Aust Prescr
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The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder is increasing. It usually presents in childhood with abnormal behaviour and development The diagnosis can be difficult. There are often comorbidities which can cause confusion Non-drug treatments are first line. ⋯ Cognitive behaviour therapy can be effective, but in some cases selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may have a role Most patients have problems sleeping, but drugs are not usually used to treat sleep disorders in children Antipsychotics, such as risperidone, may be considered for irritability and aggression. Clonidine is first line for children with Tourette syndrome. Patients need regular monitoring because of the adverse effects of these drugs
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Following surgery there is often a need for ongoing pain management after the patient is discharged from hospital. This can be made easier if the patient has an appropriate discussion before leaving hospital about what pain they can expect, and they are given a management plan Paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are suitable for most patients. ⋯ Like opioids, they have a risk of misuse The surgeon should be consulted if the patient develops new pain or the postoperative pain becomes more severe Most postsurgical pain will resolve within three months. If not, it is deemed persistent pain that may warrant specialist assessment
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Vulvovaginitis is a commonly encountered problem in general practice. It usually presents with irritation and vaginal discharge A thorough examination is essential in order not to miss the less common causes. ⋯ Antifungals and antibiotics are therefore used in management Not all causes are infective. Several skin disorders can affect the vulva Ongoing or recurrent symptoms require careful evaluation and further investigation
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The Australian asthma guidelines have recently been updated and include additional treatment options for adults and adolescents with mild asthma Mild asthma is not necessarily a benign condition and patients are still at risk of severe flare-ups, particularly if they overuse short-acting beta2 agonists such as a salbutamol inhaler For adults and adolescents with mild asthma, the updated guidelines include as-needed inhaled low-dose budesonide–formoterol as an alternative to daily low-dose inhaled corticosteroid plus as-needed short-acting beta2 agonist The budesonide–formoterol combination should be taken as needed to provide symptom relief and reduce the risk of severe exacerbations