November 7th 2023
Using an AI platform, Magellan Health was able to better support providers in prescribing behavioral health medications and addressing medication problems, which reduced pharmacy costs and increased adherence.
Treatment with SSRIs or venlaxafine associated with increased risk of GI bleeding
August 1st 2008In a nested, case-control study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, investigators observed that the use of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increased the risk of upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding; this increased risk was also observed with the serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) venlafaxine. This risk may be increased when the agents are used concomitantly with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and decreased when used concomitantly with acid-suppressing agents.
Iloperidone: A novel atypical antipsychotic for the treatment of schizophrenia
June 1st 2008Iloperidone, a new-generation atypical antipsychotic, is currently under investigation for the treatment of schizophrenia. In 4 separate phase 3 trials, iloperidone has demonstrated efficacy in treating schizophrenia, with total Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) scores decreasing by a range of 8 to 14 points depending on the iloperidone dose.
Use of SSRIs in early pregnancy not associated with increased risk of most birth defects
November 1st 2007In 2 large, case-control studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), researchers demonstrated that, overall, a woman's use of a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) in early pregnancy was not associated with significantly increased risks of congenital heart defects or most other types of birth defects.
Bifeprunox: A partial dopamine-receptor agonist for the treatment of schizophrenia
June 1st 2007Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric disorder that affects an estimated 1% of the population. This disorder may be treated with typical (first-generation) or atypical (second-generation) agents; a recognized concern regarding these agents is that long-term use has been associated with increased risks of serious side effects, either neurologic or metabolic in nature. Bifeprunox is a partial dopamine-receptor agonist under investigation for the treatment of patients with schizophrenia.If approved, bifeprunox may serve as an additional option for the acute and maintenance treatment of schizophrenia.
Gabapentin monotherapy as effective as gabapentin plus antidepressant in treatment of hot flashes
May 1st 2007A phase 3 study evaluating the use of gabapentin alone and in combination with an antidepressant in women with hot flashes who had an inadequate response with antidepressant monotherapy demonstrated that gabapentin reduced hot flashes by approximately 50%, whereas the combination of an anti-depressant with gabapentin appeared to offer no additional benefit.
Gabapentin monotherapy as effective as gabapentin plus antidepressant in treatment of hot flashes
May 1st 2007A phase 3 study evaluating the use of gabapentin alone and in combination with an antidepressant in women with hot flashes who had an inadequate response with antidepressant monotherapy demonstrated that gabapentin reduced hot flashes by approximately 50%, whereas the combination of an anti-depressant with gabapentin appeared to offer no additional benefit.
SSRIs demonstrate risk reduction for colorectal tumors dependent on dose level in case-control study
July 1st 2006Investigators conducting a population-based, nested case-control study observed an association between the daily dose level of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and a decreased risk of colorectal cancer among patients aged 5 to 85 years old. No consistent association was found between colorectal cancer risk and the use of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
Advisory committee prompts FDA to consider black box warning for ADHD drugs
March 1st 2006FDA officials are reviewing an unexpected recommendation from the agency's Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory Committee to add black box warnings to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) stimulant medications. In addition to advising the agency about clinical trial designs that could better assess cardiovascular risks associated with ADHD therapies, members of the advisory committee called for immediate action to caution prescribers and patients about potential adverse events associated with these drugs. Concerns about increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and sudden death have emerged with increased prescribing of stimulant ADHD drugs for adults and children?an estimated 4 million patients use these mediations, including more than 1 million adults.
From the ECNP Congress: Head-to-head study confirms atypical antipsychotic efficacy equivalence
November 1st 2005Quetiapine (Seroquel, AstraZeneca), olanzapine (Zyprexa, Lilly), and risperidone (Risperdal, Janssen) are equally effective in patients experiencing first episode psychosis, according to data presented in late October during the Breaking News session at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Congress.
Panic Disorder: A pharmacological armamentarium
July 1st 2003Panic disorder is the most common anxiety disorder in the primary-care setting. It is characterized by episodes of acute, unexpected, and unprovoked anxiety and is often associated with depression and/or agoraphobia. Symptoms may become so pervasive that many life situations may be avoided. Management of panic disorder includes cognitive behavioral therapy, patient education, and pharmacotherapy. This article focuses on the rationale of drug therapy, methods of management, and other clinical considerations such as side effects. In addition, newer formulations are available that may subsequently change how patients are managed. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered first-line therapy, with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) as a possible alternative if the patient fails to respond. These agents are also useful in the management of comorbid depression. Benzodiazepines offer more rapid anxiolysis and may be used in combination with an SSRI for bridging. Although monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) have been studied, they do not have a significant role in the pharmacological management of panic disorder. (Formulary 2003;38:431?38.)
From the literature: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors linked to upper GI tract bleeding
March 1st 2003Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) experienced increased usage in the 1990s due to their low toxicity and minimal adverse effects. Throughout this period, several clinical reports indicated a link between the use of SSRIs and various bleeding disorders. A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found a distinct correlation between the use of SSRIs and upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding. The population-based cohort study was conducted within the 490,000 residents of a northern Denmark county over a five-year period.