Arsenic

Arsenic is a naturally occurring chemical found in water, food and soil that is toxic when someone is exposed to a significant amount.

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Pineal gland

The pineal gland is a very small gland in your brain and it is part of the body's endocrine system.

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Why women need iodine – and how to get more of it (hint: ice cream)

More than 4 in 10 women could be deficient in iodine, a mineral needed in pregnancy for healthy brain development in babies, reports the University of Sydney.

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Over-the-counter medicines

There are some medicines you don't need a prescription for. These are called over-the-counter medicines.

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Levitra

Levitra is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. This article explains how it works, how to take it, possible side effects, myths and how to safely buy Levitra.

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Magnesium deficiency

Magnesium deficiency is when the body does not get all the magnesium it needs for health. Read more about magnesium deficiency symptoms, diagnosis and causes.

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Foods high in zinc

Foods high in zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, crab, lobster and dairy products. Here's how to get enough zinc in your diet.

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Parathyroid glands

The parathyroid glands are four small glands, each about the size of a grain of rice. Learn more about what they do and medical conditions related to them.

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Folate test

Folate is an important nutrient for making normal red blood cells. The folate test checks whether you have enough folate in your blood.

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Gout medication

Medical treatment for gout can help reduce swelling and pain whilst others prevent further attacks. Learn more about the different medication for gout.

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Magnesium blood test

A magnesium blood test is carried out to see if your body has enough magnesium. Most people get sufficient magnesium from food.

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Foods high in magnesium

Magnesium is essential for your muscles and nerves to work properly, to regulate blood sugar and pressure, and to make protein, bone, and DNA. Find out which foods are high in magnesium and how much you need here.

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Magnesium and your health

Magnesium is a mineral that people get from the food they eat, like vegetables, pulses, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Read about magnesium’s benefits.

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Viagra

Viagra is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. This article explains how it works, how to take it, possible side effects, myths and how to safely buy Viagra.

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Cialis

Cialis is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. This article explains how it works, how to take it, possible side effects, myths and how to safely buy Cialis.

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Codeine no longer available over the counter from Feb 1

Pain-relief medicines that contain codeine will no longer be available without a doctor's prescription from 1 Feb 2018. Here’s what you need to know.

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Better access to an overdose-reversing medication could save lives

A nasal spray has been added to the PBS, meaning many Australians could be saved from overdosing on prescription and illicit opioids.

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Are calcium supplements dangerous?

Nearly half of Australians don’t get enough calcium, putting many at risk of osteoporosis and fractures. So, why are some ditching their calcium supplements?

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Zinc and your health

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for many of the body's normal functions and systems, including the immune system, wound healing, blood clotting, thyroid function, and the senses of taste and smell.

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International normalised ratio (INR) test

An international normalised ratio (INR) test measures the time taken for your blood to clot.

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Zinc deficiency

Zinc deficiency is when the body does not have enough of the mineral zinc. Read more about zinc deficiency symptoms, diagnosis and causes.

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Could a pair of glasses help you sleep?

Body clock disorders and challenges like jet lag could possibly be helped by a special type of glasses that shine light into the wearer’s eyes.

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Are generic medicines the same as brand-name medicines?

To mark Be Medicinewise Week 2019, here's what you need to know about generic versus brand-name medicines and their ingredients.

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Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain. It controls the body’s night and day cycles. Learn more here, including how melatonin levels can be adjusted.

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Paracetamol poisoning has increased in Australia – here’s how to take it safely

Paracetamol is the most commonly used drug in Australia, but it's also the reason for most calls to poisons information hotlines.

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Foods high in iodine

Foods high in iodine include fish, prawns and seafood, as well as iodised salt and packaged bread. Here's how to get enough iodine in your diet.

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Adrenaline

Adrenaline (epinephrine) is a hormone that helps you react more quickly in a stressful situation. Adrenaline is also used as an emergency treatment for a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Learn more here.

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Quit tobacco and you'll breathe easy

According to the World Health Organization, tobacco products were responsible for 3.3 million lung disease-related deaths worldwide in 2017.

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Pain relief after surgery

Pain after an operation is a common problem but there is no need for you to be in a lot of pain. Pain relief after surgery is usually safe and effective.

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Dopamine

Dopamine is a chemical released in the brain that makes you feel good. Find out here why the right amount of dopamine is important both for your body and your brain.

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