Aust Fam Physician
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Opioid based cough mixtures are readily available to the public and are generally used safely. However, like alcohol, their use can sometimes be a significant part of a dependence problem. ⋯ Opioid dependence is generally considered synonymous with heroin dependence or dependence on prescribed opioid analgesics. However, cough mixtures are a readily available source of opioids. People who become dependent on these mixtures commonly do not present for medical assistance until the problem is severe.
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To describe the attitudes of general practitioners and specialist clinical teachers toward teaching evidence based medicine (EBM). ⋯ Although not all trained, GPs and specialists teach EBM, enjoy doing so, and want to increase their ability to teach it.
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A significant number of Australians and people from specific groups within the community are suffering from vitamin D deficiency. It is no longer acceptable to assume that all people in Australia receive adequate vitamin D from casual exposure to sunlight. ⋯ People at high risk of vitamin D deficiency include the elderly, those with skin conditions where avoidance of sunlight is required, dark skinned people (particularly women during pregnancy or if veiled) and patients with malabsorption, e.g. coeliac disease. For most people, deficiency can be prevented by 5-15 minutes exposure of face and upper limbs to sunlight 4-6 times per week. If this is not possible then a vitamin D supplement of at least 400 IU per day is recommended. In cases of established vitamin D deficiency, supplementation with 3000-5000 IU per day for at least 1 month is required to replete body stores. Increased availability of larger dose preparations of cholecalciferol would be a useful therapy in the case of severe deficiencies.
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Redback spider bite is thought to be the commonest serious spider bite in Australia. The treatment for the envenomation syndrome it causes, termed 'latrodectism', is the most frequently used antivenom in Australia. Several cases of a 'latrodectism-like' illness after cupboard spider bites ('steatodism') have also appeared to respond to redback antivenom. ⋯ Redback spider antivenom is safe and appears to be broadly cross reactive with the venom of other spiders of the Theridiidae family. Guidelines for the use of this product are also provided.
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Practice Guideline Guideline
Clinical practice guidelines for the psychosocial care of adults with cancer. Welcome support for GPs.