Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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Nonselective β-blockers (NSBB) are used in liver cirrhosis (LC) to prevent variceal bleeding because they decrease portal pressure. A main risk factor for the development of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in LC is decreased portal vein inflow velocity. The aim of our study was to examine retrospectively the incidence of PVT and its correlation with the use of β-blockers in a cohort of LC patients. ⋯ NSBB seem to play a role in PV thrombogenesis. Further studies are needed, especially in decompensated LC patients.
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To investigate and compare knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pharmacovigilance (PV) and the reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADR) among physicians and pharmacists in primary care settings. ⋯ This study indicated that the attitude was positive but there was suboptimal knowledge and poor practice among primary care physicians and pharmacists with regard to ADR reporting. Targeted training about ADR reporting while ensuring a robust regulatory framework would encourage ADR reporting practices in the primary health care setting in Kuwait.
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This study assessed whether or not a simple biochemical parameter, serum thyrotropin (TSH), within the reference range can predict the likelihood of thyroid malignancy in subjects undergoing fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) for thyroid nodules. ⋯ Thyrotropin levels were positively associated with the diagnosis of DTC in thyroid nodules.
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International guidelines recommend the use of long-acting bronchodilators for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but the usefulness of short-acting bronchodilator assist use for stable COPD remains uncertain. The purpose of the present study was to objectively demonstrate the effects of assist use of procaterol, a short-acting β2-agonist, on the respiratory mechanics of stable COPD patients treated with a long-acting bronchodilator using forced oscillation technique (FOT) and conventional spirometry. We also confirmed the length of time for which procaterol assist could significantly improve the pulmonary function. ⋯ Procaterol assist use modestly but significantly improved pulmonary function determined by spirometry and respiratory mechanics in patients with stable COPD treated with long-acting bronchodilators. Thus, inhaled procaterol has the potential for assist use for COPD.
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The aim of this study was to determine prescription patterns of antibiotics and analgesics among dentists in the management of dental pain and infection for medically healthy patients undergoing endodontic management. ⋯ Most dentists prescribed analgesics and antibiotics as recommended, but more education on the proper use of these medicines is needed for dentists and patients.