Expert opinion on drug safety
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Expert Opin Drug Saf · May 2009
ReviewOseltamivir for treatment and prophylaxis of influenza infection.
Influenza infection is a global problem affecting millions of people worldwide, despite efficacious vaccines. Treatment and prophylaxis against influenza have been successful using antiviral medications such as adamantanes and neuraminidase inhibitors. ⋯ Oseltamivir is effective in reducing symptom burden in those with influenza A or B infection, and is preventative against developing infection after exposure. Emergence of naturally occurring or post-treatment oseltamivir-resistant influenza as well as an avian influenza pandemic may limit its future use as a monotherapeutic antiviral treatment agent.
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Expert Opin Drug Saf · May 2009
ReviewStatins and the risk of Parkinson disease: an update on the controversy.
Parkinson disease (PD) is the second most common neuro- degenerative disease and the number of affected patients is growing. Until now, information on either risk factors (genetic or environmental) or neuro- protective agents is still scarce. Recently, hydroxymethylglutary-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors have been related to protective as well as to potential harmful effects with regard to the development of a PD diagnosis. ⋯ Results of the available observational studies were inconsistent with most studies reporting a protective effect of statins on the risk of PD. Others found no altered risk of PD in statin users compared to non-users or even an increased risk. Studies largely varied in size and analysis methods. Thus, comparison of the results is difficult. Until now, no definite conclusion on this topic can be made.