Alimentary pharmacology & therapeutics
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Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. · May 2008
Meta AnalysisMeta-analysis: ertapenem for complicated intra-abdominal infections.
Ertapenem is a new member of the carbapenem class of antibiotics, with a favourable pharmacokinetic profile, but a narrower spectrum of antimicrobial activity, compared with older representatives of this class. ⋯ This meta-analysis provides additional evidence that ertapenem can be used as effectively and safely, as other recommended antimicrobial regimens, for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections, particularly of mild-to-moderate severity.
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Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. · May 2008
ReviewSystematic review: tranexamic acid for upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Tranexamic acid may reduce upper gastrointestinal bleeding and stabilize patients before endoscopic treatments. ⋯ The present review suggests that tranexamic acid may reduce all-cause mortality. However, because of limitations in the internal and external validity of included trials, additional evidence is needed before treatment recommendations can be made.
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Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. · May 2008
Review Case ReportsReview article: psychological aspects of home parenteral nutrition, abnormal illness behaviour and risk of self-harm in patients with central venous catheters.
Home parenteral nutrition is established as standard management for patients with chronic severe intestinal failure. Although the treatment is welcomed by many patients, there are psychological consequences of living with a central venous catheter and there are associated restrictions to the lives of patients on home parenteral nutrition. A subgroup of home parenteral nutrition patients may use their central venous catheter for self-harm. ⋯ This paper concludes with recommendations for best practice with respect to the psychological management of home parenteral nutrition patients in whom central venous catheter abuse is suspected.