CP, March 2016, Vol 8, No 3

Bariatric surgery and the effects on drug pharmacokinetics

Understanding the types of bariatric surgery, their impact on drug pharmacokinetics and specific recommendations for drug regimens following surgery.…

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors in solid tumours

The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase /protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway plays an important role in cell proliferation, growth, and angiogenesis.…

It’s time to change the way we approach coughs in community pharmacy

Over-the-counter treatments for the common cough need to be brought up to date and improved, especially considering the social and economic implications of the condition.…

Current treatments and future targeted treatments for acute myeloid leukaemia

While the initial therapy for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) treatment is relatively standardised, the high incidence of refractory/relapsed disease remains a great challenge. Progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology of both initial and recurrent disease phases, leading to rigorous…

Steam inhalation warning over burns risk to children

Primary care professionals should stop recommending steam inhalation for children with respiratory infections because of the risk of burns, researchers say.…

Pharmacists’ role in optimising the use of medicines in those with learning disabilities

Following on from the response to the Winterbourne View Hospital scandal, where it was discovered many patients suffered serious abuse, the re-evaluation of antipsychotic use in people with learning disabilities has begun, with three separate reports commissioned by NHS England plus a study by Sheeh…

Targeting insulin resistance after stroke cuts cardiovascular risk

Large trial shows pioglitazone could reduce risk of cardiovascular events or diabetes in stroke patients.…

Evidence shows Zika virus crosses placental barrier

Amniotic fluid from two pregnant women in Brazil was found to contain Zika virus.…

Antibiotic-associated delirium not recognised enough

Study authors suggest that antibiotic-associated encephalopathy should be considered in all patients who develop delirium after antibiotic treatment.…

No difference in efficacy between generic antiepileptic drugs

Switching between generic antiepileptic drugs does not lead to significant changes in seizure frequency or adverse events, study finds.…