The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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The prevalence of overweight/obesity in US children has increased over the past several decades. Routine use of weight-based dosing of medications could potentially result in over- or underdosing in these children. ⋯ Overweight children accounted for one-third of admissions, and the results of this study suggest that these patients are at greater risk for errors in dosing than are children of age- and sex-appropriate weight. This study did not assess clinical outcomes; however, overweight children could be at increased risk for therapeutic failures or adverse effects.
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Limited health literacy is associated with poor understanding of medication instructions and may be related to medication adherence. ⋯ Implementation of a 3-part intervention--automated telephone reminders, picture prescription card, and pharmacist communication skills training--did not significantly improve refill adherence among inner-city patients. Further study should explore whether other aspects of medication management, such as dosing or adverse events, can be improved through these types of interventions, implemented either alone or in combination.