Dry Cough?

• Antitussives (cough suppresants) single or combination: e.g. Codeine (Gold Cross Codeine Linctus), Dextromethorphan, Pholcodine (Gold Cross Pholcodine Linctus), Diphenhydramine (Gold Cross Cough Medicine), Oxolamine etc. – Suppress or inhibit a cough.

What is a Chesty or Wet Cough?

A productive or ‘wet’ cough (productive) is when one has a ‘rattly’ ‘tight’ chest. The wet cough may be the last symptom left after a sore throat or nasal and sinus congestion.

What are the common symptoms of Chesty Cough?

• Congested & breathless feelings
• Cough with mucus or phlegm
• Symptoms get worse when walking or talking.

What are the available treatment approaches for Chesty Cough?

• Expectorants – Irritants: e.g. Senega, Ammonium bicarbonate (Gold Cross Senega & Ammonia Mixture), Ipecacuanha, Tolu (Gold Cross Ipecac & Tolu Mixture), Squill. Ammonium chloride, Guaiphenesin etc. – Helps to expel mucus from the lungs.
• Expectorants – Mucolytics: e.g. Bromhexine, Sodium citrate, Ammonium Chloride, Potassium Iodide, Vaporisers (can be used with Gold Cross Vaporiser Fluid) etc – Help break down (thinning) thick, sticky chest phlegm, making it easier to cough up.
• Combination products: e.g. pseudoephedrine-decongestant plus expectorant plus paracetamol etc.
• Stem inhalations: Good at breaking down the mucus making it easier to cough up (e.g. Gold Cross Menthol & Eucalyptus Inhalation).
• Supplements:  e.g. Vitamin C plus bioflavanoids, horseradish, garlic & Vitamin C (Gold Cross Horseradish Garlic C film coated tablets), garlic etc.

What is a Sore Throat?

A sore throat is a result of a very common infection by bacteria or virus. It is part of a collection of illnesses ranging from the common cold to glandular fever. 

What are the common symptoms of Sore Throat?

• Sniffles
• A cough
• Feeling weak or feverish

What are the available treatment approaches for Sore Throat?

• Medicines to control pain & fever: e.g. paracetamol etc
• Vitamin C supplement: e.g. Gold Cross Vitamin C Chewable Tablets

What is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi in the lungs, caused by a viral infection such as cold & flu or a secondary bacterial infection. Bronchitis can also result from inhaling substances that irritate the lungs (e.g. chemical pollutants, dust, smoke, ammonia etc). People with other lung problems (e.g. asthma), may get frequent attacks of bronchitis. Infectious bacteria commonly occurs in winter.

What are the common symptoms of Bronchitis?

• Starts with similar symptoms to that of a common cold
• Tiredness and a sore throat, then a cough develops (often dry at first but later on becomes productive, with white, yellow or green sputum being coughed up.
• Fever (when the attack is severe)

What are the available treatment approaches for Bronchitis?

• Bronchodilators: e.g. Salbutamol etc.
• Corticosteroids
• Antibiotics
• Annual flu vaccination (to prevent catching flu in the winter)

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Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea – What is it?

Diarrhoea is defined as the excessive loss of water and electrolyte in the stool. Acute diarrhoea may be fatal as a result of subsequent dehydration.

Acute diarrhoea and minor gastrointestinal illness are common in the Australian community. Approximately 21% adults over the age of 18 suffer from diarrhoea at least once a year and of these people, only 34% take medication to relieve symptoms, whilst 66% leave the condition untreated.

Public awareness about the effects and management of diarrhoea is not adequate as it is estimated that hospital admissions in 85% cases could have been avoided if an appropriate Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) therapy had been initiated after the initial onset of diarrhoea.  

What are the common symptoms diarrhoea?

Acute diarrhoea is the most common presentation and can be characterised by:

• Frequent watery stools
• Abdominal pains
• Flatulence
• Weakness on malaise
• Nausea and or vomiting
• Possible fever (if infection present)

What causes diarrhoea?

• Manifestation of a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders
• An unwanted effect of many drugs.

What are the available treatment approaches for Diarrhoea?

The treatment goal is to first identify and resolve the underlying cause (if possible), then to replace lost fluids and electrolytes and relieve the symptoms.

Oral hydration solutions (e.g. Gold Cross Gluco-Lyte) are recommended for children and adults, and can be used in conjunction with a motility (spontaneous movement) reducing agent, in adults.

Anti-motility agents (Kaolin, Pectin, Codeine etc – e.g. BisPectin) are effective in reducing the frequency and symptoms in adults .

Most cases of acute diarrhoea are self-limiting and may be treated with preparations such as Gold Cross Gluco-Lyte and Bis-Pectin. However, anyone suffering from chronic diarrhoea must consult with his or her healthcare professional.

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Galenicals for Pharmacy Use

Coming soon

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Skin Care

Dry Skin – Causes & Symptoms

Nearly all of us experience dry skin. For some, it is a seasonal occurrence; for others it is a chronic condition (e.g. eczema or atopic dermatitis). Dry skin is annoying and uncomfortable because of the flaky appearance and intense itching. Dry skin is also more prone to bacterial invasion, which can lead to further skin problems. 

What causes dry skin?

• A breakdown in your skin’s natural moisture retaining barrier, leading to lack of water in the upper layer of skin and to effects of allergens and irritants.
• Prolonged bathing or showering with hot water.
• Prolonged and excessive use of soaps (these can remove lipids from your skin and may increase dry skin conditions).
• Low humidity (i.e. dry air).
• The side effects of some medicines such as those prescribed for acne and wrinkles can lead to dryness, redness, irritation, etc.
• Malnutrition or physical damage to the upper layer of skin (Stratum corneum).
• Using heaters or fires or sleeping with the electric blanket on.

Dry skin symptoms:

Dry skin is characterised by one or more of the following:

• Inflammation
• Roughness/cracking
• Loss of flexibility/tone
• Itching
• Scaling

Other simple skin conditions:

• Sensitive skin may flare up due to common cosmetic ingredients such as lanolin, colour, perfume etc.
• Chafed and tender skin.
• Sun and wind burn.
• After shaving or waxing rashes.
• Winter itch.
• Dermatological conditions, e.g. eczema and other dermatitis etc.
• Nappy or urinary rash.

Role of “soap substitute” or “soap-free” Cleansers:

• Gently cleanses and moisturises
• Suitable for people with sensitive skin due to dermatitis, scaly skin, eczema.

Skin’s normal pH is between 5.5 – 6.5. This pH level maintains a healthy skin by providing a protective barrier against growth of bacteria and fungi (which generally grow in alkaline pH level greater than 7).

With the use of soaps the pH of the skin changes to alkaline pH 9 to 10. Healthy skin has the ability to change this pH level back to normal, within 15 to 30 minutes. However, if the skin has some dermatological conditions (e.g. dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis etc.), it takes longer (up to 24 hours) to return to normal pH level. During this time, skin conditions may be aggravated by bacteria or fungi invasion. Most soaps also contain skin irritants like perfume, free caustic soda and colour etc.

The use of soap should be avoided on sensitive or dry skin.

Skin Basics Aqueous Lotion and Aqueous Cream are ideal for soap-free skin cleansing. 

Role of Moisturisers:

• Locks in the moisture to ensure the skin does not dry out.
• Re-establishes the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
• Provides treatment and long lasting protection against many causes of dry skin, winter itch, dermatitis, scaly skin, and symptomatic relief of eczema, psoriasis etc.

Skin Basics Sorbolene creams and lotions come in a range of formulations and pack sizes to cater for your individual skincare needs and preferences.

Role of Protectives

• Provides a protective barrier against skin irritation.
• Prevents and treats nappy and urinary rash, chafed and tender skin and mild dermatological conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Skin Basics Zinc & Castor Oil Cream protects and soothes and is suitable for use all over body.

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Traditional Medicines

Coming soon.

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Vitamin Supplement

Vitamin Supplements and herbs in Cough & Cold

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin in our diet. It is not stored by the body and so a regular daily intake is required. Rich food source are fresh vegetables, and citrus fruits. Vitamin C is easily destroyed by storing, preparing and cooking fresh foods. Vitamin C is required to maintain healthy body tissues and is known for its antioxidant properties. It is a popular supplement especially during the winter months.

Studies on the effect of vitamin C on the common cold indicate that while supplementation does not affect the incidence of the common cold, vitamin C does reduce both the severity and duration of cold symptoms by an average of 23 percent. Vitamin C is utilized four to six times the normal rate by white blood cells during active infection. Although vitamin C is not a cure for the common cold, it does support a healthy immune system response to viral and bacterial infection.

The synergistic action of Echinacea and Vitamin C may provide effective defence against the symptoms of colds and flu. Echinacea is one of the world’s most popular and effective traditional herbs, and may be beneficial in relieving the symptoms of cold, flu and minor upper respiratory tract infections. Each Gold Cross Echinacea and Vitamin C tablet provides a concentrate standardized to therapeutic levels equivalent to 250mg of fresh herb.

There are also some other herbs, which are believed to have positive effect on cough and cold symptoms.

• Horseradish and Garlic: Clears mucus congestion and catarrh and boosts immunity.
• Marshmallow and Fenugreek: Reduces coughing and soothes irritated throats.

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Weight Management

You are not alone.

More than half the Australians have a BMI of 25 or more, which classifies them as overweight or obese. With a busy lifestyle, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

There are many reasons for overweight. However, many people are overweight because they are not eating sensibly (eating more calories than they burn up every day, eating foods with a high Glycaemic index etc).

Carrying excess weight is not good for your health. Being overweight often has associated health problems (high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, high blood glucose levels etc) and considerably reduces the quality of life.

Start your weight loss or control program today. with smart eating habits (ensuring a low Glycaemic Index foods), drinking plenty of water and physical activity, Medislim Natural ADVANCE can help you lose and control weight, helping you look good, feel great

What is Obese or Overweight?

Obesity and overweight are very common health problems in our society. However, "obesity" and "overweight" do not mean the same thing.

Obesity is defined as the accumulation of excessive body fat (body fat percentage greater than 30% for women and 25% for men). Body Mass Index (BMI) more than 30 is considered obese. Obesity occurs when the energy intake (e.g. food) exceeds energy expenditure (e.g. physical activity).

Overweight is defined as an excess bodyweight relative to height. Persons with BMI between 25 and 30 are considered overweight.

Your ideal weight depends on your age, height, build and fitness level. The most widely used way to calculate a healthy weight is to understand your Body Mass Index (BMI). Divide your weight (in kilograms) by your height in metres, squared. The BMI for 'Acceptable' weight is between 20 and 25, 'Underweight' is < 20, 'Overweight' is between 25 and 30, whilst >30 is considered 'Obese'. The "acceptable weight range" is based on a number of studies, which indicate that BMIs in this range are associated with the lowest death rate.

Classification of weight by BMI:

You can use the interactive BMI Calculator to calculate your own BMI. However, body builders and other heavily muscled individuals may have a high BMI, and not have excess body fat. Your healthcare professionals can help you explain this exception.

What are the common causes of overweight or obesity?

There is no single cause as to why people become overweight. The reasons are complex and include inherited characteristics (genetic factors), aspects of lifestyle (eating more food than our body needs, increased consumption of foods high in fat or with a high Glycaemic Index, excess alcohol, doing less physical activities) and physiological factors (hormonal changes or abnormalities).

Following are some of the common overweight/obesity causing factors:

Diet: The fat content (%) of the diet is believed to be associated with higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. Also, if one is going to gain weight after eating a particular food will depend on how much that food adds to his/her kilo joule (kj) intake vs. how much he/she is burning up (energy intake vs. expenditure). Persons who are burning less kj will gain weight. Fatty foods contain more kj (per gram basis) than other foods (carbohydrate, protein). So people who are eating high-fat foods consume more kj and have chances of gaining weight. Also, fat appears to have a weak satiating capacity and as a result of this we readily overeat high fat foods.

Foods with high glycaemic index have the potential to promote greater weight gain.

Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption is sometimes associated with higher BMI. Also, alcohol tends to blunt the ability to maintain other dietary controls.

Aging: Overweight increases with age. Lean body mass rises to its peak in the third decade of life and then declines with advancing age. Consequently, with the advancing age, if food intake is not reduced, overweight or obesity will result.

Pregnancies: "Pregnancy has often been thought of as a time when you don't have to worry about your weight and a little extra won't hurt. The energy requirements of a pregnant woman are about 100 calories more than normally consumed. There is a misconception about 'eating for two' during pregnancy. However the increased energy requirements can be met with a piece of fruit and a glass of low fat milk, or possibly a sandwich." (AJP, Sept 2000:860)

Physical activity: People who remain or become inactive are usually heavier than people who are active.

Drugs: Some medications are believed to be associated with increased body weight (drug induced obesity), e.g.

• Antidepressants: amitryptyline, imipramine, doxepin, phenelzine, amoxapine, desipramine etc.
• Anti-epileptics: valproate, carbamazepine.
• Steroids: glucocorticoids, megesterol acetate
• Antihypertensives: terazosin
• Phenothiazines: Chlorpromazine, thioridazine, trifluoperazine etc.

What are the associated health risks?

When you are overweight, chances are you do not look or feel as good as you want to. Overweight and obese people have an increased risk of poor health and even early death due to the increased risks of developing preventable diseases such as

High blood pressure: One third of all hypertension in the Western world is associated with overweight or obesity.

Hyperlipidaemia: 50% greater likelihood of high serum cholesterol level.

Diabetes mellitus: At least 5 times more prevalent in obese and overweight people.

Other chronic diseases like gout, osteoarthritis, gall bladder disease, sleep apnoea, several forms of cancers etc.

Obese and overweight women have high risks of dying of endometrium, gall bladder, cervical, ovarian and breast cancers.

Obese and overweight men are more likely to die of colorectal and prostrate cancers than healthy men.

Pregnancy and overweight: Overweight and obese women have a high risk of obstetric complications like pregnancy induced hypertension, urinary tract infections, pre-eclampsia, post partum haemorrhage etc. Also, an increased risk of neural tube defects has been reported in women with BMI>29.

What do I do?

To achieve a healthy weight, firstly identify your acceptable weight target - within a BMI range of 20 to 25. Then develop and use eating and exercise strategies that will allow you to achieve your target weight goal. Beware, "quick fix" diets and "miracle pills" with bold and dramatic 'results' rarely, if ever, provide lasting and healthy weight loss benefits.

If your BMI is more than 30 you should consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Established weight loss strategies include:

Smart eating habits (using the Glycaemic Index)

The Glycaemic Index (GI) is an international system of rating carbohydrates (from 0 to 100), according to how quickly they are absorbed into the blood and then converted to glucose (which then provides energy and regulates appetite). Low GI foods can help with weight loss and weight control, as the slow absorption of glucose may help sustain a feeling of "fullness" and also may help promote fat burning and reduce fat storage. High GI foods have the potential to promote weight gain. Also, avoid taking alcohol and sugar, as they represent "empty" calories. See the Easy Guide to the GI page for further detailed information on the G.I.

Regular light exercise

Making the time for regular light aerobic exercise helps increase large muscle activity, converts fats to muscle, reduces sugar cravings and assists a positive mental state and energy.

Drink plenty of water

Water helps to break down fat in our body. We should drink about eight 250ml glasses of water per day.

Vitamins and Minerals

The role of vitamins and minerals in weight loss and control programs is well established. Diets with low total calories risk cutting out required essential daily nutrients. This can make your weight loss program even more difficult as many vitamins (e.g. the B group), have a positive impact on appetite suppression and energy production.

A helping hand – Medislim Natural ADVANCE

The unique and balanced formulations allows Medislim Natural ADVANCE to be your personal 'helping hand' to lose and maintain a healthy weight.

Losing Weight vs. Controlling Weight (Maintenance)

Long-term maintenance of weight loss is generally regarded as the problem in weight control. Studies suggest that after an intensive weight loss program you still need to maintain it for long term benefits.

Take Medislim Natural ADVANCE Weight Loss if you carry more weight than the acceptable weight range.

Once you have achieved your target weight (with assistance from ADVANCE Weight Loss), it would be nice to maintain it. That's where you can take Medislim Natural ADVANCE Weight Control.  

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Biotech’s offer for these conditions – at a glance

Note:

APF - Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary
BP - British Pharmacopoeia
USP - United States Pharmacopoeis 

Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.