Internal Medicine Alert – May 15, 2018
May 15, 2018
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Non-opioid vs. Opioid Medications for Chronic Back, Knee, or Hip Pain
In this small study, non-opioid therapy (primarily acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) was as effective as opioid therapy for chronic musculoskeletal pain with fewer medication-related side effects.
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Identifying Common Traits Regarding Inappropriate Antibiotic Prescribing
In a retrospective cohort study of outpatient visits for upper respiratory infections that should not require antibiotics, researchers found several patient, practice, and provider characteristics associated with inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing. Notably, adult patients seen by an advanced practice provider were 15% more likely to receive an antimicrobial than those seen by a physician provider.
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Lower Blood Pressure Targets May Increase Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Type 2 diabetic patients with systolic blood pressure < 120 mmHg experienced more cardiovascular events than patients with systolic blood pressure up to 140 mmHg.
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Searching for a Connection Between Silent Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure
In a large community-based cohort, the development of silent myocardial infarction on ECG was associated with increased risk of future heart failure.
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Efavirenz, Lamivudine, and Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablets (Symfi)
Symfi is indicated as a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adult and pediatric patients weighing at least 40 kg.
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Did We Catch Vfib Onset?
Did this patient develop ventricular fibrillation (Vfib) while the ECG in the figure was recorded?