Matching articles for "aspirin"

Iloprost (Aurlumyn) for Frostbite

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 22, 2024;  (Issue 1707)
The FDA has approved Aurlumyn (Eicos Sciences), an IV formulation of the prostacyclin analog iloprost, to reduce the risk of digit amputation in adults with severe frostbite. Iloprost is the first drug to...
The FDA has approved Aurlumyn (Eicos Sciences), an IV formulation of the prostacyclin analog iloprost, to reduce the risk of digit amputation in adults with severe frostbite. Iloprost is the first drug to be approved by the FDA for treatment of severe frostbite; it has been used off-label for this indication in the EU and elsewhere for decades. In the US, iloprost is also available as an inhaled formulation (Ventavis) for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Jul 22;66(1707):114 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2023 Jun 12;65(1678):89-96 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 25, 2022;  (Issue 1655)
Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for treatment and prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), collectively referred to as venous thromboembolism (VTE). US guidelines...
Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for treatment and prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), collectively referred to as venous thromboembolism (VTE). US guidelines for treatment of VTE were updated in 2020 and 2021.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Jul 25;64(1655):113-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Vazalore - A New Aspirin Formulation

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 2, 2022;  (Issue 1649)
The FDA has approved an over-the-counter (OTC) liquid-filled capsule formulation of aspirin (Vazalore – PLx Pharma). The manufacturer has been heavily promoting Vazalore with claims of fast,...
The FDA has approved an over-the-counter (OTC) liquid-filled capsule formulation of aspirin (Vazalore – PLx Pharma). The manufacturer has been heavily promoting Vazalore with claims of fast, predictable absorption and antiplatelet activity and improved gastrointestinal safety compared to existing OTC aspirin formulations.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 May 2;64(1649):70-1 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Mar 7;64(1645):e40-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Mar 7;64(1645):33-40 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Apoaequorin (Prevagen) to Improve Memory

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 1, 2021;  (Issue 1636)
A synthetic form of the protein apoaequorin is the active ingredient in the over-the-counter dietary supplement Prevagen (Quincy Bioscience), which is heavily marketed to improve...
A synthetic form of the protein apoaequorin is the active ingredient in the over-the-counter dietary supplement Prevagen (Quincy Bioscience), which is heavily marketed to improve memory.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2021 Nov 1;63(1636):175-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: New Warnings on NSAID Use in Pregnancy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 2, 2020;  (Issue 1610)
The FDA has required a new warning in the labels of prescription and over-the-counter products containing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) advising against their use during pregnancy beginning...
The FDA has required a new warning in the labels of prescription and over-the-counter products containing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) advising against their use during pregnancy beginning at 20 weeks’ gestation because of a risk of renal dysfunction in the fetus that could lead to low amniotic fluid levels (oligohydramnios) and neonatal renal impairment. NSAID labels previously warned against use of the drugs beginning at 30 weeks' gestation because of a risk for premature closure of the ductus arteriosus and persistent neonatal pulmonary hypertension
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2020 Nov 2;62(1610):175 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2020 Oct 5;62(1608):153-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs Past Their Expiration Date

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 27, 2020;  (Issue 1603)
Healthcare providers are often asked if drugs can be used past their expiration date. Because of legal restrictions and liability concerns, manufacturers do not sanction such use and usually do not...
Healthcare providers are often asked if drugs can be used past their expiration date. Because of legal restrictions and liability concerns, manufacturers do not sanction such use and usually do not comment on the safety or effectiveness of their products beyond the date on the label. Since our last article on this subject, more data have become available.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2020 Jul 27;62(1603):117-9 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2020 Apr 20;62(1596):57-62 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drug Interaction: Opioids and Oral P2Y12 Platelet Inhibitors

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 25, 2019;  (Issue 1566)
The FDA has required manufacturers of the oral P2Y12 platelet inhibitors clopidogrel (Plavix, and generics), prasugrel (Effient, and generics), and ticagrelor (Brilinta) to warn in the product labels that...
The FDA has required manufacturers of the oral P2Y12 platelet inhibitors clopidogrel (Plavix, and generics), prasugrel (Effient, and generics), and ticagrelor (Brilinta) to warn in the product labels that the absorption of these drugs may be delayed or reduced when taken with an opioid agonist.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2019 Feb 25;61(1566):31-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) plus Aspirin for Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 3, 2018;  (Issue 1561)
The FDA has approved a new 2.5-mg formulation of the direct factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban (Xarelto – Janssen) for use in combination with low-dose aspirin to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular...
The FDA has approved a new 2.5-mg formulation of the direct factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban (Xarelto – Janssen) for use in combination with low-dose aspirin to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) or peripheral artery disease (PAD). Rivaroxaban is the first direct oral anticoagulant to be approved for this indication. It was approved earlier for prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) and for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Dec 3;60(1561):196-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Apr 9;60(1544):57-64 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 12, 2018;  (Issue 1542)
Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for treatment and prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), collectively referred to as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Updated US...
Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for treatment and prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), collectively referred to as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Updated US guidelines for treatment of VTE were published in 2016.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Mar 12;60(1542):41-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Feb 12;60(1540):24-32 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Feb 12;60(1540):e32-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for GERD and Peptic Ulcer Disease

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 15, 2018;  (Issue 1538)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most frequent GI condition encountered in the outpatient setting; it affects about 20% of the US population. Heartburn and regurgitation are the classic...
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most frequent GI condition encountered in the outpatient setting; it affects about 20% of the US population. Heartburn and regurgitation are the classic symptoms of GERD.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Jan 15;60(1538):9-16 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Safety of Long-Term PPI Use

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 14, 2017;  (Issue 1527)
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are used for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and for prevention of upper gastrointestinal adverse effects caused by NSAIDs and aspirin, are one...
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are used for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and for prevention of upper gastrointestinal adverse effects caused by NSAIDs and aspirin, are one of the most commonly prescribed classes of drugs in the US. All PPIs are similarly effective and generally well tolerated, but their long-term use has been associated with a number of safety concerns. Recommendations addressing these concerns have recently been published.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 Aug 14;59(1527):131-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 May 22;59(1521):86-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 Feb 13;59(1514):27-32 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Yosprala - A Combination of Aspirin and Omeprazole

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 30, 2017;  (Issue 1513)
The FDA has approved Yosprala (Aralez), a fixed-dose combination of delayed-release aspirin and immediate-release omeprazole, for secondary prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in...
The FDA has approved Yosprala (Aralez), a fixed-dose combination of delayed-release aspirin and immediate-release omeprazole, for secondary prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients who are at risk of developing aspirin-associated gastric ulcers (≥55 years old or history of gastric ulcers). Yosprala is the first product to become available in the US that combines aspirin and a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 Jan 30;59(1513):25-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Dichlorphenamide (Keveyis) for Periodic Paralysis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 11, 2016;  (Issue 1492)
Dichlorphenamide (Keveyis – Taro), an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of primary hypokalemic and hyperkalemic periodic paralysis and related...
Dichlorphenamide (Keveyis – Taro), an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of primary hypokalemic and hyperkalemic periodic paralysis and related variants. Dichlorphenamide is the first drug to be approved in the US for this indication. It was approved as Daranide in 1958 for treatment of glaucoma, but had not been marketed since 2002.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2016 Apr 11;58(1492):50 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2016 Mar 14;58(1490):35-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Durlaza - A 24-Hour Extended-Release Aspirin

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 18, 2016;  (Issue 1486)
The FDA has approved Durlaza (New Haven Pharmaceuticals), a 24-hour extended-release (ER) aspirin formulation available only by prescription, for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction (MI) and...
The FDA has approved Durlaza (New Haven Pharmaceuticals), a 24-hour extended-release (ER) aspirin formulation available only by prescription, for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2016 Jan 18;58(1486):7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Cangrelor (Kengreal) - An IV Antiplatelet Drug for PCI

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 26, 2015;  (Issue 1480)
The FDA has approved cangrelor (Kengreal – The Medicines Company), an IV P2Y12 platelet inhibitor, as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients who have not been pretreated with...
The FDA has approved cangrelor (Kengreal – The Medicines Company), an IV P2Y12 platelet inhibitor, as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients who have not been pretreated with a P2Y12 inhibitor and are not being given a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2015 Oct 26;57(1480):145-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Edoxaban (Savaysa) - The Fourth New Oral Anticoagulant

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 30, 2015;  (Issue 1465)
The FDA has approved edoxaban (Savaysa – Daiichi Sankyo), a once-daily, oral, direct factor Xa inhibitor, for treatment of venous thromoboembolism (VTE) and for prevention of stroke and systemic...
The FDA has approved edoxaban (Savaysa – Daiichi Sankyo), a once-daily, oral, direct factor Xa inhibitor, for treatment of venous thromoboembolism (VTE) and for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It is the fourth new oral anticoagulant to be approved for VTE and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2015 Mar 30;57(1465):43-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 22, 2014;  (Issue 1458)
For initial treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, most expert clinicians prescribe a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and add a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or a corticosteroid to...
For initial treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, most expert clinicians prescribe a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) and add a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or a corticosteroid to control symptoms. Methotrexate is generally the DMARD of choice...

DMARDs
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used early in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to achieve clinical remission, prevent irreversible damage to joints, and minimize toxicity associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids. DMARDs generally do not have an immediate analgesic effect, but over time can control symptoms and have been shown to delay and possibly stop progression of the disease. Methotrexate (Rheumatrex, and others) is generally the first DMARD prescribed; it can be used to treat mild, moderate, or severe RA. For mild disease, some clinicians prefer to start with hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil, and generics) and/or sulfasalazine (Azulfidine, and others).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Dec 22;56(1458):127-32 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antiviral Drugs for Seasonal Influenza 2014-2015

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 8, 2014;  (Issue 1457)
Antiviral drugs can be used for treatment of influenza and as an adjunct to influenza vaccination for prophylaxis. Frequently updated information on influenza activity and antiviral resistance is available...
Antiviral drugs can be used for treatment of influenza and as an adjunct to influenza vaccination for prophylaxis. Frequently updated information on influenza activity and antiviral resistance is available from the CDC at www.cdc.gov/flu.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Dec 8;56(1457):121-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Secondary Prevention of Stroke

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 8, 2014;  (Issue 1457)
Recent guidelines from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association reviewed antithrombotic therapy options for secondary prevention of stroke in patients who have had a stroke or...
Recent guidelines from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association reviewed antithrombotic therapy options for secondary prevention of stroke in patients who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Dec 8;56(1457):125-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antithrombotic Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 27, 2014;  (Issue 1454)
Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of arterial thrombosis. Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism and...
Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of arterial thrombosis. Anticoagulants are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism and for prevention of cardioembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Oct 27;56(1454):103-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Vorapaxar (Zontivity) for Prevention of Thrombotic Cardiovascular Events

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 15, 2014;  (Issue 1451)
The FDA has approved vorapaxar (Zontivity – Merck), an oral protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) antagonist, for use with aspirin and/or clopidogrel to reduce the risk of thrombotic cardiovascular events...
The FDA has approved vorapaxar (Zontivity – Merck), an oral protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1) antagonist, for use with aspirin and/or clopidogrel to reduce the risk of thrombotic cardiovascular events in patients with peripheral arterial disease or a history of myocardial infarction (MI). It is the first PAR-1 antagonist to be approved by the FDA.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Sep 15;56(1451):85-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Jul 21;56(1447):59-61 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Low-Dose Aspirin for Prevention of Preeclampsia

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 23, 2014;  (Issue 1445)
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) have recommended that women at risk for preeclampsia take low-dose aspirin daily after the...
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) have recommended that women at risk for preeclampsia take low-dose aspirin daily after the first trimester.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Jun 23;56(1445):49 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

In Brief: Enteric-Coated Aspirin as an Antiplatelet Drug

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 28, 2014;  (Issue 1441)
One of our readers has suggested that more attention should have been paid to a study comparing the antiplatelet effects of immediate-release and enteric-coated aspirin that appeared in Circulation last year.1...
One of our readers has suggested that more attention should have been paid to a study comparing the antiplatelet effects of immediate-release and enteric-coated aspirin that appeared in Circulation last year.1 The safety benefits of enteric-coated aspirin are unclear. It may protect against dyspepsia, but not against major gastrointestinal bleeding, which is thought to be mainly a systemic effect of prostaglandin inhibition.

ANTIPLATELET EFFECTS OF ASPIRIN — Aspirin irreversibly acetylates cyclooxygenase-1, blocking thromboxane synthesis and inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation for the life of the platelet (5-7 days). Aspirin prophylaxis reduces the incidence of myocardial infarction and/or death by 15-25% in patients with coronary heart disease or ischemic stroke, and in those undergoing angioplasty or a coronary artery bypass graft. Aspirin can also prevent myocardial infarction in asymptomatic men and ischemic stroke in asymptomatic women, but the risk-benefit ratio is less favorable because the thrombotic risk is lower and the benefit in preventing thrombosis is offset by a small risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or hemorrhagic stroke.2

THE STUDY — The effects of a single 325-mg dose of immediate-release or enteric-coated aspirin on platelet aggregation were assessed 4 or 8 hours post-dose in 400 healthy volunteers. The rate of platelet nonresponse (<60% inhibition of platelet aggregation) to enteric-coated aspirin was 49% at 4 hours and 17% at 8 hours; ex vivo addition of aspirin to the samples reduced the rates of nonresponse to 12% and 0%, respectively. The rate of nonresponse to immediate-release aspirin was 0%.1

CONCLUSION — A study in healthy volunteers (not patients with atherosclerosis) of the effect of a single 325-mg dose of immediate-release or enteric-coated aspirin (not the usual recommended maintenance dose of 81 mg) on platelet response (not cardiovascular events) has limited applicability to clinical practice. Nevertheless, most patients who take aspirin for prophylaxis might be well advised to take regular aspirin.

1. T Grosser et al. Drug resistance and pseudoresistance: an unintended consequence of enteric coating aspirin. Circulation 2013; 127:377.

2. Antithrombotic drugs. Treat Guidel Med Lett 2011; 9:61.

Download complete U.S. English article

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Apr 28;56(1441):36 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2013 Dec;11(136):107-12 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2013 Apr;11(128):31-42 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

A Fixed-Dose Combination of Ibuprofen and Famotidine (Duexis)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2011;  (Issue 1376)
The FDA has approved Duexis (Horizon), a fixed-dose combination of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen and the H2-receptor antagonist (H2RA) famotidine, for symptomatic relief of...
The FDA has approved Duexis (Horizon), a fixed-dose combination of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen and the H2-receptor antagonist (H2RA) famotidine, for symptomatic relief of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and to decrease the risk of developing gastric and duodenal ulcers in patients at risk for NSAID-associated ulcers. Vimovo, a combination of the NSAID naproxen and the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) esomeprazole, is also approved by the FDA for prevention of NSAID-associated gastric ulcers.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2011 Oct 31;53(1376):85-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antithrombotic Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 1, 2011;  (Issue 110)
Arterial thrombi are composed mainly of platelet aggregates held together by small amounts of fibrin. Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of arterial thrombosis, but...
Arterial thrombi are composed mainly of platelet aggregates held together by small amounts of fibrin. Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of arterial thrombosis, but anticoagulants are also effective, and their effects can add to those of antiplatelet drugs. Venous thrombi are composed mainly of fibrin and trapped red blood cells, with relatively few platelets. Anticoagulants are the agents of choice for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism and for prevention of cardioembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2011 Oct;9(110):61-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Ticagrelor (Brilinta) - Better than Clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 5, 2011;  (Issue 1372)
The FDA has approved ticagrelor (Brilinta – AstraZeneca), an oral antiplatelet drug, for use with low-dose aspirin to reduce the rate of thrombotic cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary...
The FDA has approved ticagrelor (Brilinta – AstraZeneca), an oral antiplatelet drug, for use with low-dose aspirin to reduce the rate of thrombotic cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). It will compete with clopidogrel (Plavix) and prasugrel (Effient) for such use. Clopidogrel is expected to become available generically in the US within the next few months.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2011 Sep 5;53(1372):69-70 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2011 Feb;9(102):7-12 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2010 Sep;8(97):65-70 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2010 Apr;8(92):25-34 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2009;  (Issue 81)
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are now used early in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to prevent irreversible damage to joints and minimize toxicities associated with nonsteroidal...
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are now used early in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to prevent irreversible damage to joints and minimize toxicities associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2009 May;7(81):37-46 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antiplatelet Therapy for Patients with Stents

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 11, 2008;  (Issue 1292)
The antiplatelet agents aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix, and others) are used in most patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to prevent stent thrombosis and to reduce the occurrence of...
The antiplatelet agents aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix, and others) are used in most patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to prevent stent thrombosis and to reduce the occurrence of peri-, post-procedural and late cardiovascular events. Despite a large number of randomized trials of these agents in such patients, the optimal dosage and duration of treatment with these drugs, and whether other drugs should be added, is unclear.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2008 Aug 11;50(1292):61-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2008 Jun 16;50(1288):45-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2008;  (Issue 69)
Arterial and venous thrombosis are major causes of morbidity and mortality. Arterial thrombi consist of platelet aggregates held together by small amounts of fibrin. Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice...
Arterial and venous thrombosis are major causes of morbidity and mortality. Arterial thrombi consist of platelet aggregates held together by small amounts of fibrin. Antiplatelet drugs are the drugs of choice for prevention and treatment of arterial thrombosis, but anticoagulants are also effective, and their effects can add to those of antiplatelet drugs. Venous thrombi are composed mainly of fibrin and trapped red blood cells, with relatively few platelets. Anticoagulants are the agents of choice for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism and for prevention of cardioembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 May;6(69):29-36 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Mar;6(67):17-22 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2007 Apr;5(56):23-32 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2006 Sep;4(49):61-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Aspirin for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease (Revisited)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 3, 2006;  (Issue 1238)
When the use of aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases was last reviewed in The Medical Letter, only one placebo-controlled prospective trial was available: the (male) Physicians' Health...
When the use of aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases was last reviewed in The Medical Letter, only one placebo-controlled prospective trial was available: the (male) Physicians' Health Study. Last year, a second large, randomized, placebo-controlled study was reported as part of the Women's Health Study. Recently a sex-specific meta-analysis of 6 trials, including these two, was published.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2006 Jul 3;48(1238):53 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Clopidogrel (Plavix) Revisited

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 10, 2006;  (Issue 1232)
Clopidogrel (Plavix - Sanofi-Aventis and Bristol-Myers Squibb), an oral thienopyridine that inhibits platelet aggregation, is now being advertised directly to the public on television. Clopidogrel is approved...
Clopidogrel (Plavix - Sanofi-Aventis and Bristol-Myers Squibb), an oral thienopyridine that inhibits platelet aggregation, is now being advertised directly to the public on television. Clopidogrel is approved by the FDA for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and other vascular events and for use in patients with acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina or non-ST-elevation MI), including those undergoing angioplasty. It is used off-label for patients with ST-elevation acute MI
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2006 Apr 10;48(1232):29-31 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2006 Jan 2;48(1225):3-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 1, 2005;  (Issue 40)
To prevent irreversible damage to joints and minimize toxicities associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are now used...
To prevent irreversible damage to joints and minimize toxicities associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are now used early in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The DMARDs listed in the table on page 84 have no immediate analgesic effects, but can control symptoms and have been shown to delay and possibly stop progression of the disease. The NSAIDs listed in the table on page 88 have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but may not affect the disease process. Oral corticosteroids can rapidly relieve joint symptoms and control systemic manifestations, but their chronic use is associated with many complications.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2005 Dec;3(40):83-90 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antifungal Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2005;  (Issue 30)
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the table that begins on page 8. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the...
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the table that begins on page 8. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2005 Feb;3(30):7-14 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Percutaneous Coronary Interventions

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 6, 2004;  (Issue 1197)
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), such as balloon angioplasty or stent placement, predisposes to subsequent thrombosis. The current pharmacologic approach to prevention of this problem combines an...
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), such as balloon angioplasty or stent placement, predisposes to subsequent thrombosis. The current pharmacologic approach to prevention of this problem combines an anticoagulant with one or more antiplatelet drugs.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Dec 6;46(1197):100 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2004 Sep;2(25):63-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2004 Jul;2(23):47-54 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Intermittent Claudication

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 16, 2004;  (Issue 1176)
Management of intermittent claudication, the most common symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), involves both risk factor modification and symptomatic treatment (WR Hiatt, N Engl J Med 2001; 344:1608; RM...
Management of intermittent claudication, the most common symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), involves both risk factor modification and symptomatic treatment (WR Hiatt, N Engl J Med 2001; 344:1608; RM Schainfeld, J Am Board Fam Pract 2001; 14:443).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Feb 16;46(1176):13-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 1, 2003;  (Issue 5)
Many different drugs are now used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), listed in the table on page 26, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but may not affect...
Many different drugs are now used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), listed in the table on page 26, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but may not affect the disease process. Corticosteroids can provide rapid relief of joint symptoms and control of systemic manifestations, but chronic use is associated with many complications. The "disease-modifying" anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), listed on page 29, have no immediate analgesic effects, but can control symptoms and may delay progression of the disease (American College of Rheumatology Subcommittee on Rheumatoid Arthritis Guidelines, Arthritis Rheum 2002; 46:328). Interactions of anti-rheumatic drugs with other drugs are listed in The Medical Letter Handbook of Adverse Drug Interactions, 2003.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2003 Jan;1(5):25-32 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Valdecoxib (Bextra) - a New Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitor

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 29, 2002;  (Issue 1129)
Valdecoxib (Bextra - Pharmacia/Pfizer), a selective cyclooxygenase (COX-2) inhibitor similar to celecoxib (Celebrex) and rofecoxib (Vioxx), was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of osteoarthritis,...
Valdecoxib (Bextra - Pharmacia/Pfizer), a selective cyclooxygenase (COX-2) inhibitor similar to celecoxib (Celebrex) and rofecoxib (Vioxx), was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and primary dysmenorrhea.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2002 Apr 29;44(1129):39-41 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Bivalirudin (Angiomax) For Angioplasty

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 30, 2001;  (Issue 1103)
Bivalirudin is being promoted as an intravenous (IV) anticoagulant that can be used instead of heparin in patients with unstable angina undergoing coronary...
Bivalirudin is being promoted as an intravenous (IV) anticoagulant that can be used instead of heparin in patients with unstable angina undergoing coronary angioplasty.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2001 Apr 30;43(1103):37-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs that may cause Cognitive Disorders in the Elderly

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 27, 2000;  (Issue 1093)
Older patients are especially susceptible to drug-induced cognitive impairment. They are more likely to be taking multiple drugs, to have higher blood levels of those drugs because of renal or hepatic...
Older patients are especially susceptible to drug-induced cognitive impairment. They are more likely to be taking multiple drugs, to have higher blood levels of those drugs because of renal or hepatic dysfunction, and to have pre-existing cognitive problems that make it difficult to detect the role of drugs causing new symptoms or making old ones worse.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Nov 27;42(1093):111-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tenecteplase (TNKase) for Thrombolysis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 13, 2000;  (Issue 1092)
Tenecteplase, a recombinant variant of human tissue plasminogen activator, is now available for thrombolysis in patients with acute myocardial...
Tenecteplase, a recombinant variant of human tissue plasminogen activator, is now available for thrombolysis in patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Nov 13;42(1092):106-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Aug 21;42(1085):73-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs For Rheumatoid Arthritis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 10, 2000;  (Issue 1082)
Many different drugs are now used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but may not affect the disease process. The...
Many different drugs are now used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, but may not affect the disease process. The "disease-modifying anti-rheumatic"drugs (DMARDs) have no immediate analgesic effects, but can control symptoms and may delay progression of the disease.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Jul 10;42(1082):57-64 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Aggrenox: A Combination of Antiplatelet Drugs for Stroke Prevention

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 7, 2000;  (Issue 1071)
Aggrenox, a fixed-dose oral combination of aspirin and extended-release dipyridamole, is now being advertised for secondary prevention of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or ischemic...
Aggrenox, a fixed-dose oral combination of aspirin and extended-release dipyridamole, is now being advertised for secondary prevention of a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or ischemic stroke.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Feb 7;42(1071):11-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Oct 9;40(1037):97-100 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Aug 14;40(1033):79-84 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Clopidogrel for Reduction of Atherosclerotic Events

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 5, 1998;  (Issue 1028)
Clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix - Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi), a new thienopyridine antiplatelet agent similar to ticlopidine (Ticlid - Medical Letter, 34:65, 1992), has been approved by the US Food and Drug...
Clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix - Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi), a new thienopyridine antiplatelet agent similar to ticlopidine (Ticlid - Medical Letter, 34:65, 1992), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction, stroke and other vascular events.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Jun 5;40(1028):59-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Acetaminophen, Nsaids and Alcohol

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 21, 1996;  (Issue 977)
An advertising war between manufacturers of over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics has led some patients to ask their physicians about the safety of taking these products if they also drink...
An advertising war between manufacturers of over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics has led some patients to ask their physicians about the safety of taking these products if they also drink alcohol.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Jun 21;38(977):55-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Acute Reactions to Drugs of Abuse

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 10, 1996;  (Issue 974)
Acute toxic reactions to drugs of abuse continue to be important problems. Since the last Medical Letter article on this subject (volume 32, page 92, 1990), new reactions and new approaches to treating them...
Acute toxic reactions to drugs of abuse continue to be important problems. Since the last Medical Letter article on this subject (volume 32, page 92, 1990), new reactions and new approaches to treating them have been reported.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 May 10;38(974):43-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Jul 7;37(952):59-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Mar 3;37(943):17-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Aspirin for Prevention of Myocardial Infarction

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 17, 1995;  (Issue 942)
Aspirin is now widely used for antithrombotic prophylaxis in patients who have had angina pectoris or a myocardial infarction and has also been tried in healthy people to prevent myocardial infarction. Recent...
Aspirin is now widely used for antithrombotic prophylaxis in patients who have had angina pectoris or a myocardial infarction and has also been tried in healthy people to prevent myocardial infarction. Recent studies have focused on increasingly lower doses of the drug. The use of aspirin in patients who have had transient ischemic attacks or strokes will not be discussed here.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Feb 17;37(942):14-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Aprotinin To Decrease Bleeding in Cardiac Surgery

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 10, 1994;  (Issue 924)
Aprotinin (Trasylol - Miles), an inhibitor of fibrinolysis first identified in 1930, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for intravenous use in high-risk coronary artery bypass graft...
Aprotinin (Trasylol - Miles), an inhibitor of fibrinolysis first identified in 1930, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for intravenous use in high-risk coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery to decrease bleeding and the need for transfusion. Inhibitors of fibrinolysis previously available in the USA include aminocaproic acid (Amicar, and others) and tranexamic acid (Cyklokapron - Medical Letter, 29:89, 1987).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Jun 10;36(924):50-1 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Jan 8;35(887):1-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Sumatriptan for Migraine

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 2, 1992;  (Issue 880)
Sumatriptan (soo ma trip' tan; Imitrex - Glaxo), a serotonin (5-HT) agonist, is now available in Canada and may soon be available in the USA for oral or parenteral treatment of migraine headache. The...
Sumatriptan (soo ma trip' tan; Imitrex - Glaxo), a serotonin (5-HT) agonist, is now available in Canada and may soon be available in the USA for oral or parenteral treatment of migraine headache. The parenteral formulation is designed for patients to inject themselves subcutaneously. Sumatriptan is not recommended for prophylactic use.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Oct 2;34(880):91-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Ticlopidine

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 10, 1992;  (Issue 874)
hydrochloride (Ticlid - Syntex), a platelet aggregation inhibitor that has been available in Europe for more than a decade, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to decrease the risk...
hydrochloride (Ticlid - Syntex), a platelet aggregation inhibitor that has been available in Europe for more than a decade, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to decrease the risk of thrombotic stroke in men and women who have had premonitory signs of stroke or have had a completed thrombotic stroke. The manufacturer is promoting the drug for patients intolerant to aspirin or with conditions for which aspirin has not been approved (previous thrombotic stroke; transient ischemic attacks in women). The drug has also been used for prevention of myocardial infarction.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Jul 10;34(874):65-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Nabumetone - A New Nsaid

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 17, 1992;  (Issue 868)
Nabumetone (Relafen - SmithKline Beecham), a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis....
Nabumetone (Relafen - SmithKline Beecham), a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The drug has been available in the United Kingdom since 1987. The manufacturer claims that nabumetone is as effective as other NSAIDs and causes a relatively low incidence of peptic ulcers.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Apr 17;34(868):38-40 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Feb 21;34(864):14-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs For Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 1991;  (Issue 858)
Drugs that accelerate healing and prevent relapse or reurrence of peptic ulcers act either by decreasing gastric acidity or by enhancing mucosal defense mechanisms. Risk factors that may cause breakdown of...
Drugs that accelerate healing and prevent relapse or reurrence of peptic ulcers act either by decreasing gastric acidity or by enhancing mucosal defense mechanisms. Risk factors that may cause breakdown of mucosal defenses include the use of aspirinor other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacterial in the gastric antrum (AH Soll, Engl J Med, 322:909, 1990; WL Peterson, N Engl J Med, 324:1043, 1991).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Nov 29;33(858):111-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Aug 23;33(851):79-80 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs That Cause Pulmonary Toxicity

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 21, 1990;  (Issue 827)
Some commonly used systemic drugs that may cause pulmonary toxicity are listed in the table below. These adverse effects may sometimes be difficult to distinguish from the underlying disease (JAD Cooper, Jr...
Some commonly used systemic drugs that may cause pulmonary toxicity are listed in the table below. These adverse effects may sometimes be difficult to distinguish from the underlying disease (JAD Cooper, Jr et al, Am Rev Respir Dis, 133:321, 488, 1986). Pulmonary effects that are part of a generalized reaction or are indirect effects of drugs - on respiratory muscles, for example, or on the immune system - are not included here.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1990 Sep 21;32(827):88-90 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Fungal Infections

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 15, 1990;  (Issue 820)
...
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1990 Jun 15;32(820):58-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Aspirin For Prevention Of Myocardial Infarction And Stroke

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 25, 1989;  (Issue 799)
Taking aspirin to prevent recurrence or worsening of cardiovascular disease has become a common practice in recent years (Medical Letter, 28:31, 1986). Now, the US Food and Drug Administration is considering...
Taking aspirin to prevent recurrence or worsening of cardiovascular disease has become a common practice in recent years (Medical Letter, 28:31, 1986). Now, the US Food and Drug Administration is considering whether aspirin can also be advertised for prevention of a first myocardial infarction in previously healthy people.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1989 Aug 25;31(799):77-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Flurbiprofen

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 7, 1989;  (Issue 789)
Flurbiprofen (Ansaid - Upjohn), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in some countries since 1977, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of rheumatoid...
Flurbiprofen (Ansaid - Upjohn), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in some countries since 1977, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Flurbiprofen is a fluorinated phenylalkanoic acid derivative structurally related to ibuprofen (Motrin;and others).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1989 Apr 7;31(789):31-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Diclofenac

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 2, 1988;  (Issue 780)
Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren - Geigy), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in some countries since 1974, was recently introduced in the USA for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis,...
Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren - Geigy), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in some countries since 1974, was recently introduced in the USA for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. It is being promoted as 'The number one prescribed antiarthritic in the world.'
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1988 Dec 2;30(780):109-11 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

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.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1988 Mar 11;30(761):30-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction