Aust Prescr
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Dietary supplements are the most common type of complementary medicine in Australia, reportedly used by 47% of the population. Vitamins and minerals are particularly popular Like all medicines, supplements can cause potential harms such as adverse reactions, drug interactions, monetary cost, delay of more effective therapy, false hope, and increased medication burden Although most vitamins and minerals are available for open sale, many are subject to legal restrictions as scheduled medicines, depending on the dose Consumers are at risk of overdose when the same ingredient is present in multiple products Health professionals can assist consumers by discussing the potential benefits and harms of vitamins and minerals and assisting them to find authoritative information Adverse events with vitamins and minerals should be reported to the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
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Insomnia can have significant health and economic impacts. In contrast, sleep disturbance is common but does not usually affect daytime activity Short-term approaches for acute insomnia are often appropriate. ⋯ If there is no response, referral should be considered Adjuvant use of drugs in insomnia may be appropriate in some cases. Prescription should be for a limited duration.
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Hoarding and squalor are complex conditions with a range of physical and mental comorbidities GPs play a key role in identifying people who experience these conditions, screening for safety risks, referral to specialist services and encouraging people to accept treatment and ongoing monitoring. Treatment for contributing and comorbid conditions should be optimised, with the help of specialist services when required. Medicines should be reviewed and adherence confirmed For moderate to severe hoarding and squalor, referral to specialist psychiatry, geriatrics and allied health services is recommended for thorough assessment, treatment of underlying conditions and ongoing management.