Matching articles for "acetaminophen"
Isatuximab (Sarclisa) for Multiple Myeloma (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 9, 2024; (Issue 1717)
Isatuximab-irfc (Sarclisa – Sanofi), a CD38-directed
cytolytic antibody, has been approved by the FDA for
treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in
adults who are not eligible for autologous stem...
Isatuximab-irfc (Sarclisa – Sanofi), a CD38-directed
cytolytic antibody, has been approved by the FDA for
treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in
adults who are not eligible for autologous stem cell
transplantation (ASCT). The drug was approved earlier
for treatment of relapsed or treatment-refractory
multiple myeloma.
Intravenous Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen (Combogesic IV)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 29, 2024; (Issue 1701)
The FDA has approved Combogesic IV (Hikma), an IV
solution containing acetaminophen and ibuprofen, to
treat mild to moderate pain (alone) or moderate to
severe pain (in combination with an opioid) in...
The FDA has approved Combogesic IV (Hikma), an IV
solution containing acetaminophen and ibuprofen, to
treat mild to moderate pain (alone) or moderate to
severe pain (in combination with an opioid) in adults
when IV analgesia is considered clinically necessary.
Single-drug IV solutions containing ibuprofen
(Caldolor) and acetaminophen have been available in
the US for years.
In Brief: Tafasitamab (Monjuvi) for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 7, 2023; (Issue 1682)
Tafasitamab-cxix (Monjuvi – Morphosys), a CD19-directed cytolytic antibody, has received accelerated
approval from the FDA for use in combination with
lenalidomide (Revlimid) for treatment of relapsed...
Tafasitamab-cxix (Monjuvi – Morphosys), a CD19-directed cytolytic antibody, has received accelerated
approval from the FDA for use in combination with
lenalidomide (Revlimid) for treatment of relapsed or
refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL),
not otherwise specified, including DLBCL arising from
low grade lymphoma, in adults who are not eligible
for autologous stem cell transplant. Accelerated
approval was based on overall response rates.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 12, 2023; (Issue 1678)
An oral nonopioid analgesic is often sufficient for
acute treatment of mild to moderate migraine pain
without severe nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the
drug of choice for treatment of moderate to...
An oral nonopioid analgesic is often sufficient for
acute treatment of mild to moderate migraine pain
without severe nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the
drug of choice for treatment of moderate to severe
migraine in most patients without vascular disease.
Treatment of pain when it is still mild to moderate in
intensity improves headache response and reduces
the risk of recurrence.
Opioids for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 12, 2022; (Issue 1665)
A new CDC guideline for prescribing opioids for pain
recently became available. Nonopioid drugs for pain
were reviewed in a previous...
A new CDC guideline for prescribing opioids for pain
recently became available. Nonopioid drugs for pain
were reviewed in a previous issue.
Comparison Table: Some Oral/Transdermal Opioid Analgesics (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 12, 2022; (Issue 1665)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Oral/Transdermal Opioid Analgesics
Tramadol/Celecoxib (Seglentis) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 18, 2022; (Issue 1648)
The FDA has approved Seglentis (Esteve/Kowa), an
oral combination of tramadol hydrochloride, a weak
opioid agonist and weak serotonin and norepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and celecoxib, a...
The FDA has approved Seglentis (Esteve/Kowa), an
oral combination of tramadol hydrochloride, a weak
opioid agonist and weak serotonin and norepinephrine
reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and celecoxib, a COX-2
selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
(NSAID), for use in adults with acute pain that is
severe enough to require an opioid and for which
alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Nonopioid Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 7, 2022; (Issue 1645)
Nonopioid drugs can be used in the treatment of
many nociceptive and neuropathic pain conditions.
For severe pain, especially severe chronic cancer
pain, use of opioids may be necessary....
Nonopioid drugs can be used in the treatment of
many nociceptive and neuropathic pain conditions.
For severe pain, especially severe chronic cancer
pain, use of opioids may be necessary. Noninvasive
nonpharmacologic treatments, including physical
and psychological therapies, have been shown to
improve pain and function in patients with some
common chronic pain conditions and are unlikely
to cause serious harms. A multimodal approach to
analgesic therapy can increase pain control while
reducing opioid use and adverse effects.
Comparison Table: Some Nonopioid Analgesics for Pain (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 7, 2022; (Issue 1645)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Nonopioid Analgesics for Pain
Drugs for Acute Otitis Media in Children
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 7, 2022; (Issue 1643)
More antibiotics are prescribed for treatment of acute
otitis media (AOM) than for any other infection in
young children. Children with AOM typically present
with otalgia, fever, and bulging and erythema of...
More antibiotics are prescribed for treatment of acute
otitis media (AOM) than for any other infection in
young children. Children with AOM typically present
with otalgia, fever, and bulging and erythema of the
tympanic membrane.
Bupivacaine/Meloxicam (Zynrelef) for Postsurgical Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 24, 2022; (Issue 1642)
The FDA has approved a fixed-dose combination
of the amide local anesthetic bupivacaine and
the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
meloxicam as an extended-release (ER) solution
(Zynrelef –...
The FDA has approved a fixed-dose combination
of the amide local anesthetic bupivacaine and
the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
meloxicam as an extended-release (ER) solution
(Zynrelef – Heron) for single-dose, intraoperative,
soft-tissue or periarticular instillation to provide
postsurgical analgesia for up to 72 hours in adults
undergoing foot and ankle, small-to-medium open
abdominal, or lower extremity total joint arthroplasty
surgical procedures.
Tramadol Oral Solution (Qdolo) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 31, 2021; (Issue 1625)
The opioid agonist tramadol is now available in an oral
solution (Qdolo – Athena Bioscience) for management
of pain severe enough to require an opioid and for
which alternative treatment options are...
The opioid agonist tramadol is now available in an oral
solution (Qdolo – Athena Bioscience) for management
of pain severe enough to require an opioid and for
which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Tramadol has been available for years in immediate-release
tablets and capsules, extended-release
capsules (Ultram, and others), and in a fixed-dose
combination tablet with acetaminophen (Ultracet,
and generics).
Orphengesic Forte - An Old Analgesic Combination Returns
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 16, 2020; (Issue 1611)
A fixed-dose combination of orphenadrine citrate, aspirin,
and caffeine (Orphengesic Forte – Galt; previously
available as Norgesic Forte) has been approved as
a prescription drug by the FDA for treatment...
A fixed-dose combination of orphenadrine citrate, aspirin,
and caffeine (Orphengesic Forte – Galt; previously
available as Norgesic Forte) has been approved as
a prescription drug by the FDA for treatment of mild
to moderate pain caused by acute musculoskeletal
disorders. Single-ingredient generic orphenadrine
citrate is available by prescription in oral and injectable
formulations and has been used for years as an adjunct
for treatment of acute musculoskeletal pain. Orphengesic
Forte is being marketed as a non-opioid alternative for
pain relief.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 5, 2020; (Issue 1608)
An oral nonopioid analgesic is often sufficient for acute
treatment of mild to moderate migraine headache
without severe nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the
drug of choice for treatment of moderate to...
An oral nonopioid analgesic is often sufficient for acute
treatment of mild to moderate migraine headache
without severe nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the
drug of choice for treatment of moderate to severe
migraine headache pain in most patients without
vascular disease. Early treatment of pain when it is
still mild to moderate in intensity improves headache
response and reduces the risk of recurrence.
IV Meloxicam (Anjeso) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 29, 2020; (Issue 1601)
The FDA has approved Anjeso (Baudax Bio), an IV
formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drug (NSAID) meloxicam, for once-daily treatment
of moderate to severe pain in adults. Oral...
The FDA has approved Anjeso (Baudax Bio), an IV
formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drug (NSAID) meloxicam, for once-daily treatment
of moderate to severe pain in adults. Oral meloxicam
(Mobic, and others), which is only indicated
for treatment of chronic pain associated with
osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, has been
available for 20 years. IV formulations of ketorolac,
ibuprofen (Caldolor), and acetaminophen (Ofirmev)
are also available for treatment of pain.
Drugs for Osteoarthritis
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 20, 2020; (Issue 1596)
Many different drugs are used for treatment of
osteoarthritis pain, but none of them prevent
progression of the disease. Nonpharmacologic
approaches including weight management, exercise,
tai chi, physical...
Many different drugs are used for treatment of
osteoarthritis pain, but none of them prevent
progression of the disease. Nonpharmacologic
approaches including weight management, exercise,
tai chi, physical therapy, assistive devices, and total
joint arthroplasty can also be used. The American
College of Rheumatology (ACR) has published new
guidelines for the management of osteoarthritis of the
hip, hand, and knee.
Some Drugs for COVID-19
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 6, 2020; (Issue 1595)
The severity and rapid spread of COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2) have raised questions about the use of some drugs in patients with the disease and whether currently available drugs could be effective in...
The severity and rapid spread of COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2) have raised questions about the use of some drugs in patients with the disease and whether currently available drugs could be effective in treating it. Definitive answers are lacking, but some recommendations can be made. For additional information on specific drugs, see our table Some Drugs Being Considered for Treatment of COVID-19.
Table: Treatments Considered for COVID-19 (Archived) (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 6, 2020; (Issue 1595)
...
View the Table: Treatments Considered for COVID-19
Some Drugs for COVID-19
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 6, 2020; (Issue 1919)
The severity and rapid spread of COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2) have raised questions about the use of some drugs in patients with the disease and whether currently available drugs could be effective in...
The severity and rapid spread of COVID-19 (caused by SARS-CoV-2) have raised questions about the use of some drugs in patients with the disease and whether currently available drugs could be effective in treating it. Definitive answers are lacking, but some recommendations can be made. For additional information on specific drugs, see our table Some Drugs Being Considered for Treatment of COVID-19.
Benzhydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Apadaz) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 15, 2019; (Issue 1576)
The FDA has approved Apadaz (KemPharm), a short-acting,
fixed-dose combination of benzhydrocodone
and acetaminophen, for short-term management
(≤14 days) of acute pain severe enough to require an
opioid...
The FDA has approved Apadaz (KemPharm), a short-acting,
fixed-dose combination of benzhydrocodone
and acetaminophen, for short-term management
(≤14 days) of acute pain severe enough to require an
opioid and for which alternative treatment options
are inadequate. Benzhydrocodone is a prodrug of
hydrocodone. Fixed-dose combinations of short-acting
hydrocodone and acetaminophen or ibuprofen
have been available for years and are the most abused
opioid products in the US. Apadaz was developed
under the presumption that inclusion of the inactive
prodrug would reduce the potential for abuse of the
combination by non-oral routes such as smoking,
snorting, or injection, but the FDA did not approve
Apadaz as an abuse-deterrent formulation.
Two New Intra-Articular Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 27, 2018; (Issue 1554)
The FDA has approved a single-injection hyaluronic
acid gel (Durolane – Bioventus) and an extended-release
(ER) formulation of the synthetic corticosteroid
triamcinolone acetonide (Zilretta – Flexion)...
The FDA has approved a single-injection hyaluronic
acid gel (Durolane – Bioventus) and an extended-release
(ER) formulation of the synthetic corticosteroid
triamcinolone acetonide (Zilretta – Flexion) for intra-articular
(IA) treatment of osteoarthritic knee pain.
Opioids for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 9, 2018; (Issue 1544)
Use of nonopioid drugs for pain was reviewed in a
previous issue. For many types of moderate to severe acute pain, acetaminophen and/or an NSAID may be as effective as an opioid. Immediate-release formulations...
Use of nonopioid drugs for pain was reviewed in a
previous issue. For many types of moderate to severe acute pain, acetaminophen and/or an NSAID may be as effective as an opioid. Immediate-release formulations of full opioid agonists should generally be used for acute pain that is severe enough to require treatment with an opioid. Use of extended-release or long-acting opioid formulations initially and treatment durations >1 week have been associated with an increased risk of unintended long-term use.
Comparison Table: Some Oral/Topical Opioid Analgesics (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 9, 2018; (Issue 1544)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Oral/Topical Opioid Analgesics
Nonopioid Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 12, 2018; (Issue 1540)
Nonopioid drugs can be used in the treatment of many
nociceptive and neuropathic pain conditions. Use of
opioids for pain will be reviewed in a future...
Nonopioid drugs can be used in the treatment of many
nociceptive and neuropathic pain conditions. Use of
opioids for pain will be reviewed in a future issue.
Comparison Table: Some Nonopioid Analgesics for Pain (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 12, 2018; (Issue 1540)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Nonopioid Analgesics for Pain
Acetylcysteine (Cetylev) for Acetaminophen Overdose
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 19, 2017; (Issue 1523)
The FDA has approved an effervescent tablet
formulation of acetylcysteine (Cetylev – Arbor) to
prevent or lessen hepatic injury after acetaminophen
overdose. Acetylcysteine has been available for years
in...
The FDA has approved an effervescent tablet
formulation of acetylcysteine (Cetylev – Arbor) to
prevent or lessen hepatic injury after acetaminophen
overdose. Acetylcysteine has been available for years
in an IV solution (Acetadote, and generics) and an oral
solution for the same indication; use of the oral solution
has been limited by its unpleasant odor and taste.
FDA Warns Against Use of Codeine and Tramadol in Children and Breastfeeding Women
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 22, 2017; (Issue 1521)
The FDA has issued new warnings about the use of the
opioid analgesics codeine and tramadol in children,
particularly those...
The FDA has issued new warnings about the use of the
opioid analgesics codeine and tramadol in children,
particularly those <12 years old, and in breastfeeding
women due to concerns about the risk of respiratory
depression and death. The FDA previously issued
warnings about these drugs in 2013 and 2015.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 13, 2017; (Issue 1514)
An oral nonopioid analgesic may be sufficient for
treatment of mild to moderate migraine without severe
nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the drug of choice for
treatment of moderate to severe migraine. Use...
An oral nonopioid analgesic may be sufficient for
treatment of mild to moderate migraine without severe
nausea or vomiting. A triptan is the drug of choice for
treatment of moderate to severe migraine. Use of
a triptan early in an attack when pain is still mild to
moderate in intensity improves headache response
and reduces recurrence rates.
Low-Dose Meloxicam (Vivlodex) for Osteoarthritis Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 14, 2016; (Issue 1490)
The FDA has approved Vivlodex (Iroko), a low-dose
formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
meloxicam (Mobic, and generics), for management of
osteoarthritis pain. According to the manufacturer,...
The FDA has approved Vivlodex (Iroko), a low-dose
formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
meloxicam (Mobic, and generics), for management of
osteoarthritis pain. According to the manufacturer, the
new formulation aligns with stronger FDA warnings
about the cardiovascular risks of NSAIDs and the
recommendation to use the lowest possible doses of
these drugs.
Intravenous Diclofenac (Dyloject)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 21, 2015; (Issue 1484)
The FDA has approved Dyloject (Hospira), an IV
formulation of the NSAID diclofenac sodium, for use
in adults. It can be administered alone for treatment
of mild to moderate pain or in combination with...
The FDA has approved Dyloject (Hospira), an IV
formulation of the NSAID diclofenac sodium, for use
in adults. It can be administered alone for treatment
of mild to moderate pain or in combination with opioid
analgesics for moderate to severe pain. Dyloject is the
first injectable formulation of diclofenac to become
available in the US.
Extended-Release Hydrocodone (Hysingla ER) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 11, 2015; (Issue 1468)
The FDA has approved a second extended-release (ER)
formulation of the oral opioid agonist hydrocodone
(Hysingla ER – Purdue) for management of pain severe
enough to require continuous long-term therapy...
The FDA has approved a second extended-release (ER)
formulation of the oral opioid agonist hydrocodone
(Hysingla ER – Purdue) for management of pain severe
enough to require continuous long-term therapy and
for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Hysingla ER tablets have abuse-deterrent properties
to discourage their misuse.
Rescheduling of Hydrocodone Combination Products
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 13, 2014; (Issue 1453)
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has
reclassified all hydrocodone combination products
as schedule II controlled substances; they were
previously classified as schedule III. Hydrocodone
alone...
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has
reclassified all hydrocodone combination products
as schedule II controlled substances; they were
previously classified as schedule III. Hydrocodone
alone (Zohydro ER) is already a schedule II controlled
substance.
Drugs for Osteoarthritis
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2014; (Issue 1450)
Many different drugs are used for treatment of osteoarthritis
pain, but none of them prevent progression
of the disease. Many nonpharmacologic approaches
are available as well, including weight...
Many different drugs are used for treatment of osteoarthritis
pain, but none of them prevent progression
of the disease. Many nonpharmacologic approaches
are available as well, including weight management,
exercise, physical therapy, assistive devices, and total
joint arthroplasty. New guidelines for the management
of osteoarthritis have recently been published.
Extended-Release Oxycodone and Acetaminophen (Xartemis XR)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 21, 2014; (Issue 1447)
The FDA has approved a fixed-dose extended-release
formulation of oxycodone and acetaminophen
(Xartemis XR – Mallinckrodt) for oral treatment of
acute pain severe enough to require an opioid. Oxycodone
is...
The FDA has approved a fixed-dose extended-release
formulation of oxycodone and acetaminophen
(Xartemis XR – Mallinckrodt) for oral treatment of
acute pain severe enough to require an opioid. Oxycodone
is available in the US as a single entity in oral
immediate-release (Oxecta, and others) and extendedrelease
(OxyContin) formulations. Immediate-release
oxycodone is also available in combination with aspirin
(Percodan, and others), acetaminophen (Percocet,
and others), or ibuprofen (see Table 1).
Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 7, 2014; (Issue 1446)
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes anticoagulation,
rate control, and rhythm control. New US
guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation
have recently been...
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes anticoagulation,
rate control, and rhythm control. New US
guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation
have recently been published.
Extended-Release Hydrocodone (Zohydro ER) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 9, 2014; (Issue 1444)
The FDA has approved an extended-release oral formulation
of the opioid agonist hydrocodone (Zohydro ER –
Zogenix) for management of pain severe enough to
require continuous, long-term therapy and for...
The FDA has approved an extended-release oral formulation
of the opioid agonist hydrocodone (Zohydro ER –
Zogenix) for management of pain severe enough to
require continuous, long-term therapy and for which
alternative treatment options are inadequate. Zohydro ER
is the first single-ingredient hydrocodone product to be
marketed in the US. Hydrocodone has been available for
years in combination with acetaminophen (Vicodin, and
others) or ibuprofen (Vicoprofen, and others).
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 1, 2013; (Issue 136)
Treatment of migraine in the emergency department,
which may involve use of intravenous drugs, is not
discussed...
Treatment of migraine in the emergency department,
which may involve use of intravenous drugs, is not
discussed here.
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2013; (Issue 128)
Pain can be acute or chronic. The two major types of
chronic pain are nociceptive pain and neuropathic
pain. Nociceptive pain can be treated with nonopioid
analgesics or opioids. Neuropathic pain is less...
Pain can be acute or chronic. The two major types of
chronic pain are nociceptive pain and neuropathic
pain. Nociceptive pain can be treated with nonopioid
analgesics or opioids. Neuropathic pain is less responsive
to opioids and is often treated with adjuvant drugs
such as antidepressants and antiepileptics. Combining
different types of analgesics may provide an additive
analgesic effect without increasing adverse effects.
Tablet Splitting
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 6, 2012; (Issue 1396)
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. Since our last article on this subject, some new data
have become...
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. Since our last article on this subject, some new data
have become available.
Drugs for Insomnia
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 1, 2012; (Issue 119)
Pharmacological treatment of insomnia includes prescription
drugs, non-prescription medications and
"natural" remedies. Behavioral changes are often
needed as...
Pharmacological treatment of insomnia includes prescription
drugs, non-prescription medications and
"natural" remedies. Behavioral changes are often
needed as well.
In Brief: Does Acetaminophen Increase Blood Pressure?
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 18, 2011; (Issue 1362)
A recent article in Circulation reported that acetaminophen (Tylenol, and others; paracetamol outside the US) increased blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease. This conclusion was based on a...
A recent article in Circulation reported that acetaminophen (Tylenol, and others; paracetamol outside the US) increased blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease. This conclusion was based on a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in 33 patients; acetaminophen 1 g three times daily for 2 weeks was associated with statistically significant increases in blood pressure of 2.9 mmHg systolic and 2.2 mmHg diastolic.1
NSAIDs can increase blood pressure; the mechanism is thought to be inhibition of cyclooxygenase leading to decreased renal prostaglandin activity. Acetaminophen also inhibits cyclooxygenase (primarily COX-2) and decreases prostaglandin activity.2
The small increases in blood pressure reported with acetaminophen would probably be inconsequential in low-risk patients, but might be a concern for those with cardiovascular disease. Like most drugs, acetaminophen should be used in the lowest effective doses for the shortest possible time. Mild to moderate pain due to osteoarthritis or headache generally responds to a dose of 650 mg.3
1. I Sudano et al. Acetaminophen increases blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease. Circulation 2010; 122:1789.
2. B Hinz et al. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor in man. FASEB J 2008; 22:383.
3. Drugs for pain. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2010; 8:25.
Download U.S. English
NSAIDs can increase blood pressure; the mechanism is thought to be inhibition of cyclooxygenase leading to decreased renal prostaglandin activity. Acetaminophen also inhibits cyclooxygenase (primarily COX-2) and decreases prostaglandin activity.2
The small increases in blood pressure reported with acetaminophen would probably be inconsequential in low-risk patients, but might be a concern for those with cardiovascular disease. Like most drugs, acetaminophen should be used in the lowest effective doses for the shortest possible time. Mild to moderate pain due to osteoarthritis or headache generally responds to a dose of 650 mg.3
1. I Sudano et al. Acetaminophen increases blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease. Circulation 2010; 122:1789.
2. B Hinz et al. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor in man. FASEB J 2008; 22:383.
3. Drugs for pain. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2010; 8:25.
Download U.S. English
Intravenous Acetaminophen (Ofirmev)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 4, 2011; (Issue 1361)
The FDA has approved an intravenous (IV) formulation
of acetaminophen (Ofirmev – Cadence) for use in
patients ≥2 years old for management of pain either as
monotherapy (mild to moderate pain) or with an...
The FDA has approved an intravenous (IV) formulation
of acetaminophen (Ofirmev – Cadence) for use in
patients ≥2 years old for management of pain either as
monotherapy (mild to moderate pain) or with an opioid
(moderate to severe pain) and for reduction of fever.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2011; (Issue 102)
Drugs for treatment of migraine are listed in Table 2
on page 9. Drugs for prevention of migraine are listed
in Table 3 on page 10. Treatment of migraine in the
emergency room, which may involve use of...
Drugs for treatment of migraine are listed in Table 2
on page 9. Drugs for prevention of migraine are listed
in Table 3 on page 10. Treatment of migraine in the
emergency room, which may involve use of intravenous
drugs, is not included here.
In Brief: Propoxyphene Toxicity
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 6, 2010; (Issue 1346)
The FDA has required manufacturers of propoxyphene-containing products (Darvon, and others) to strengthen boxed warnings to include the potential for overdose.1 This action followed disclosure of fatal...
The FDA has required manufacturers of propoxyphene-containing products (Darvon, and others) to strengthen boxed warnings to include the potential for overdose.1 This action followed disclosure of fatal overdoses linked to propoxyphene-containing products taken alone or concurrently with other CNS depressants, including alcohol. Many of the overdoses occurred in patients with a history of emotional instability or suicide attempts. Accumulation of metabolites of propoxyphene can lead to central nervous system, cardiac and respiratory depression; convulsions and cardiotoxicity have occurred.
A Schedule IV controlled substance, propoxyphene is a weak full agonist opioid indicated for relief of mild to moderate pain.2 It is often prescribed in combination with acetaminophen (Darvocet, and others). One reasonable alternative would be codeine with acetaminophen; 32 mg of codeine has an analgesic effect similar to that of 65 mg of propoxyphene. Another would be 400 mg of ibuprofen, which may be more effective than either propoxyphene or codeine combined with acetaminophen.
1. FDA News Release. FDA takes actions on Darvon, other pain medications containing propoxyphene. Available at www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm170769.html. Accessed August 23, 2010.
2. Drugs for pain. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2010; 92:25.
Download: U.S. English
A Schedule IV controlled substance, propoxyphene is a weak full agonist opioid indicated for relief of mild to moderate pain.2 It is often prescribed in combination with acetaminophen (Darvocet, and others). One reasonable alternative would be codeine with acetaminophen; 32 mg of codeine has an analgesic effect similar to that of 65 mg of propoxyphene. Another would be 400 mg of ibuprofen, which may be more effective than either propoxyphene or codeine combined with acetaminophen.
1. FDA News Release. FDA takes actions on Darvon, other pain medications containing propoxyphene. Available at www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm170769.html. Accessed August 23, 2010.
2. Drugs for pain. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2010; 92:25.
Download: U.S. English
Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2010; (Issue 97)
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes ventricular rate control, anticoagulation, conversion to normal sinus rhythm and maintenance of sinus rhythm. The choice of therapies that can achieve these goals...
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes ventricular rate control, anticoagulation, conversion to normal sinus rhythm and maintenance of sinus rhythm. The choice of therapies that can achieve these goals is discussed in the text that follows. Some drugs are recommended here for indications that have not been approved by the FDA.
Another Once-Daily Formulation of Tramadol (Ryzolt)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 17, 2010; (Issue 1338)
The FDA has approved tramadol hydrochloride extended-release (Ryzolt – Purdue) for treatment of
moderate to moderately severe chronic pain in adults. Tramadol is already available in another extended-release...
The FDA has approved tramadol hydrochloride extended-release (Ryzolt – Purdue) for treatment of
moderate to moderately severe chronic pain in adults. Tramadol is already available in another extended-release formulation (Ultram ER) and in immediate-release tablets alone (Ultram, and others) and combined with acetaminophen (Ultracet, and others).
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2010; (Issue 92)
Pain can be acute or chronic. Chronic pain has been broadly classified into two types: nociceptive and neuropathic. Nociceptive pain can be treated with nonopioid analgesics or opioids. Neuropathic pain is less...
Pain can be acute or chronic. Chronic pain has been broadly classified into two types: nociceptive and neuropathic. Nociceptive pain can be treated with nonopioid analgesics or opioids. Neuropathic pain is less responsive to opioids; adjuvant medicines such as antidepressants and anticonvulsants are often used to treat neuropathic pain. Combining different types of analgesics may provide an additive analgesic effect without increasing adverse effects.
Tablet Splitting
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 10, 2009; (Issue 1318)
Readers have asked us to update our 2004 article on tablet splitting. Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice, but the FDA recently advised consumers against it (FDA Consumer Health Information, July...
Readers have asked us to update our 2004 article on tablet splitting. Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice, but the FDA recently advised consumers against it (FDA Consumer Health Information, July 2009).
Acetaminophen Safety - Deja Vu
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 13, 2009; (Issue 1316)
Concerns have surfaced again at the FDA and in the media about the safety of acetaminophen and the multiplicity of products on the market in the US that contain various amounts of...
Concerns have surfaced again at the FDA and in the media about the safety of acetaminophen and the multiplicity of products on the market in the US that contain various amounts of it.
A Fixed-Dose Combination of Sumatriptan and Naproxen for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 16, 2008; (Issue 1288)
The FDA has approved an oral, fixed-dose combination (Treximet - GlaxoSmithKline) of the selective serotonin receptor agonist ("triptan") sumatriptan (Imitrex) and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug...
The FDA has approved an oral, fixed-dose combination (Treximet - GlaxoSmithKline) of the selective serotonin receptor agonist ("triptan") sumatriptan (Imitrex) and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) naproxen sodium (Anaprox, and others) for acute treatment of migraine attacks.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 1, 2008; (Issue 67)
Some drugs for treatment of migraine attacks are listed in table 2 on page 18. Drugs for prevention of migraine are listed in table 3 on page 20. Treatment of migraine in the emergency room, which may involve...
Some drugs for treatment of migraine attacks are listed in table 2 on page 18. Drugs for prevention of migraine are listed in table 3 on page 20. Treatment of migraine in the emergency room, which may involve use of intravenous drugs, is not included here.
A Diclofenac Patch (Flector) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 14, 2008; (Issue 1277)
Diclofenac epolamine patch 1.3% (Flector Patch - Alpharma), a topical formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac, has been approved by the FDA for topical treatment of acute pain...
Diclofenac epolamine patch 1.3% (Flector Patch - Alpharma), a topical formulation of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac, has been approved by the FDA for topical treatment of acute pain due to minor strains, sprains and contusions. It is the first topical NSAID patch approved in the US. A diclofenac patch has been used in Europe since 1993. Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren, and others) is available in the US as an oral tablet, in a 1% gel for treatment of osteoarthritis (to be reviewed in a future issue), in a 3% gel (Solaraze) for treatment of actinic keratoses, and in an ophthalmic formulation.
Antifungal Drugs
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 1, 2008; (Issue 65)
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the tables. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. Other guidelines are available from...
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the tables. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. Other guidelines are available from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (www.idsociety.org).
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2007; (Issue 56)
Pain can be acute or chronic. Chronic pain has been broadly classified into two types: nociceptive and neuropathic. Nociceptive pain is generally treated with nonopioid analgesics and opioids. Antidepressants...
Pain can be acute or chronic. Chronic pain has been broadly classified into two types: nociceptive and neuropathic. Nociceptive pain is generally treated with nonopioid analgesics and opioids. Antidepressants and anticonvulsants have been used to treat neuropathic pain. Combining two different types of analgesics may nprovide an additive analgesic effect without increasing adverse effects.
Pharmaceutical Drug Overdose
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2006; (Issue 49)
Every pharmaceutical drug is a dose-dependent poison. This article describes the clinical presentation and treatment of some dangerous overdoses commonly reported in...
Every pharmaceutical drug is a dose-dependent poison. This article describes the clinical presentation and treatment of some dangerous overdoses commonly reported in adults.
A Combination of Oxycodone and Ibuprofen (Combunox) for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 2, 2006; (Issue 1225)
A fixed-dose combination of oxycodone 5 mg and ibuprofen 400 mg (Combunox - Forest Laboratories) is now available and is being heavily advertised for short-term treatment of moderate to severe acute...
A fixed-dose combination of oxycodone 5 mg and ibuprofen 400 mg (Combunox - Forest Laboratories) is now available and is being heavily advertised for short-term treatment of moderate to severe acute pain.
Acetylcysteine (Acetadote) for Acetaminophen Overdosage
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 15, 2005; (Issue 1215)
Acetaminophen (paracetamol; Tylenol, and others) taken in overdosage can cause severe hepatic injury and death. Acetaminophen poisoning is treated with (N-)acetylcysteine. Available for many years in the US as...
Acetaminophen (paracetamol; Tylenol, and others) taken in overdosage can cause severe hepatic injury and death. Acetaminophen poisoning is treated with (N-)acetylcysteine. Available for many years in the US as a solution for inhalation therapy (Mucomyst, and others), it subsequently became available for oral use and was recently marketed in the US for intravenous (IV) use as Acetadote (Cumberland).
NSAID Alternatives
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 17, 2005; (Issue 1200)
Patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be asking their health care providers if they should continue, and some may be asking for alternatives. For most patients taking nonspecific...
Patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be asking their health care providers if they should continue, and some may be asking for alternatives. For most patients taking nonspecific NSAIDs, it would be reasonable to continue. For those who are taking the COX-2 selective celecoxib (Celebrex) because they cannot tolerate the gastrointestinal (GI) effects of nonspecific NSAIDs, it seems reasonable to continue at doses no higher than 100 mg b.i.d. or 200 mg once daily; at these dosages cardiovascular risk has been no higher than with placebo. All NSAIDs, including COX-2 inhibitors, can decrease renal blood flow and cause fluid retention, hypertension and renal failure, especially in the elderly and in patients who take diuretics. The unpublished study that led to an FDA alert on an increased cardiovascular risk with naproxen (Naprosyn, and others) was conducted in patients older than 70. See NSAID addendum
Dangerous Drugs
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 6, 2004; (Issue 1197)
At a US Senate hearing prompted by the withdrawal of Vioxx, an FDA officer cited 5 drugs as potentially dangerous. It may be useful to revisit Medical Letter reviews of these...
At a US Senate hearing prompted by the withdrawal of Vioxx, an FDA officer cited 5 drugs as potentially dangerous. It may be useful to revisit Medical Letter reviews of these drugs.
Tablet Splitting
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 8, 2004; (Issue 1195)
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. In some cases, a lower drug dose may be as effective as a higher one, with fewer adverse effects. Sometimes tablets are split to achieve an intermediate dose...
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. In some cases, a lower drug dose may be as effective as a higher one, with fewer adverse effects. Sometimes tablets are split to achieve an intermediate dose between marketed strengths. When 2 tablet sizes cost the same, as they often do, splitting the larger size saves money. Is this a reasonable practice?
COX-2 Alternatives and GI Protection
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 8, 2004; (Issue 1195)
With the removal of Vioxx from the market and concerns about cardiovascular toxicity with other selective COX-2 inhibitors, patients are looking for safe alternatives, and manufacturers of other drugs are...
With the removal of Vioxx from the market and concerns about cardiovascular toxicity with other selective COX-2 inhibitors, patients are looking for safe alternatives, and manufacturers of other drugs are looking for additional market share. The COX-2 inhibitors first became popular because they have less upper GI toxicity than older less selective NSAIDs, at least in the short term, in patients not taking aspirin.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2004; (Issue 25)
Drugs for treatment of migraine attacks are listed in the table on page 64. All of the oral drugs are most effective if taken early in an attack when the pain is mild (H Christoph-Diener et al, Neurology 2004;...
Drugs for treatment of migraine attacks are listed in the table on page 64. All of the oral drugs are most effective if taken early in an attack when the pain is mild (H Christoph-Diener et al, Neurology 2004; 63:520). Drugs for prevention of migraine are listed in the table on page 65. Treatment of migraine in the emergency room, which may involve use of intravenous drugs, is not included here.
Do NSAIDs Interfere with the Cardioprotective Effects of Aspirin?
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 2, 2004; (Issue 1188)
Low-dose aspirin is widely used as an antiplatelet drug to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (Medical Letter 2000; 42:18). Recent reports suggest that the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)...
Low-dose aspirin is widely used as an antiplatelet drug to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (Medical Letter 2000; 42:18). Recent reports suggest that the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen (Motrin, and others) may decrease the efficacy of aspirin for this indication. The manufacturer of Tylenol is capitalizing on these reports by advertising that aspirin-taking patients who need pain relief should use acetaminophen instead of ibuprofen.
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 1, 2004; (Issue 23)
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; opioids; and adjuvant drugs that are not usually thought of...
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; opioids; and adjuvant drugs that are not usually thought of as analgesics, such as antidepressants, which can act as adjuvants when given with NSAIDs or opioids, or have analgesic activity of their own in some types of pain. Combining two different types of analgesics may provide an additive analgesic effect without necessarily increasing adverse effects.
Gabapentin (Neurontin) for Chronic Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 12, 2004; (Issue 1180)
Gabapentin (Neurontin - Pfizer), which has been available in the US since 1994, is approved by the FDA only for treatment of partial epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia, but is widely used off-label for a...
Gabapentin (Neurontin - Pfizer), which has been available in the US since 1994, is approved by the FDA only for treatment of partial epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia, but is widely used off-label for a number of other indications, especially neuropathic pain syndromes. According to one report, among Medicaid recipients in Florida receiving gabapentin, 71% of prescriptions were for chronic pain and 8% for seizures and neuralgia ("The Pink Sheet" February 2, 2004; 66:30).
Acetaminophen Safety
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 28, 2002; (Issue 1142)
An FDA panel has recommended that stronger warnings about hepatotoxicity be added to the labeling for acetaminophen (www.fda.gov, search "acetaminophen...
An FDA panel has recommended that stronger warnings about hepatotoxicity be added to the labeling for acetaminophen (www.fda.gov, search "acetaminophen hepatotoxicity").
Over-the-counter (OTC) Cough Remedies
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 19, 2001; (Issue 1100)
The number of cough remedies available in the USA continues to multiply, but most products contain the same or similar ingredients in varying combinations. Most acute coughs do not require treatment with drugs,...
The number of cough remedies available in the USA continues to multiply, but most products contain the same or similar ingredients in varying combinations. Most acute coughs do not require treatment with drugs, especially in children, and suppression of a productive cough may be harmful.
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 21, 2000; (Issue 1085)
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: first, non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, drugs not usually thought...
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: first, non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, drugs not usually thought of as analgesics, which act as adjuvants when given with NSAIDs or opioids, or have analgesic activity of their own in some types of pain. Non-opioids can be given concurrently with opioids for an additive analgesic effect.
New "Triptans" and Other Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 9, 1998; (Issue 1037)
Three new 5-HT1 receptors agonissts ('triptans') have been marketed recently for treatment of migraine. Some drugs for prevention of migraine are listed in the table on page 99. Treatment of migraine in the...
Three new 5-HT1 receptors agonissts ('triptans') have been marketed recently for treatment of migraine. Some drugs for prevention of migraine are listed in the table on page 99. Treatment of migraine in the emergency room, which may involve use of intravenous drugs, is not included here.
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 14, 1998; (Issue 1033)
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: first, non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, some drugs not usually...
Three types of analgesic drugs are available: first, non-opioids, including aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, some drugs not usually thought of as analgesics, which act as adjuvants when given with NSAIDs or opioids, or have analgesic activity of their own in some types of pain.
Bromfenac for Analgesia
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 10, 1997; (Issue 1011)
Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to...
Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to narcotics for short-term treatment of pain.
Systemic Antifungal Drugs
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 12, 1997; (Issue 1009)
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table below. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the...
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table below. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA.
Immune Globulin IV for Prevention of RH Isoimmunization and for Treatment of ITP
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 19, 1996; (Issue 966)
immune globulin (human) has been available for many years in an intramuscular (IM) formulation for prevention of Rh isoimmunization in pregnant Rh-negative women (Medical Letter, 16:3, 1974). Recently, the US...
immune globulin (human) has been available for many years in an intramuscular (IM) formulation for prevention of Rh isoimmunization in pregnant Rh-negative women (Medical Letter, 16:3, 1974). Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first intravenous (IV) immune globulin preparation (WinRho SD - Univax), not only for preventing Rh isoimmunization, but also for treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in Rh-positive patients.
Tramadol - A New Oral Analgesic
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 7, 1995; (Issue 952)
Tramadol hydrochloride (Ultram - Ortho-McNeil), a centrally-acting analgesic marketed in Germany since 1977, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of moderate to...
Tramadol hydrochloride (Ultram - Ortho-McNeil), a centrally-acting analgesic marketed in Germany since 1977, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Despite some opioid activity, tramadol has not been scheduled as a controlled substance.
Drugs for Migraine
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 3, 1995; (Issue 943)
Drugs are used both to prevent and treat migraine symptoms. The effectiveness of such use can be difficult to evaluate, even with double-blind controlled trials, because migraine is episodic, response to...
Drugs are used both to prevent and treat migraine symptoms. The effectiveness of such use can be difficult to evaluate, even with double-blind controlled trials, because migraine is episodic, response to placebo is frequent, and patients vary in response to a given agent (KMA Welch, N Engl J Med, 329:1476, 1993; SD Silberstein and RB Lipton, Neurology, 44 suppl 7:S6, Oct 1994).
Rimantadine for Prevention and Treatment of Influenza
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 26, 1993; (Issue 910)
Rimantadine hydrochloride (Flumadine - Forest), the alpha-methyl derivative of amantadine (Symmetrel, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for prevention and treatment of...
Rimantadine hydrochloride (Flumadine - Forest), the alpha-methyl derivative of amantadine (Symmetrel, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for prevention and treatment of influenza A virus infections in adults and for prevention of influenza in children.
Drugs for Pain
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 8, 1993; (Issue 887)
Three types of analgesic drugs are available in the USA: first, aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, drugs not usually thought of as...
Three types of analgesic drugs are available in the USA: first, aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen; second, opioids; and third, drugs not usually thought of as analgesics, which act as adjuvants when given with NSAIDs or opioids, or have analgesic activity of their own in some types of pain. (American Pain Society, Principles of analgesic Use, 3rd ed, Skokie, illinois: American pain society, 1992).
Drugs For Treatment Of Fungal Infections
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 21, 1992; (Issue 864)
The incidence of opportunistic fungal infections continues to increase, particularly in patients who have AIDS, are taking immunosuppressive drugs, or are in intensive care units. Intravenous (IV) amphotericin...
The incidence of opportunistic fungal infections continues to increase, particularly in patients who have AIDS, are taking immunosuppressive drugs, or are in intensive care units. Intravenous (IV) amphotericin B (Fungizone, and others), sometimes given with flucytosine (Ancobon), is the drug of choice for initial treatment of most rapidly progressive, acutely life-threatening fungal infections; for less severe infections, fluconazole (Diflucan, ketoconazole (Nizoral), or itraconazole (Sporanox - an investigational drug in the (USA) may also be effective, can be taken orally, and are much better tolerated. The treatment of superficial fungal infections is not discussed here.
Etodolac
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 23, 1991; (Issue 851)
Etodolac (Lodine - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in osteoarthritis...
Etodolac (Lodine - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in osteoarthritis and as a general-purpose analgesic. It has not been approved for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Drugs for Treatment of Fungal Infections
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 15, 1990; (Issue 820)
...
Interferon for Chronic Viral Hepatitis
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 12, 1990; (Issue 809)
Recombinant alpha interferon has been marketed in the USA for treatment of hairy-cell leukemia, genital warts, and AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (Medical Letter, 28:78, 1986; 30:70, 1988). Recent reports...
Recombinant alpha interferon has been marketed in the USA for treatment of hairy-cell leukemia, genital warts, and AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma (Medical Letter, 28:78, 1986; 30:70, 1988). Recent reports indicate it may also be useful for treatment of chronic viral hepatitis. Recombinant alpha interferon is available as alfa-2a (Roferon-A - Roche) or alfa-2b (Intron A - Schering), which are identical except for one amino acid.
Ibuprofen vs. Acetaminophen in Children
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 15, 1989; (Issue 807)
Since the implication of aspirin in Reye's syndrome, acetaminophen (Tylenol; and others) has become the standard drug for symptomatic treatment of fever and pain in children. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal...
Since the implication of aspirin in Reye's syndrome, acetaminophen (Tylenol; and others) has become the standard drug for symptomatic treatment of fever and pain in children. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available for many years in tables (Mortin; Advil; and others), has now become available in a suspension. The suspension will be sold by presecription for treatment of fever or arthritis in children.
Drugs For Treatment of Deep Fungal Infections
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 11, 1988; (Issue 761)
The incidence of opportunistic deep fungal infections continues to increase, particularly among patients who have AIDS, are taking immunosuppressive drugs, or are in intensive care...
The incidence of opportunistic deep fungal infections continues to increase, particularly among patients who have AIDS, are taking immunosuppressive drugs, or are in intensive care units.