The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Meta Analysis
Effect of prophylactic amiodarone on clinical and economic outcomes after cardiothoracic surgery: a meta-analysis.
Two previous meta-analyses of amiodarone for prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after cardiothoracic surgery did not evaluate total hospital cost, concluded that data on stroke are incomplete, and did not evaluate the effect of clinical heterogeneity between trials. ⋯ Prophylactic treatment with amiodarone decreases patients' risk of POAF and stroke while reducing LOS.
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Nearly one-half of adult Americans have limited functional literacy skills. Low patient literacy is associated with poor medication adherence and health outcomes. However, little is known about how pharmacies address literacy-related needs among patrons. ⋯ Pharmacies infrequently attempt to identify and assist patients with limited literacy skills.
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The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ), used in antineoplastic chemotherapy, must be diluted in NaCl 0.9% for injection and stored for no more than 3 hours in a syringe or 8 hours in a vial. Better information on its stability could improve storage. ⋯ BTZ stored refrigerated in vials or syringes and protected from light is chemically stable for 5 days after reconstitution.
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To describe a case of severe accidental cyanide poisoning following a single ingestion of amygdalin with therapeutic intent. ⋯ This case highlights the fact that CAMs can produce life-threatening toxicity. This case also adds a further note of caution, namely, the potential for serious interactions between CAMs, particularly where there is no tradition of concomitant use.
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To review literature regarding the effectiveness of methylphenidate in the management of the cognitive and behavioral changes observed following traumatic brain injury (TBI). ⋯ Larger, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies are needed to determine optimal doses, during which phase of recovery to begin treatment, length of treatment, and long-term effects for patients with mild, moderate, and severe TBI.