Interferons: effectiveness, toxicities, and costs

Article Abstract:

Research into alleviating the side effects of interferons should be conducted as this therapy comes more and more into common use. Interferons have been shown to effectively treat blood-based cancers, tumorous cancers, and certain viral diseases. This means that increasing numbers of patients will also experience the side effects of interferon therapy, which include liver toxicity, lack of appetite and weight loss, depression, and fatigue. Some studies have shown that medications can improve appetite, increase weight, and relieve depression. More should be done in the interest of improving quality of life for patients undergoing interferon treatment.

Editorial, Complications and side effects, Interferon

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Prescription for pragmatism

Article Abstract:

Michael Brookes, who is a member of a community drugs team, criticizes Hilary What's article for being factually incorrect. Brookes argues that there is proof to show that methadone prescription does reduce the risk of harm when it is accompanied by support and health education. He claims that Wheat has not acknowledged research which recommends shared-care schemes and he is scathing about her suggestion that medical staff are in favour of legitimizing drugs because they also use them. Brookes is concerned that Wheat's article will deter doctors from working with this client group.

Care and treatment, Usage, Drug addicts, Drug abusers, Methadone maintenance

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Study: prescription misuse costs billions each year

Article Abstract:

Research has found that prescription-related problems cost $30.1 billion to $136.8 billion annually. A reduction in these problems could save the health care system and society a substantial amount of money. Drug-related hospitalizations cost $47.4 billion each year, or 62% of all prescription-related problems and 28.2% of all hospital admissions. Inappropriate behavior on the part of the prescribing physician or patient cause these prescription-related problems.

Analysis, Medication errors

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