Aust Prescr
-
Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterised by thrombotic and/or obstetric manifestations with persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. Diagnosis involves confirming the persistence of antiphospholipid antibodies in symptomatic patients, using validated classification criteria as a guide. The likelihood of obtaining false-positive or false-negative test results in certain settings, and the lack of standardisation between laboratory methods, are important considerations. ⋯ Patients with a history of thrombotic and/or obstetric manifestations who become pregnant should receive low-molecular-weight heparin and low-dose aspirin during pregnancy and postpartum. Testing asymptomatic people is not recommended, except in the context of systemic lupus erythematosus. Management of asymptomatic people with persistent antiphospholipid antibodies depends on their individual antibody profile and risk factors.
-
The Australian Government has enacted laws restricting the supply of electronic cigarettes (vapes) to people requiring them for smoking cessation or the treatment of nicotine dependence, under the care of a medical practitioner, nurse practitioner or pharmacist. Currently no vapes are included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, meaning that the prescription and supply of therapeutic vapes must be through the Special Access Scheme or Authorised Prescriber pathways. ⋯ An attempt to wean or stop vaping after 12 weeks is recommended, with a possible transition to registered smoking cessation medicines if required (in addition to ongoing behavioural support). The maximum recommended duration of vape use is 12 months.
-
Reporting adverse events (adverse drug reactions) associated with medicines and vaccines assists with identifying previously unrecognised side effects and other safety concerns. Reporting adverse events to the Therapeutic Goods Administration is mandatory for sponsors (pharmaceutical companies), and strongly encouraged but voluntary for healthcare professionals and consumers. ⋯ For other medicines, serious adverse events and unexpected adverse events should be prioritised. The Therapeutic Goods Administration analyses adverse event reporting data and uses signal detection methods to identify and evaluate emerging safety signals, which may lead to regulatory actions and communication to address safety issues.