American journal of health-system pharmacy : AJHP : official journal of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Dec 2007
Comparative StudyStability of codeine phosphate in an extemporaneously compounded syrup.
The stability of codeine phosphate in an extemporaneously compounded syrup is described. ⋯ Codeine phosphate 3 mg/mL in Ora-Sweet syrup vehicle was stable in both amber polyethylene terephthalate bottles and amber polyethylene oral syringes for at least 98 days when stored at 22-25 degrees C and protected from light.
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Am J Health Syst Pharm · Dec 2007
Review Comparative StudyNew strategies in controlling drug resistance in chronic myeloid leukemia.
Imatinib has been quite effective in maintaining patients with CML in the chronic phase (CP); however, some patients develop imatinib resistance. This review addresses the mechanisms underlying imatinib resistance and the strategies currently being used to overcome that resistance. ⋯ A better understanding of imatinib resistance mechanisms has resulted in the development of useful strategies both to predict responders and nonresponders and to minimize imatinib resistance and prolong the life of the patient.
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This article focuses on imatinib, how it has altered CML therapy, clinical trials that are the basis for its efficacy, and adverse effects associated with its current clinical use. ⋯ The development of therapeutic agents targeting BCR-ABL has revolutionized the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Imatinib has successfully allowed CML patients to remain in CP for at least five years in 90% of patients. Dasatinib has activity against a number of Imatinib-resistant mutants providing an additional therapeutic option for these patients.
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Infections caused by drug-resistant gram-negative bacteria are a growing threat to the healthcare community and clinicians are encouraged to employ a combination of strategies for effective prevention and treatment of these difficult infections. ⋯ With a limited number of antimicrobial agents in development, clinicians cannot rely on new drugs alone to treat infections due to drug-resistant gram-negative bacteria but must also incorporate strategies that reduce the emergence of resistance and prevent the spread of problematic bacteria. Potentially effective interventions include antimicrobial stewardship tactics that advocate optimal use of currently available antimicrobial agents and rigorous infection control measures. Infectious diseases trained pharmacists are in a unique position to play a key role in helping control the spread of nosocomial pathogens.