Debbie Rigby takes a look at the latest in research news
Urate-Lowering Therapy for the Prevention and Treatment of Gout Flare
Gout is characterized by intense pain and inflammation resulting from the buildup of monosodium urate (MSU) monohydrate crystals in the synovial joints. This review article summarises current management of acute and chronic gout. Key points include dietary modifications are not sufficient to achieve target serum uric acid levels and gout flare prophylaxis is required with initial urate-lowering therapy.
US Pharmacist 2017;42(3):33-37.
Association of Gastric Acid Suppression With Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection
In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 studies comprising 7703 patients, the use of gastric acid suppressants was associated with a significantly increased risk (OR 1.52) of recurrent C difficile infection. The authors support a strategy of withholding gastric acid suppression therapy in the setting of active or recent C difficile infection.
JAMA Intern Med. Published online March 27, 2017.
A large population-based cohort study (n = 30 146) has shown the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was doubled with current use of DOACs (dabigatran and rivaroxaban) compared with current use of VKAs [adjusted HR 2.11] and for current users of aspirin vs. current VKA users [adjusted HR 1.91]. It has previously been established that warfarin may have a protective effect against AMI.
Br J Clin Pharmacol (2017).
Cost-effectiveness of pharmacist care for managing hypertension in Canada
Comprehensive pharmacist care of hypertension, including patient education and prescribing, is a cost-effective management strategy for hypertension. This is the conclusion of a Canadian study. The authors stated pharmacists are well positioned to intervene in hypertension management.
Can Pharm J (Ott) 2017;150:xx-xx.
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