MedWorm: Drugs & Pharmacology

High Accurate Simple Approximation of Normal Distribution Integral

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

The integral of the standard normal distribution function is an integral without solution and represents the probability that an aleatory variable normally distributed has values between zero and x. The normal distribution integral is used in several areas of science. Thus, this work provides an approximate solution to the Gaussian distribution integral by using the homotopy perturbation method (HPM). After solving the Gaussian integral by HPM, the result served as base to solve other integrals like error function and the cumulative distribution function. The error function is compared against other reported approximations showing advantages like less relative error or less mathematical complexity. Besides, some integrals related to the normal (Gaussian) distribution integral were solved s...

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Fungal Rhinosinusitis: A Retrospective Microbiologic and Pathologic Review of 400 Patients at a Single University Medical Center

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

In this study, we evaluate the diagnosis of FRS in a single medical center. Cases were divided into 2 main categories, non-invasive and invasive. Non-invasive FRS included fungus ball (FB) and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). Invasive FRS included acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS), chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (CIFRS), and chronic invasive granulomatous fungal rhinosinusitis (CGFRS). Fungal culture data, if available was reviewed. 400 patients with FRS were identified. 87.25% were non-invasive (45% AFRS, 40% FB, and 2% combined AFRS and FB and 12.5% were invasive 11% AIFRS 1.2% CIFRS 0.5% CGFRS. One patient (0.25%) had combined FB/CGFRS. Aspergillus sp. or dematiaceous species were the most common fungi isolated in AFS while Aspergillus sp. was most common in FB ...

Energy-Efficient Multi-Job Scheduling Model for Cloud Computing and Its Genetic Algorithm

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

For the problem that the energy efficiency of the cloud computing data center is low, from the point of view of the energy efficiency of the servers, we propose a new energy-efficient multi-job scheduling model based on Google’s massive data processing framework. To solve this model, we design a practical encoding and decoding method for the individuals and construct an overall energy efficiency function of the servers as the fitness value of each individual. Meanwhile, in order to accelerate the convergent speed of our algorithm and enhance its searching ability, a local search operator is introduced. Finally, the experiments show that the proposed algorithm is effective and efficient. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Self-Optimization of Pilot Power in Enterprise Femtocells Using Multi objective Heuristic

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Deployment of a large number of femtocells to jointly provide coverage in an enterprise environment raises critical challenges especially in future self-organizing networks which rely on plug-and-play techniques for configuration. This paper proposes a multi-objective heuristic based on a genetic algorithm for a centralized self-optimizing network containing a group of UMTS femtocells. In order to optimize the network coverage in terms of handled load, coverage gaps, and overlaps, the algorithm provides a dynamic update of the downlink pilot powers of the deployed femtocells. The results demonstrate that the algorithm can effectively optimize the coverage based on the current statistics of the global traffic distribution and the levels of interference between neighboring femtocells. The al...

Occam-pi for Programming of Massively Parallel Reconfigurable Architectures

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

We present two case-studies; DCT implementation exploiting the reconfigurability feature of occam-pi and a significantly large autofocus criterion calculation based on the dynamic parallelism capability of the occam-pi language. The results of the implemented case studies suggest that the occam-pi-language-based approach simplifies the development of applications employing run-time reconfigurable devices without compromising the performance benefits. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Subsurface Lateral Flow in Texture-Contrast (Duplex) Soils and Catchments with Shallow Bedrock

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Development-perched watertables and subsurface lateral flows in texture-contrast soils (duplex) are commonly believed to occur as a consequence of the hydraulic discontinuity between the A and B soil horizons. However, in catchments containing shallow bedrock, subsurface lateral flows result from a combination of preferential flow from the soil surface to the soil—bedrock interface, undulations in the bedrock topography, lateral flow through macropore networks at the soil—bedrock interface, and the influence of antecedent soil moisture on macropore connectivity. Review of literature indicates that some of these processes may also be involved in the development of subsurface lateral flow in texture contrast soils. However, the extent to which these mechanisms can be applied to t...

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Arterial Microcalcifications in the Breast Mimicking Malignancy

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Microcalcifications in the breast are highly suggestive of malignancy; they can occur in many pathological conditions. A 36-years-old nondiabetic woman came to the gynaecologist with a suspect palpable mass in the upper outer quadrant of the right breast. Histopathological examination confirmed a calcification of a small artery (diameter: 0.45 mm). Arterial calcifications can mimic a malignant lesion in the breast. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Antiallodynic Effect of Herbal Medicine Yokukansan on Peripheral Neuropathy in Rats with Chronic Constriction Injury

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

In this study, we investigated the effects of yokukansan on neuropathic pain in chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. Oral administration of yokukansan significantly inhibited mechanical and cold allodynia in the von Frey hair or acetone test, respectively. In comparison, amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, demonstrated moderate, but not significant, antiallodynic effects in the mechanical and cold tests. Yokukansan significantly inhibited the cerebrospinal fluid dialysate level of glutamate that had increased by the stimulation of brush or acetone. Glutamate transporter inhibitors, DL-threo-beta-hydroxy aspartate and dihydrokainate, decreased the yokukansan-induced antiallodynic actions in CCI rats. Our results suggest that yokukansan was confirmed to have antiallodynic effects ...

Aqueous Extract of Paeonia suffruticosa Inhibits Migration and Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells via Suppressing VEGFR-3 Pathway

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

In conclusion, this research elucidates the effects and molecular mechanism for antimigration of PS-A on RCC cells and suggests PS-A to be a therapeutic or adjuvant strategy for the patients with aggressive RCC. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Economic Analysis of a Pediatric Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Prevention Initiative in Nicaragua

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

We performed an economic analysis of an intervention to decrease ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) prevalence in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) at two Nicaraguan hospitals to determine the cost of the intervention and how effective it needs to be in order to be cost-neutral. A matched cohort study determined differences in costs and outcomes among ventilated patients. VAP cases were matched by sex and age for children older than 28 days and by weight for infants under 28 days old to controls without VAP. Intervention costs were determined from accounting and PICU staff records. The intervention cost was approximately $7,000 for one year. If VAP prevalence decreased by 0.5%, hospitals would save $7,000 and the strategy would be cost-neutral. The finding that the intervention req...

Sensitive Determination of Terazosin in Pharmaceutical Formulations and Biological Samples by Ionic-Liquid Microextraction Prior to Spectrofluorimetry

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

An efficient and environmentally friendly sample preparation method based on the application of hydrophobic 1-Hexylpyridinium hexafluorophosphate [Hpy][PF6] ionic liquid (IL) as a microextraction solvent was proposed to preconcentrate terazosin. The performance of the microextraction method was improved by introducing a common ion of pyridinium IL into the sample solution. Due to the presence of the common ion, the solubility of IL significantly decreased. As a result, the phase separation successfully occurred even at high ionic strength, and the volume of the settled IL-phase was not influenced by variations in the ionic strength (up to 30% w/v). After preconcentration step, the enriched phase was introduced to the spectrofluorimeter for the determination of terazosin. The obtaine...

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Brainstem Infarction and Panuveitis due to Sarcoidosis Successfully Treated with Steroid Pulse Therapy

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

A 36-year-old man visited our hospital because of blurred vision and redness of the conjunctiva. Slit-lamp examination showed panuveitis. Two days later, he suddenly experienced dizziness, speech disturbance, paralysis of his right extremities, and gait disturbances. Neurological examinations suggested that his symptoms were caused by a left lateral medullary lesion. He also had erythema mainly on his trunk. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of his brain demonstrated a small infarct on the left side of the medulla oblongata. Clinical presentation and MRI findings were consistent with the diagnosis of a Wallenberg’s syndrome. He also had bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. A skin biopsy showed granulomatous nodular dermatitis compatible with sarcoidosis. He was treated with steroid pulse ther...

A Rare Cause of Low Back Pain: Report of a Tailgut Cyst

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

We describe the case of a 46-year-old female who presented with a 6-month history of low back pain. CT and MRI imaging demonstrated a complex retrorectal lesion with supralevator and infralevator components. This was removed using a combined transperineal and transabdominal approach. Histology confirmed a tailgut cyst. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

A Systematic Review of Physical Activity Interventions in Hispanic Adults

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Healthy People 2020 aims to achieve health equity, eliminate disparities, and improve the health of all groups. Regular physical activity (PA) improves overall health and fitness and has the capability to reduce risk for chronic diseases. Identifying barriers which relate to the Hispanic population is important when designing PA interventions. Therefore, the purpose was to review existing PA interventions targeting Hispanic adults published between 1988 and 2011. This paper was limited to interventions which included more than 35% Hispanic adults (n=20). Most of the interventions were community based (n=16), although clinical, family-based, and faith-based settings were also represented. Interventions incorporated theory (n=16), with social cognitive theory and transtheoretical model being...

On Functions of Bounded (p,k)-Variation

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

We introduce and study the concept of (p,k)-variation (1<p<∞, k∈N) of a real function on a compact interval. In particular, we prove that a function u:[a,b]→R has bounded (p,k)-variation if and only if u(k-1) is absolutely continuous on [a,b] and u(k) belongs to Lp[a,b]. Moreover, an explicit connection between the (p,k)-variation of u and the Lp-norm of u(k) is given which is parallel to the classical Riesz formula characterizing functions in the spaces RVp[a,b] and Ap[a,b]. This may also be considered as an alternative characterization of the one variable Sobolev space Wpk[a,b]. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Low-Level Detection of Poly(amidoamine) PAMAM Dendrimers Using Immunoimaging Scanning Probe Microscopy

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Immunoimaging scanning probe microscopy was utilized for the low-level detection and quantification of biotinylated G4 poly(amidoamine) PAMAM dendrimers. Results were compared to those of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and found to provide a vastly improved analytical method for the low-level detection of dendrimers, improving the limit of detection by a factor of 1000 (LOD=2.5×10−13 moles). The biorecognition method is reproducible and shows high specificity and good accuracy. In addition, the capture assay platform shows a promising approach to patterning dendrimers for nanotechnology applications. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

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Travel Time Model of Left-Turning Vehicles at Signalized Intersection

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

The travel time of left-turning vehicles at signalized intersection was discussed. Under the assumption that the opposing through vehicles headway follows M3 distribution, the travel time model was established on the basis of gap theory and queue theory. Comparison was done with the common model based on the assumption that the opposing through vehicles headway follows negative exponential distribution. The results show that the model in this paper has stronger applicability and its most relative error is less than 15%. In addition, the sensitivity analysis was done. The results show that the opposing through flow rate has significant impact on travel time. The impact of left-turning flow rate and following headway is light when the opposing through flow rate is small, the threshold is...

Analysis of Delayed Bleeding after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Gastric Epithelial Neoplasms

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Conclusion. Ulcer presence/absence was considered the most significant predictor of post-ESD bleeding. (Source: Advances in Pharmacological Sciences)

Approximating Polynomials for Functions of Weighted Smirnov-Orlicz Spaces

Advances in Pharmacological Sciences — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:37:00 +0100

Let G0 and G∞ be, respectively, bounded and unbounded components of a plane curve Γ satisfying Dini's smoothness condition. In addition to partial sum of Faber series of f belonging to weighted Smirnov-Orlicz space EM,ω (G0), we prove that interpolating polynomials and Poisson polynomials are near best approximant for f. Also considering a weighted fractional moduli of smoothness, we obtain direct and converse theorems of trigonometric polynomial approximation in Orlicz spaces with Muckenhoupt weights. On the bases of these approximation theorems, we prove direct and converse theorems of approximation, respectively, by algebraic polynomials and rational functions in weighted Smirnov-Orlicz spaces EM,ω(G0) and EM,ω(G∞). (Source: Advances in Phar...

Body mass index and the risk of obesity in coeliac disease treated with the gluten‐free diet

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:13:33 +0100

ConclusionsIndividuals with coeliac disease have lower BMI than the regional population at diagnosis. BMI increases on the GFD, especially in those that adhere closely to the GFD. On the GFD, 15.8% of patients move from a normal or low BMI class into an overweight BMI class, and 22% of patients overweight at diagnosis gain weight. These results indicate that weight maintenance counselling should be an integral part of coeliac dietary education. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Merck provides suvorexant insomnia update

Pharmacy Europe — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:50:00 +0100

Merck plans to file a new drug application with the US Food and Drug Administration in 2012 (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

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Computer order entry systems reduce drug events

Pharmacy Europe — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:43:00 +0100

Research suggests CPOEs are effective at reducing drug-related injury and harm (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

Bexsero® shows promise for meningococcal B

Pharmacy Europe — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:30:00 +0100

Pivotal study confirms potential of vaccine to protect infants against meningococcal serogroup B (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

NPC publishes sixth issue of 'tough decisions

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NPC Area: News The National Prescribing Centre (NPC) has published the sixth edition of its newsletter 'Tough Decisions', a quarterly publication available to all NHS personnel making decisions about the funding and commissioning of medicines at a local level. This issue addresses the following topics: . Local decision-making news.in brief . How the NPC and NICE can help you and your commissioning groups . New medicines - are you prepared? . Managing medicines across a health community - is your Area Prescribing Committee fit for purpose? . IFR manager newsSharing practice The newsletter can be accessed at the link below. (Source: NeLM - News)

Editorial - Cardiovascular risk in androgen suppression

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Heart Area: News This editorial discusses the issue of cardiovascular risk in androgen suppression since evidence from observational data suggests that androgen suppression therapy may significantly increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. (Source: NeLM - News)

EU proposals for a new public procurement directive

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Confederation Area: News The European Commission has published legal proposals to revise the existing EU public procurement rules. This briefing outlines the key changes proposed to the legal framework and seeks views from NHS organisations on the likely implications for the NHS. (Source: NeLM - News)

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Four new guides to improve mental health commissioning

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Networks Area: News The Joint Commissioning Panel for Mental Health has developed four practical guides to help current and future commissioners plan and deliver high quality mental health services have been published. The guides focus on primary mental health care services, child and adolescent mental health service transitions, dementia services and acute liaison services bringing together scientific evidence, patient and carer experience and viewpoints, and examples of best practice. (Source: NeLM - News)

Review: Diagnosis and management of Raynaud's phenomenon

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: BMJ Area: News This review featured by the BMJ discusses the diagnosis and management of Raynauds phenomenon under the following sub-headings: . Who gets Raynaud's phenomenon? . What are the symptoms? . What causes Raynaud's phenomenon? . How are patients with Raynaud's phenomenon assessed? . When and who to refer? . How is Raynaud's phenomenon treated? . Does surgery have a role in treatment? (Source: NeLM - News)

Horizon scanning: AmiKetT for peripheral neuropathic pain filed for FDA fast track designation

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: BioSpace Area: News According to a Biospace report, EpiCept has filed AmiKetT (amitriptyline 4%, ketamine 2% cream) for Fast Track designation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). AmiKetT is a prescription topical cream under late stage clinical development by EpiCept for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain. (Source: NeLM - News)

Horizon scanning: FDA Grants priority review of pertuzumab for untreated HER2-Positive metastatic breast cancer

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: BioSpace Area: News According to a Biospace report, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Priority Review for pertuzumab in combination with trastuzumab and docetaxel chemotherapy for people with HER2-positive metastatic or locally recurrent, unresectable breast cancer, who have not received previous treatment or whose disease has relapsed after adjuvant therapy. (Source: NeLM - News)

Horizon scanning: FDA Grants priority review of crofelemer for diarrhoea in patients with HIV/AIDS on anti-retroviral therapy

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: BioSpace Area: News According to a Biospace report, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Priority Review for crofelemer 125 mg tablets for the control and symptomatic relief of diarrhoea in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) on anti-retroviral therapy. (Source: NeLM - News)

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Horizon scanning: FDA approves SkliceT (ivermectin) Lotion for the treatment of head lice

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: PharmaLive Area: News According to a Pharmalive report, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Sklice® (ivermectin) lotion, 0.5% for the topical treatment of head lice, in patients 6 months of age and older. The treatment involves a single 10-minute application without nit combing. The approval was based on results of two randomized, double-blind phase III clinical trials that compared Sklice Lotion with a vehicle control (placebo) in 781 patients from the United States who were 6 months of age and older. More subjects in the treatment group were louse-free without any nit combing after two weeks and less than 1% of patients experienced adverse events, which included conjunctivitis, ocular hyperaemia, eye irritation, dandruff, dry skin and skin-...

Horizon scanning: FDA approves VyvanseT (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) for maintenance of ADHD in adults

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: BioSpace Area: News The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Vyvanse® (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) capsules for the maintenance treatment of adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This new approval is additional to the indication for Vyvanse as a treatment for ADHD in patients aged 6 years and above. The approval is based on results from a six-week phase IV, double-blind, multi-centre, placebo-controlled, randomized withdrawal design study which assessed the maintenance of efficacy and safety of Vyvanse in 123 adults who met DSM-IV-TR® criteria for ADHD. Following an open-label treatment, in which patients continued to receive the same Vyvanse dose they were taking at study entry, those who maintained treatment re...

Cost-effectiveness of bivalirudin versus heparin plus glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor for acute MI in the UK

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Heart Area: News This model-based cost-utility analysis assessed the cost-effectiveness of bivalirudin versus heparin and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (H-GPI) in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) for acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and was provided for the NICE appraisal of bivalirudin use in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI. The model evaluated incremental costs, and incremental clinical effectiveness expressed as quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. The following findings were reported: . The main model (clinical events until the end of year 1) predicted bivalirudin and H-GPI patients to survive 11.52 and 11.35 (undiscounted) years on average, respectively, and to accrue 6.26 and 6...

CADTH rapid response report: Botulinum toxin A for migraine headaches

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) Area: News This rapid response report from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) reviews the clinical effectiveness of botulinum toxin A for reduction in pain and improvement of functioning in patients with migraine headache It found that, 'the evidence is inconclusive regarding the clinical effectiveness of botulinum toxin A for reduction in pain and improvement of functioning in patients with migraine headache'. The Rapid Response Service is an information service for those involved in planning and providing health care in Canada. Rapid responses are based on a limited literature search and are not comprehensive, systematic reviews. The intent is to provide a list of sou...

CADTH rapid response report: Antivirals for pandemic and human avian influenzas

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) Area: News This rapid response report from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) reviews the evidence on the clinical benefits and harms of antivirals for the treatment and prevention of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) and human avian influenza A (H5N1). It found that, 'There is limited evidence that oseltamivir is clinically effective for the treatment of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) and limited evidence that it is especially effective with treatment within 48 hours of symptom onset. There is insufficient evidence to make a definitive conclusion regarding the clinical effectiveness of antivirals for prophylaxis or treatment of pandemic influenza A(H1N1), and no evidence was identified re...

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DTB comment: Quarterly vs monthly INR monitoring of warfarin patients

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: DTB Area: News This Comment in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) discusses the results of a non-inferiority study that demonstrated INR monitoring every 12 weeks was as safe as INR monitoring every 4 weeks (see NELM abstract for further details). The DTB notes that "a 12-week INR testing frequency is probably safe for patients whose INR is stable if they continue to have clinician support. But this is a small single-centre study and the researchers caution that further research is needed before INR testing every 12 weeks can be routinely recommended. They also noted several limitations to their study. Extreme INRs were reported to investigators for ethical reasons, and patients in the 12-week group were contacted by telephone and offered advice and support on IN...

RCT: Fidaxomicin versus vancomycin for Clostridium difficile infection

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases Area: News This double-blind, randomised controlled, non-inferiority trial compared the efficacy and safety of oral fidaxomicin and oral vancomycin for the treatment of patients with Clostridium difficile (C difficile) infection in 45 sites across Europe, Canada, and the USA. Eligible patients, aged 16 years or older with acute, toxin-positive C difficile infection were randomised to fidaxomicin (n=270; 200 mg every 12 h) or vancomycin (n=265; 125 mg every 6 h) for 10 days. Non-inferiority was prespecified with a margin of 10%. Modified intention-to-treat (mITT) and per-protocol populations were analysed. The primary endpoint was clinical cure, defined as resolution of diarrhoea (three or fewer unformed bowel movements per da...

Eyes on evidence: Treating staggered paracetamol overdose

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Evidence Area: News The February edition of 'Eyes on Evidence', the free monthly e-bulletin from NHS Evidence covering major new evidence with an explanation about what it means for current practice, includes an expert commentary on new evidence from a large single centre cohort study which examined the clinical impact of staggered overdoses and delayed presentation following paracetamol overdose. The study analysed data from 663 patients who were admitted for paracetamol-induced liver injury, of whom 161 (24.3%) had taken a staggered overdose, usually to relieve a variety of common pains, such as abdominal or muscular pains, headache and toothache. The researchers suggest that prognostic criteria may have reduced sensitivity in staggered overdose patient...

Eyes on evidence: Biologic drugs for the treatment of psoriasis

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Evidence Area: News The February edition of 'Eyes on Evidence', the free monthly e-bulletin from NHS Evidence covering major new evidence with an explanation about what it means for current practice, includes an expert commentary on new evidence from a meta-analysis which produced a quantitative comparison of all currently licensed biologics, providing estimates on comparative effectiveness and a suggested ranking of treatments. Twenty trials involving patients with a mean disease duration of 18-22 years were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis suggests a ranking of treatments in terms of effectiveness, the highest being infliximab, followed by ustekinumab, adalimumab, etanercept and efalizumab. A separate study comparing the efficacy and safety o...

NHS Evidence Update: Reducing the risk of VTE

NeLM - News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Evidence Area: News This latest update identifies new evidence relevant AND SUBSEQUENT TO to NICE clinical guideline 92 'Reducing the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients admitted to hospital' (published 2010) that might generate future change to the practice laid out in the guidance. Key messages pertaining to newly published evidence include the following: . Evidence appears to confirm that thalidomide in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), and evidence now also suggests an elevated risk with lenalidomide in this population. . The most effective thromboprophylaxis in patients receiving thalidomide or lenalidomide for MM does not yet appear to have been established by curr...

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Methylprednisolone 1000 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection/infusion- New Product

NeLM - SPC Changes — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: eMC (electronic Medicines Compendium) Area: Other Library Updates > SPC Changes Beacon Pharmaceuticals has launched Methylprednisolone 1000 mg powder and solvent for solution for injection/infusion. Please refer to the link below for the New SPC for new product. (Source: NeLM - SPC Changes)

Potactasol 4mg powder for concentrate for solution for infusion (topotecan)- New Product

NeLM - SPC Changes — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: eMC (electronic Medicines Compendium) Area: Other Library Updates > SPC Changes Actavis has launched Potactasol 4mg powder for concentrate for solution for infusion (topotecan). Topotecan monotherapy is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic carcinoma of the ovary after failure of first-line or subsequent therapy and patients with relapsed small cell lung cancer (SCLC) for whom re-treatment with the first-line regimen is not considered appropriate. It can be used in combination with cisplatin for patients with carcinoma of the cervix recurrent after radiotherapy and for patients with Stage IVB disease. Please refer to the link below for the New SPC for new product Potactasol powder for concentrate for solution for infusion. (S...

Clonazepam Oral Solution- New Product

NeLM - SPC Changes — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: eMC (electronic Medicines Compendium) Area: Other Library Updates > SPC Changes Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Ltd has launched Clonazepam 0.5mg/5ml and 2mg/5ml oral solutions. It is indicated for all clinical forms of epileptic disease and seizures (petit mal) including atypical absence; primary or secondarily generalised tonic-clonic (grand mal), tonic or clonic seizures; partial (focal) seizures with elementary or complex symptomatology; various forms of myoclonic seizures, myoclonus and associated abnormal movements. Please refer to the links below for the New SPC for new product Clonazepam oral solutions. (Source: NeLM - SPC Changes)

Diovan 3mg/ml Oral Solution - New Product

NeLM - SPC Changes — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: eMC (electronic Medicines Compendium) Area: Other Library Updates > SPC Changes Novartis has launched Diovan 3mg/ml Oral Solution for the treatment of hypertension in children and adolescents 6 to 18 years of age. Please refer to the link below for the New SPC for new product Diovan oral solution. (Source: NeLM - SPC Changes)

GLIVEC Tablets (imatinib)- Revised SPC

NeLM - SPC Changes — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: eMC (electronic Medicines Compendium) Area: Other Library Updates > SPC Changes There have been significant updates to several sections of the SPC, including the following: Change to section 4.2 - Posology and method of administration Patients with renal dysfunction or on dialysis should be given the minimum recommended dose of 400 mg daily as starting dose. However, in these patients caution is recommended. The dose can be reduced if not tolerated. If tolerated, the dose can be increased for lack of efficacy (see sections 4.4 and 5.2). Change to section 4.4 - Special warnings and precautions for Use When Glivec is co-administered with other medicinal products, there is a potential for drug interac...

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Do gastric adverse events influence the choice of bisphosphonate for the treatment of osteoporosis?

NeLM - Medicines Q and A — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Regional Drug and Therapeutics Centre Area: Evidence > Medicines Q & A The bisphosphonates are a group of drugs used to reduce bone turnover in conditions including osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and bone malignancies. The therapeutic effect is achieved by inhibiting bone resorption. As a group the bisphosphonates are generally well tolerated, but have a well documented adverse effect (AE) profile, and gastrointestinal effects are a known issue. Strict administration requirements have been introduced to reduce the risk of oesophageal AEs, and inability to meet these requirements is considered a contraindication to treatment. There have been reports of pain, nausea, vomiting and gastric ulcers associated with bisphosphonate use. (Source: NeLM - ...

London Cancer New Drugs Group Rapid Review:Erlotinib for the first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC with EGFR mutation

NeLM - Drug Specific Reviews — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: London Cancer New Drugs Group Area: Evidence > Drug Specific Reviews Current NICE-approved first-line treatments for patients with NSCLC who have EGFR activating mutations include platinum-doublet chemotherapy (mainly gemcitabine plus cisplatin or carboplatin in the UK), gefitinib, and pemetrexed plus cisplatin (for adenocarcinoma or large-cell carcinoma only). Erlotinib has recently had its license extended to include the first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC with EGFR activating mutations. In the European registration Phase III study (EURTAC), erlotinib at a dose of 150mg daily continued until disease progression (or unacceptable toxicity) resulted in a PFS gain of 4.5 months compared to standard chemotherapy; survi...

FDA grants priority review to GI agent for controlling diarrhea in HIV/AIDS patients

Drug Topics - Clinical News — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

FDA has granted priority review to crofelemer 125-mg tablets (Salix Pharmaceuticals) for the control and symptomatic relief of diarrhea in patients with HIV/AIDS on anti-retroviral therapy (ART). (Source: Drug Topics - Clinical News)

Review article: the extra‐skeletal effects of vitamin D in chronic hepatitis C infection

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsLarger randomised clinical studies with adequate statistical power are needed to confirm these potentially very important nonskeletal effects of vitamin D in patients with chronic hepatitis C. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

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Functional dysbiosis within the gut microbiota of patients with constipated‐irritable bowel syndrome

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsA major functional dysbiosis was observed in constipated‐irritable bowel syndrome gut microbiota, reflecting altered intestinal fermentation. Sulphate‐reducing population increased in the gut of C‐IBS and were accompanied by alterations in other microbial groups. This could be responsible for changes in the metabolic output and enhancement in toxic sulphide production which could in turn influence gut physiology and contribute to IBS pathogenesis. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Sanofi Announces FDA Approval of Sklice Lotion for the Treatment of Head Lice

Drugs.com - New Drug Approvals — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:02:45 +0100

BRIDGEWATER, N.J., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sanofi announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Sklice (ivermectin) lotion, 0.5% for the topical treatment of head lice, in patients 6 months of age and older.... (Source: Drugs.com - New Drug Approvals)

BDDCS Class Prediction for New Molecular Entities

Molecular Pharmaceutics — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:26:21 +0100

Molecular PharmaceuticsDOI: 10.1021/mp2004302 (Source: Molecular Pharmaceutics)

EASL publishes first Wilson's disease guidelines

Pharmacy Europe — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:18:00 +0100

Guidelines to assist physicians and healthcare providers in clinical decision making process (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

UKCPA plans host of Spring events for pharmacists

Pharmacy Europe — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Critical Care Group Masterclass signals start of a busy few months for the UKCPA (Source: Pharmacy Europe)

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Meta-analysis finds VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors are associated with increased risk of fatal adverse events

NeLM - News — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: JCO Area: News According to the results of a meta-analysis published early online in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, the use of small molecule vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) increases the risk of fatal adverse events (FAEs) in patients being treated for cancer. The authors note that VEGF has emerged as an important target in cancer drug development. There are currently three small-molecule TKIs of this pathway approved - sorafenib, sunitinib and pazopanib - and several trials investigating these drugs in new indications, and new agents targeting this pathway, are underway. These agents may however be associated with serious adverse events, as the pathway is involved in several physiological processes, ...

Suicidal thoughts and behaviour with antidepressant treatment: Reanalysis of fluoxetine and venlafaxine RCTs

NeLM - News — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Arch Gen Psychiatry Area: News According to research published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, treatment with fluoxetine and venlafaxine decreased suicide risk in adult and elderly patients, and this appears to be related to the effect of treatment on depression severity. No evidence that fluoxetine increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour in youths was found. The authors note that the original black box warning for antidepressants and risk of suicide in children and adolescents issued by the FDA in 2004 was based on meta-analysis of adverse event reports (AERs) from company-sponsored randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The extension of the warning to cover young adults was based on a second meta-analysis. The purpose of the curren...

Which dental local anaesthetics are latex-free?

NeLM - Medicines Q and A — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: North West Medicines Information Centre Area: Evidence > Medicines Q & A Natural rubber latex (NRL) is present in many medical products, including disposable gloves, adhesive tape and bungs in medicine vials. People sensitised to NRL are at risk of developing allergic reactions, which can present with delayed symptoms such as a localised red itchy rash or with immediate symptoms such as itching of the skin and eyes, sneezing, bronchospasm or anaphylactic shock. People sensitised to NRL should avoid contact with all products that contain it, either in the product itself, in the packaging or introduced during the manufacturing process or storage. This Medicines Q&A provides a list of local anaesthetic preparations used in dentistry which are late...

London Cancer New Drugs Group Rapid Review: Folfirinox for first line treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer

NeLM - Drug Specific Reviews — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: London Cancer New Drugs Group Area: Evidence > Drug Specific Reviews Currently, FOLFIRINOX is the only combination regimen that has demonstrated a statistical and clinical survival benefit over gemcitabine. The phase III study reported a 4.3 month survival benefit over gemcitabine (11.1 vs. 6.8 months) in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma and good ECOG performance status, no cardiac ischaemia, and normal or nearly normal bilirubin levels. However, this was at the expense of increased toxicity, including higher rates of febrile neutropenia. (Source: NeLM - Drug Specific Reviews)

London Cancer New Drugs Group Rapid Review: Lapatinib with capecitabine following disease progression on trastuzumab for metastatic breast cancer

NeLM - Drug Specific Reviews — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: London Cancer New Drugs Group Area: Evidence > Drug Specific Reviews Lapatinib is licensed for the treatment of patients with breast cancer, whose tumours overexpress HER2 in combination with capecitabine for patients with advanced or metastatic disease with progression following prior therapy, which must have included anthracyclines and taxanes and therapy with trastuzumab in the metastatic setting. In May 2010, NICE issued a FAD which did not support this use of lapatinib in combination with capecitabine, except in the context of clinical trials, as it was not a cost-effective use of NHS resources, even taking into account the proposed patient access scheme. This FAD has now been withdrawn following an appeal from the manufacturers and because of the extension of the review ...

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London Cancer New Drugs Group Rapid Review: SIRT WITH YTTRIUM-90 MICROSPHERES FOR THE THIRD LINE TREATMENT OF LIVER METASTASES FROM COLORECTAL CANCER

NeLM - Drug Specific Reviews — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: London Cancer New Drugs Group Area: Evidence > Drug Specific Reviews Selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT; micro-brachytherapy or 'radio-embolisation') is used for the treatment of non-resectable hepatic metastases secondary to colorectal cancer, with limited or no extrahepatic disease. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy. It aims to deliver radiation directly into the metastases, minimising the risk of radiation damage to healthy surrounding tissues. Under local anaesthesia, glass or resin microspheres containing a small radioactive source (yttrium-90) designed to embolise into small vessels around the metastases, are injected into branches of the hepatic artery (usually via a percutaneous femoral approach). In this way the microspheres can be selec...

Cytotoxic Triterpenoid Saponins from Ardisia gigantifolia

Planta Medica — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Planta MedDOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1298254AbstractThree new triterpenoid saponins, 1–3, together with two known saponins, 4 and 5, were isolated from the rhizome of Ardisia gigantifolia. Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic studies. Saponins 1, 2, 4, and 5 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against four human cancer cell lines, namely, Hela human cervical carcinoma cells, EJ human bladder tumor cells, HepG-2 human hepatoma cells, and BCG human gastric carcinoma cells with IC50 values in the range of 1.9–4.8 µM.[...]© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New YorkArticle in Thieme eJournals:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: Planta Medica)

Metabolic Discrimination of Rhizoma Coptidis from Different Species Using 1H NMR Spectroscopy and Principal Component Analysis

Planta Medica — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study indicates that metabolites of Rhizoma Coptidis vary with the species and the proposed method is suitable for metabolic fingerprinting analysis to check the genuine origin of Rhizoma Coptidis.[...]© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New YorkArticle in Thieme eJournals:Table of contents | Abstract | Full text (Source: Planta Medica)

AMITRIPTYLINE HYDROCHLORIDEtablet, Film Coated [Med-Health Pharma, LLC]

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100