The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Comparative Study
Clinical and economic analysis of methicillin-susceptible and -resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.
The rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has increased significantly over the last decade. Previous cohort studies of patients with MRSA bacteremia have reported higher mortality rates, increased morbidity, longer hospital length of stay (LOS), and higher costs compared with patients with methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) bacteremia. The clinical and economic impact of MRSA involving other sites of infection has not been well characterized. ⋯ Patients with MRSA infections had worse clinical and economic outcomes compared with patients with MSSA infections.
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To describe an intentional topiramate ingestion by an adolescent and warn of the potential for topiramate abuse. ⋯ Due to the multifactorial effects topiramate may have upon the central nervous system and its anorectic effect, abuse of this drug by adolescents should be considered upon presentation of an adolescent with mental status changes.
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Review Comparative Study
Reducing clinically significant gastrointestinal toxicity associated with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs.
To evaluate the efficacy of treatment strategies to reduce clinically significant gastrointestinal adverse effects associated with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). ⋯ COX-2 inhibitors and proton-pump inhibitors are effective and well-tolerated therapies to reduce clinically significant upper gastrointestinal adverse events associated with NSAIDs.
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Research in statistical methods is essential for maintenance of high quality of the published literature. ⋯ Statistical terms and procedures were found in nearly all of the research articles published in pharmacy journals. Thus, pharmacy education should aim to provide current and future pharmacists with an understanding of the common statistical terms and procedures identified to facilitate the appropriate appraisal and consequential utilization of the information available in research articles.
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To review the literature regarding false-positive urine opiate screens associated with the use of fluoroquinolones. ⋯ Fluoroquinolones can cause false-positive urine opiate screens. Clinicians should be aware of this potential interaction and may need to verify positive results.