Therapeutic Approaches for Aids-Related Toxoplasmosis

1995 ◽  
Vol 29 (7-8) ◽  
pp. 760-768 ◽  
Author(s):  
Roya Behbahani ◽  
Mersedeh Moshfeghi ◽  
John D Baxter
Keyword(s):  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Suppressive Therapy ◽  
Therapeutic Approaches ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Effective Combination ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Acute Toxoplasmosis

Objective: To summarize current knowledge of prophylaxis and treatment of AIDS-related toxoplasmosis. Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1985-1994) was used to identify pertinent literature, including reviews. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles were considered for possible inclusion in the review. Pertinent information, as judged by the authors, was selected for discussion. Data Synthesis: Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) appears to be useful for prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis in patients with AIDS. The most effective TMP/SMX dose for prevention of toxoplasmosis needs to be determined. Dapsone in combination with pyrimethamine therapy may be an effective alternative for toxoplasmosis prophylaxis. The most effective regimen for the treatment of AIDS-related toxoplasmosis is the combination therapy of pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine. In patients who cannot tolerate sulfadiazine therapy because of adverse effects or allergy, pyrimethamine with clindamycin therapy may be considered as a second-line alternative. Lifelong suppressive therapy is required after either treatment regimen to prevent relapse. Other newer agents such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, atovaquone, or trimetrexate-leucovorin need further studies to confirm their true effectiveness in the treatment of toxoplasmosis. Conclusions: TMP/SMX remains a useful agent in prophylaxis against toxoplasmosis. Pyrimethamine/sulfadiazine is the most effective combination in the treatment of acute toxoplasmosis.

Zolpidem: Distinct from Triazolam?

1997 ◽  
Vol 31 (5) ◽  
pp. 625-632 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bob L Lobo ◽  
William L Greene
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Memory Impairment ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Residual Effects ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Pertinent Information

OBJECTIVE: TO review the literature that compares Zolpidem with triazolam, with an emphasis on efficacy and safety in humans. DATA SOURCES: Information was retrieved from a MEDLINE search (1983–1996) of the English-language literature using the terms triazolam and zolpidem. STUDY SELECTION: Reports of clinical trials comparing the safety and efficacy of zolpidem and triazolam were included in this review. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were evaluated according to study design, efficacy, and adverse effects. Pertinent information was selected and the data synthesized into a review format. DATA SYNTHESIS: Zolpidem and triazolam have similar pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects in humans. Clinical trials have shown that usually recommended, equipotent dosages of zolpidem and triazolam do not differ with respect to pharmacokinetics, efficacy, tolerability, residual effects, memory impairment, rebound insomnia, abuse potential, or other adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS: Zolpidem offers no distinct therapeutic advantage over triazolam for the treatment of insomnia.

Pathophysiology and Management of the Serotonin Syndrome

1996 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 527-533 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas M Brown ◽  
Brian P Skop ◽  
Thomas R Mareth
Keyword(s):  
Serotonin Receptor ◽  
English Language ◽  
Serotonin Syndrome ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Treatment Strategies ◽  
Science Research ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Pertinent Information

OBJECTIVE: TO review the symptoms, pathophysiology, and treatment of the serotonin syndrome (SS). DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1957–1995) of the English-language literature pertaining to the SS was performed. Additional literature was obtained from reference lists of pertinent articles identified through the search. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: All articles were considered for possible inclusion in the review. Pertinent information, as judged by the authors, was selected for discussion. DATA SYNTHESIS: The SS, an occasionally fatal disorder, is characterized by symptoms such as mental status changes, seizures, myoclonus, and blood dyscrasias. Both the central and peripheral serotonergic systems and several serotonin receptor types are involved in the symptomatology of the SS. The pathogenesis of SS may be due to endogenous as well as iatrogenic deficits in peripheral serotonin metabolism, a stimulus for release of serotonin, and interactions with other neurotransmitter systems. Lorazepam, serotonin-blockers, and nitroglycerin have been used successfully to treat SS. CONCLUSIONS: The SS is increasingly recognized and reported in the literature. Clinical and basic science research have increased our understanding of the pathophysiology, conditions, and agents that may predispose to the development of the syndrome. Newer treatment strategies are discussed.

Isoniazid-Associated Psychosis: Case Report and Review of the Literature

1993 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 167-170 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen A. Pallone ◽  
Morton P. Goldman ◽  
Matthew A. Fuller
Keyword(s):  
Case Report ◽  
English Language ◽  
Case Reports ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Language Literature

Objective To describe a case of isoniazid-associated psychosis and review the incidence of this adverse effect. Data Sources Information about the patient was obtained from the medical chart. A MEDLINE search of the English-language literature published from 1950 to 1992 was conducted and Index Medicus was manually searched for current information. Study Selection All case reports describing isoniazid-associated psychosis were reviewed. Data Extraction Studies were evaluated for the use of isoniazid, symptoms of psychosis, onset of symptoms, and dosage of isoniazid. Data Synthesis The case report is compared with others reported in the literature. The incidence of isoniazid-associated psychosis is rare. Conclusions The mechanism of isoniazid-associated psychosis is uncertain. It appears that isoniazid was associated with the psychosis evident in our patient and in the cases reviewed.

Dexrazoxane: A New Cardioprotective Agent

1998 ◽  
Vol 14 (5) ◽  
pp. 182-190 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beverly D Abbott ◽  
Cindy M Ippoliti
Keyword(s):  
Supportive Care ◽  
English Language ◽  
Bolus Dose ◽  
Cardiac Tissue ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Search Terms ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Clinically Significant

Objective: To review the literature discussing the use of dexrazoxane (e.g., Zinecard, ICRF-187) to prevent doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Data Sources: Pertinent English-language reports of studies in humans were retrieved from a MEDLINE search (January 1980-January 1997); search terms included chelating agents, razoxane, dexrazoxane, Zinecard, ICRF-187, ADR-529, and ICRF-159. Study Selection: Representative articles discussing the chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, dosing, and administration of dexrazoxane and those discussing clinical trials were selected. Data Extraction: Data were extracted and analyzed if the information was relevant and consistent. Studies were selected for review in the text on the basis of study design and clinical end points. Data Synthesis: Dexrazoxane is a chemoprotective agent developed to prevent cardiac tissue toxicity. Dexrazoxane exerts a cardioprotective effect with some clinically significant toxicities; it may also interfere with the antitumor activity of doxorubicin. Until there are sufficient data to support its use in first-line supportive care therapy, dexrazoxane should be reserved for use in patients responding to doxorubicin-based chemotherapy but who have risk factors for cardiac toxicity or have received a cumulative doxorubicin bolus dose of 300 mg/m2. Conclusions: The management of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity has led to the development of supportive care drugs that specifically counteract the dose-limiting toxicities. Dexrazoxane may not completely eliminate the concern about doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, but it may open new avenues for continuing doxorubicin-based chemotherapy.

Changing Perspectives of Stress Gastritis Prophylaxis

1994 ◽  
Vol 28 (9) ◽  
pp. 1073-1085 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maureen A. Smythe ◽  
Barbara J. Zarowitz
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Critically Ill ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Care Patient ◽  
Receptor Antagonists ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Prophylactic Agent ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Meta Analyses

OBJECTIVE: To present recent advances in stress gastritis prophylaxis in the critically ill and review considerations in selection of a prophylactic agent. DATA SOURCES: Information was obtained from MEDLINE search, reference lists from articles identified in search, and from review articles. STUDY SELECTION: Emphasis was placed on controlled trials conducted within the last 5 years. DATA EXTRACTION: All literature was assessed for methodology, results, and conclusions. Results of prospective, randomized trials, and meta-analyses are summarized. DATA SYNTHESIS: Histamine2-receptor antagonists, antacids, and sucralfate appear equally effective in preventing stress gastritis in the critically ill. A definitive cause–effect relationship between histamine2-receptor antagonists and increased incidence of nosocomial pneumonia has not yet been established. The indications for using a prophylactic agent and consideration in selecting an agent should include an evaluation of the following: Risk factors for gastritis including the type of intensive care patient, comparative efficacy, adverse effects, drug interactions, cost, and ease of administration. The least expensive, safest agent requiring minimal monitoring is sucralfate. Prevention of stress gastritis has never been shown to reduce morbidity or mortality significantly. CONCLUSIONS: Controversies still exist regarding the need to provide prophylaxis, the choice of an agent, and the relative importance of previously identified risk factors. Further well-designed studies are needed before consensus can be reached.

A Blast From the Past: Revival of Angiotensin II for Vasodilatory Shock

2018 ◽  
Vol 52 (9) ◽  
pp. 920-927 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brittany D. Bissell ◽  
Kelsey Browder ◽  
Matt McKenzie ◽  
Alexander H. Flannery
Keyword(s):  
Angiotensin Ii ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Peptide Hormone ◽  
Vasodilatory Shock ◽  
Vasoactive Agent ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Distributive Shock

Objective: To review and summarize data on angiotensin II (AT-II), approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2017 to increase blood pressure in adults with septic or other distributive shock. Data Sources: A PubMed/MEDLINE search was conducted using the following terms: (angiotensin ii OR angiotensin 2) AND (shock) from 1966 to February 2018. Study Selection and Data Extraction: A total of 691 citations were reviewed with only relevant clinical data extracted. Data Synthesis: AT-II is a peptide hormone with a multitude of physiological effects—namely, vasoconstriction of venous and arterial smooth muscle. The priority approval granted by the FDA was secondary to a phase 3 study of patients receiving at least 0.2 µg/kg/min of norepinephrine or equivalent for vasodilatory shock. Compared with placebo, AT-II had a significantly higher rate of response, defined as a mean arterial pressure of 75 mm Hg or an increase of 10 mm Hg. No significant difference was found in death by day 28. Conclusions: AT-II is a newly available vasoactive agent with a novel mechanism for the treatment of distributive shock. Further research is needed to define its exact role in therapy of shock states, identify patients most likely to benefit, and further study its safety profile in critical illness.

Transporters and Their Impact on Drug Disposition

2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (6) ◽  
pp. 1097-1108 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul M Beringer ◽  
Richard L Slaughter
Keyword(s):  
Patient Outcomes ◽  
Drug Disposition ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
The Body ◽  
Pertinent Literature ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Manual Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
The Impact

OBJECTIVE: To review the recent advances in knowledge about human transporters and their effect on drug disposition. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1996–March 2005) was performed to identify pertinent literature on human transporters and their impact on drug disposition. Additional articles were identified from a manual search of the references of retrieved articles. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Based on the identified studies, data were extracted on the impact of transporters on drug absorption, distribution, and elimination. DATA SYNTHESIS: The pharmacokinetic disposition of drugs is known to be influenced by metabolic enzymes, kidney function, and transporters. Recent research on human transporters has greatly advanced our understanding of their diversity and importance in drug disposition. In particular, members of the multidrug resistance family of transporters (MDR, MRP) are present in organs and tissues throughout the body and are known to significantly affect the absorption, distribution, and elimination of commonly prescribed drugs. A growing number of studies now demonstrate that alterations in transporter function as a result of drug interactions or genetic polymorphisms may explain a significant portion of the variability in treatment response for certain drugs. CONCLUSIONS: Human transporters contribute significantly to the pharmacokinetic disposition of drugs. Knowledge of substrates, inducers, and inhibitors of these transporters is necessary to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Rifaximin: A New Treatment for Travelers' Diarrhea

2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 284-289 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amy L Pakyz
Keyword(s):  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Drug Interactions ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Cross Resistance ◽  
Double Blind ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
New Treatment

OBJECTIVE: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, drug interactions and precautions, and dosing recommendations of rifaximin, a new nonabsorbed antimicrobial agent for travelers' diarrhea. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1966–July 2004) was conducted to extract human and animal research data in the English language on rifaximin. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were reviewed and included to evaluate the efficacy of rifaximin in the treatment of travelers' diarrhea. DATA SYNTHESIS: Rifaximin is approved for the treatment of travelers' diarrhea in patients ≥12 years of age with diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli. Rifaximin was superior to placebo and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and equivalent to ciprofloxacin in the primary clinical endpoint of the time to the last unformed stool passed. CONCLUSIONS: Rifaximin is a viable alternative to ciprofloxacin for the treatment of travelers' diarrhea. As rifaximin is not systemically absorbed, it offers the advantage of leading to the development of less resistance compared with systemically absorbed antibiotics, in addition to fewer systemic adverse effects and drug interactions. However, the potential for cross-resistance between rifaximin and rifampin, as well as with other classes of antibiotics, is of concern and needs to be elucidated.

Drug-Induced Alterations in Serum Creatinine Concentrations

1993 ◽  
Vol 27 (5) ◽  
pp. 622-633 ◽  
Author(s):  
Edward A. Hartshorn ◽  
Murray P. Ducharme ◽  
Maureen Smythe ◽  
Greg Strohs
Keyword(s):  
Serum Creatinine ◽  
Reference Lists ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Alternative Methods ◽  
Drug Induced ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Comprehensive Review ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Assay Interference

OBJECTIVE: To provide a comprehensive review of drug-induced alterations in serum creatinine concentrations (SCrs). DATA SOURCES: Information was obtained from a MEDLINE search, reference lists from articles identified in the search, review articles, and abstracts. STUDY SELECTION: Emphasis was placed on clinical studies of direct relevance to clinical practitioners. DATA EXTRACTION: Literature was assessed for its methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. DATA SYNTHESIS: Two analytical systems to assay SCr are commonly employed in clinical practice—the Jaffé-based and enzymatic methods. Several drugs have been reported to interfere with SCr results obtained with both analytical systems by producing assay interference. In addition, trimethoprim, cimetidine, and salicylates produce elevations in the SCr by altering the normal elimination pathways of creatinine. Phenacemide has been reported to increase creatinine elimination, but the mechanism of this effect is unknown. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacists should recognize the clinical significance of drug-induced interference with SCr and propose alternative methods of determining concentrations in selected patients.

Desloratadine: A Nonsedating Antihistamine

2003 ◽  
Vol 37 (2) ◽  
pp. 237-246 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lynn Limon ◽  
Denise R Kockler
Keyword(s):  
Allergic Rhinitis ◽  
English Language ◽  
Additional Data ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Double Blind ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Once Daily ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Unpublished Information

OBJECTIVE: To review information on desloratadine, a nonsedating antihistamine. DATA SOURCES: An English-language MEDLINE search was conducted (1966–July 2002). References of identified articles were subsequently reviewed for additional data. Schering Corporation provided unpublished information. STUDY SELECTION/DATA EXTRACTION: Articles and abstracts pertaining to desloratadine were considered for inclusion, with emphasis on randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials. DATA SYNTHESIS: Desloratadine is approved for the treatment of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR), and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in patients aged ≥12 years. In placebo-controlled trials, desloratadine demonstrated superior efficacy as a once-daily treatment of SAR, PAR, and CIU. Data suggest that desloratadine has antiinflammatory and decongestant activity. CONCLUSIONS: Desloratadine appears to be a “me-too” agent, with no major differences compared with other second-generation antihistamines.

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