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BPJ 14 June 2008

Best Practice Journal

Managing insomnia

There is a more recent article on managing insomnia. See: I dream of sleep: managing insomnia” https://bpac.org.nz/2017/insomnia-1.aspx

Insomnia affects many adults in New Zealand, however management is only required if it leads to an impairment of daytime function. Non-drug interventions are first line treatment. If pharmacological therapy is required, a short-acting benzodiazepine or zopiclone is preferred.

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Clozapine: A reminder about safe and effective use

Although clozapine is a specialist prescribed drug, GPs still need to be aware of potential problems associated with its use. Constipation, blood dyscrasias, myocarditis and metabolic syndrome are all adverse effects which can lead to severe complications.

There is a newer article with updated information on this subject. See: "Clozapine: safe prescribing"

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The investigation and management of nocturnal enuresis

Nocturnal enuresis, or bedwetting, is a common condition which children usually grow out of. Advice to parents on simple behavioural strategies is usually the first step. The use of bed alarms with support offers the best chance of long-term success. The occasional, short-term use of desmopressin is also discussed. View Article

Treating head lice

Head lice are non-discriminatory in who they affect, however outbreaks among school children are most common. We discuss treatments including detection combing and insecticides, which together may be the most successful method of eradication. View Article

Why you should prescribe generically

Generic prescribing is cost effective, associated with less potential for error and is considered “best practice” in most situations. We give you six reasons why you should prescribe generically and describe the situations when you should not. View Article

Self monitoring of blood glucose: An update

New evidence concludes that self monitoring of blood glucose for people with non-insulin treated type 2 diabetes is not beneficial. We discuss the implications of two recently published articles. View Article

Antioxidants and ageing: harmless placebo or dangerous to your health?

A new study suggests that taking antioxidant supplements, especially vitamin A, vitamin E or beta-carotene, does not prevent ageing and may in fact shorten lifespan. View Article

Upfront: Reducing inequalities in asthma care for children

Reducing inequalities in asthma care for children. View Article

Māori mental health

Improving Māori mental health is a government health priority. This commitment can be achieved through tangible and culturally appropriate mental health services. View Article

Ten minute tutorial

Adding a pop-up alert for patients on clozapine. View Article

Snippets: Anticonvulsants & Salbutamol

This article has been archived.
If you would like access to the original article please contact: editor@bpac.org.nz

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Correspondence: Māori health; Amiodarone; SSRIs; NSAIDs

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