Review
Prescribing of antidepressant treatment (ADT) for major depressive disorder (MDD) has increased substantially over the last two decades. In this paper, the authors discuss the evidence that supports the use of ADT based on FDA approvals, data from randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses and where these are not available, the authors discuss and apply theoretical pharmacodynamic principles to help guide treatment choice in MDD.
Review
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is thought to be related to a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. Sometimes, use of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for PTSD, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) sertraline and paroxetine, may not lead to full remission and symptoms of hyperarousal may persist. In this article the authors review the literature on the alpha-2 receptor agonists clonidine and guanfacine for the treatment of PTSD and conclude that while the evidence base is limited, these agents might be considered useful when SSRIs fail in patients with PTSD.
Case Report
Benzodiazepines (BDZ) are the drugs of choice to prevent the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Differences in treatment regimens, the choice of BDZ, as well as the presence of liver cirrhosis can substantially alter the exposure of patients to drugs used for AWS treatment so patients should be carefully monitored.
Original Research
Inadequately treated, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) can lead to increased resource utilization and severely impair patients’ daily functioning and quality of life. The authors investigated the management of CINV episodes in three European health-care environments and estimate the direct costs associated with severe CINV episodes.
Review
Once changes in lifestyle have failed, treatment for gestational diabetes mellitus remains a matter of debate. In this article the authors review the evidence for glyburide and metformin, and discuss the role of insulin. Also, recommendations for postpartum screening and how to manage patients who are breastfeeding are described.
