The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Argatroban is the only commercially available Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved anticoagulant for managing heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). However, bivalirudin may be an attractive alternative. ⋯ Bivalirudin appears to reach therapeutic aPTT goal faster with more aPTT values within therapeutic aPTT goal while achieving similar clinical outcomes. Although not approved by the FDA for managing HIT, bivalirudin may be an attractive alternative anticoagulant.
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To evaluate the literature describing acetaminophen use in treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). ⋯ Oral acetaminophen is an alternative to PDA therapy in preterm infants when indomethacin/ibuprofen is not effective or is contraindicated, and it may be considered before surgical ligation.
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To describe the current Ebola virus epidemic and the potential options for treatment and prevention of Ebola virus disease. ⋯ Ebola virus is highly virulent and fatal, and treatment options are limited. Several experimental and existing therapies may be options for preventing and treating Ebola virus disease.
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Ebola virus disease (EVD) poses significant clinical care implications for pharmacists. Emergency preparedness efforts should be undertaken to ensure vital response to EVD. ⋯ Appropriate and timely preparation, distribution, and administration of treatment for patients with EVD in the setting of substantial critical illness as well as infection control measures are essential. Aggressive supportive care and early, goal-directed therapy are cornerstones of therapy, whereas investigational treatments for EVD will likely play a larger, more well-defined role as future clinical trials are conducted.