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INTRODUCTION: Despite the availability of around 30 antiseizure medications, 1/3 of patients with epilepsy fail to become seizure-free upon pharmacological treatment. Available medications provide adequate symptomatic control in two-thirds of patients, but disease-modifying drugs are still scarce. Recently, though, new paradigms have been explored. AREAS COVERED: Three areas are reviewed in which a high degree of innovation in the search for novel antiseizure and antiepileptogenic medications has been implemented: development of novel screening approaches, search for novel therapeutic targets, and adoption of new drug discovery paradigms aligned with a systems pharmacology perspective. EXPERT OPINION: In the past, worldwide leaders in epilepsy have reiteratively stated that the lack of progress in the field may be explained by the recurrent use of the same molecular targets and screening procedures to identify novel medications. This landscape has changed recently, as reflected by the new Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program and the introduction of many in vitro and in vivo models that could possibly improve our chances of identifying first-in-class medications that may control drug-resistant epilepsy or modify the course of disease. Other milestones include the study of new molecular targets for disease-modifying drugs and exploration of a systems pharmacology perspective to design new drugs.

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INTRODUCTION: Older adults with advanced chronic diseases and palliative care needs are more exposed to polypharmacy and use of potentially inappropriate medication, which generates a high risk of adverse events and impaired quality of life. The objective of this study was to describe the frequency of potentially inappropriate medication use among older adults with palliative care needs receiving home care services after hospital discharge. METHODS: Observational cross-sectional study of pharmacy dispensing and electronic health records, of older adults in a home care system and with palliative care needs according to the screening with the NECPAL tool or the PROFUND and/or PALIAR indexes. Dispensed medications during 180 days after admission to home care were analyzed. Medications were classified as potentially inappropriate according to the LESS-CHRON criteria. RESULTS: We included 176 patients, mean age 87.4 years, 67% were women; 73% were pluripathologic patients and 22% had one chronic progressive disease. Mortality at 6 months was 73%. Median frequency of dispensed medications per patient was 9.1 (IQR = 4-9.7). The frequency of potentially inappropriate medication dispensation among patients was 87%, mainly antihypertensives, benzodiazepines and antipsychotics. CONCLUSION: This study observed that dispensation of potentially inappropriate medication among older adults with palliative care needs and home care services is very high. This emphasizes the need for effective patient-centered interventions to prevent inadequate prescription and stimulate de-prescription.

Introducción: Los adultos mayores con enfermedades crónicas avanzadas y necesidad de cuidados paliativos están más expuestos a la polifarmacia y a consumir medicación potencialmente inapropiada, la cual genera un alto riesgo de eventos adversos y alteración de la calidad de vida. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la frecuencia de consumo de medicación potencialmente inapropiada de adultos mayores con necesidad de cuidados paliativos que ingresaron a cuidados domiciliarios luego de una hospitalización. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal observacional de registros de dispensación e historias clínicas electrónicas, de adultos mayores en un sistema de cuidados domiciliarios y con necesidades de cuidados paliativos según el rastreo con la herramienta NECPAL, los índices PROFUND y/o PALIAR. Se analizó el consumo de fármacos durante los 180 días posteriores al ingreso a cuidados domiciliarios. Se clasificaron los fármacos como potencialmente inapropiados según criterios de LESS-CHRON. Resultados: Se incluyeron 176 pacientes, edad promedio 87.4 años, 67% mujeres; 78% eran pluripatológicos y 22% presentaban una enfermedad única crónica progresiva. La mortalidad a los 6 meses fue 73%. La mediana de consumo de fármacos por paciente fue 9.1 (RIC = 4-9.7). El 87% consumía medicación potencialmente inapropiada, principalmente antihipertensivos, benzodiacepinas y antipsicóticos. Conclusión: Este estudio observó que los adultos mayores, con necesidad de cuidados paliativos en cuidados domiciliarios, tienen un alto consumo de medicación potencialmente inapropiada. Esto refuerza la necesidad de implementar intervenciones efectivas centradas en el paciente, para prevenir la prescripción inadecuada y estimular la de-prescripción.

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Objective: Despite the literature on dydrogesterone, studies on dydrogesterone utilization patterns are largely lacking in Indian patients. Methods: This was a multi-center, retrospective, observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study across 817 centers in India. Data of patients who received dydrogesterone in past and provided consent for future use of their medical record for research purpose was were retrieved and analyzed. Results: Data of 7287 subjects (aged 29.55±4.84 years) was analyzed. Threatened abortion was the most common indication for which the subjects received dydrogesterone (46.9%) followed by recurrent pregnancy loss. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders and anemia were the most common comorbid conditions and prior pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age and obesity were the most common risk factors seen in subjects who received dydrogesterone. Total 27.5% of subjects received a loading dose of dydrogesterone, and majority (64%) received 40 mg as loading dose. 10 mg dose was used as maintenance or regular dose in 81.4% of the subjects. Twice daily (BID) was the most common dosing frequency (66.6%). The most common concomitant medications being taken by the subjects on dydrogesterone included folic acid (45.1%), iron supplements (30.3%) and calcium and vitamin D3 supplements (25.5%). Another progesterone preparation (oral, injection, vaginal, tubal) other than dydrogesterone was used concurrently in 7.8% of subjects. Conclusion: The study helped to identify the patient population that is benefitted by dydrogesterone and the preferred indications, risk factors, comorbid conditions and concomitant medication used in this patient population at real-life scenario.

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Objetivo: Analisar o uso de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados (MPIs) e o uso de medicamentos usados em terapia de suporte que requerem cautela em idosos com câncer (MTSRCICs), determinando os fatores associados. Visou-se também determinar a concordância entre os critérios explícitos empregados na identificação de MPI. Metodologia: Estudo transversal com indivíduos com mieloma múltiplo (MM), idade ≥ 60 anos em tratamento ambulatorial. Os MPI foram identificados de acordo com os critérios AGS Beers 2019, PRISCUS 2.0 e o Consenso Brasileiro de Medicamentos Potencialmente Inapropriados (CBMPI). Os MTSRCIC foram definidos de acordo com a National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Os fatores associados ao uso de MPI e MTSRCIC foram identificados por regressão logística múltipla. O grau de concordância entre os três critérios explícitos empregados no estudo foi mensurado pelo coeficiente kappa Cohen. Resultados: As frequências de MPI foram 52,29% (AGS Beers 2019), 62,74% (CBMPI), 65,36% (PRISCUS 2.0) e 52,29% (MTSRCICs). As concordâncias entre AGS Beers 2019 com PRISCUS 2,0 e com CBMPI foram altas, enquanto a concordância entre CBMPI e PRISCUS 2.0 foi excelente. No modelo final de regressão logística polifarmácia foi associada positivamente ao uso de MPI por idosos para os três critérios explícitos utilizados, além de associado à utilização de MTSRCICs. Conclusões: A frequência do uso de MPI e de MTSRCIC foi elevada. A concordância em relação ao uso de MPI entre os critérios AGS Beers 2019, CBMPI e PRISCUS 2.0 foi alta ou excelente. A polifarmácia apresentou associação independente e positiva com uso de MPIs e de MTSRCICs por pacientes idosos com MM. (AU)

Objectives: To analyze the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and medications used in supportive therapy that require caution in older adults with cancer, in addition to determining associated factors the agreement between criteria sets used to identify PIMs. Methods: This cross-sectional study included individuals with multiple myeloma aged ≥ 60 years who were undergoing outpatient treatment. PIMs were identified according to American Geriatric Society Beers 2019, PRISCUS 2.0, and Brazilian Consensus on Potentially Inappropriate Medicines criteria. Medications of concern were defined according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network criteria. Factors associated with the use of PIMs and medications of concern were identified using multiple logistic regression. The degree of agreement between the 3 criteria sets was measured using Cohen's kappa coefficient. Results: The frequency of PIM use was 52.29% according to American Geriatric Society Beers criteria, 62.74% according to Brazilian Consensus criteria, and 65.36% according to PRISCUS criteria, while 52.29% of the patients were using medications of concern. Agreement between American Geriatric Society Beers, PRISCUS, and Brazilian Consensus criteria was high, while it was excellent between Brazilian Consensus and PRISCUS criteria. In the final logistic regression model, polypharmacy was associated with PIM use according to each criteria set, as well as the use of medications of concern. Conclusions: The frequency of PIMs and medications of concern was high. Agreement about PIM use between the American Geriatric Society Beers, Brazilian Consensus, and PRISCUS criteria was high or excellent. There was an independent association between polypharmacy and the use of PIMs and medications of concern by older patients with multiple myeloma. (AU)

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The literature has shown the relevance of nutritional and metabolic aspects in patients with epilepsy. This study evaluated the relationship between clinical variables and plasma proteins and compared the variables between seizure frequency and neurological examination. A pilot study was carried out with eighty-four (n = 84) adults patients with epilepsy. The relationship between clinical variables of the disease (age at disease onset, neurological examination, current type and frequency of seizures, duration of disease, amount of antiseizure medications-ASM used and type and etiology of epilepsy) and plasma proteins (albumin and transferrin) was investigated. In the statistical analysis, the chi-square, Fisher, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis tests, Spearman coefficient and univariate logistic regression were used. There was a significant association between the use of antiseizure medications (ASM) (p = 0.0105) and altered neurological examination (p = 0.0049), compared with the frequency of seizures, and between albumin and gender (p = 0.0005), and albumin and etiology of epilepsy (p = 0.0186). There was a significant low-intensity and inverse linear correlation (coefficient = -0.31363, p = 0.0037) between albumin and disease duration. In the logistic regression model, a significant association was only observed between the number of ASM and the frequency of seizures (p = 0.0120; OR = 3.368; 95% CI = 1.305-8.691). There was no association between plasma proteins and the outcomes of seizure frequency and neurological examination. The number of ASM and not protein metabolism was associated with frequency of seizures in patients with epilepsy.

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The aim of this study is to report a case in which a patient with nephrotic syndrome underwent surgery to remove fibrous gum tissue (ulectomy). An 8-year-old patient, diagnosed with early onset nephrotic syndrome due to a mutation in the NUP107 gene, had received a kidney transplant and was therefore taking various medications, including immunosuppressants. On oral examination, the patient was found to have a fibrous gingiva that was preventing the eruption of the upper permanent central incisors. A ulectomy was performed and the gingival tissue was sent for histopathological analysis, which showed normal aspects. The upper right central incisor was seen in the oral cavity 15 days after surgery. A second procedure was carried out to facilitate the eruption of the upper left incisor, which was visualized in the oral cavity 30 days later. In addition, oral manifestations such as maxillary atresia, ogival palate and mouth breathing were observed. Therefore, the role of the dental surgeon in the lives of transplanted children is considered important, as they often take various medications that can affect their oral health. Thus, early diagnosis and effective treatment will be essential to prevent future malocclusions and thus improve the quality of life of these patients.

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BACKGOUND: Potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) has been evaluated in several countries, and several strategies have been devised for deprescribing drugs in older adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a mobile application in reducing PIP for older adults in primary care facilities in Brazil. METHODS: This randomised, triple-blind, parallel-group trial was conducted in 22 public primary care facilities in Brazil. During the intervention phase, the general practitioners (GPs) were randomly allocated to the intervention (MPI Brasil app provides information about PIP, therapeutic alternatives and deprescribing) or control (MedSUS app provides general information about medications) group. All GPs were trained on the Clinical Decision-Making Process and how to access an Evidence-Based Health website. The GPs received an Android tablet with an installed mobile application depending on their allocated group, which they used when caring for older patients over at least 3 months. At the end of this period, a sample of older patients aged ≥ 60 years who had been awaiting medical consultation by the participating GPs were interviewed and their prescriptions analysed. The primary outcome was the frequency of PIP in and between the groups. RESULTS: Among 53 GPs who were administered the baseline survey, 14 were included in the clinical trial. At baseline, 146 prescriptions were analysed: the PIP overall was 37.7% (55/146), in the intervention group was 40.6% (28/69), and in the control group was 35.1% (27/77). After the intervention, 284 prescriptions were analysed: the PIP overall was 31.7% (90/284), in the intervention group was 32.2% (46/143), and in the control group was 31.2% (44/141) (RR: 1.16; 95% CI, 0.76-1.76). In the within-group analysis, the PIP reduced from before to after the intervention in both groups-more significantly in the intervention than in the control group (p < 0.001). In the stratified analysis of PIP frequency by GPs, there was a relative risk reduction in 86% (6/7) of GPs in the intervention group compared to 71% (5/7) in the control group. CONCLUSION: We found that the MPI Brasil app effectively reduced PIP, suggesting that it may be useful to incorporate this tool into clinical practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02918643). First registration on 22/09/2016.

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RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar os resultados preliminares em médio prazo (até 6 meses) do uso isolado ou em combinação com a cirurgia de catarata do dispositivo XEN® Gel Stent na população brasileira. Métodos Realizou-se um estudo longitudinal retrospectivo de olhos portadores de glaucoma primário de ângulo aberto consecutivamente submetidos à cirurgia de implante de XEN® Gel Stent isolada (Grupo XEN®) ou em combinação com a cirurgia de catarata (Grupo Faco-XEN®) no mesmo centro entre abril e dezembro de 2023. Analisou-se a capacidade de redução da pressão intraocular e da quantidade de medicamentos hipotensores oculares, além das intercorrências intra e pós-operatórias. O critério de sucesso foi pressão intraocular < 18 mmHg e pelo menos 20% de redução da pressão intraocular pré-operatória (sucesso absoluto: sem medicação; sucesso relativo: com ou sem medicação). Avaliou-se ainda a duração do procedimento cirúrgico ao longo da curva de aprendizado. Resultados Foram incluídos 37 olhos no estudo (15 no Grupo Faco-XEN® e 22 no Grupo XEN®). A pressão intraocular média reduziu de 19,35 mmHg, no pré-operatório, para 13,05 mmHg, ao fim do acompanhamento (p < 0,001). Já a quantidade de medicamentos caiu de 2,95 para 0,22 por olho, no mesmo período (p < 0,001). A maioria dos pacientes (83%) chegou ao fim do acompanhamento livres de colírios. Não houve diferenças entre os dois grupos em relação à capacidade de redução pressórica e dos colírios. A taxa de sucesso absoluto foi de 81,2 e 86,7% nos Grupos XEN® e Faco-XEN®, respectivamente (p = 0,532). Seis olhos apresentaram falência da bolha e necessitaram de reintervenção cirúrgica. Houve uma redução significativa do tempo de cirurgia ao longo do acompanhamento. Conclusão O dispositivo XEN® Gel Stent foi efetivo, tanto em cirurgia isolada quando combinada, em reduzir a pressão intraocular e a quantidade de medicamentos, com elevado perfil de segurança na população brasileira.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the preliminary medium-term results (up to 6 months) of the stand-alone use of XEN® Gel Stent implantation or in combination with cataract surgery in the Brazilian population. Methods A retrospective longitudinal study was carried out on eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma consecutively submitted to XEN® Gel Stent implantation surgery alone (XEN® Group) or in combination with cataract surgery (Phaco-XEN® Group) in the same center between April and December 2023. The ability to reduce intraocular pressure and the amount of ocular hypotensive medications were analyzed, in addition to intra- and postoperative complications. The success criterion was intraocular pressure < 18 mmHg and at least 20% reduction from the preoperative intraocular pressure (absolute success: without medication; relative success: with or without medication). The duration of the surgical procedure was also evaluated throughout the learning curve. Results Thirty-seven eyes were included in the study (15 in the Phaco-XEN® group and 22 in the XEN® group). The mean intraocular pressure was reduced from 19.35 mmHg preoperatively to 13.05 mmHg at the end of the follow-up (p < 0,001). The amount of medication decreased from 2.95 to 0.22 per eye in the same period (p < 0,001). Of the patients, 83% reached the end of follow-up without no need for eye drops. There were no differences between the two groups in terms of intraocular pressure reduction capacity and eye drops. The absolute success rate was 81.2 and 86.7% in the XEN® and Phaco-XEN® Groups, respectively (p = 0.532). Six eyes presented bleb failure and required surgical reintervention. There was a significant reduction in surgery time throughout follow-up. Conclusion The XEN® gel stent implantation was effective, both in stand-alone and in combined surgery, in reducing intraocular pressure and the medication burden, with a high safety profile in the Brazilian population.

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Objetivo: associar a adesão e as barreiras da terapêutica medicamentosa com o apoio social em idosos. Método: estudo transversal e analítico, realizado em um ambulatório na cidade de São Paulo ­ SP, com 117 idosos, no período de março a novembro de 2019. Para coleta de dados foram utilizados o teste de Morisky Green (TMG) e a escala Brief Medical Questionnaire, e a Medical Outcomes Study. A correlação entre as variáveis foi realizada pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis e o teste de Mann-Whitney. Em todas as análises comparativas foi utilizado um nível de significância de 5% e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: idosos que possuem apoio social na dimensão emocional e de informações apresentaram menores barreiras na adesão dos medicamentos (p=0,0216). Conclusões:esses resultados têm implicações importantes para a prática clínica, pois, os idosos mais vulneráveis com baixo apoio social possuem maiores barreiras ao uso da medicação

Objective: to associate adherence and barriers to medication therapy with social support in the elderly. Method: cross-sectional and analytical study, carried out in an outpatient clinic in the city of São Paulo ­ SP, with 117 elderly people, from March to November 2019. The Morisky Green test (TMG) and the Brief scale were used to collect data Medical Questionnaire, and the Medical Outcomes Study. The correlation between variables was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney test. In all comparative analyzes a significance level of 5% and a confidence interval of 95% were used. Results: elderly people who have social support in the emotional and informational dimensions presented lower barriers to medication adherence (p=0.0216). Conclusions: these results have important implications for clinical practice, as the most vulnerable elderly people with low social support have greater barriers to using medication

Objetivos: asociar la adherencia y barreras a la terapia con medicamentos con el apoyo social en ancianos. Método: estudio transversal y analítico, realizado en un ambulatorio de la ciudad de São Paulo ­ SP, con 117 ancianos, de marzo a noviembre de 2019. Se utilizó la prueba de Morisky Green (TMG) y la escala Brief para recolectar datos del Cuestionario Médico y el Estudio de Resultados Médicos. La correlación entre variables se realizó mediante la prueba de Kruskal-Wallis y la prueba de Mann-Whitney. En todos los análisis comparativos se utilizó un nivel de significancia del 5% y un intervalo de confianza del 95%. Resultados: los ancianos que cuentan con apoyo social en las dimensiones emocional e informacional presentaron menores barreras para la adherencia a la medicación (p=0,0216). Conclusiones: estos resultados tienen implicaciones importantes para la práctica clínica, ya que las personas mayores más vulnerables y con bajo apoyo social tienen mayores barreras para el uso de medicamentos

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Resumo Objetivo Analisar a frequência de polifarmácia e prescrição de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados (MPI) segundo os Critérios de Beers e CBMPI em pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade clínico-funcional. Método Trata-se de um estudo transversal onde analisou-se os prontuários de 496 participantes com 60 anos ou mais, atendidos em primeira consulta em uma Policlínica Gerontológica. Os dados sociodemográficos, medicamentos, e o Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional 20 (IVCF-20) e quedas foram extraídos dos prontuários. A polifarmácia foi definida como o uso simultâneo de cinco ou mais medicamentos. Os participantes foram classificados em três grupos: robusto, em risco e vulnerável. Resultados A análise demonstrou que 69 (13,91%) dos participantes faziam uso de polifarmácia. Entre os usuários de polifarmácia, 40 (57,97%) faziam uso de pelo menos um MPI. Os MPIs mais encontrados foram a glibenclamida e o omeprazol, respectivamente. Pessoas idosas com vulnerabilidade apresentaram um risco três vezes maior de apresentar polifarmácia (RP 3,59; IC95% 2,109-6,092). Conclusão O uso de polifarmácia e MPI neste estudo estavam associados à vulnerabilidade da pessoa idosa, reforçando a necessidade de avaliação criteriosa de prescrições medicamentosas para essa população.

Abstract Objective To analyze the frequency of polypharmacy and the prescription of Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIM) according to the Beers Criteria and CBMPI in older adults with clinical-functional vulnerability. Method This is a cross-sectional study where the medical records of 496 participants aged 60 and older, seen in their first appointment at a Gerontological Polyclinic, were analyzed. Sociodemographic data, medications, the Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index-20 (IVCF-20), and falls were extracted from the medical records. Polypharmacy was defined as the simultaneous use of five or more medications. Participants were classified into three groups: robust, at risk, and vulnerable. Results The analysis revealed that 69 (13.91%) participants were using polypharmacy. Among polypharmacy users, 40 (57.97%) were using at least one PIM. The most commonly found PIM were glibenclamide and omeprazole, respectively. Older adults with vulnerability were three times more likely to have polypharmacy (OR 3.59; 95% CI 2.109-6.092). Conclusion The use of polypharmacy and PIM in this study was associated with the vulnerability of older adults, emphasizing the need for a thorough evaluation of medication prescriptions for this population.

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Abstract Objective: Despite the literature on dydrogesterone, studies on dydrogesterone utilization patterns are largely lacking in Indian patients. Methods: This was a multi-center, retrospective, observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study across 817 centers in India. Data of patients who received dydrogesterone in past and provided consent for future use of their medical record for research purpose was were retrieved and analyzed. Results: Data of 7287 subjects (aged 29.55±4.84 years) was analyzed. Threatened abortion was the most common indication for which the subjects received dydrogesterone (46.9%) followed by recurrent pregnancy loss. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders and anemia were the most common comorbid conditions and prior pregnancy loss, advanced maternal age and obesity were the most common risk factors seen in subjects who received dydrogesterone. Total 27.5% of subjects received a loading dose of dydrogesterone, and majority (64%) received 40 mg as loading dose. 10 mg dose was used as maintenance or regular dose in 81.4% of the subjects. Twice daily (BID) was the most common dosing frequency (66.6%). The most common concomitant medications being taken by the subjects on dydrogesterone included folic acid (45.1%), iron supplements (30.3%) and calcium and vitamin D3 supplements (25.5%). Another progesterone preparation (oral, injection, vaginal, tubal) other than dydrogesterone was used concurrently in 7.8% of subjects. Conclusion: The study helped to identify the patient population that is benefitted by dydrogesterone and the preferred indications, risk factors, comorbid conditions and concomitant medication used in this patient population at real-life scenario.

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ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The epidemiology of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in critical care units remains limited, especially in terms of the factors associated with their use. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence and factors associated with PIMs use in intensive care units. DESIGN AND SETTING: Historical cohort study was conducted in a high-complexity hospital in Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted on 314 patients aged ≥ 60 years who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) at a high-complexity hospital in Brazil. The dates were extracted from a "Patient Safety Project" database. A Chi-square test, Student's t-test, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess which factors were associated with PIMs. The statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: According to Beers' criteria, 12.8% of the identified drugs were considered inappropriate for the elderly population. The incidence rate of PIMs use was 45.8%. The most frequently used PIMs were metoclopramide, insulin, antipsychotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and benzodiazepines. Factors associated with PIMs use were the number of medications (odds ratio [OR] = 1.17), length of hospital stay (OR = 1.07), and excessive potential drug interactions (OR = 2.43). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately half of the older adults in ICUs received PIM. Patients taking PIMs had a longer length of stay in the ICU, higher numbers of medications, and higher numbers of potential drug interactions. In ICUs, the use of explicit methods combined with clinical judgment can contribute to the safety and quality of medication prescriptions.

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Introducción: El uso irracional de medicamentos se debe, entre otros elementos, a la falta de superación profesional; situación con mayor repercusión en la atención primaria de salud, donde generalmente laboran los médicos generales integrales. Objetivo: Caracterizar las actividades de superación profesional de médicos generales integrales sobre el uso racional de medicamentos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 269 médicos generales integrales que laboraban en los consultorios del médico de la familia o en los servicios de urgencia de las 17 áreas de salud del municipio de Santiago de Cuba en el período comprendido desde enero hasta julio de 2022, quienes fueron seleccionados mediante muestreo probabilístico por conglomerado bietápico. Se consideró como variable las actividades de superación profesional relacionadas con el uso racional de medicamentos, las cuales fueron valoradas a través de 5 indicadores. Resultados: La triangulación metodológica de los resultados evidenció que el nivel alcanzado en cuanto a la frecuencia de realización de dichas actividades fue bajo (índice de 1,18), al igual que lo obtenido en los indicadores analizados, excepto en el referido a la autopreparación que mostró un nivel medio. Conclusiones: Las actividades de superación profesional de los médicos generales integrales relacionadas con el uso racional de medicamentos en el municipio de Santiago de Cuba se caracterizaron por un nivel bajo de frecuencia de realización.

Introduction: Irrational use of medications is, among other elements, due to the lack of professional training; situation with more repercussion in primary health care, where comprehensive general doctors generally work. Objective: To characterize the professional training activities of comprehensive general doctors on the rational use of medications. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 269 comprehensive general doctors who worked in the family doctor offices or in the emergency services of the 17 health areas of Santiago de Cuba municipality was carried out from January to July, 2022, who were selected by means of a probabilistic sampling by biphase conglomerate. The activities of professional training related to the rational use of medications were considered as variable, which were valued through 5 indicators. Results: The methodological triangulation of the results evidenced that the level reached as for the frequency of realization of this activities was low (index of 1.18), as well as what was obtained in the analyzed indicators, except the one referred to the self-preparation which showed a mean level. Conclusions: Professional training activities of comprehensive general doctors related to the rational use of medications in Santiago de Cuba municipality were characterized by a low level of realization frequency.

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Medication-overuse headache (MOH) can develop from primary headaches. MOH is usually the result of overuse of symptomatic medications. It is a noteworthy personal and societal burden. The identification and treatment of patients at risk for MOH is an essential component of MOH management. Medication overuse can be modifiable and can advance from episodic to chronic migraine. Treatment for MOH is complex, and experts in the field have varied views on the most appropriate strategy for MOH treatment. The objective of this review is to give a comprehensive synopsis of the literature for the management of MOH. Treatment strategies, such as detoxification and prevention, are the debatable issues. Medication withdrawal is the foundation for management. The available literature suggested abrupt withdrawal with preventive approaches for early management. Bridging therapy could be useful to get relief from withdrawal symptoms. Multidisciplinary choices proved beneficial in supporting withdrawal and preventing relapse. Worldwide, the termination of overused medications has been observed as a standard treatment strategy; however, patient-specific approaches should be taken.

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BACKGROUND: Conflicting results about the effect of concomitant medications on immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were reported by many meta-analyses (MAs), and the certainty of evidence linking concomitant medications with immunotherapy efficacy has not been quantified, which may cause some evidence to be misinterpreted. METHODS: Four databases including Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched from inception to January 2023 in English. Based on prospective or retrospective clinical controlled trials including immunotherapy with concomitant medications or not in NSCLC, quantitative MAs reporting the efficacy of immunotherapy with binary direct comparison and enough extractable data were collected. The methodological quality, reporting quality, and risk of bias of included MAs were evaluated respectively. New meta-analyses were conducted and their evidence certainty was classified as nonsignificant, weak, suggestive, highly suggestive, or convincing. RESULTS: Fifteen MAs with 5 medications were included. After being assessed by AMSTAR-2, PRISMA, and ROBIS, the major shortcomings were focused on the registration of protocol, literature retrieval or data extraction, implementation of sensitivity analysis or evidence certainty assessment, and incomplete reporting in the section of method and result. New pooled analyses indicated that antibiotics (HR = 1.545[1.318-1.811]), steroids (HR = 1.784[1.520-2.093]), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (HR = 1.303[1.048-1.621]) and opioids (HR = 1.910[1.213-3.006]) could shorten overall survival (OS) in patients with NSCLC receiving immunotherapy. Besides, antibiotics (HR = 1.285[1.129-1.462]) and steroids (HR = 1.613[1.315-1.979]) were harmful to progression-free survival (PFS) in these patients significantly. No negative effect was found in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the objective response rate of all medications. High-level evidence suggested that using PPIs before or after the initiation of immunotherapy and using steroids during the first-course immunotherapy could weaken the OS of patients with NSCLC. Meanwhile, the negative effects of antibiotics and opioids on OS or PFS were only supported by moderate or low-level evidence. CONCLUSIONS: The concurrent usage of PPIs or steroids adversely affects the survival of patients with NSCLC receiving immunotherapy. Future investigations are required to ascertain whether these adverse effects are primarily attributed to the comorbidities or the concurrent medications.

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ABSTRACT Background: During the past decade, Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) has become the most common cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Several risk factors have been implicated. Scattered evidence about the association of CDI with antidepressant medications use exists in the literature so far. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether the risk of developing CDI is increased in hospitalized patients using antidepressant medications. Methods: Patients who were hospitalized were included in our cohort. We excluded individuals aged less than 18 years. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to calculate the risk of CDI accounting for potential confounders. Results: The risk of CDI in hospitalized patients was increased in individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (OR: 4.44; 95%CI: 4.35-4.52), and in patients using clindamycin (OR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.53-1.57), beta-lactam antibiotics (OR: 1.62; 95%CI: 1.60-1.64), PPI (OR: 3.27; 95%CI: 3.23-3.30), trazodone (OR: 1.31; 95%CI: 1.29-1.33), nortriptyline (OR: 1.25; 95%CI: 1.21-1.28), and mirtazapine (OR: 2.50; 95%CI: 2.46-2.54). After controlling for covariates, the risk of CDI was not increased in patients who were taking fluoxetine (OR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.92-0.96). Conclusion: In contrary to fluoxetine; mirtazapine, nortriptyline, and trazodone were associated with increased risk of CDI in hospitalized patients.

RESUMO Contexto: Na última década, a infecção por Clostridioides difficile (ICD) tornou-se a causa mais comum de diarreia associada a antibióticos. Vários fatores de risco foram implicados. Existem evidências dispersas na literatura sobre a associação da ICD com o uso de medicamentos antidepressivos. Portanto, pretendemos investigar se o risco de desenvolver infecção adquirida na comunidade por Clostridioides difficile aumenta em pacientes que usam medicamentos antidepressivos. Métodos: Pacientes que foram hospitalizados foram incluídos em nossa coorte. Indivíduos com menos de 18 anos foram excluídos. Uma análise de regressão multivariada foi realizada para calcular o risco de ICD, considerando possíveis confusões. Resultados: O risco de ICD em pacientes hospitalizados foi maior em indivíduos diagnosticados com doença inflamatória intestinal (OR: 4,44; IC95%: 4,35-4,52) e em pacientes que usavam clindamicina (OR: 1,55; IC95%: 1,53-1,57), antibióticos beta-lactâmicos (OR: 1,62; IC95%: 1,60-1,64), PPI (OR: 3,27; IC95%: 3,23-3,30), trazodona (OR: 1,31; IC95%: 1,29-1,33), nortriptilina (OR: 1,25; IC95%: 1,21-1,28) e mirtazapina (OR: 2,50; IC95%: 2,46-2,54). Depois de controlar as covariáveis, o risco de ICD não aumentou em pacientes que estavam tomando fluoxetina (OR: 0,94; IC95%: 0,92-0,96). Conclusão: Em contrário à fluoxetina; mirtazapina, nortriptilina e trazodona foram associados a um risco aumentado de ICD em pacientes hospitalizados.

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Previous studies show changes in lipid metabolism in epilepsy. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between lipid profile and clinical variables in adult patients with epilepsy (APE). Seventy-two APE participated in this pilot study at an outpatient neurology service. The lipid profile (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides), age at disease onset, disease duration, seizures frequency, and the number of antiseizure medications (ASM) used were investigated. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square, Fisher, Mann-Whitney, Spearman coefficient, and logistic regression tests. There were significant differences in HDL (p = 0.0023) and total cholesterol (p = 0.0452) levels in connection with the number of ASM used. There was a significant difference in seizure control among the different numbers of ASM used (p = 0.0382). Higher HDL values were found in females (p = 0.0170). The logistic regression showed that only the number of ASM used was associated with seizure control (p = 0.0408; OR = 2.800; 95% CI = 1.044; 7.509). The number of ASM taken and not the lipid profile was associated with seizure control in APE.

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INTRODUCTION: Elderly with cancer often have multimorbidity, which determines a higher risk of polypharmacy. This is related to negative clinical results such as adverse drug reaction and emergence service visits. Furthermore, polypharmacy increases the risk of using potentially inappropriate medications. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of potentially inappropriate medication in elderly with multiple myeloma and associated factors. METHODS: The study was conducted with older adults with multiple myeloma treated at outpatient oncology and hematology services in a southeastern Brazilian capital. Potentially inappropriate medications were classified using the American Geriatric Society/Beers 2019 Criteria. Variables were described using frequency and proportions, performing multiple logistic regression to identify factors associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-three older adults with multiple myeloma were included, with a median age of 70.9 years. The median number of medications was 8, and 63% of patients used polypharmacy. More than half (54%) of the patients used potentially inappropriate medications, and proton pump inhibitors (46%) and benzodiazepines (8%) were the most employed therapeutic classes. Older adults who used potentially inappropriate medications differed from those who did not use them in the following characteristics: income up to three minimum wages, higher schooling level, private service, multimorbidity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, depression, adverse event, and polypharmacy. Higher schooling levels and polypharmacy were independently associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Potentially inappropriate medication use was high in patients with multiple myeloma studied. The use of polypharmacy and higher schooling levels were independently and positively associated with the use of potentially inappropriate medications.

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INTRODUCTION: The present study has compiled the prevalence of polypharmacy worldwide and assessed the prevalence of polypharmacy in different populations, including community-dwelling individuals, hospitalized patients, and institutionalized patients. METHODS: This systematic review was conducted and reported according to the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scielo, was performed in March 2021 without any date and language restrictions. Combinations of the following keywords were used for the search strategy: polypharmacy OR multiple medications OR multiple medicines OR multiple drug AND prevalence. Based on the search and inclusion criteria, two hundred and eight studies (73,076,167 individuals) were selected for inclusion in the systematic review. It was observed that there is a wide variation in the prevalence of polypharmacy between studies. RESULTS: The prevalence of polypharmacy was found to be 30.2%, 61.7%, and 56.9% for community-dwelling individuals, hospitalized patients, and institutionalized patients, respectively. CONCLUSION: Based on the analyses, this systematic review has demonstrated a wide variation in the prevalence of polypharmacy between studies and countries and a high prevalence of polypharmacy in institutionalized and hospitalized patients.