St. Francis Generic Drug Katapatan Branch

29/11/2025

The 5 Stages of Kidney Disease:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition categorized into five stages, each defined by how efficiently the kidneys are filtering waste, measured through a blood test called eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate).

In the early stages (1–3), kidney function remains relatively intact, but signs of damage—like protein in the urine—may begin to emerge. Most people in these stages may not feel symptoms, though Stage 3 can bring fatigue, swelling, or high blood pressure as waste begins to build up in the body.

As CKD advances to Stages 4 and 5, kidney function becomes severely impaired.

In Stage 4 (eGFR 15–29), serious complications like bone disease and heart issues may occur. By Stage 5 (eGFR below 15), kidney failure sets in, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant for survival.

Monitoring both eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) helps doctors determine not only the stage of CKD, but also the risk of progression and related health complications.

Early detection and intervention can slow the disease and preserve kidney function for as long as possible.

Source: Reviewed by Lakhani, S. (2025, July 21). Stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). National Kidney Foundation.

29/11/2025

⚠️ A deadly new COVID-linked disease has just emerged.

A rare but potentially fatal autoimmune disease is surging in the UK—and researchers believe COVID-19 may be to blame.

Known as anti-MDA5 positive dermatomyositis, the condition causes the immune system to attack lung tissue, leading to progressive scarring (interstitial lung disease) and, in many cases, death. Once mainly observed in Asian populations, the disease has now emerged in northern England, with doctors in Yorkshire reporting 60 new cases between 2020 and 2022, including eight fatalities. What’s alarming is that most patients had no known prior COVID-19 infection, suggesting even mild or asymptomatic cases could trigger this life-threatening immune response.

The newly identified condition, now called MIP-C (MDA5-autoimmunity and Interstitial Pneumonitis Contemporaneous with COVID-19), may represent a distinct post-COVID phenomenon.

Researchers found that affected individuals had elevated levels of interleukin-15 (IL-15)—an inflammatory molecule linked to severe lung damage.

Though only a fraction of patients had confirmed COVID-19 tests, the rise in cases closely followed pandemic waves and coincided with mass vaccinations, prompting scientists to suspect a link between SARS-CoV-2 exposure and the onset of MIP-C. With similar reports now emerging worldwide, experts warn this could be a global public health concern.

Source: Taub, B. (2025, November 13). A Potentially Fatal New COVID-Related Syndrome Has Emerged. eBioMedicine

29/11/2025

Learn the signs of hypo vs. hyperthyroidism and how to manage it 👇

The thyroid, a small but mighty gland in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism through hormone production.

When this gland becomes underactive—a condition known as hypothyroidism—it leads to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression.

Common causes include autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, certain medications, or thyroid surgery. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure hormone levels, and treatment usually includes a daily dose of synthetic thyroid hormone. Proper medication timing is essential, as absorption can be affected by food, supplements, and other drugs.

In contrast, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid is overactive, producing excessive hormones and sending the body into overdrive. Symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, anxiety, weight loss, and heat intolerance. Graves’ Disease, toxic nodules, inflammation, or overconsumption of iodine are among the key causes. Hyperthyroidism diagnosis also involves hormone level testing, and treatment options vary from medication and radioactive iodine therapy to surgery, depending on the underlying cause.

As highlighted by Dr. Stephanie Smooke Praw, a UCLA endocrinologist, understanding these two conditions is vital—especially during Thyroid Awareness Month—because with proper diagnosis and care, patients can reclaim a sense of balance and well-being.

Source: Sievert, D. (2024, January 30). Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism - What's The Difference? UCLA Health.

29/11/2025

VIV: Very Informative Videos

10/11/2025

Narito ang P.R.A.Y. safety tips na dapat mong malaman para manatiling ligtas sa gitna ng bagyo mula sa Delex Pharmacy!

26/10/2025

The world can be harsh but your words don’t have to be.
Speak with care. Show kindness. It might be the lifeline someone needs today. Remember, your words have power. Use them wisely.

26/10/2025

Our beloved supporters please take time to read this.

Health tips: Transient ischemic attacks (TIA) are potentially dangerous with long-lasting effects for patients if the TIA progresses to a real stroke.

12/09/2025

04/09/2025

Sharing this information because, We Care 💖

04/09/2025

Sharing this because, we care 💖

In response to the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases in the country, Delex Pharma International, Inc. has introduced Nicardipine 20 mL, the first and only 20 mL formulation of Nicardipine Hydrochloride available in the Philippine market. READ MORE: https://delexpharma.com/news-events/delex-launches-first-20-ml-nicardipine-in-ph-to-combat-hypertension-induced-stroke

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