Hospital pharmacy
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Drug-induced serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition. An Ovid MEDLINE, and PubMed search from 1950 to October 2015 revealed one published case report of suspected tapentadol-induced serotonin syndrome. We report a probable case of tapentadol-induced serotonin syndrome after overdose. ⋯ We report a probable case of tapentadol-induced serotonin syndrome after overdose. Further research is needed to better understand the pharmacology and incidence behind this adverse event.
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There have been 3 published reports (4 cases) of symptomatic sinus bradycardia occurring after intravenous (IV) administration of the selective 5-hydroxytryptamine 3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist ondansetron. We report a fifth case in which the patient developed asystole after rechallenge with ondansetron. ⋯ Sinus bradycardia after IV administration of ondansetron was observed in a 36-year-old pregnant patient status post cerclage. On rechallenge, the patient went into asystole. This case report adds to the available literature regarding ondansetron-induced cardiac arrhythmias and the possibility of asystole upon rechallenge.
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Colchicine is one of the oldest medications still in use today and is commonly used for the treatment of gout and familial Mediterranean fever. Its anti-inflammatory properties have raised the question of its utility in managing several cardiovascular diseases, including postoperative atrial fibrillation and pericarditis. This article will review the evidence for colchicine in these conditions and provide recommendations for use.
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Periodic drug shortages have become a reality in clinical practice. In 2010, in the context of a nationwide drug shortage, our hospital experienced an abrupt 3-month shortage of the surgical anesthetic propofol. The purpose of this retrospective study was to survey the clinical impact of the abrupt propofol shortage at our hospital and to survey for any change in perioperative mortality. ⋯ The propofol shortage led to an increased usage of etomidate by more than 600%. In spite of that, we did not detect an increase in mortality associated with the increased use of etomidate during a 3-month propofol shortage.
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Delirium is highly prevalent in the critically ill population and has been associated with numerous negative outcomes including increased mortality. The presentation of a delirious patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) is characterized by a fluctuating cognitive status and inattention that varies dramatically among patients. Delirium can present in 3 different motoric subtypes: hyperactive, hypoactive, and mixed. ⋯ Patients in the ICU are exposed to many risk factors for developing delirium; controlling these risk factors is essential for preventing delirium development in critically ill patients. Nonpharmacologic interventions have been shown to prevent patients from developing delirium. Prevention is crucial because once delirium develops pharmacologic therapy is limited.