Medications explained.

What each medication is, how it works, forms we offer, side effects, who should avoid it and interactions to discuss with your provider.

• BupropionBupropion is an antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine. It is used for depression and to help quit smoking, and is less likely than SSRIs to cause sexual side effects or weight gain. It is not used in people with seizure disorders or eating disorders. In crisis, call or text 988.
• ChlorhexidineChlorhexidine is an antiseptic that reduces plaque bacteria and gum inflammation. It is used as a prescription rinse or gel alongside brushing, flossing and dental cleanings. It can stain teeth and change taste temporarily.
• DoxepinLow-dose doxepin is FDA-approved for trouble staying asleep. At sleep doses it mainly blocks histamine and is not considered habit-forming. It works best with good sleep habits or CBT-I.
• DutasterideDutasteride blocks both types of the enzyme that makes DHT, lowering it more than finasteride. It is FDA-approved for enlarged prostate and used off-label for hair loss. Verra offers it in a compounded topical with minoxidil.
• EnclomipheneEnclomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator that signals the brain to increase the body's own testosterone production. It is used off-label for low testosterone, particularly in men who want to preserve fertility. It is not FDA-approved and requires lab monitoring.
• EscitalopramEscitalopram is an SSRI antidepressant used for depression and generalized anxiety disorder. It is generally well tolerated and takes several weeks to reach full effect. In crisis, call or text 988.
• EstriolEstriol is a weaker natural estrogen used in compounded vaginal and skin creams to ease vaginal dryness and other menopause symptoms. Compounded estriol is not FDA-approved. A provider reviews your history before prescribing.
• FinasterideFinasteride blocks the enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT, the hormone that shrinks hair follicles in male pattern hair loss. It can slow loss and regrow some hair. It is available as a pill and in compounded topical form.
• LidocaineLidocaine is a local anesthetic that numbs tissue for a short time. In mouth rinses it eases pain from mouth sores, and in sprays it can reduce sensitivity for premature ejaculation. Too much can numb the throat, so follow directions exactly.
• MinoxidilMinoxidil stimulates hair follicles and extends the growth phase, helping regrow and thicken hair in men and women. It is used as a topical solution or a low-dose oral tablet. Initial shedding in the first weeks is common and usually temporary.
• NAD+NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every cell that is involved in energy metabolism. It is offered as injections and nasal sprays in wellness programs, though clinical evidence for benefits in healthy people is limited. Compounded NAD+ is not FDA-approved.
• PilocarpinePilocarpine stimulates the salivary glands to produce more saliva and is FDA-approved in tablet form for dry mouth from Sjogren's syndrome or radiation. Verra offers compounded troches. Sweating is a common side effect.
• PropranololPropranolol is a beta-blocker used off-label as needed for the physical symptoms of performance anxiety, such as racing heart and shaking. It does not treat the worry itself. It is not suitable for people with asthma or certain heart conditions.
• SemaglutideSemaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that lowers appetite and slows stomach emptying, helping eligible adults lose weight alongside diet and activity. Brand versions include Wegovy and Ozempic. Verra providers may prescribe brand or compounded versions; compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
• SermorelinSermorelin is a peptide similar to growth hormone-releasing hormone that prompts the pituitary to release growth hormone. It is used off-label in wellness programs; evidence for anti-aging benefits is limited. Compounded sermorelin is not FDA-approved.
• SertralineSertraline is an SSRI antidepressant used for depression, anxiety disorders, panic and OCD. It typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for full effect. Antidepressants carry a warning about suicidal thoughts in young people. In crisis, call or text 988.
• SildenafilSildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor that improves blood flow to the penis to help with erections during sexual arousal. It is the active ingredient in Viagra. It is taken as needed about an hour before sex and must not be combined with nitrates.
• SpironolactoneSpironolactone blocks androgen effects and is used off-label for female hair thinning, hormonal acne and PCOS symptoms. It is also a diuretic for heart and blood pressure conditions. It is not used in pregnancy and may need potassium checks.
• TadalafilTadalafil is a PDE5 inhibitor used for erectile dysfunction, either daily at a low dose or as needed. It is the active ingredient in Cialis and lasts up to 36 hours. It must not be combined with nitrates.
• TestosteroneTestosterone therapy replaces low testosterone in men with confirmed hypogonadism. It can improve libido, energy and muscle mass. It reduces sperm production and needs regular blood tests for red cell counts and hormone levels. It is a controlled substance.
• TirzepatideTirzepatide acts on two appetite hormones, GIP and GLP-1, to reduce hunger and support weight loss in eligible adults. Brand versions include Zepbound and Mounjaro. It is a weekly injection; compounded versions are not FDA-approved.
• TretinoinTretinoin is a prescription retinoid applied to the skin to unclog pores, speed cell turnover and improve fine lines and uneven tone. It is used for acne and photoaging. Irritation and sun sensitivity are common at first.
• ValacyclovirValacyclovir is an antiviral that treats cold sores, genital herpes and shingles by slowing the herpes virus. It does not cure the infection but shortens and reduces outbreaks. It works best started at the first sign.