The Annals of pharmacotherapy
-
To investigate the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, adverse effects, and place in therapy of a single application of topical ivermectin 0.5% lotion for head lice treatment. ⋯ Topical ivermectin 0.5% lotion kills head lice by increasing chloride in muscle cells, causing hyperpolarization and paralysis. Only 1 application is required; when the treated eggs hatch, the lice are not viable because they cannot feed as a result of pharyngeal muscle paralysis. Minimal systemic absorption occurs following topical application. Studies have demonstrated that topical ivermectin 0.5% is a safe and efficacious treatment for head lice. Although it has no documented resistance, there is limited clinical experience, it requires a prescription, and it is expensive. Therefore it should be reserved as a third-line treatment for head lice in the United States.
-
To systematically evaluate the treatment of ICU delirium. ⋯ There is a lack of evidence supporting pharmacologic treatment for ICU delirium. Prospective, well-designed studies using proper delirium identification tools and severity are necessary to confirm the overall impact of pharmacologic therapy on the duration of delirium and associated complications.
-
To review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatments of Gaucher disease (GD), focusing on the role of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), andsubstrate reduction therapy (SRT). ⋯ There are 4 treatments available for GD1: 3 ERTs and 1 SRT. Miglustat, an SRT, is approved for mild to moderate GD1. ERTs are available for moderate to severe GD1 and can improve quality of life within the first year of treatment. The newest ERT, taliglucerase alfa, is plant-cell derived that can be produced on a large scale at lower cost. Eliglustat tartrate, another SRT, is under phase 3 clinical trials. No drugs have been approved for GD2 or GD3.