Current medical research and opinion
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Adherence and persistence to treatment are crucial in statin therapy as they are synonymous with efficacy and quality of care. The aim of this study was the real-life assessment of adherence and persistence over eight years in treatment-naive patients receiving atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin, ezetimibe. ⋯ Adherent patients had a higher persistence than non-adherent patients.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Efficacy and safety of valsartan in children aged 1-5 years with hypertension, with or without chronic kidney disease: a randomized, double-blind study followed by open-label phase.
To assess the dose-response relationship for reduction in mean systolic blood pressure (MSBP) with valsartan solution, in young children with hypertension with or without chronic kidney disease (CKD). ⋯ Valsartan was efficacious and well tolerated in children 1 to 5 years of age with hypertension, with or without CKD. Clinical trial registration: The study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT01617681).
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A new LT4 formulation (Euthyrox [LT4 NF]) was developed to meet new regulatory standards, and has replaced the older formulation (LT4 OF) in a number of countries. We evaluated the possibility of tolerability/safety concerns associated with the switch by analysing spontaneous adverse event (AE) reports before and after switching. ⋯ No new safety concerns arose concerning the updated LT4 formulation in the 18 countries. Careful counselling of patients and adherence to routine thyroid care is important.
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Coughing is a common symptom and responsible for a large number of healthcare visits. This study aimed to characterize healthcare resource use and associated financial costs in people with acute or chronic cough. ⋯ Patients with cough represented a substantial financial burden to the NHS. It was difficult to discern the specific portion of treatment associated with cough itself. However, people with chronic cough were associated with substantially increased healthcare use and costs than were those with acute cough.