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Vioxx risk varies according to patient
What have we learned about the cardiovascular risk of Vioxx, with so much media attention lately? Health Canada set up a 13-member expert panel to review and critique the scientific evidence for the Cox-2 painkillers Vioxx, Celebrex and Bextra. The panel recommended in its July report that Merck could resubmit Vioxx for approval.
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It's vital to know how drugs interact
What is a drug interaction? Many believe it occurs when one or more medications directly affect the effectiveness of another. But how does it happen?
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Promising breast cancer treatment needs supporting studies
The announcement last week that Letrozole reduced breast cancer recurrence represents another step forward in the battle against breast cancer. When an announcement of a “groundbreaking” study, it is understandable to react with hope that a cherished life will be saved and suffering will end.
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Safety with medication vital during pregnancy
Originally published in The Ottawa Citizen August 19, 2003 Original Title: Medication safety during pregnancy Moms-to-be should speak to their pharmacist and doctor about prescription medications and any other drugs they might be taking’ What medications are safe to use during pregnancy? Should I stop my prescription medications? How can I treat my heartburn? Can…
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MDs, patients must adjust attitudes toward antibiotics
Educational campaigns alerting physicians and the public about the dangers of indiscriminant prescribing and use of antibiotics is beginning to raise awareness of the problem. This is a worldwide health issue. In many developing countries, prescriptions are not a requirement to purchase antibiotics. In the West, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in livestock and fish…
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Medication only part of asthma care
Asthmatics can suddenly crash and burn. Last week’s column made note that asthma is an inherently unstable disease. Some patients unknowingly play with fire by ignoring the symptoms. A good web site to determine the risk of asthma in children and adults is found at http://allergy.mcg.edu/home.html.
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Elderly suffer after lengthy use of anxiety drugs
Mr. T. is a strapping 85 year-old man who suffers with an anxiety disorder. He also cares for his wife who is severely affected by Alzheimer’s. Twenty years ago he was prescribed clonazepam (Rivotril), a benzodiazepine (BDZ). He became dependent upon them to control his anxiety. BDZs and the elderly do not mix well.
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This Drug's For You
In Ontario there are two drug programs designed to reduce the burden of medication costs: The Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB) and the Trillium Drug Program (TDP). The ODB covers the cost of medications for seniors, welfare recipients and the disabled. The TDP, a co-payment plan varies with an individual’s or family’s income.