U.S. Pharmacist Weekly News Update
November 21, 2019

Common Muscle Relaxant
Linked to Encephalopathy
in CKD Patients

Pharmacists should be aware that use of baclofen, the common muscle relaxant, in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) could put them at high risk for cognitive issues. Find out what percentage of CKD patients in a Canadian population-based study were hospitalized with encephalopathy within days after using the drug.

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Metabolism Rates Affect How PPIs Increase Pediatric Infections
That not all children metabolize proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) at the same rate makes the use of the gastrointestinal acid–reducing medications even more risky, according to a new study. Researchers warn of a higher rate of infections in pediatric patients who can’t metabolize PPIs fast enough. Here is more information for pharmacists.

Methotrexate Reduces Joint Damage in Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis Patients
The disease-modifying antirheumatic drug methotrexate was found to significantly reduce progression of joint damage in patients with erosive hand arthritis. In what the authors call the first study of its type, they also suggested the drug might be able to facilitate bone remodeling, although it wasn’t superior to placebo in terms of pain relief or function. Here are more details.

Review Updates USPSTF Information on Breast Cancer Primary Prevention
A new U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) review confirmed that medications to reduce risk of breast cancer are effective for women at high risk. Find out why the authors are so concerned, however, about drug side effects and the limited ability to identify patients who would benefit the most.

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