More articles from Current Drug Therapy
- Using viral load, CD4+ levels, and clinical response to guide antiviral therapy for HIV
A summary of the most recent guidelines from the International AIDS Society.
- Inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor: New treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis
The treatment of autoimmune diseases took a big step forward recently with the release of new drugs that target one of the key cytokines in the inflammatory process. With an illustration showing how the new drugs block tumor necrosis factor.
- COX 2-selective NSAIDs: Biology, promises, and concerns
A new family of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs promises to be substantially safer than current agents, but should not be assumed to be totally without adverse effects.
- Hypersensitivity syndrome to antiepileptic drugs: A review including new anticonvulsants
How to recognize this potentially fatal adverse reaction and choose a safe substitute drug.
- Antileukotrienes and asthma: Alternative or adjunct to inhaled steroids?
A new class of oral drugs decrease airway inflammation and constriction. An illustration shows how the new antileukotriene drugs block the process of airway inflammation.
- Lipid formulations of amphotericin B
New lipid formulations of amphotericin B are less nephrotoxic and can he given in higher doses than standard formulations, but improved efficacy has not been proved. With an illustration explaining the pharmacokinetics of these preparations.
- Sildenafil (Viagra) for treating male erectile dysfunction
A brief overview of sildenafil, the first oral drug for treating erectile dysfuntion. With an illustration showing how the drug works.
- What internists should know about amiodarone
Despite side effects involving the lungs, heart, thyroid, and other organs, amiodarone is effective in the treatment of refractory atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and it has unique safety in coronary disease and left ventricular dysfunction.
- Protoivpump inhibitors for gastric acid-related disease
Proton-pump inhibitors are the most effective drugs for suppressing gastric acid production. Concerns over potential ill effects of hypergastrinemia have proved unfounded.
- Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure
The JNC VI report updates the standard of care in hypertension, advising physicians to be more diligent in lowering blood pressure, especially in patients with known risk factors.