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BPJ 2 December 2006

Best Practice Journal

Warfarin

An update on treatment of atrial fibrillation with a focus on warfarin. View Article

Update on the use of LABAs for the treatment of Asthma

Long acting beta agonists (LABAs) are useful drugs in asthma management however they should only be prescribed for patients who are already on inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). There are safety concerns about their use in acute asthma.
Current asthma management plans do not take into account combination LABA/ICS inhalers and patients need clear guidance on what to do in exacerbations. View Article

TCAs are useful for depression and neuropathic pain

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are an effective alternative to selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of depression and are first-line agents for neuropathic pain. Prescribing points include consideration of adverse effects, drug interactions and withdrawal syndrome. View Article

Upfront: Direct to Consumer Advertising

Direct to Consumer Advertising In New Zealand.
Is the end in sight? View Article

Improving the care of children with asthma

Studies suggest that the majority of children with asthma do not have good control. This appears to be associated with low asthma pharmaceutical use compared to the recommendations of asthma management guidelines. View Article

NNT - Eases understanding of evidence

The number needed to treat (NNT) for an intervention outlines for clinicians the likelihood that the intervention will benefit their patient. View Article

Amiodarone:- safety issues

Reducing adverse events in patients taking amiodarone. View Article

Dear Dave

SSRIs can increase the risk of bleeding disorders, especially if taken with an NSAID. View Article

Correspondence: Polypharmacy; Oral penicillin

View Article

10 minute audit

This audit is designed to identify people in your practice on LABAs in order to discuss their Asthma Management Plans and ICS use at their next visit. View Article