Overuse of Proton Pump Inhibitors in the Hospitalized Patient
Stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) has been a significant component in the management of critically ill patients. Antisecretory therapy, particularly proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), has been one of the most commonly utilized medications for SUP in hospital settings. However, several research studies have demonstrated that the overutilization of these agents has led to significant increases in hospital-related expenditures and adverse effects. Pharmacists play a unique role in improving the appropriate use and management of PPI therapy within the hospital setting. Read more.
Medication and Supplement Use in Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a chronic condition involving an abnormal immune response to the ingestion of gluten-containing foods and products that commonly results in digestive symptoms, although other organ systems may be involved. The current mainstay of therapy is the avoidance of gluten-containing foods, beverages, and other products. However, if not equipped with the knowledge that medications, OTC products, supplements, and vitamins may contain gluten, patients with celiac disease may experience ongoing symptoms from continued ingestion of these products. Therefore, pharmacists play an essential role in educating patients and evaluating their medication use to ensure the optimal management of celiac disease. Read more.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Management in Pediatric Patients
Guidelines from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition define the difference between gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Accurate distinction is important in the pediatric population in order for clinicians to determine which patients should be conservatively treated with lifestyle modifications or receive pharmacologic management. The use of acid-suppressant therapy (histamine2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors) is recommended in pediatric patients with persistent symptoms of GERD. Read more.
Study: More Addicts Start With Prescribed Opioids Than Heroin
Prescription painkillers are more likely to be the jumping off point for opioid addiction than heroin, according to a new Canadian study. Read more.
Outcomes Better for Ovarian Cancer Patients With Past OC Use
A history of oral contraceptive use appears to improve outcomes in patients who develop ovarian cancer, according to a report appearing in the journal BMC Cancer. Read more.
L-DOPA Shows Promise in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Protection
New research suggests that patients who take the drug L-DOPA for Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, or other movement disorders are significantly less likely to develop age-related macular degeneration. Read more.
Clozapine Shows Benefits for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia patients whose symptoms do not respond to standard antipsychotic medications have better outcomes if they are switched to clozapine instead of another standard antipsychotic, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry. Read more. |
