The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Review
Cannabinoid analgesia as a potential new therapeutic option in the treatment of chronic pain.
To review the literature concerning the physiology of the endocannabinoid system, current drug development of cannabinoid agonists, and current clinical research on the use of cannabinoid agonists for analgesia. ⋯ Cannabinoids provide a potential approach to pain management with a novel therapeutic target and mechanism. Chronic pain often requires a polypharmaceutical approach to management, and cannabinoids are a potential addition to the arsenal of treatment options.
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The ability to understand and apply epidemiology methods is a growing part of pharmacy practice, pharmacy accreditation standards, and evidence-based practice. ⋯ The increase in the use of epidemiology-related terms has implications for both curricular planning in schools and colleges of pharmacy, as well as for continuing education programs and effective interprofessional communication.
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To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and safety profile of lanthanum carbonate, a phosphate binder for chronic kidney disease (CKD). ⋯ Lanthanum carbonate is an effective phosphate-binding agent without significant risk of hypercalcemia or worsening metabolic acidosis. Lanthanum carbonate is a safe and effective drug for reduction of elevated serum phosphorus levels associated with stage 5 CKD. The role of lanthanum carbonate relative to other phosphate-binding drugs, such as calcium salts and sevelamer, remains to be determined.
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To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical trials, adverse effects, and drug interactions of lapatinib. ⋯ Lapatinib has novel, dual tyrosine kinase inhibitory properties selective for factors overexpressed in some solid tumors. Results from preclinical and Phase I/II trials indicate activity in the treatment of solid tumors, especially advanced or metastatic breast cancer. Application for approval is anticipated pending results of ongoing Phase III trials.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Meropenem by continuous versus intermittent infusion in ventilator-associated pneumonia due to gram-negative bacilli.
It is known that beta-lactam antibiotics exhibit time-dependent bactericidal activity. Several studies have found continuous infusion of meropenem more effective than intermittent infusion in maintaining constant serum concentrations in excess of the minimum inhibitory concentration. However, limited data exist on the clinical efficacy of meropenem administered by continuous infusion. ⋯ Meropenem administered by continuous infusion may have more clinical efficacy than intermittent infusion.