Matching articles for "phenytoin"

Comparison Table: Some Oral Antiseizure Medications (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 5, 2024;  (Issue 1708)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Oral Antiseizure Medications
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Aug 5;66(1708):e133-40 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 5, 2024;  (Issue 1708)
When used for the appropriate seizure type, antiseizure medications (ASMs) are roughly equivalent in efficacy. In addition to the seizure type, the choice of drug is usually based on factors such as ease of...
When used for the appropriate seizure type, antiseizure medications (ASMs) are roughly equivalent in efficacy. In addition to the seizure type, the choice of drug is usually based on factors such as ease of use, spectrum of activity, adverse effects, interactions with other drugs, presence of comorbid conditions, suitability for elderly persons and those with childbearing potential, and cost. Treatment should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures persist, expert clinicians generally try at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2024 Aug 5;66(1708):121-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 31, 2017;  (Issue 1526)
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single antiepileptic drug (AED), increasing its dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become intolerable. If seizures...
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single antiepileptic drug (AED), increasing its dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become intolerable. If seizures persist, specialists generally recommend trying at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs concurrently. When used for the appropriate seizure type, AEDs are roughly equivalent in efficacy. Drug choice is usually based on factors such as ease of use, adverse effects, drug interactions, presence of comorbidities, and cost.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 Jul 31;59(1526):121-30 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Comparison Table: Some Oral Antiepileptic Drugs (online only)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 31, 2017;  (Issue 1526)
...
View the Comparison Table: Some Oral Antiepileptic Drugs
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2017 Jul 31;59(1526):e130-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Hypothyroidism

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 26, 2015;  (Issue 1480)
Primary hypothyroidism is usually the result of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroidectomy, or radioactive iodine therapy. Treatment of hypothyroidism with replacement doses of thyroid hormone is...
Primary hypothyroidism is usually the result of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroidectomy, or radioactive iodine therapy. Treatment of hypothyroidism with replacement doses of thyroid hormone is usually lifelong. Levothyroxine is the drug of choice.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2015 Oct 26;57(1480):147-50 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 7, 2014;  (Issue 1446)
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes anticoagulation, rate control, and rhythm control. New US guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation have recently been...
The treatment of atrial fibrillation includes anticoagulation, rate control, and rhythm control. New US guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation have recently been published.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Jul 7;56(1446):53-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Perampanel (Fycompa) for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 3, 2014;  (Issue 1435)
Perampanel (per am’ pa nel; Fycompa – Eisai), a first-in-class noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist, has been approved by the FDA for adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients ≥12...
Perampanel (per am’ pa nel; Fycompa – Eisai), a first-in-class noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist, has been approved by the FDA for adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients ≥12 years old. New drugs for epilepsy are often initially approved by the FDA as adjunctive treatment for partial seizures.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2014 Feb 3;56(1435):9-10 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2013;  (Issue 126)
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures persist, expert clinicians...
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures persist, expert clinicians generally prescribe at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time. When used for the appropriate seizure type, antiepileptic drugs are roughly equivalent in efficacy. The choice of drug is usually based on factors such as ease of use, adverse effects, interactions with other drugs, presence of comorbid conditions and cost.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2013 Feb;11(126):9-18 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Ezogabine (Potiga) for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 20, 2012;  (Issue 1397)
The FDA has approved ezogabine (ee-ZOE-ga-been; Potiga – GSK/Valeant) for oral adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults. Ezogabine is available in Europe as retigabine...
The FDA has approved ezogabine (ee-ZOE-ga-been; Potiga – GSK/Valeant) for oral adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults. Ezogabine is available in Europe as retigabine (Trobalt).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2012 Aug 20;54(1397):65-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of ADHD

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2011;  (Issue 105)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disruptive behavior disorder that occurs in about 5% of school-age children, most often in boys, and frequently persists into young...
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disruptive behavior disorder that occurs in about 5% of school-age children, most often in boys, and frequently persists into young adulthood.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2011 May;9(105):23-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Vigabatrin (Sabril) for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 22, 2010;  (Issue 1332)
The FDA has approved vigabatrin (vye gá ba trin; Sabril – Lundbeck) for oral use as add-on therapy for complex partial seizures in adults who are refractory to several antiepileptic drugs and as monotherapy...
The FDA has approved vigabatrin (vye gá ba trin; Sabril – Lundbeck) for oral use as add-on therapy for complex partial seizures in adults who are refractory to several antiepileptic drugs and as monotherapy for infantile spasms. Vigabatrin has been available in other countries for many years. Because of its potential for retinal toxicity, it will be available in the US only through a restricted distribution program called SHARE (Support, Help and Resources for Epilepsy). Prescribers and pharmacists distributing the drug must register, and patients must undergo visual field testing.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2010 Feb 22;52(1332):14-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antifungal Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 1, 2009;  (Issue 88)
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. More detailed guidelines are available online from...
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. More detailed guidelines are available online from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (www.idsociety.org).
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2009 Dec;7(88):95-102 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Dronedarone (Multaq) for Atrial Fibrillation

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 5, 2009;  (Issue 1322)
Dronedarone (Multaq - Sanofi-Aventis) has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter. Amiodarone (Cordarone, and others) is the most effective drug for this indication, but...
Dronedarone (Multaq - Sanofi-Aventis) has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter. Amiodarone (Cordarone, and others) is the most effective drug for this indication, but has considerable toxicity.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009 Oct 5;51(1322):78-80 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Thyroid Disorders

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2009;  (Issue 84)
Primary hypothyroidism is usually the result of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism, goiter or cancer, or radioactive iodine therapy for...
Primary hypothyroidism is usually the result of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism, goiter or cancer, or radioactive iodine therapy for hyperthyroidism.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2009 Aug;7(84):57-64 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Lacosamide for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 29, 2009;  (Issue 1315)
The FDA has approved lacosamide (Vimpat - UCB Pharma) for oral or intravenous (IV) use as add-on therapy in adults with partial-onset...
The FDA has approved lacosamide (Vimpat - UCB Pharma) for oral or intravenous (IV) use as add-on therapy in adults with partial-onset seizures.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009 Jun 29;51(1315):50-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Rufinamide (Banzel) for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 9, 2009;  (Issue 1307)
Rufinamide (Banzel - Eisai), a triazole derivative structurally unrelated to other marketed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut...
Rufinamide (Banzel - Eisai), a triazole derivative structurally unrelated to other marketed antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in patients ≥4 years old.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009 Mar 9;51(1307):18-20 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drug Interactions with Simvastatin

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 20, 2008;  (Issue 1297)
A recent letter to the editor of the Annals of Internal Medicine documented a single case of myopathy apparently due to an interaction between simvastatin (Zocor, and others) and green tea. Since it became...
A recent letter to the editor of the Annals of Internal Medicine documented a single case of myopathy apparently due to an interaction between simvastatin (Zocor, and others) and green tea. Since it became available generically, simvastatin has surpassed atorvastatin (Lipitor) as the best selling statin. As such, it is probably the most common cause of statin-induced myopathy, which is often a result of drug interactions.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2008 Oct 20;50(1297):83-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Tobacco Dependence

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2008;  (Issue 73)
Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. The greater the number of office visits and the longer the counseling time, the higher the smoking...
Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. The greater the number of office visits and the longer the counseling time, the higher the smoking cessation rates have been.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Sep;6(73):61-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Treatment of Peptic Ulcers and GERD

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2008;  (Issue 72)
Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. Most duodenal and other gastric ulcers are caused by the gram-negative bacillus Helicobacter...
Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. Most duodenal and other gastric ulcers are caused by the gram-negative bacillus Helicobacter pylori. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by gastric acid reflux into the esophagus. Drugs that suppress gastric acid production are the primary treatment for GERD and peptic ulcers.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Aug;6(72):55-60 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Addendum: Warfarin-Acetaminophen Interaction

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 16, 2008;  (Issue 1288)
A reader expressed disappointment that our recent listing of “Some Warfarin Drug Interactions”1 did not include acetaminophen. Perhaps it should have. Acetaminophen can increase the anticoagulant effect of...
A reader expressed disappointment that our recent listing of “Some Warfarin Drug Interactions”1 did not include acetaminophen. Perhaps it should have. Acetaminophen can increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, particularly with continued use, but it does so inconsistently. The mechanism of this interaction has not been established, but may be related to an acetaminophen metabolite inhibiting vitamin K-epoxide reductase, the target for warfarin’s anticoagulant effect.2

Patient susceptibility varies, possibly on a genetic basis; occasional use of acetaminophen generally has little or no effect on the international normalized ratio (INR) in patients on chronic warfarin therapy, but in some, even a few grams of the drug may cause a dramatic increase in INR. One study in healthy subjects found no effect of acetaminophen 4 g per day for 2 weeks, while another study in patients with the same acetaminophen dose for the same period of time found a moderate increase in INR.3,4 It might be prudent to monitor INR in patients on chronic warfarin therapy more closely than usual when they take more than 2 g per day of acetaminophen for more than a few days.

1. Pharmacogenetic-based dosing of warfarin. Med Lett Drugs Ther 2008; 50:39.
2. HH Thijssen et al. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) warfarin interaction: NAPQI, the toxic metabolite of paracetamol, is an inhibitor of enzymes in the vitamin K cycle. Thromb Haemost 2004; 92:797.
3. D Kwan et al. The effects of acetaminophen on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of warfarin. J Clin Pharmacol 1999; 39:68.
4. I Mahe et al. Paracetamol: A haemorrhagic risk factor in patients on warfarin. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2005; 59:371.

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

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 1, 2008;  (Issue 70)
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases...
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases appear inadvisable because of adverse effects, most Medical Letter consultants generally prescribe at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time. Most antiepileptic drugs initially approved by the FDA only as adjunctive therapy for partial seizures may also be effective for other types of seizures and as monotherapy. Studies suggest that when used for the appropriate seizure type, antiepileptic drugs are roughly equivalent in efficacy. The choice of a drug is usually based on factors such as ease of use, adverse effects and cost.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Jun;6(70):37-46 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Pharmacogenetic-Based Dosing of Warfarin

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 19, 2008;  (Issue 1286)
Warfarin sodium (Coumadin, and others) and other coumarin anticoagulants prevent thrombosis, but patient response is highly variable and overanticoagulation can lead to hemorrhage. Genotyping patients for...
Warfarin sodium (Coumadin, and others) and other coumarin anticoagulants prevent thrombosis, but patient response is highly variable and overanticoagulation can lead to hemorrhage. Genotyping patients for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that affect coumarin metabolism and sensitivity may help clinicians estimate the therapeutic warfarin dose. The FDA has added a note to warfarin labeling recommending lowrange doses for patients with such genetic variations. Commercial tests for these variants are now available and cost about $500 per test.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2008 May 19;50(1286):39-40 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Antifungal Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 1, 2008;  (Issue 65)
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the tables. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. Other guidelines are available from...
The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the tables. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. Other guidelines are available from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (www.idsociety.org).
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Jan;6(65):1-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 1, 2005;  (Issue 39)
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases...
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases appear inadvisable because of adverse effects, most Medical Letter consultants generally prescribe at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time. Most antiepileptic drugs initially approved by the FDA only as adjunctive therapy for partial seizures may also be effective for other types of seizures and as monotherapy.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2005 Nov;3(39):75-82 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Pregabalin (Lyrica) for Neuropathic Pain and Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 12, 2005;  (Issue 1217)
Pregabalin (Lyrica - Pfizer), a structural analog of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) similar to gabapentin (Neurontin - Pfizer, and others), which recently became available generically, has been approved by the...
Pregabalin (Lyrica - Pfizer), a structural analog of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) similar to gabapentin (Neurontin - Pfizer, and others), which recently became available generically, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of neuropathic pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), and for adjunctive treatment of partial onset seizures in adults with epilepsy.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Sep 12;47(1217):75-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

AmpliChip CYP450 Test

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 15, 2005;  (Issue 1215)
The FDA recently cleared the AmpliChip CYP450 Test (Roche), which analyzes blood-derived DNA to detect genetic variations in the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 and determines the...
The FDA recently cleared the AmpliChip CYP450 Test (Roche), which analyzes blood-derived DNA to detect genetic variations in the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 and determines the metabolizer status of the patient. The test is intended to help guide clinicians in prescribing individualized drug therapy. About 25% of all drugs, including many antidepressants and antipsychotics, are substrates of either CYP2D6 or CYP2C19. The test is being promoted initially to psychiatrists.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Aug 15;47(1215):71-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

CYP3A and Drug Interactions

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 4, 2005;  (Issue 1212)
Serious adverse interactions between drugs continue to be reported. Many of these are due to inhibition or induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, particularly CYP3A4. CYP3A is thought to be involved in the...
Serious adverse interactions between drugs continue to be reported. Many of these are due to inhibition or induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, particularly CYP3A4. CYP3A is thought to be involved in the metabolism of more than 50 percent of currently prescribed drugs.2 CYP3A4, which is more abundantly expressed than CYP3A5, accounts for most CYP3A activity in vivo.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Jul 4;47(1212):54-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Erlotinib (Tarceva) for Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 28, 2005;  (Issue 1205)
Erlotinib (Tarceva) is the second oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor to become available in the US for treatment of advanced refractory NSCLC. In clinical trials, erlotinib produced a...
Erlotinib (Tarceva) is the second oral epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor to become available in the US for treatment of advanced refractory NSCLC. In clinical trials, erlotinib produced a response rate of only 8.9%, but increased median survival from 4.7 to 6.7 months. Patients who had never smoked and those with EGFR-positive tumors survived longer. Erlotinib is generally well tolerated; diarrhea and rash are the most common adverse effects.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Mar 28;47(1205):25-6 | 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

Topiramate (Topamax) for Prevention of Migraine

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 31, 2005;  (Issue 1201)
Patients with frequent, severe or disabling migraine headaches may benefit from taking a drug to prevent the attacks. Beta-blockers traditionally have been the prophylactic treatment of choice, but in recent...
Patients with frequent, severe or disabling migraine headaches may benefit from taking a drug to prevent the attacks. Beta-blockers traditionally have been the prophylactic treatment of choice, but in recent years some antiepileptic drugs such as valproate (Depakote, and others) and topiramate (Topamax) have also been used for this indication. Valproate was approved by the FDA for such use in 1996. Now topiramate has also been approved.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Jan 31;47(1201):9-10 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Tinidazole (Tindamax) - A New Anti-Protozoal Drug

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 30, 2004;  (Issue 1190)
Tinidazole (Tindamax - Presutti Labs), an oral antiprotozoal drug similar to metronidazole (Flagyl, and others), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of trichomoniasis in adults and for treatment of...
Tinidazole (Tindamax - Presutti Labs), an oral antiprotozoal drug similar to metronidazole (Flagyl, and others), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of trichomoniasis in adults and for treatment of giardiasis, intestinal amebiasis and amebic liver abcess in adults and children more than 3 years old. Tinidazole has been widely used outside of the US for decades under the trade name Fasigyn (Pfizer).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Aug 30;46(1190):70-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Telithromycin (Ketek) for Respiratory Infections

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 16, 2004;  (Issue 1189)
Telithromycin (Ketek - Aventis) has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and acute bacterial sinusitis in...
Telithromycin (Ketek - Aventis) has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of mild to moderate community-acquired pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and acute bacterial sinusitis in patients age 18 and older. The drug is the first in a new class of antibiotics, the ketolides, derived from the macrolide erythromycin. Telithromycin has been marketed in Europe since 2001.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Aug 16;46(1189):66-8 | 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

New Indications for Modafinil (Provigil)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 26, 2004;  (Issue 1181)
Modafinil (Provigil - Cephalon; Alertec - Draxis in Canada), first approved by the FDA in 1999 for treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy (Medical Letter 1999; 41:30), has now also...
Modafinil (Provigil - Cephalon; Alertec - Draxis in Canada), first approved by the FDA in 1999 for treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy (Medical Letter 1999; 41:30), has now also been approved for treatment of patients with excessive sleepiness due to obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) or shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) (DSM-IV, text revision, Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association, 2000, page 622).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Apr 26;46(1181):34-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Peptic Ulcers

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2004;  (Issue 18)
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related...
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related ulcers are gastric. H. pylori infection causes both duodenal and gastric ulcers. Eradication of H. pylori promotes healing and markedly decreases recurrence of both duodenal and gastric ulcers (A Shiotamni and DY Graham, Med Clin North Am 2002; 86:1447; FKL Chan and WK Leung, Lancet 2002; 360:933). The first step in the management of peptic ulcers is the diagnosis and treatment of H. pylori.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2004 Feb;2(18):7-12 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drug Interactions

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 8, 2003;  (Issue 1158)
Changes caused by one drug in the absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion of another may lead to a pharmacokinetic adverse drug interaction (DN Juurlink et al, JAMA 2003; 289:1652). Additive drug...
Changes caused by one drug in the absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion of another may lead to a pharmacokinetic adverse drug interaction (DN Juurlink et al, JAMA 2003; 289:1652). Additive drug interactions, such as vasodilation caused by both sildenafil (Viagra) and nitrates, can also have adverse effects.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2003 Jun 8;45(1158):46-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 1, 2003;  (Issue 9)
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases...
Treatment of epilepsy should begin with a single drug, increasing the dosage gradually until seizures are controlled or adverse effects become unacceptable. If seizures continue and further dosage increases appear inadvisable because of adverse effects, most Medical Letter consultants generally prescribe at least one and sometimes a second alternative drug as monotherapy before considering use of two drugs at the same time. Most antiepileptic drugs initially approved by the FDA only for adjunctive therapy are probably also effective as monotherapy. Many of the drugs used to treat epilepsy interact with each other (see table beginning on page 63) and with other drugs; for interactions with other drugs, see The Medical Letter Handbook of Adverse Drug Interactions, 2003. The treatment of status epilepticus is not included here.
Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2003 May;1(9):57-64 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Generic drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 14, 2002;  (Issue 1141)
When patents expire on brand-name drugs and generic formulations become available, patients and managed care organizations may express a preference for the lower-cost generics. Are they equivalent to the...
When patents expire on brand-name drugs and generic formulations become available, patients and managed care organizations may express a preference for the lower-cost generics. Are they equivalent to the brand-name product?
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2002 Oct 14;44(1141):89-90 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Gleevec (STI-571) For Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 11, 2001;  (Issue 1106)
Imatinib mesylate (STI-571; Gleevec - Novartis), an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of all phases of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) after interferon...
Imatinib mesylate (STI-571; Gleevec - Novartis), an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has received accelerated approval from the FDA for treatment of all phases of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) after interferon has failed.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2001 Jun 11;43(1106):49-50 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Zonisamide (Zonegran) For Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 2, 2000;  (Issue 1089)
Zonisamide (Zonegran - Elan Pharma), a sulfonamide chemically unrelated to other antiepileptic drugs, has been approved by the FDA for adjunctive use in adults with partial seizures. Zonisamide has been...
Zonisamide (Zonegran - Elan Pharma), a sulfonamide chemically unrelated to other antiepileptic drugs, has been approved by the FDA for adjunctive use in adults with partial seizures. Zonisamide has been available in Japan for more than 10 years.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Oct 2;42(1089):94-5 | 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

Pantroprazole (Protonix)

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 24, 2000;  (Issue 1083)
Pantoprazole, the fourth benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor to become available in the United States, has been marketed for short-term oral treatment of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease...
Pantoprazole, the fourth benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor to become available in the United States, has been marketed for short-term oral treatment of erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Jul 24;42(1083):65-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Two New Drugs for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 17, 2000;  (Issue 1076)
Oxcarbazepine, which is chemically similar to carbamazepine, and levetiracetam, a pyrrolidine acetamide chemically unrelated to other antiepileptic drugs, are the sixth and seventh drugs approved by the US Food...
Oxcarbazepine, which is chemically similar to carbamazepine, and levetiracetam, a pyrrolidine acetamide chemically unrelated to other antiepileptic drugs, are the sixth and seventh drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in the last five years for oral use in partial seizures.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Apr 17;42(1076):33-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Rabeprazole

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 19, 1999;  (Issue 1066)
Rabeprazole, a benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor similar to omeprazole and lansoprazole, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of duodenal ulcers, healing and maintenance treatment of erosive or...
Rabeprazole, a benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor similar to omeprazole and lansoprazole, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of duodenal ulcers, healing and maintenance treatment of erosive or ulcerative gastroesophageal reflux disease, and for long-term treatment of chronic hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1999 Nov 19;41(1066):110-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drug Interactions

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 2, 1999;  (Issue 1056)
Reports of adverse interactions between drugs continue to accumulate. Recently, the FDA has expanded the recommendations on drug interactions found in the package inserts of new...
Reports of adverse interactions between drugs continue to accumulate. Recently, the FDA has expanded the recommendations on drug interactions found in the package inserts of new drugs.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1999 Jul 2;41(1056):59-62 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Generic drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 21, 1999;  (Issue 1053)
When patents expire on brand-name drugs, generic formulations become available that often cost much less. Some physicians, however, hesitate to prescribe the less expensive drug because of concerns about the...
When patents expire on brand-name drugs, generic formulations become available that often cost much less. Some physicians, however, hesitate to prescribe the less expensive drug because of concerns about the quality of generic formulations.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1999 May 21;41(1053):47-8 | 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

Quetiapine for Schizophrenia

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 19, 1997;  (Issue 1016)
Quetiapine (Seroquel - Zeneca), a dibenzothiazepine derivative, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It is a new addition to the 'atypical'...
Quetiapine (Seroquel - Zeneca), a dibenzothiazepine derivative, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It is a new addition to the 'atypical' antipsychotics, which include olanzapine (Zyprexa - Medical Letter, 39:5, 1997), risperidone (Risperdal) and clozapine (Clozaril). Atypical antipsychotic drugs generally are less likely to cause extrapyramidal symptoms than older drugs such as haloperidol (Haldol, and others) or the phenothiazines.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Dec 19;39(1016):117-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Bromfenac for Analgesia

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 10, 1997;  (Issue 1011)
Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to...
Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to narcotics for short-term treatment of pain.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Oct 10;39(1011):93-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Systemic Antifungal Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 12, 1997;  (Issue 1009)
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table below. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the...
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table below. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Sep 12;39(1009):86-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Topical Penciclovir for Herpes Labialis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 20, 1997;  (Issue 1003)
Penciclovir 1% cream (Denavir - SmithKline Beecham) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of recurrent orolabial herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in adults....
Penciclovir 1% cream (Denavir - SmithKline Beecham) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of recurrent orolabial herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in adults. Acyclovir (Zovirax) is also available in a topical formulation for treatment of herpes simplex infections, but is approved by the FDA only for use in immunocompromised patients. Oral drugs approved for treatment of some herpes simplex infections, but not recurrent orolabial infections, include acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex) and famciclovir (Famvir), which is rapidly hydrolyzed to penciclovir in vivo (Medical Letter, 36:97, 1994).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Jun 20;39(1003):57-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Topiramate for Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 23, 1997;  (Issue 1001)
Topiramate (Topamax - Ortho-McNeil) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral use as an adjunct to other drugs in adult patients with partial seizures. Since this diagnostic...
Topiramate (Topamax - Ortho-McNeil) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral use as an adjunct to other drugs in adult patients with partial seizures. Since this diagnostic category includes the largest number of patients with refractory epilepsy, new drugs with antiepileptic activity are usually tried first for this indication. Topiramate (toe pyre' a mate) is a structurally unique agent chemically related to the D-enantiomer of fructose.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 May 23;39(1001):51-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 3, 1997;  (Issue 991)
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The...
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related ulcers are gastric. H. pylori have been associated with both duodenal and gastric ulcers. Eradication of H. pylori promotes healing and markedly decreases recurrence of both duodenal and gastric ulcers (AH Soll, JAMA, 275:622, 1996).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Jan 3;39(991):1-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Zafirlukast for Asthma

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 20, 1996;  (Issue 990)
Zafirlukast (za fir loo kast; Accolate - Zeneca), the first leukotriene receptor anta-gonist approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, is now being heavily promoted for oral maintenance treatment of...
Zafirlukast (za fir loo kast; Accolate - Zeneca), the first leukotriene receptor anta-gonist approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, is now being heavily promoted for oral maintenance treatment of chronic asthma in patients more than 12 years old. It is not recommended for treatment of acute asthma.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Dec 20;38(990):111-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Systemic Antifungal Drugs

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 2, 1996;  (Issue 967)
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table on page 101. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the US Food and Drug...
The drugs of choice for treatment of deep fungal infections are listed in the table on page 101. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. More detailed guidelines are available from the Infectious Diseases Society of America (J Sobel et al, Clin Infect Dis, volume 30, April 2000).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Feb 2;38(967):10-2 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Itraconazole for Onychomycosis

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 19, 1996;  (Issue 966)
Itraconazole (Sporanox - Janssen), an oral antifungal triazole that has been available in the USA since 1992 for treatment of deep fungal infections (Medical Letter, 35:7, 1993), is now being marketed for...
Itraconazole (Sporanox - Janssen), an oral antifungal triazole that has been available in the USA since 1992 for treatment of deep fungal infections (Medical Letter, 35:7, 1993), is now being marketed for treatment of dermatophyte infections of the toenails, with or without fingernail involvement.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Jan 19;38(966):5-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Over-the-counter H2-Receptor Antagonists for Heartburn

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 27, 1995;  (Issue 960)
Patients may be asking their physicians about use of histamine H2-receptor antagonists for treatment and prevention of heartburn. Cimetidine and famotidine have recently been released for over-the-counter sale...
Patients may be asking their physicians about use of histamine H2-receptor antagonists for treatment and prevention of heartburn. Cimetidine and famotidine have recently been released for over-the-counter sale and are being heavily advertised on television and in the print media.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Oct 27;37(960):95-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Lamotrigine For Epilepsy

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 17, 1995;  (Issue 944)
Lamotrigine (la mo tri jeen; Lamictal - Burroughs Wellcome), a phenyltriazine derivative, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in addition to other antiepileptic drugs in adults...
Lamotrigine (la mo tri jeen; Lamictal - Burroughs Wellcome), a phenyltriazine derivative, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in addition to other antiepileptic drugs in adults with partial seizures. Since this diagnostic category includes the largest number of patients with intractable epilepsy, new drugs with antiepileptic activity are usually tried first for this indication. Lamotrigine was first marketed abroad in 1990 and is now available in more than 50 other countries.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Mar 17;37(944):21-3 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Fluvoxamine for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 17, 1995;  (Issue 942)
Fluvoxamine (Luvox - Solvay), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), has been approved for treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by the US Food and Drug Administration. Fluoxetine...
Fluvoxamine (Luvox - Solvay), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), has been approved for treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) by the US Food and Drug Administration. Fluoxetine (Prozac), another SSRI antidepressant, and clomipramine (Anafranil), a tricyclic antidepressant that also inhibits serotonin reuptake, are the only other drugs available for this indication in the USA. Antidepressants that do not inhibit serotonin reuptake have not been effective for treatment of this condition.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 Feb 17;37(942):13-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Valproate for Bipolar Disorder

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 19, 1994;  (Issue 929)
Although lithium (Eskalith, and others) is the standard treatment for bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder, 20% to 40% of patients do not respond adequately or cannot tolerate its adverse effects (Medical...
Although lithium (Eskalith, and others) is the standard treatment for bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder, 20% to 40% of patients do not respond adequately or cannot tolerate its adverse effects (Medical Letter, 33:43, 1991). Results of recent studies suggest that valproate (Depakene - valproic acid; Depakote - divalproex sodium), a widely used anticonvulsant (Medical Letter, 31:1, 1989), might be an effective alternative. Other anticonvulsants, particularly carbamazepine (Tegretol, and others), have also been used as second-line drugs for treatment of mania and other psychiatric disorders (C Van Valkenburg et al, Drugs, 44:326, 1992; PE Keck, Jr et al, J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci, 4:395, 1992).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Aug 19;36(929):74-5 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 22, 1994;  (Issue 927)
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori (NIH...
Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori (NIH Consensus Development Panel, JAMA, 272:65, July 6, 1994). NSAID-related ulcers are usually gastric. H. pylori have been associated with both duodenal and gastric ulcers.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Jul 22;36(927):65-7 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Gabapentin - A New Anticonvulsant

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 29, 1994;  (Issue 921)
Gabapentin (Neurontin - Parke-Davis), a cyclohexane acetic acid derivative, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in addition to other antiepileptic drugs in patients with partial...
Gabapentin (Neurontin - Parke-Davis), a cyclohexane acetic acid derivative, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in addition to other antiepileptic drugs in patients with partial (focal) seizures with or without secondary generalization. Since this diagnostic category includes the largest number of patients with intractable epilepsy, new drugs with antiepileptic activity are generally tried first for this indication.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Apr 29;36(921):39-40 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Felbamate

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 26, 1993;  (Issue 910)
Felbamate (Felbatol - Wallace Laboratories), a phenyl dicarbamate structurally similar to meprobamate (Equanil, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use alone or with...
Felbamate (Felbatol - Wallace Laboratories), a phenyl dicarbamate structurally similar to meprobamate (Equanil, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use alone or with other drugs in adults with partial seizures with or without secondary generalization. It was also approved for use in addition to other drugs in children with the multiple types of seizures associated with the Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe epileptic encephalopathy.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Nov 26;35(910):107-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Choice of an Antidepressant

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 19, 1993;  (Issue 892)
Since the introduction of fluoxetine (Prozac - Medical Letter, 30:45, 1988), bupropion (Wellbutrin - Medical Letter, 31:97, 1989), sertraline (Zoloft - Medical Letter, 34:47, 1992) and paroxetine (Paxil -...
Since the introduction of fluoxetine (Prozac - Medical Letter, 30:45, 1988), bupropion (Wellbutrin - Medical Letter, 31:97, 1989), sertraline (Zoloft - Medical Letter, 34:47, 1992) and paroxetine (Paxil - this issue), the choice of an antidepressant has become more difficult. Should these widely prescribed new drugs replace tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, and others), imipramine (Tofranil, and others), or nortriptyline (Aventyl, and others) for treatment of most patients with depression?
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Mar 19;35(892):25-6 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Clozapine

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 19, 1993;  (Issue 890)
Clozapine (Clozaril - Sandoz), an antipsychotic drug, was first marketed in the USA three years ago (Medical Letter, 32:3, 1990). Because of its hematological toxicity, the US Food and Drug Administration...
Clozapine (Clozaril - Sandoz), an antipsychotic drug, was first marketed in the USA three years ago (Medical Letter, 32:3, 1990). Because of its hematological toxicity, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the drug only for patients with schizophrenia who cannot tolerate or do not respond to standard antipsychotic drugs.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Feb 19;35(890):16-8 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

Itraconazole

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 22, 1993;  (Issue 888)
Itraconazole (Sporanox - Janssen), an antifungal triazole, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral treatment of histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. These two endemic mycoses...
Itraconazole (Sporanox - Janssen), an antifungal triazole, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral treatment of histoplasmosis and blastomycosis. These two endemic mycoses occur both in normal hosts and in immunocompromised patients, such as those with AIDS (RW Bradsher, Clin Infect Dis, 14:S82, 1992; LJ Wheat, Clin Infect Dis, 14:S91, 1992).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Jan 22;35(888):7-9 | 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

Teniposide for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 13, 1992;  (Issue 883)
Teniposide (ten i poe' side; VM 26; Vumon - Bristol), an anticancer drug that has been under investigation in the USA for 20 years, has now been approved for use in combination induction treatment of...
Teniposide (ten i poe' side; VM 26; Vumon - Bristol), an anticancer drug that has been under investigation in the USA for 20 years, has now been approved for use in combination induction treatment of refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. A semisynthetic derivative of podophyllotoxin, teniposide is chemically related to etoposide (VePesid - Medical Letter, 26:48, 1984).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Nov 13;34(883):105-6 | 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

Doxacurium

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 26, 1991;  (Issue 849)
Doxacurium (Nuromax - Burroughs Wellcome), a new, long-acting, nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent, is now available in the USA for use as a skeletal muscle relaxant during general anesthesia and for...
Doxacurium (Nuromax - Burroughs Wellcome), a new, long-acting, nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent, is now available in the USA for use as a skeletal muscle relaxant during general anesthesia and for endotracheal intubation. Although small decreases in heart rate and mean arterial pressure occur in some patients who receive doxacurium, clinical studies have found no adverse cardiovascular effects in patients with heart disease receiving up to three times the usual effective dose (CM Stoops et al, Anesthesiology, 69:365, 1988; DJ Murray et al, Anesthesiology, 69:472, 1988; RS Emmott et al, Br J Anaesth, 65:480, 1990). As with pipecuronium, which it closely resembles in activity, the duration of block is prolonged in patients with renal failure (JN Cashman et al, Br J Anaesth, 64:186, 1990; DR Cook et al, Anesth Analg, 72:145, 1991).
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Jul 26;33(849):73-4 | Show Full IntroductionHide Full Introduction

A Subdermal Progestin Implant For Long-Term Contraception

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 8, 1991;  (Issue 839)
The Norplant System (Wyeth-Ayerst) for subdermal delivery of the synthetic progestin levonorgestrel was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use as a long-term...
The Norplant System (Wyeth-Ayerst) for subdermal delivery of the synthetic progestin levonorgestrel was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use as a long-term contraceptive.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Mar 8;33(839):17-8 | 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

Fluconazole

   
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 18, 1990;  (Issue 818)
Fluconazole (Diflucan - Roerig), an antifungal azole, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral and intravenous (IV) treatment of cryptococcal meningitis and various forms of...
Fluconazole (Diflucan - Roerig), an antifungal azole, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral and intravenous (IV) treatment of cryptococcal meningitis and various forms of candidiasis. Both cryptococcal meningitis and candidiasis occur frequently in patients with AIDS, organ transplants, or cancer.
Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1990 May 18;32(818):50-2 | 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