Internal Medicine Alert – October 30, 2004
October 30, 2004
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ß-Blockers Build Better Bones
Use of ß-blockers is associated with reduced risk of fracture. The magnitude of reduction is similar to that seen with use of thiazides. -
Coronary Heart Disease and Anemia: To Transfuse or Not?
A retrospective study of 24,112 patients with coronary heart disease showed increased 30-day mortality in patients who received one or more blood transfusions for anemia compared to comparable patients not transfused. -
Relationship Between Calcium Scans and Stress Myocardial Perfusion
A calcium score < 100 eliminates the need for MPS, but patients with a negative MPS often have coronary calcium. These findings imply a potential role for applying CAC screening after MPS among patients manifesting normal MPS. -
Should All Hypertensive Patients Older Than Age 60 Be Treated?
Treatment of systolic hypertension in older patients with systolic blood pressure of at least 160 mm Hg is supported by strong evidence. The evidence to support treatment of patients to the level of 140 mm Hg or those with baseline SBP of 140 to 159 mm Hg is less strong; thus, these treatment decisions should be more sensitive to patient preferences and tolerance of therapy. -
Pharmacology Update: Abacavir Sulfate and Lamivudine Tablets (Epzicom)
The FDA has approved a combination of 2 antiretrovirals, abacavir and lamivudine for the treatment of HIV-1 infections. -
Clinical Briefs
Toenail Chromium in Men With Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease; Combination of Fenofibrate and Rosiglitazone and HDL Cholesterol; Outcomes for Patients with Diet-Controlled Diabetes