The Annals of pharmacotherapy
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Because both daptomycin and statins may increase creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels, the manufacturer of daptomycin suggests considering holding statins during daptomycin therapy. Published evidence suggests potential detrimental effects of withdrawing statin therapy. ⋯ Our findings suggest that holding statin during daptomycin therapy may not be necessary, but may indicate need for increased frequency of CPK monitoring when these medications are used concurrently.
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Dabigatran is a novel oral anticoagulant for which a well-defined range of toxicity and proven antidote has not been established. ⋯ Severe outcomes from dabigatran exposures were not common, occurring in approximately 5% of cases.
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To review the pharmacology, safety, and efficacy of dolutegravir, an integrase strand-transfer inhibitor (INSTI), and to discuss its role in the treatment of HIV-1-infected patients. ⋯ Dolutegravir is the first second-generation INSTI and exhibits several advantages over current integrase inhibitors and other preferred antiretrovirals. Long-term efficacy and safety are needed to define dolutegravir's role in treatment.
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Comparative Study
Intravenous metoprolol versus diltiazem for rate control in noncardiac, nonthoracic postoperative atrial fibrillation.
Little guidance exists on effective management of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) following noncardiac, nonthoracic (NCNT) surgery. ⋯ In NCNT surgery, patients with POAF, IV diltiazem more effectively controlled HR and hemodynamics compared with metoprolol. Results warrant further research into optimal medical management of POAF in this population using these 2 agents.
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Opioids are commonly used in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Negative neurodevelopmental effects in the short-term setting have been associated with opioids ; however, long-term studies have been limited. ⋯ When controlling for other variables, the cumulative fentanyl dose did not correlate with neurodevelopmental outcomes. Further evaluation of benefits and risks of opioids in premature infants are needed.