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.

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.

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.

Lactulose in the Management of Constipation: A Current Review

1992 ◽  
Vol 26 (10) ◽  
pp. 1277-1282 ◽  
Author(s):  
Theresa V. Kot ◽  
Ngaire A. Pettit-Young
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Clinical Studies ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Beneficial Response ◽  
A Current

OBJECTIVE: To review the current published clinical studies evaluating the clinical efficacy and safety of lactulose compared with other laxatives or placebo. Adverse effects associated with lactulose are also reported. DATA SOURCES: Information was retrieved by searching the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for clinical trials, abstracts, conference proceedings, and review articles dealing with lactulose. STUDY SELECTION: Emphasis was placed on clinical trials where lactulose was compared with other laxatives or placebo in patient populations where the diagnosis of constipation was reasonably established. DATA EXTRACTION: The methodology and results from clinical studies were evaluated. Assessment of the studies was made based on diagnosis of constipation, prior management of patients, follow-up of patients, dosage, and adverse effects. DATA SYNTHESIS: Clinical trials in geriatric patients, terminally ill patients, children, and normal and constipated subjects were reviewed. In most instances, lactulose was compared with a placebo, without incorporating the current education on dietary techniques for improving defecation. CONCLUSIONS: Generally, clinical trials have demonstrated a beneficial response compared with placebo, although sometimes that response has been only marginally better, from a clinical point of view.

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.

Pharmacotherapeutic Options for Overweight Adolescents

2007 ◽  
Vol 41 (9) ◽  
pp. 1445-1455 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kaelen C Dunican ◽  
Alicia R Desilets ◽  
Julie K Montalbano
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Weight Reduction ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Overweight Adolescents ◽  
Fat Soluble Vitamins

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of current pharmacotherapeutic options for weight loss in overweight adolescents. Data Sources: Literature was obtained through MEDLINE Ovid (1996–April 2007) and EMBASE Drugs and Pharmacology (1991–2nd quarter 2007) searches and a bibliographic review of published articles. Key words included adolescents, overweight, obesity, anti-obesity agents, drug therapy, orlistat, sibutramine, and metformin. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All studies published in the English language that evaluated the use of pharmacotherapy for the treatment of overweight adolescents were critically analyzed; pertinent articles were selected for this review. Data Synthesis: Orlistat has been approved for use in adolescents between the ages of 12 and 16 years. The most frequently reported adverse effects of orlistat were gastrointestinal; reduced concentrations of fat-soluble vitamins were also observed. Of the 6 clinical trials published, 5 have shown statistically significant reductions in body mass index {BMI) from baseline, ranging from 0.55 to 4.09 kg/m2; one small trial failed to demonstrate significant weight reduction compared with placebo. Sibutramine has also been evaluated for use in overweight adolescents in 6 trials. Trials demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in BMI up to 5.6 kg/m2 (from baseline). Of concern is evidence indicating that sibutramine therapy may be associated with elevated blood pressure, increased pulse rate, depression, and suicidal ideations. Lastly, metformin has recently been evaluated for weight loss in overweight adolescents; small, short-term trials demonstrate modest reductions in weight and BMI. Conclusions: Orlistat has been proven both safe and effective for weight reduction in overweight adolescents. Sibutramine has also been proven effective in reducing weight in this population; however, the potential for severe adverse effects requires further investigation. Metformin has demonstrated promising results in small trials; its role in the treatment of overweight adolescents will remain investigational until further research is conducted.

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.

The New Macrolide Antibiotics: Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Dirithromycin, and Roxithromycin

1992 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 46-55 ◽  
Author(s):  
Neeta Bahal ◽  
Milap C. Nahata
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Macrolide Antibiotics ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Antimicrobial Spectrum ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Frequent Administration ◽  
Elimination Half

OBJECTIVE: To review the chemistry, antimicrobial spectrum, pharmacokinetics, clinical trials, adverse effects, and drug interactions of four new macrolide antibiotics: Azithromycin, clarithromycin, dirithromycin, and roxithromycin. DATA SOURCES: Information was obtained from comparative clinical trials, abstracts, conference proceedings, and review articles. Indexing terms included azithromycin, clarithromycin, dirithromycin, erythromycin, roxithromycin, and macrolide antibiotics. STUDY SELECTION: Emphasis was placed on comparative clinical trials involving the new macrolide antibiotics. DATA EXTRACTION: Data from human studies published in the English language were evaluated. Trials were assessed by sample size, macrolide dosage regimen, and therapeutic response. DATA SYNTHESIS: The erythromycins have gained widespread use in treating a variety of infections. Although they are effective, limitations include the need to administer four times a day and the intolerable adverse gastrointestinal effects. Four of the more extensively studied agents, azithromycin, clarithromycin, dirithromycin, and roxithromycin, are currently being studied in patients. Based on the studies to date, the newer macrolides may offer several advantages over erythromycin, including: (1) greater antimicrobial activity against certain organisms; (2) longer elimination half-life, thus allowing less frequent administration; and (3) lower incidence of adverse gastrointestinal effects. CONCLUSIONS: The new macrolide antibiotics appear to offer an improvement over erythromycin. Definitive conclusions about the role of these drugs should await completion of ongoing clinical studies.

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.

Mitomycin-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity: Case Report and Review of the Literature

1992 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 481-484 ◽  
Author(s):  
Donna C. Linette ◽  
Karen H. McGee ◽  
James A. McFarland
Keyword(s):  
Pulmonary Toxicity ◽  
English Language ◽  
Case Reports ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Vinca Alkaloid ◽  
Corticosteroid Treatment ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Pulmonary Response ◽  
Study Selection

OBJECTIVE: This report describes a case of mitomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity and reviews the incidence of this adverse effect, reported patterns of toxicity and associated dosages of the drug, and the use of corticosteroids in the management of pulmonary toxicity. DATA SOURCES: Information about our patient was obtained in part from the medical chart; we had also treated him personally in the past. We conducted a MEDLINE search of the English language literature (restricted to human studies) from 1966 to 1991 and manually searched Index Medicus for current information. STUDY SELECTION: All case reports that described pulmonary toxicity possibly associated with mitomycin were reviewed. DATA EXTRACTION: Studies were evaluated for the dosages of mitomycin given to patients, the nature and onset of symptoms, management course, and corticosteroid use. DATA SYNTHESIS: Our case is similar to others described in the literature. The incidence of mitomycin-induced pulmonary toxicity has been reported to range from 2 to 38 percent. Concurrent vinca alkaloid administration may potentiate the risk of an acute pulmonary insult secondary to mitomycin use. The toxicity is usually of slow onset and the average total dosage of drug implicated is 78 mg. A formal evaluation of corticosteroid treatment has not been performed, but various authors have reported success with different regimens. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of pulmonary toxicity associated with mitomycin is unpredictable, but more likely to occur at higher dosages. Treatment with corticosteroids is encouraged to improve pulmonary response.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document