American journal of therapeutics
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This analysis focused on three objectives: 1) to measure packed red blood cell (pRBC) use across different critical care settings; 2) to characterize transfused and nontransfused critically ill patients; and (3) to identify potential predictors of transfusion use. ⋯ Multiple factors increased the likelihood of pRBC use in ICU patients. In addition, pRBC transfusion was associated with increased length of stay. Clinicians should evaluate the risk-benefit ratio and consider interventions to limit any unnecessary pRBC use in the critically ill.
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Dyspnea is a key target in both clinical management and clinical trials of acute heart failure syndromes and its relief important to patients, clinicians, investigators, and regulatory approval agencies. Despite its importance, the impact of early therapy on dyspnea is not well known. The severity of dyspnea may also be influenced by the conditions under which it is measured (ie, sitting up or lying down). URGENT Dyspnea (Ularitide Global Evaluation in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure) is a prospective multicenter study designed to address these issues. ⋯ Timing of dyspnea measurement and the conditions under which it is measured may influence dyspnea severity and this may have significant implications for future acute heart failure syndromes clinical trial design that target dyspnea.
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Pain is one of the most common medical complaints, but despite its prevalence, many individuals still suffer with unrelieved or undertreated pain. This marketing research survey was designed to determine the physical, psychological, and economic impact pain has on the lives of individuals suffering with pain and to identify the unmet needs of patients who have taken opioid medications to treat their pain. In addition, the survey sought to address the challenges physicians face when treating patients with pain. ⋯ Many chronic pain sufferers reported that pain had deleterious effects on their mental health, employment status, sleep, and personal relationships. The impact of pain on patient quality of life and the unmet needs in pain management were recognized by the majority of physicians surveyed, with inadequate pain control, end-of-dose pain, and side effects associated with increased dosing reported as negative factors influencing their choice of pain medication. In conclusion, effective communication between physicians and patients is encouraged to not only improve overall pain management but also to establish shared treatment goals with functional outcomes.
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Pyrethrin compounds can cause neurotoxicity when used in an excessive dose. A case of stuttering and general clumsiness in a toddler associated with topical pyrethrin use is described.
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Review
Chronic pain of osteoarthritis: considerations for selecting an extended-release opioid analgesic.
Chronic/persistent pain due to osteoarthritis is one of the most common pain conditions affecting Americans today. Inadequate pain relief or dissatisfaction with current treatments is a source of frustration and suffering for patients with chronic/persistent pain. ⋯ The several extended-release opioid analgesics that have been developed may provide an opportunity for improved patient convenience; however, clinicians must consider adverse event profiles, pharmacokinetics, abuse potential, and controlled substance-scheduling status of extended-release opioid analgesics. The purpose of this review is to highlight the efficacy and safety of extended-release opioid analgesics utilized in the management plan of chronic pain due to osteoarthritis.