Current medical research and opinion
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Data is currently lacking in evaluating the weekly rates of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) among patients receiving anticoagulants. ⋯ This analysis suggests that the risk of VTE recurrence remains high in the early weeks after an index VTE among patients receiving anticoagulants.
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5% lidocaine medicated plasters are a topical option in the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain, as monotherapy or as an adjunct to systemic medication. This study sought to determine the impact of lidocaine plaster use on self-reported pain, functioning and patient satisfaction within a large teaching hospital. ⋯ The results of this study need to be considered within the context of a self-reported survey. However, pain, functioning and patient satisfaction were significantly improved in current users of 5% lidocaine medicated plasters.
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Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults can resemble, and often co-occurs with, bipolar disorder (BD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). This can lead to mistaken diagnoses and ineffective treatment, resulting in potentially serious adverse consequences. All three conditions can substantially impair well-being and functioning, while BD and BPD are associated with suicidality. ⋯ It is important to accurately diagnose ADHD, BD, and BPD to ensure correct targeting of treatments and improvements in patient outcomes. However, there is a shortage of data about treatment of adults with ADHD and comorbid BD or BPD.
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Meta Analysis
The impact of VKORC1-1639G > A genetic polymorphism upon warfarin dose requirement in different ethnic populations.
Published data on the association between vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1 (VKORC1)-1639G > A polymorphism and warfarin dose requirement are inconclusive. To derive a more precise estimation of the relationship, a meta-analysis was performed. ⋯ This meta-analysis indicated that the VKORC1-1639G > A genetic polymorphism is associated with the variation of interindividual warfarin dose requirement in different ethnic populations.
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Medication prescribing information provides guidance to healthcare providers on how to prescribe a drug properly. Oftentimes patient factors in addition to the prescribing information are considered when selecting medications. Utilizing real-world pharmacy and medical claims data, this study assessed US practitioner prescribing practices of US approved transdermal buprenorphine system (BTDS) in relation to BTDS's full prescribing information (FPI) as well as the relationship between patient factors and initial BTDS dose. ⋯ Data obtained from prescription claims reflect only the activities of prescriptions filled, not medication use or other clinical characteristics observed by physicians when treating patients.