November 10, 2021

Older RZV Recipients Have Elevated Risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Older recipients of the recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) have a documented higher risk of developing Guillain-BarrĂ© syndrome, according to a new study. The issue is whether the small risk—three cases per million doses—is of concern, especially because the shingles vaccine has been proven to be highly effective at preventing the painful disease. Here are more details.

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Vaccines Five Times More Effective Against Serious COVID-19 Than Prior Infection

Pharmacists hear this question all the time: “Why should I get a COVID-19 vaccine when I already have immunity because of an earlier infection with the virus?” Here is the answer: Because vaccines are at least five times more effective at preventing hospitalization from COVID-19 than a previous infection. The difference is even greater among older people. Here is more information.

Even on Medication, Smokers’ Hypertension Control Lags Behind Never-Smokers

Pharmacists often struggle to help certain patients get their hypertension under control. Here is a possible reason: Smokers have a harder time keeping their blood pressure down to safe levels compared with those who have never smoked, according to a new study. Find out what differences in effect by gender also were identified by researchers. 

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Child Deaths From OTC Cough/Cold Medications Often Involve Maltreatment

No fatalities in young children have been documented from proper use of OTC cough and cold medications, according to a new study, which warns that maltreatment and misuse often are involved when deaths do occur. Find out what age child is most likely to be the victim of a fatal dose of those medications and which ingredients are most likely to be involved in cases where the products are administered with nontherapeutic intent. 

 
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