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Aspirin dose and cardioprotection; uncovering modafinil's abuse potential; proton-pump inhibitors and clopidogrel; FDA actions.
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The clinical features of CADASIL vary depending on the specific mutation that is present in the NOTCH3 gene.
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Peripartum migraine increases the risk of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, heart disease, and pulmonary embolus during pregnancy. Women with persistent migraines during pregnancy are at increased risk of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia.
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Since the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is increased when clopidogrel is added to aspirin therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), many prescribe proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce this risk. However, mechanistic studies suggest that PPIs may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel.
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Whether oral vitamin K reduces the risk of bleeding related to excessive anticoagulation from warfarin remains unclear.
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In this study of physician use of clinical information technology in relation to 4 common diagnoses in 41 urban hospitals in Texas, inpatient outcomes were better the more extensive the use of computerized order entry, test results, physician charting, and decision support. Increased use of IT was also associated with significantly lower costs for all hospital admissions.
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Dronedarone is a new antiarrhythmic drug with structural similarities to amiodarone. During development of the molecule, the steps included removal of the iodine atoms and making the compound more lipophilic; the latter produces a shorter elimination half-life and reduced tissue accumulation.
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Surveillance data from the CDC show that central-line associated bloodstream infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in U.S. intensive care units showed an overall decrease of 50% during 1997-2007.
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A new transdermal formulation of oxybutynin has been approved for the treatment of overactive bladder. Oxybutynin gel is marketed by Watson Pharmaceuticals as Gelniqueä.