Tetrandrine alleviates oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia via modulation of inflammation-related genes

Oxaliplatin, a platinum-based chemotherapy drug, causes neuropathic pain, yet effective pharmacological treatments are lacking. Previously, we showed that tetrandrine (TET), with anti-inflammatory properties, reduces mechanical allodynia in nerve-injured mice. This study explores the effect of TET on oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia and gene changes in mice. Male C57BL/6J mice received oxaliplatin intraperitoneally to induce mechanical allodynia. Post-treatment with TET or vehicle, the mechanical withdrawal threshold (WMT) was assessed using von Frey filaments. TET alleviated oxaliplatin-induced mechanical allodynia. RNA sequencing identified 365 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the Control vs. Oxaliplatin group and 229 DEGs in the Oxaliplatin vs. TET group. Pearson correlation analysis of co-regulated DEGs and inflammation-related genes (IRGs) revealed 104 co-regulated inflammation-related genes (Co-IRGs) (|cor| > 0.8, P < 0.01). The top 30 genes in the PPI network were identified. Arg2, Cxcl12, H2-Q6, Kdr, and Nfkbia were highlighted based on ROC analysis. Subsequently, Arg2, Cxcl12, Kdr, and Nfkbia were further verified by qRCR. Immune infiltration analysis indicated increased follicular CD4 T cell infiltration in oxaliplatin-treated mice, reduced by TET. Molecular docking showed strong binding affinity between TET and proteins encoded by Arg2, Cxcl12, Kdr, and Nfkbia. In summary, TET may alleviate oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in clinical conditions.

Tetrandrine attenuates SNI-induced mechanical allodynia by inhibiting spinal CKLF1

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a prevalent clinical problem for which satisfactory treatment options are unavailable. Tetrandrine (TET), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid extracted from Stephania tetrandra S. Moore, possesses anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory properties. Chemokine-like factor 1 (CKLF1) is known to play a crucial role in both peripheral and central inflammatory processes. This study aimed to investigate the potential anti-NP effects of TET and the involvement of CKLF1 in the action of TET. A male C57BL/6J mice model of NP caused by spared nerve injury (SNI) was established and mechanical withdrawal thresholds were measured using von Frey filaments. The results showed that TET improved mechanical allodynia in SNI mice and the propofol-induced sleep assay demonstrated that the TET group did not exhibit central inhibition, while the pregabalin (PGB) group showed significant central inhibition. Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining showed that TET significantly inhibited spinal protein expression levels of CKLF1, p-NF-κB/NF-κB, p-IKK/IKK, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, and increased protein expression levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, while inhibiting the expression levels of microglia and astrocyte markers IBA-1 and GFAP of SNI mice. Moreover, immunofluorescence double-labeling results revealed that CKLF1 was predominantly colocalized with microglia of the spinal cord (SC) in SNI mice. C19 (an antagonism peptide of CKLF1) alleviated SNI-induced mechanical pain hypersensitivity, while C27 (an analog peptide of CKLF1) induced mechanical allodynia in normal mice. TET significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia induced by C27 in mice. TET may effectively alleviate NP by reducing neuroinflammation and decreasing CKLF1.

[Drug clinical comprehensive evaluation of tetrandrine in the treatment of pneumoconiosis]

Objective: To analyze the safety, effectiveness, economics, innovation, suitability and accessibility of tetrandrine in the treatment of pneumoconiosis, and provide evidence-based basis for health policy decision-making and clinical practice. Methods: In July 2022, the system searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, SinoMed databases (the retrieval time was from the establishment of the database to June 30, 2022), screened the documents that meet the standards, extracted and evaluated the data, and used the "HTA checklist" developed by the International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessment (INAHTA) to evaluate the HTA report. AMSTAR-2 Scale was used to evaluate the quality of systematic evaluation/Meta analysis. CHEERS Scale was used to evaluate the quality of pharmacoeconomics research. The included cohort study or case-control study was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The included randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies were evaluated using the Cochrane Risk Bias Assessment Tool (Cochrane RCT) quality evaluation criteria. Comprehensive comparison and analysis based on the characteristics of the data included in the study. Results: A total of 882 related literatures were detected from the initial screening. According to relevant standards, 8 RCT studies were finally selected for analysis. Statistical results showed that basic treatment with tetrandrine could better improve FEV(1) (MD=0.13, 95%CI: 0.06-0.20, P<0.001), FEV(1)/FVC (MD=4.48, 95%CI: 0.61-8.35, P=0.02) and clinical treatment efficiency. Tetrandrine had a low incidence of adverse reactions. The affordability coefficient of tetrandrine tablets was 0.295-0.492. Conclusion: Tetrandrine can improve the clinical symptoms and pulmonary ventilation function of pneumoconiosis patients, most of the adverse reactions are mild, and the clinical application is safe.

The efficacy and safety of prophylactic antibiotics for post-acute stroke infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Infections are common complications after stroke and associated with unfavourable outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic antibiotics for post-acute stroke infection.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Data, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and clinical trial register platforms from inception to 15 February 2022. We included randomized clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of prophylactic antibiotics. Primary outcomes were mortality rate and incidence of pneumonia. The pooled risk ratio (RR) and mean differences with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the random or fixed-effect model depending on heterogeneity. The quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations.

RESULTS

Twelve studies (4809 participants) were included. There was no significant difference in the mortality rate (12 trials, n = 4740, RR 1.03 [95% Cl: 0.91-1.16], high-quality evidence), incidence of pneumonia (7 trials, n = 4352, RR 0.94 [95% CI: 0.79-1.11], high-quality evidence) and the incidence of adverse events between the prophylactic antibiotics and control groups. Prophylactic antibiotics significantly reduced the incidence of infections (8 trials, n = 4517, RR 0.72 [95% CI: 0.58-0.89], moderate-quality evidence) and urinary tract infections (7 trials, n = 4352, RR 0.39 [95% CI: 0.3-0.49], moderate-quality evidence). None of the subgroup analyses showed a significant difference in mortality or the incidence of pneumonia.

CONCLUSION

For acute stroke patients, prophylactic antibiotics were significantly associated with fewer incidences of any infections and urinary tract infections without significant differences in mortality rate and pneumonia.

Efficacy and Safety Profile of Novel Oral Anticoagulants in the Treatment of Left Atrial Thrombosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

The presence of left atrial/left atrial appendage thrombosis is associated with a higher risk of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation. The optimal antithrombotic strategy is not established to date.

Objective

Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety profile of novel oral anticoagulants with warfarin in the treatment of left atrial/left atrial appendage thrombosis.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and 3 Chinese databases for all randomized controlled trials and cohort studies (PROSPERO, CRD42021238952) from inception to 7 May 2021. Two authors independently performed the articles selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. The efficacy outcome was the resolution of left atrial/left atrial appendage thrombosis, and the safety outcomes were bleeding and stroke/transient ischemic attack.

Results

One randomized controlled trial and 5 cohort studies were included, with a total of 353 patients. Compared with warfarin, novel oral anticoagulants were associated with increased probability of left atrial/left atrial appendage thrombosis resolution (OR = 2.20; 95% CI, 1.35–3.60; I² = 0%). Compared with warfarin, novel oral anticoagulants had a similar risk of bleeding (OR = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.39–2.13; I² = 0%). There was no evidence of increased risk of stroke/transient ischemic attack (OR = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.12–1.45; I² = 0%).

Conclusions

Novel oral anticoagulants were more effective than warfarin in promoting the resolution of left atrial/left atrial appendage thrombosis, without increased risks of bleeding and stroke/transient ischemic attack. Our study provides valuable insight into clinical practice. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to fully evaluate the benefits and risks in these patients. PROSPERO Registration No.: CRD42021238952.

Impact of a Collaborative Pharmaceutical Care Service for Patients With Parkinson's Disease

Objective: To identify the impact of a collaborative pharmaceutical care service (CPCS) on medication safety and establish the impact of the CPCS on patient reported outcomes for Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Methods: Initially, PD outpatients receiving the CPCS between March 2017 and March 2019 were compared with PD patients receiving standard of care to identify differences in management. Pharmacist interventions data were coded and patients with PD receiving the CPCS were compared with those receiving standard of care to determine differences in medicines prescribed and dosage associated with these. Following this, data of patients receiving CPCS at baseline and 3-months follow-up were collected using a questionnaire consisting of validated measures of two patient-reported outcomes [adherence and quality of life (QoL)]. Mean scores for continuous variables were calculated, with descriptive analysis of categorical variables consisting of frequency counts and percentages. Change in adherence score before and after CPCS was investigated using a Wilcoxon sign rank sum test, spearman correlation analysis was used to correlate the changes in QoL before and after CPCS with the number of interventions, and p < 0.05 indicates that the difference is statistically significant. Results: A total of 331 PD outpatients received CPCS over 490 outpatient visits with an average age of 71.83 (±12.54). Five hundred and forty-five drug related problems were recorded as pharmacist interventions, of which most involved change to dosage (n = 226, 41.47%), adverse drug reactions (n = 135, 24.77%), and change in a medication (n = 102, 18.72%). Compared with those receiving standard of care, patients receiving CPCS were significantly less likely to have been prescribed pramipexole (18.52 versus 23.77%, p < 0.001) and more likely to have been prescribed amantadine (5.40 versus 3.70%, p = 0.02) and selegiline (17.36 versus 11.64%, p < 0.001). Lower dosages of levodopa/benserazide (0.51 ± 0.31 g versus 0.84 ± 0.37 g, p < 0.001), levodopa/carbidopa (0.33 ± 0.23 g versus 0.66 ± 0.47 g, p < 0.001), pramipexole (1.14 ± 1.63 mg versus 1.27 ± 0.69 mg, p = 0.01), and entacapone (130.00 ± 79.76 mg versus 173.09 ± 97.86 mg, p < 0.001) were also recorded. At baseline 119 PD outpatients with an average age of 69.98 (±9.90) were recruited for the longitudinal study. At 3-month follow-up, participants reported improvement in bodily pain subscale (baseline versus 3-months follow-up, 30.04 ± 22.21 versus 23.01 ± 20.98, p = 0.037) and medication adherence (6.19 ± 1.50 versus 6.72 ± 1.73, p = 0.014). Frequency of CPCS use was related to activity of daily living subscale (p = 0.047), the bodily pain subscale (p = 0.026), and medication adherence (p = 0.011). Total score of PDQ-39 was associated with patient education (p = 0.005) and usage and dosage combined with patient education (p = 0.006), while medication adherence score was associated with usage and dosage (p = 0.005). Conclusion: The CPCS was effective in resolving drug-related problems and in improving patients' medication regimens, medication adherence, and QoL through patient education and dosage adjustments. This is the first step in the development and feasibility testing of pharmacy services for PD patients in China.

Dopamine agonists for preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

BACKGROUND

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a potentially serious complication of ovarian stimulation in assisted reproduction technology (ART). It is characterised by enlarged ovaries and an acute fluid shift from the intravascular space to the third space, resulting in bloating, increased risk of venous thromboembolism, and decreased organ perfusion. Most cases are mild, but forms of moderate or severe OHSS appear in 3% to 8% of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles. Dopamine agonists were introduced as a secondary prevention intervention for OHSS in women at high risk of OHSS undergoing ART treatment.  OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness and safety of dopamine agonists in preventing OHSS in women at high risk of developing OHSS when undergoing ART treatment.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases from inception to 4 May 2020: Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of dopamine agonists on OHSS rates. We also handsearched reference lists and grey literature.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered RCTs for inclusion that compared dopamine agonists with placebo/no intervention or another intervention for preventing OHSS in ART. Primary outcome measures were incidence of moderate or severe OHSS and live birth rate. Secondary outcomes were rates of clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, miscarriage, and adverse events.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts of publications; selected studies; extracted data; and assessed risk of bias. We resolved disagreements  by consensus. We reported pooled results as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) by the Mantel-Haenszel method. We applied GRADE criteria to judge overall quality of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

The search identified six new RCTs, resulting in 22 included RCTs involving 3171 women at high risk of OHSS for this updated review. The dopamine agonists were cabergoline, quinagolide, and bromocriptine. Dopamine agonists versus placebo or no intervention Dopamine agonists probably lowered the risk of moderate or severe OHSS compared to placebo/no intervention (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.44; 10 studies, 1202 participants; moderate-quality evidence). This suggests that if the risk of moderate or severe OHSS following placebo/no intervention is assumed to be 27%, the risk following dopamine agonists would be between 8% and 14%. We are uncertain of the effect of dopamine agonists on rates of live birth (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.60 to 1.55; 3 studies, 362 participants; low-quality evidence). We are also uncertain of the effect of dopamine agonists on clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, miscarriage  or adverse events (very low to low-quality evidence). Dopamine agonists plus co-intervention versus co-intervention Dopamine agonist plus co-intervention (hydroxyethyl starch, human albumin, or withholding ovarian stimulation 'coasting') may decrease the risk of moderate or severe OHSS compared to co-intervention (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.84; 4 studies, 748 participants; low-quality evidence). Dopamine agonists may improve rates of live birth (OR 1.21, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.80; 2 studies, 400 participants; low-quality evidence). Dopamine agonists may improve rates of clinical pregnancy and miscarriage, but we are uncertain if they improve rates of multiple pregnancy  or adverse events (very low to low-quality evidence). Dopamine agonists versus other active interventions We are uncertain if cabergoline improves the risk of moderate or severe OHSS compared to human albumin (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.38; 3 studies, 296 participants; very low-quality evidence), prednisolone (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.05 to 1.33; 1 study; 150 participants; very low-quality evidence), hydroxyethyl starch (OR 2.69, 95% CI 0.48 to 15.10; 1 study, 61 participants; very low-quality evidence), coasting (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.95; 3 studies, 320 participants; very low-quality evidence), calcium infusion (OR 1.83, 95% CI 0.88 to 3.81; I² = 81%; 2 studies, 400 participants; very low-quality evidence), or diosmin (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.35 to 6.00; 1 study, 200 participants; very low-quality evidence). We are uncertain of the effect of dopamine agonists on rates of live birth (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.59; 2 studies, 430 participants; low-quality evidence). We are uncertain of the effect of dopamine agonists on clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy or miscarriage (low to moderate-quality evidence). There were no adverse events reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Dopamine agonists probably reduce the incidence of moderate or severe OHSS compared to placebo/no intervention, while we are uncertain of the effect on adverse events and pregnancy outcomes (live birth, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage). Dopamine agonists plus co-intervention may decrease moderate or severe OHSS rates compared to co-intervention only, but we are uncertain whether dopamine agonists affect pregnancy outcomes. When compared to other active interventions, we are uncertain of the effects of dopamine agonists on moderate or severe OHSS and pregnancy outcomes.

Effect of the international pharmacy education programs: A pilot evaluation based on Kirkpatrick's model

Globalization has attracted much attention to universities over the past decade. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the United States-China international pharmacy education programs (IPEP) in China.Kirkpatrick's model of evaluation was used to evaluate IPEP from reaction and learning levels. In the reaction level, a questionnaire survey with a Likert scale was used. In the learning level, data from "Assessment Record of Advanced Clinical Pharmacy Practice of Peking University" were collected. Cronbach' α coefficient of reliability was calculated, principal component analysis and independent t-test were conducted.All of the students who attended IPEP (n = 36) completed the questionnaire survey. The scores of benefits were increased in 4 categories, including "Clinical practice competency improvement" (mean ranking [MR] = 3.11 points), "Understanding of doctor of Pharmacy education mode" (MR = 3.48 points), "English competency improvement" (MR = 3.64 points) and "International collaboration" (MR = 3.92 points). Meanwhile, the overall satisfaction was relatively high with the IPEP (MR = 4.22 points). In the learning level, a total of 22 records was obtained. Students who attended (n = 5) the IPEP achieved higher scores than those did not attend (n = 17) in the assessment records, although no statistical significant differences were observed. Personal in-depth interviews further supported the overall benefit of IPEP.The Kirkpatrick model of evaluation can be used for IPEP. The benefit and satisfaction of students attended the IPEP were high in the reaction level; even though no statistically significant difference was shown in the learning level, higher scores were still demonstrated.

Content and impact of pharmacy services for patients with Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Medicines optimisation is important for the management of Parkinson's disease (PD). As many patients with PD have other long-term conditions, treatment is complex and risk of adverse events for these patients is high.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the role of pharmacists and impact of pharmacy interventions for PD patients.

METHODS

We comprehensively searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Chinese databases Sinomed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure to identify studies reporting pharmacist interventions and pharmacy services for PD patients using a predefined search strategy. The search period was from inception to March 2019. We also manually searched the reference list of included studies and ClinicalTrials.gov. We conducted meta-analyses to synthesize the evidence quantitatively.

RESULTS

A total of 1607 studies were identified by applying the search criteria. After screening, 19 cross-sectional and case-controlled studies with 1458 PD patients from 9 countries were included. Pharmacist interventions for PD patients most commonly related to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) (13 studies), adherence assessment (12 studies), medication review (12 studies), identification of drug interactions (11 studies), monitoring response to medication therapy (11 studies), identification of inappropriate medication (11 studies), and patient education (10 studies). Most pharmacy services were provided in outpatient settings (13 studies). Reported impact measures included adherence (8 studies), quality of life (7 studies), and identification of drug-related problems (6 studies) such as ADRs (393 times out of 1760 times, 22.33%, 6 studies), inappropriate drug choice (349 times, 19.83%, 6 studies), inappropriate dosage (335 times, 19.03%, 6 studies), inappropriate drug use (257 times, 14.60%, 3 studies) and drug-drug interactions (146 times, 8.3%, 4 studies). Pooled results from 3 studies indicated no statistically significant impact of pharmacy services on all subscales of PD Questionnaire-39.

CONCLUSION

ADRs were the most widely reported drug-related problems for PD patients; pharmacy services may have a role to play in medication adherence but were not found to impact on quality of life.

Efficacy, Safety, and Economics of Intravenous Levetiracetam for Status Epilepticus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

To evaluate efficacy, safety, and economics profiles of intravenous levetiracetam (LEV) for status epilepticus (SE).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Clinicaltrials.gov, and OpenGrey.eu for eligible studies published from inception to June 12^th 2019. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effect model to calculate odds ratio (OR) of included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

A total of 478 studies were obtained. Five systematic reviews (SRs)/meta-analyses, 9 RCTs, 1 non-randomized trial, and 27 case series/reports and 1 economic study met the inclusion criteria. Five SRs indicated no statistically significant difference in rates of seizure cessation when LEV was compared with lorazepam (LOR), phenytoin (PHT), or valproate (VPA). Pooled results of included RCTs indicated no statistically significant difference in seizure cessation when LEV was compared with LOR [OR = 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37 to 2.92], PHT (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.27), and VPA (OR = 1.47, 95% CI 0.81 to 2.67); and no statistically significant difference in seizure freedom within 24 h compared with LOR [OR = 1.83, 95% CI 0.57 to 5.90] and PHT (OR = 1.08, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.87). Meanwhile, LEV did not increase the risk of mortality during hospitalization compared with LOR (OR = 1.03, 95% CI 0.31 to 3.39), PHT (OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.37 to 2.10), VPA (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 0.32 to 5.07), and placebo (plus clonazepam, OR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.16 to 3.38). LEV had lower need for artificial ventilation (OR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.92) and a lower risk of hypotension (OR = 0.15, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.84) compared to LOR. A trend of lower risk of hypotension and higher risk of agitation was found when LEV was compared with PHT. Case series and case report studies indicated psychiatric and behavioral adverse events of LEV. Cost-effectiveness evaluations indicated LEV as the most cost-effective non-benzodiazepines anti-epileptic drug (AED).

Conclusions

LEV has a similar efficacy as LOR, PHT, and VPA for SE, but a lower need for ventilator assistance and risk of hypotension, thus can be used as a second-line treatment for SE. However, more well-conducted studies to confirm the role of intravenous LEV for SE are still needed.

The Incidence and Risk Factors for Adverse Drug Reactions Related to Tanreqing Injection: A Large Population-Based Study in China

Background: Tanreqing injection (TRQ) is a traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in China to treat pulmonary diseases presenting as phlegm-heat syndrome. Robust data on the safety of TRQ from real-world observational cohorts are currently lacking.

Objective: To evaluate as the incidence, type, and predictors of adverse events (AEs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of TRQ in clinical practice in China.

Methods: We conducted a population-based cohort, multicenter study to evaluate the incidence, manifestation, outcomes, and risk factors of AEs and ADRs following TRQ use in China. Between April 2014 and May 2015 a total of 30,322 consecutive inpatients/emergency attendance patients from 90 hospitals across China administrated TRQ were followed-up for 7 days. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using logistic regression to identify predictors of ADRs.

Results: The incidence of AEs and ADRs was 1.4 and 0.3%, respectively. Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders were the most common ADRs. All ADRs were mild or moderate in severity, except for one serious case of anaphylactic reaction. The majority of ADRs (72.8%) occurred in the first 2 h after TRQ administration. Two-thirds of patients (66.1%) in the study were prescribed TRQ off-label, including infants aged ≤24 months. A history of food allergy (OR 4.50, 95% CI: 1.35–15.00), drug allergy (OR 2.77, 95% CI: 1.56–4.94), and fast infusion speed (off-label use) (OR 2.10, 95% CI: 1.27–3.50) were associated with an increased risk of ADRs.

Conclusion: TRQ is well tolerated in the general population, yet off-label use is prevalent. Efforts are required to educate prescribers to adhere to the drug label in order to minimize potential patient harm.

Efficacy and safety of sertraline for the treatment of premature ejaculation: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUD

Evidence on the efficacy and safety of sertraline in patients with premature ejaculation (PE) was inconsistent. The objective of this article is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sertraline for the treatment of PE.

METHODS

We searched Medline (OVID), Embase, the Cochrane Library, and 2 Chinese databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and randomized crossover trials (RTs) that evaluated the efficacy and safety of sertraline in patients with PE. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate their pooled estimates with 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Of the 645 records obtained, we included 12 RCTs and 2 RTs (n = 977). Meta-analysis showed that sertraline prolonged intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) in PE patients ((standard mean difference (SMD) = 2.14, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.08). Subgroup analyses indicated a prolonged IELT for different treatment courses: 4 weeks (SMD = 2.66, 1.06 to 4.26), 6 weeks (SMD = 0.95, 0.31 to 1.58), and 8 weeks (SMD = 1.81, 0.78 to 2.85). The sexual satisfaction rates of patients (SMD = 2.20, 1.57 to 2.84) and spouses (SMD = 2.27, 1.44 to 3.09) were also improved. We observed a significant increased risk of gastrointestinal upset (risk ratio = 2.71, 1.39 to 5.28) in the sertraline group.

CONCLUSION

Sertraline can prolong IELT of PE patients, improve sexual satisfaction rates of patients and spouses, but increase risk of gastrointestinal upset.

Levetiracetam for epilepsy: an evidence map of efficacy, safety and economic profiles

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy, safety and economics of levetiracetam (LEV) for epilepsy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, OpenGrey.eu and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for systematic reviews (SRs), meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, case reports and economic studies published from January 2007 to April 2018. We used a bubble plot to graphically display information of included studies and conducted meta-analyses to quantitatively synthesize the evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 14,803 records were obtained. We included 30 SRs/meta-analyses, 34 RCTs, 18 observational studies, 58 case reports and 2 economic studies after the screening process. The included SRs enrolled patients with pediatric epilepsy, epilepsy in pregnancy, focal epilepsy, generalized epilepsy and refractory focal epilepsy. Meta-analysis of the included RCTs indicated that LEV was as effective as carbamazepine (CBZ; treatment for 6 months: 58.9% vs 64.8%, OR=0.76, 95% CI: 0.50-1.16; 12 months: 54.9% vs 55.5%, OR=1.24, 95% CI: 0.79-1.93), oxcarbazepine (57.7% vs 59.8%, OR=1.34, 95% CI: 0.34-5.23), phenobarbital (50.0% vs 50.9%, OR=1.20, 95% CI: 0.51-2.82) and lamotrigine (LTG; 61.5% vs 57.7%, OR=1.22, 95% CI: 0.90-1.66). SRs and observational studies indicated a low malformation rate and intrauterine death rate for pregnant women, as well as low risk of cognitive side effects. But psychiatric and behavioral side effects could not be ruled out. LEV decreased discontinuation due to adverse events compared with CBZ (OR=0.52, 95% CI: 0.41-0.65), while no difference was found when LEV was compared with placebo and LTG. Two cost-effectiveness evaluations for refractory epilepsy with decision-tree model showed US$ 76.18 per seizure-free day gained in Canada and US$ 44 per seizure-free day gained in Korea.

CONCLUSION

LEV is as effective as CBZ, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital and LTG and has an advantage for pregnant women and in cognitive functions. Limited evidence supports its cost-effectiveness.

REGISTERED NUMBER

PROSPERO (No CRD 42017069367).

[Individualized vancomycin dosing for a patient diagnosed as severe acute pancreatitis with concurrent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous veno-venous hemofiltration therapy: a case report]

Pharmacokinetic parameters can be significantly altered for acute kidney injury (AKI), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous veno-venous hemofiltration therapy (CVVH). Here we reported a case of individualized vancomycin dosing for a patient diagnosed as severe acute pancreatitis treated with concurrent ECMO and CVVH. A 65 kg 32-year-old woman was admitted to hospital presented with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), respiratory failure, metabotropic acidosis and hyperkalemia. She was admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) on hospital day 1 and was initiated on CVVH. She progressed to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) on ICU day 2, and veno-venous ECMO was instituted. Several catheters were inserted into the body to support ECMO, CVVH and pulse indicator continuous cardiac output (PiCCO), so vancomycin was prescribed empirically on ICU day 3 for prevention of catheter-related infection. Given the residual renal function and continuous hemofiltration intensity on day 3, vancomycin bolus of 1 000 mg was prescribed, followed by a maintenance dose of 500 mg every 8 hours. On ICU day 4, a vancomycin trough serum concentration of 14.1 mg/L was obtained before the fourth dose, which was within the target range of 10-20 mg/L. By ICU day 7, vancomycin dosage was elevated to 1.0 g every 12 hours because of aggravated infection and improved kidney function. On ICU day 14, a vancomycin trough serum concentration of 17 mg/L was obtained. Her white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil percentage (Neut%) dropped to the normal level by ICU day 19. This vancomycin regimen was successful in providing a target attainment of trough serum concentration ranging from 10-20 mg/L quickly and in controlling infection-related symptoms and signs properly. With the help of this case report we want to call attention to the clinically significant alteration in vancomycin pharmacokinetics among critically ill patients. Individualized vancomycin dosing regimens and therapeutic drug monitoring are necessary for critically ill patients receiving CVVH and ECMO to ensure that the target serum vancomycin levels are reached to adequately treat the infection and avoid nephrotoxicity.

Effects of UGT1A1, CYP3A5 and ABCB1 Genetic Variants on Pharmacokinetics of Antihistamine Drug Mizolastine in Chinese Healthy Volunteers

Mizolastine is a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist for chronic urticaria or allergic rhinitis. We investigated whether the variant genotypes of metabolic enzymes UGT1A1, CYP3A5 and transporter ABCB1 influence pharmacokinetic phenotype of substrate mizolastine in Chinese volunteers. Genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphisms in UGT1A1*6 (G211A), CYP3A5*3 (A6986G) and ABCB1 (C3435T) was determined by the pyrosequencing method. After a single oral dose of 10 mg mizolastine, the plasma concentrations were measured using validated high-performance liquid chromatography in 24 Chinese healthy volunteers. The results showed that the distributions of wild-type homozygotes and variant allele carriers (the sum of variant heterozygotes and variant homozygotes) were as follows: 17 cases (70.8%) versus seven cases (29.2%) in UGT1A1*6 genotypes, five cases (20.8%) versus 19 cases (79.2%) in CYP3A5*3 genotypes and seven cases (29.2%) versus 17 cases (70.8%) in ABCB1 3435T genotypes, respectively. There were no significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters of mizolastine between the variant allele UGT1A1*6, CYP3A5*3 and ABCB1 3435T carriers and the wild-type homozygotes, and the ratios were as follows: C_max was 101.03%, 86.02% and 105.78%; T_max was 162.35%, 98.98% and 144.90%; AUC_0-28 was 113.04%, 77.35% and 112.71%; and t_1/2 was 95.77%, 72.40% and 100.97%, respectively. In conclusion, these results suggested that the UGT1A1, CYP3A5 and ABCB1 genetic polymorphisms might be not contributed to the interindividual variation of mizolastine pharmacokinetic phenotype in the Chinese population.

Levodopa/carbidopa/entacapone versus levodopa/dopa-decarboxyiase inhibitor for the treatment of Parkinson's disease: systematic review, meta-analysis, and economic evaluation

Aims

To review the evidence for efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of levodopa/carbidopa/entacapone (LCE) compared with levodopa/dopa-decarboxyiase inhibitor (DDCI) for Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Chinese databases WangFang Data, Chinese Sci-tech Journals Database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, as well as ClinicalTrials.gov, were searched for randomized controlled trials with “levodopa/carbidopa/entacapone” as keywords. The search period was from inception to August 2017. We conducted meta-analyses to synthesize the evidence quantitatively.

Results

A total of 5,693 records were obtained. We included seven randomized controlled trials and one cost-effectiveness study after the screening process. Compared with levodopa–DDCI, LCE improved patient Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) II score (mean difference [MD] −1.17, 95% CI −1.64 to −0.71), UPDRS III score (MD −1.55, 95% CI −2.29 to −0.81), and Schwab and England daily activity rating (MD 2.05, 95% CI 0.85–3.26). There was no statistically significant difference in the risk of serious adverse events (AEs) or discontinuation due to AEs in patients with LCE, and the risk of total AEs was higher in the LCE group (risk ratio [RR] 1.33, 95% CI 1.05–1.70). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of LCE was £3,105 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained in the UK.

Conclusion

LCE can improve PD patients’ motor symptoms and daily living functioning when compared with levodopa/DDCI.

Comparison of prophylactic effect of UGIB and effects on platelet function between PPIs and H2RAs combined with DAPT: systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

We compared prophylactic effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H₂RAs) on upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) associated with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and explored this influence on platelet function.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials and cohort studies comparing PPIs with H₂RAs in adults receiving DAPT were collected from PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases. Dichotomous data were pooled to obtain risk ratios (RRs) for UGIB, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), poor responders to clopidogrel and rehospitalization, and continuous data were pooled to obtain mean differences (MDs) for P2Y₁₂ reaction units (PRUs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Twelve clinical trials (n=3,301) met the inclusion criteria. Compared to H₂RAs, PPIs lessened UGIB (RR =0.16, 95% CI: 0.03–0.70), and there was no significant difference in the incidence of PRUs (MD =18.21 PRUs, 95% CI: −4.11–40.54), poor responders to clopidogrel (RR =1.21, 95% CI: 0.92–1.61), incidence of MACEs (RR =0.89, 95% CI: 0.45–1.75) or rehospitalization (RR =1.76, 95% CI: 0.79–3.92). Subgroup analysis confirmed fewer PRUs in the H₂RAs group compared to the omeprazole group (2 studies, n=189, MD =31.80 PRUs, 95% CI: 11.65–51.96). However, poor responder data for clopidogrel and MACEs might be unreliable because few studies of this kind were included.

Conclusion

Limited evidence indicates that PPIs were better than H₂RAs for prophylaxis of UGIB associated with DAPT and had no effect on platelet function. Further study is needed to confirm these observations.

[Post-marketing surveillance of Tanreqing injection in children: a real world study]

Objective: To evaluate the safety of Tanreqing injection among children in the real world. Methods: A multicenter, large sample, ambispective cohort study, with registration-type clinical safety monitoring. A total of 6 188 inpatients and patients from the emergency units, aged ≤ 14 years who all had been using Tanreqing injection in 59 secondary and tertiary hospitals in China, were recruited between January, 2014 and May, 2015. The main outcomes would include incidence and severity of adverse drug reaction (ADR)/adverse drug event (ADE) of Tanreqing injection. Univariate analysis was used to explain the risk factors of ADR. Results: The overall incidence of ADE was 4.20‰ (26 cases), including 4 serious ones. The incidence of ADR was 3.07‰ (19 cases), including 17 cases of general ADR and 2 cases of new ADR. All the ADR cases were mild or moderate, mostly showing damages in skin and appendages. The onset of disease happened in 24 hours after the Tanreqing injection but all the ADR cases got improved or cured. Having histories of allergies to drugs or foods would increase the incidence of ADR. Conclusion:Tanreqing injection caused low incidence of ADR in children. Progams as stratifying high-risk patients and improving administrative management could further increase the safety level of Tanreqing injection.

Post-Marketing Safety Surveillance of the Salvia Miltiorrhiza Depside Salt for Infusion: A Real World Study

BACKGROUND

Salvia Miltiorrhiza Depside Salt for Infusion (SMDS) is made of a group of highly purified listed drugs. However, its safety data is still reported limitedly. Compared with the clinical trials, its safety in the real world setting is barely assessed.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety issues, including adverse events (AEs), adverse events related to SMDS (ADEs), and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) of the SMDS in the real world clinical practice.

METHODS

This is a prospective, multicenter, pharmacist-led, cohort study in the real world setting. Consecutive patients prescribed with SMDS were all included in 36 sites. Pharmacists were well trained to standardized collect the patients information, including demographics, medical history, prescribing patterns of SMDS, combined medications, adverse events, laboratory investigations, outcomes of the treatment when discharge, and interventions by pharmacists. Adverse events and adverse drug reactions were collected in details. Multivariate possion regression analysis was applied to identify risk factors associated with ADEs using the significance level (α) 0.05. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01872520.

RESULTS

Thirty six hospitals were participated in the study and 30180 consecutive inpatients were included. The median age was 62 (interquartile range [IQR], 50-73) years, and male was 17384 (57.60%) among the 30180 patients. The incidences of the AEs, ADEs and ADRs were 6.40%, 1.57% and 0.79%, respectively. There were 9 kinds of new ADEs which were not on the approved label found in the present study. According to the multivariate analysis, male (RR = 1.381, P = 0.009, 95%CI [1.085~1.759]), more concomitant medications (RR = 1.049, P<0.001, 95%CI [1.041~1.057]), longer duration of SMDS therapy (RR = 1.027, P<0.001, 95%CI [1.013~1.041]), higher drug concentration (RR = 1.003, P = 0.014, 95%CI [1.001~1.006]), and resolvent unapproved (RR = 1.900, P = 0.002, 95%CI [1.260~2.866]) were the independent risk factors of the ADEs. Moreover, following the approved indication (RR = 0.655, P<0.001, 95%CI [0.532~0.807]) was associated with lower incidence of ADEs.

CONCLUSIONS

SMDS was well tolerated in the general population. The incidences of the AEs, ADEs and ADRs were 6.40%, 1.57% and 0.79%, respectively. Several risk factors of its ADEs have been identified. It is recommended to follow the instructions when prescribing and administrating SMDS in the real world clinical practice.

Lack of evidence for a harmful effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on fracture risk among type 2 diabetes patients: a network and cumulative meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIM

To evaluate the comparative effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on risk of bone fracture in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched from inception to 27 January 2016 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the outcome of fracture in patients with T2DM treated with SGLT2 inhibitors. Pairwise and network meta-analyses, as well as a cumulative meta-analysis, were performed to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 38 eligible RCTs (10 canagliflozin, 15 dapagliflozin and 13 empagliflozin) involving 30 384 patients, with follow-ups ranging from 24 to 160 weeks, were included. The fracture event rates were 1.59% in the SGLT2 inhibitor groups and 1.56% in the control groups. The incidence of fracture events was similar among these three SGLT2 inhibitor groups. Compared with placebo, canagliflozin (OR 1.15; 95% CI 0.71-1.88), dapagliflozin (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.37-1.25) and empagliflozin (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.74-1.18) were not significantly associated with an increased risk of fracture. Our cumulative meta-analysis indicated the robustness of the null findings with regard to SGLT2 inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis based on available RCT data does not support the harmful effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on fractures, although future safety monitoring from RCTs and real-world data with detailed information on bone health is warranted.

Therapeutic drug monitoring of vancomycin: a guideline of the Division of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Chinese Pharmacological Society

BACKGROUND

Guideline development should be based on the quality of evidence, balance of benefits and harms, economic evaluation and patients' views and preferences. Therefore, these factors were considered in the development of a new guideline for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of vancomycin.

OBJECTIVES

To develop an evidence-based guideline for vancomycin TDM and to promote standardized vancomycin TDM in clinical practice in China.

METHODS

We referred to the WHO Handbook for Guideline Development and used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to rate the quality of evidence and grade the strength of recommendations, according to economic evaluation and patients' views and preferences. We used the GRADE Grid method to formulate the recommendations.

RESULTS

The guideline presents recommendations about who should receive vancomycin TDM, how to monitor vancomycin efficacy and renal safety, therapeutic trough concentrations, time to start initial vancomycin TDM, loading dose and how to administer and adjust the vancomycin dose.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed an evidence-based guideline for vancomycin TDM, which provides recommendations for clinicians and pharmacists to conduct vancomycin TDM in China.

Association between the AUC0-24/MIC Ratio of Vancomycin and Its Clinical Effectiveness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

A target AUC_0-24/MIC ratio of 400 has been associated with its clinical success when treating Staphylococcus aureus infections but is not currently supported by state-of-the-art evidence-based research.

Objective

This current systematic review aimed to evaluate the available evidence for the association between the AUC_0-24/MIC ratio of vancomycin and its clinical effectiveness on hospitalized patients and to confirm the existing target value of 400.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Sciences, the Cochrane Library and two Chinese literature databases (CNKI, CBM) were systematically searched. Manual searching was also applied. Both RCTs and observational studies comparing the clinical outcomes of high AUC_0-24/MIC groups versus low AUC_0-24/MIC groups were eligible. Two reviewers independently extracted the data. The primary outcomes were mortality and infection treatment failure. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated.

Results

No RCTs were retrieved. Nine cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Mortality rates were significantly lower in high AUC_0-24/MIC groups (RR = 0.47, 95%CI = 0.31–0.70, p<0.001). The rates of infection treatment failure were also significantly lower in high AUC/MIC groups and were consistent after correcting for heterogeneity (RR = 0.39, 95%CI = 0.28–0.55, p = 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that results were consistent whether MIC values were determined by broth microdilution (BMD) method or Etest method. In studies using the BMD method, breakpoints of AUC_0-24/MIC all fell within 85% to 115% of 400.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis demonstrated that achieving a high AUC_0-24/MIC of vancomycin could significantly decrease mortality rates by 53% and rates of infection treatment failure by 61%, with 400 being a reasonable target.

Effects of the CYP3A4*1B Genetic Polymorphism on the Pharmacokinetics of Tacrolimus in Adult Renal Transplant Recipients: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The association between the CYP3A4*1B single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and tacrolimus pharmacokinetics in different studies is controversial. Therefore, a meta-analysis was employed to evaluate the correlation between the CYP3A4*1B genetic polymorphism and tacrolimus pharmacokinetics at different post-transplantation times in adult renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

Studies evaluating the CYP3A4*1B genetic polymorphism and tacrolimus pharmacokinetics were retrieved through a systematical search of Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov and three Chinese literature databases (up to Sept. 2014). The pharmacokinetic parameters (weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose and tacrolimus trough concentration/weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose ratio) were extracted, and the meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.1.

RESULTS

Seven studies (involving 1182 adult renal transplant recipients) were included in this meta-analysis. For the weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose, in all included renal transplant recipients (European & Indian populations), CYP3A4*1/*1 recipients required a significantly lower weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose than did CYP3A4*1B carriers at 7 days (WMD -0.048; 95% CI -0.083 ~ -0.014), 6 months (WMD -0.058; 95% CI -0.081 ~ -0.036) and 12 months (WMD - 0.061; 95% CI -0.096 ~ -0.027) post-transplantation. In light of the heterogeneity, the analysis was repeated after removing the only study in an Indian population, and CYP3A4*1/*1 European recipients (mostly Caucasian) required a lower weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose within the first year post-transplantation. The tacrolimus trough concentration/weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose ratio (C0/Dose ratio) was significantly higher in CYP3A4*1/*1 recipients than in CYP3A4*1B carriers at 6 months (WMD 52.588; 95% CI 22.387 ~ 82.789) and 12 months (WMD 62.219; 95% CI 14.218 ~ 110.221) post-transplantation. When the only study in an Indian population was removed to examine European recipients (mostly Caucasian), the significant difference persisted at 1 month, 6 months and 12 months post-transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Based on our meta-analysis, the CYP3A4*1B genetic polymorphism affects tacrolimus dose requirements and tacrolimus trough concentration/weight-adjusted tacrolimus daily dose ratio within the first year post-transplantation in adult renal transplant recipients, especially in European recipients (mostly Caucasian).

Identify practice gaps in medication education through surveys to patients and physicians

BACKGROUND

Effective communication and education formats between health care providers and patients about medication use are associated with patients' satisfaction, recall of information, and eventually their health status. Limited research exists on physician-delivered education interventions, as well as on whether the current content of medication education and delivery formats satisfies the needs of both patients and physicians. Our objective was to identify the practice gaps regarding medication education content and delivery.

METHODS

Separate surveys were obtained from ambulatory care patients presenting to the outpatient pharmacy for medication pickups, and physicians working at the hospital clinics.

RESULTS

A total of 108 patients completed the patient survey, and 116 hospital clinic physicians completed the physician survey. Female patients had a higher degree of concern regarding medication information compared with male patients (4.04±0.65 versus 3.58±0.66, P=0.001). Physicians were less likely to educate patients regarding their medications' on drug-drug interactions (24.3%), drug-food interactions (24.3%), and what to do about their prescriptions if an adverse reaction is experienced (24.3%) during physician-patient encounters. Patients' most desired education format was physician counseling (82.4%) and the second most desired education format was pharmacist counseling (50.9%). Medication device demonstration (7.0%) was the least used educational format delivered to patients by physicians, and patients would like to see an increased education delivery format through medication device demonstration (Method desired [MD] - Method received [MR] =12.0%). Patients would like to see expanded roles of patient focused handout (MD-MR=22.2%), telephone consultation (21.2%), pharmacist counseling (12.9%), the use of medication database embedded within the hospital information system (12.2%) and device demonstration (12.0%).

CONCLUSION

This study illustrates that there are practice gaps in current medication education both in terms of content and delivery format. The study provided valuable information in designing and implementing future education activities that are drivers of good medication use and adherence.

Guidelines for therapeutic drug monitoring of vancomycin: a systematic review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Despite the availability of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of vancomycin, vancomycin serum concentrations still do not reach therapeutic concentrations in many patients. Thus, we sought to systematically review the quality and consistency of recommendations for an international cohort of CPGs regarding vancomycin TDM.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, guidelines' websites and Google were searched for CPGs for vancomycin TDM. Two independent assessors rated the quality of each CPG using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II (AGREEII) instrument and data were independently extracted.

RESULTS

Twelve guidelines were evaluated and the overall quality of guidelines for vancomycin TDM was moderate. The highest score was recorded in the domain of clarity of presentation, and the lowest score was recorded in the domain of rigor of development and stakeholder involvement. The specific recommendations for vancomycin TDM were moderately consistent and guidelines varied in trough concentration monitoring, frequency of TDM, and serum concentration targets.

CONCLUSION

The overall guideline quality for vancomycin TDM was not optimal and effort is needed to improve guideline quality, especially in the domain of rigor of development and stakeholder involvement.

Tolerability and effectiveness of (S)-amlodipine compared with racemic amlodipine in hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker prescribed for the management of angina and hypertension. As a racemic mixture, amlodipine contains (R)- and (S)-amlodipine isomers, but only (S)-amlodipine as the active moiety possesses therapeutic activity. Based on pharmacologic research, it remains uncertain if (S)-amlodipine alone has similar efficacy and fewer associated adverse events (AEs) compared with the racemic mixtures.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effectiveness and tolerability of (S)-amlodipine compared with that of racemic amlodipine.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE (1966-2009), EMBASE (1966-2009), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (issue 3, 2009), the Chinese Biomedical Database (1978-2009), and the China National Knowledge Internet (1980-2009). All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing (S)-amlodipine 2.5 mg and racemic amlodipine 5.0 mg in the treatment of hypertension were included in the review. The outcome measures to be collected were cardiovascular events, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and AEs. Quality assessments of clinical trials were conducted using a modified Jadad Scale, with trials being rated as low quality (score 0-3) or high quality (score 4-7). Meta-analysis of the included studies was performed using RevMan software.

RESULTS

Of the 229 references identified, 214 were excluded after screening the titles, abstracts, or full texts. Fifteen RCTs were included, of which 13 were in Chinese and 2 in English. Based on the Jadad Scale score, 3 of the RCTs were classified as high quality (score 5 or 6) and the remaining 12 as low quality (score 1-3). None of the trials evaluated cardiovascular events beyond 40 weeks. Meta-analysis of the 15 trials indicated that (S)-amlodipine was not significantly different from racemic amlodipine in the effect on BP. When only high-quality studies were included, after 4 weeks' treatment, the weighted mean difference (WMD) of SBP and DBP decrease (1 study) was -2.84 (95% CI, -6.42 to 0.74) with (S)-amlodipine and -1.71 (95% CI, -3.48 to 0.06) with racemic amlodipine. After 8 weeks' treatment, the WMD of SBP and DBP decrease (2 studies) was -1.13 (95% CI, -5.29 to 3.03) and -1.34 (95% CI, -2.67 to -0.01), respectively. The risk difference (RD) for the number of patients who experienced AEs with (S)-amlodipine and racemic amlodipine was found to be -0.04 (95% CI, -0.06 to -0.02). When all the trials were included, (S)-amlodipine treatment was associated with significantly less edema than racemic amlodipine (RD, -0.02; 95% CI, -0.03 to 0.00); however, when only high-quality studies (2 studies) were included, no difference was found between the 2 groups (RD, 0.01; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.03). One high-quality study found significant differences in increases in aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities in the 2 groups (RD, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.05). No significant differences between the 2 groups were found in the incidence of headache (RD, 0.00; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.01) or flushing (RD, -0.01; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.00).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of the clinical trials comparing (S)-amlodipine and racemic amlodipine treatment were low quality (12/15 [80%]). According to the limited evidence, there were no significant differences between (S)-amlodipine 2.5 mg and racemic amlodipine 5.0 mg in controlling BP. When all the trials were considered, (S)-amlodipine treatment was associated with significantly less edema than racemic amlodipine; however, when only high-quality trials were included, no significant difference was found. More long-term, high-quality RCTs with cardiovascular events as the primary outcome are needed to compare the safety and efficacy of (S)-amlodipine and racemic amlodipine.

Benefits of therapeutic drug monitoring of vancomycin: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The necessity of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) for vancomycin is controversial. The objective of the current review was to evaluate the available evidence for the necessity of TDM in patients given vancomycin to treat Gram-positive infections.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, Web of Sciences, the Cochrane Library and two Chinese literature databases (CNKI, CBM) were searched. Randomized controlled studies and observational studies that compared the clinical outcomes of TDM groups vs. non-TDM groups were included. Two reviewers independently extracted the data. The primary outcome was clinical efficacy of therapy. Secondary outcomes included vancomycin associated nephrotoxicity, duration of vancomycin therapy, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Meta-analysis was performed using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed effect method (FEM). Odds ratios (ORs) or weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated for categorical and continuous outcomes, respectively.

RESULTS

One randomized controlled trial (RCT) and five cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with non-TDM groups, TDM groups had significantly higher rates of clinical efficacy (OR = 2.62, 95%CI 1.34-5.11 P = 0.005) and decreased rates of nephrotoxicity (OR = 0.25, 95%CI 0.13-0.48 P<0.0001). Subgroup analyses showed that TDM group had significantly higher rates of clinical efficacy in both cohort studies subgroup (OR = 3.04, 95%CI 1.34-6.90) and in Asian population subgroup (OR = 3.04, 95%CI 1.34-6.90). TDM group had significantly decreased rates of nephrotoxicity in all subgroup. There was no significant difference in duration of vancomycin therapy (WMD = -0.40, 95%CI -2.83-2.02 P = 0.74) or length of stay (WMD = -1.01, 95%CI -7.51-5.49 P = 0.76) between TDM and non-TDM groups. Subgroup analyses showed there were no differences in duration of vancomycin therapy. Only one study reported mortality rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies to date show that TDM significantly increases the rate of clinical efficacy and decreases the rate of nephrotoxicity in patients treated with vancomycin.

Effects of CYP2C19 loss-of-function variants on the eradication of H. pylori infection in patients treated with proton pump inhibitor-based triple therapy regimens: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Background

There are inconsistent conclusions about whether CYP2C19 variants could affect H. pylori eradication rate in patients treated with the proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based therapy. We therefore performed a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to re-evaluate the impact of CYP2C19 variants on PPI-based triple therapy for the above indication.

Methods

All relevant RCTs in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science and two Chinese databases (up to February 2013) were systematically searched, and a pooled analysis was performed with the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) by the STATA software.

Results

Sixteen RCT datasets derived from 3680 patients were included. There was no significant heterogeneity across the data available in this meta-analysis. There were significant differences in that rate between homozygous (HomEMs) and heterozygous (HetEMs) extensive metabolizers (OR 0.724; 95% CI 0.594–0.881), between HomEMs and poor metabolizers (PM) (OR 0.507; 95%CI 0.379–0.679), or between HetEMs and PMs (OR 0.688; 95%CI 0.515–0.920), regardless of the PPI being taken. Furthermore, sub-analysis of individual PPIs was carried out to explore the difference across all the PPIs used. A significantly low rate was seen in HomEMs vs. HetEMs taking either omeprazole (OR 0.329; 95%CI 0.195–0.553) or lansoprazole (OR 0.692; 95%CI 0.485–0.988), and also in HomEMs vs. PMs for omeprazole (OR 0.232; 95%CI 0.105–0.515) or lansoprazole (OR 0.441; 95%CI 0.252–0.771). However, there was no significant difference between HetEMs and PMs taking either one. No significant differences were observed for rabeprazole or esomeprazole across the CYP2C19 genotypes of interest.

Conclusions

Carriage of CYP2C19 loss-of-function variants is associated with increased H. pylori eradication rate in patients taking PPI-based triple therapies when omeprazole or lansoprazole is chosen. However, there is no a class effect after use of rabeprazole or esomeprazole.

A critical role for protein degradation in the nucleus accumbens core in cocaine reward memory

The intense associative memories that develop between cocaine-paired contexts and rewarding stimuli contribute to cocaine seeking and relapse. Previous studies have shown impairment in cocaine reward memories by manipulating a labile state induced by memory retrieval, but the mechanisms that underlie the destabilization of cocaine reward memory are unknown. In this study, using a Pavlovian cocaine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) procedure in rats, we tested the contribution of ubiquitin-proteasome system-dependent protein degradation in destabilization of cocaine reward memory. First, we found that polyubiquitinated protein expression levels and polyubiquitinated N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion (NSF) markedly increased 15 min after retrieval while NSF protein levels decreased 1 h after retrieval in the synaptosomal membrane fraction in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core. We then found that infusion of the proteasome inhibitor lactacystin into the NAc core prevented the impairment of memory reconsolidation induced by the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin and reversed the effects of anisomycin on NSF and glutamate receptor 2 (GluR2) protein levels in the synaptosomal membrane fraction in the NAc core. We also found that lactacystin infusion into the NAc core but not into the shell immediately after extinction training sessions inhibited CPP extinction and reversed the extinction training-induced decrease in NSF and GluR2 in the synaptosomal membrane fraction in the NAc core. Finally, infusions of lactacystin by itself into the NAc core immediately after each training session or before the CPP retrieval test had no effect on the consolidation and retrieval of cocaine reward memory. These findings suggest that ubiquitin-proteasome system-dependent protein degradation is critical for retrieval-induced memory destabilization.

Sotalol permeability in cultured-cell, rat intestine, and PAMPA system

PURPOSE

To clarify sotalol's classification in the BCS versus BDDCS systems through cellular, rat everted sac and PAMPA permeability studies.

METHODS

Studies were carried out in Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) and MDR1-transfected MDCK (MDCK-MDR1) cell lines, rat everted gut sacs and the Parallel Artificial Membrane Permeability Assay (PAMPA) system. Three-hour transport studies were conducted in MDCK cell lines (with apical pH changes) and MDCK-MDR1 cells (with and without the P-glycoprotein inhibitor GG918); male Sprague-Dawley rats (300~350 g) were used to prepare everted sacs. In the PAMPA studies, drug solutions at different pH's were dosed in each well and incubated for 5 h. Samples were measured by LC-MS/MS, or liquid scintillation counting and apparent permeability (P(app)) was calculated.

RESULTS

Sotalol showed low permeability in all of the cultured-cell lines, everted sacs and PAMPA systems. It might be a border line P-glycoprotein substrate. The PAMPA study showed that sotalol's permeability increased with a higher apical pH, while much less change was found in MDCK cells.

CONCLUSION

The low permeability rate for sotalol correlates with its Class 3 BDDCS assignment and lack of in vivo metabolism.

Multiple treatments for infantile rotavirus enteritis: a network meta-analysis

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of probiotics and/or montmorillonite in the treatment of infantile rotavirus enteritis.

METHODS: According to the requirement of systematic review, the following electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of probiotics and/or montmorillonite for infantile rotavirus: CNKI, CBMdisc, VIP database, and Wanfang database. A network meta-analysis of the eligible RCTs was conducted.

RESULTS: Forty RCTs involving 2 906 participants met the criteria, of which five administrations were identified as intervention therapies and one administration as basic support control. Pooled data showed that probiotics and/or montmorillonite, either applied alone or in combination, significantly improved rotavirus enteritis compared to basic treatments. Adverse effects were not observed in the probiotic groups.

CONCLUSION: Probiotics and montmorillonite, either applied alone or in combination, can significantly improve infantile rotavirus enteritis. However, because of the limitations of the method and the included studies, the results should be interpreted with caution.

Cabergoline for preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

BACKGROUND

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a complication resulting from administration of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatment. Most case are mild, but forms of moderate or severe OHSS appear in 3% to 8% of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles. Recently, the dopamine agonist cabergoline has been introduced as a secondary prevention intervention for OHSS in women at high risk of OHSS who are undergoing ART treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of cabergoline in preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in high-risk women undergoing ART treatment.

SEARCH METHODS

Major medical databases (Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Specialised Register of trials, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO) were systematically searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of cabergoline in preventing OHSS. Databases were searched up to September 2011. Registers of clinical trials, abstracts of scientific meetings and reference lists of included studies were searched. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

RCTs which compared cabergoline with placebo, no treatment or another intervention for preventing OHSS in high-risk women were considered for inclusion. Primary outcome measures included incidence of moderate or severe OHSS and live birth rate. Secondary endpoints were clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate and any other adverse effects of the treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently screened titles, abstracts and the full text of publications; extracted data; and assessed risk of bias. Any disagreements were resolved by consensus. Pooled results were reported as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) by the Mantel-Haenszel method.

MAIN RESULTS

Only two trials involving 230 women met the inclusion criteria. Both studies had a moderate risk of bias. Oral cabergoline, 0.5 mg daily, was given as an intervention and compared with a matched placebo. A statistically significant reduction in OHSS was observed in the cabergoline treated group (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.77; 2 RCTs, 230 women) with a number needed to treat (NTT) of 7. There was a statistically significant difference in the incidence of moderate OHSS, favouring cabergoline (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.78; 2 RCTs, 230 women) but not in severe OHSS (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.24 to 2.45; 2 RCTs, 230 women). There was no significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.59; 2 RCTs, 230 women), miscarriage rate (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.03 to 3.07; 1 RCT, 163 women) or any other adverse effects of the treatment (OR 2.07, 95% CI 0.56 to 7.70; 1 RCT, 67 women). However, no data on multiple pregnancy rate or live birth rate were reported in either trial.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Cabergoline appears to reduce the risk of OHSS in high-risk women, especially for moderate OHSS. The use of cabergoline does not affect the pregnancy outcome (clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate), nor is there an increased risk of adverse events. Further research should consider the risk of administering cabergoline and the comparison between cabergoline and established treatments (such as intravenous albumin and coasting). Large, well-designed and well-executed RCTs that involve more clinical endpoints are necessary to further evaluate the role of cabergoline in OHSS prevention.

Fluoxetine for the prophylaxis of poststroke depression in patients with stroke: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Depression may affect patients' recovery and even their survival rate after stroke, but it is often overlooked or inadequately managed; data regarding the prophylactic efficacy and safety of fluoxetine are inconsistent in this setting.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study is to systematically assess the prophylactic efficacy and safety of fluoxetine for poststroke depression in patients with stroke.

METHODS

We searched electronic databases up to December 2009 for studies evaluating the prophylactic efficacy of fluoxetine in patients with stroke. The pooled odds ratio (OR), weighted mean difference (WMD), incremental efficiency and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated.

RESULTS

We collected and evaluated a total of 385 patients identified from six trials. Meta-analysis demonstrated that fluoxetine reduced the incidence of poststroke depression (PSD) (OR = 0.25, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.56), helped recovery in neurological function (WMD = -4.72, 95% CI -8.31 to -1.13) and improved independence in activities of daily living (WMD = -8.04, 95% CI -13.40 to -2.68); fluoxetine is relatively safe in spite of the adverse events (OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.31 to 2.49, p = 0.82). However, fluoxetine groups and control groups did not differ in change of scores for depression (WMD = -3.97, 95% CI -9.85 to 1.90, p = 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

Fluoxetine was beneficial for the prophylaxis of poststroke depression in patients with stroke but not in reducing symptom severity of PSD.

Clinical pharmacy education in China

Pharmacy education in China focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, with the bachelor of science (BS) of pharmacy as the entry-level degree. Pharmacy practice curricula in these programs are centered on compounding, dispensing, pharmacy administration, and laboratory experiences, which are the traditional responsibilities for pharmacists. Additional graduate-level training is available at the master of science (MS) and the doctor of philosophy (PhD) levels, most of which concentrate on drug discovery and drug development research. Presently, the emphasis in practice is beginning to shift to clinical pharmacy. With this change, additional degree offerings are being developed to meet the growing demand for clinical pharmacists. There is also interest in developing more clinical skills in practicing pharmacists through additional non-degree training. The Ministry of Education is considering a proposal for an entry-level professional degree of master and/or doctor in clinical pharmacy similar to the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree in the United States.

Population pharmacokinetics of cyclosporine in clinical renal transplant patients

Population pharmacokinetics of cyclosporine (CsA) in clinical renal transplant patients has been reported in the present study. A total of 2,548 retrospective drug monitoring data points were collected from 120 renal transplant patients receiving CsA. Population modeling was performed using the NONMEM (nonlinear mixed-effect modeling) program, using a one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. The final regression model for CsA clearance (CL/F) with the influence of six significant covariates, comprising postoperative days (POD), total bilirubin level (TBIL, micromolar concentration), current body weight (CBW, kilograms), age (years), concurrent metabolic inhibitors of cyclosporine (INHI), and hematocrit (HCT, percentage), has been established and expressed as CL/F=28.5 -- 1.24 . POD -- 0.252 . (TBIL -- 11)+0.188 . (CBW -- 58) --0.191 . (Age -- 42) -- 2.45 . INHI -- 0.212 . (HCT-- 28) (liters per hour). The values in parentheses represent the median level for each of the corresponding covariates. The population estimates for CL/F (28.5 l/h), V/F (volume of distribution, 133 l), and interpatient variability (CV%=19.7%) for CL/F were achieved, respectively. The population model was further validated by internal and external approaches, and was demonstrated to be effective and stable. Moreover, simulation was conducted to facilitate the individualized treatment based on patient information and the final model.

Effect of different sample pretreatment methods on the concentrations of excitatory amino acids in cerebrospinal fluid determined by high-performance liquid chromatography

Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the effect of different sample pretreatment methods on the concentrations of excitatory amino acids (EAAs, glutamate and aspartate) measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was investigated. The results showed that the measured values of glutamate and aspartate were constant when the samples were stored at -80 degrees C and then methanol was used for CSF deproteinization before assay; the values of glutamate (Glu) increased when 0.3 M perchloric acid was used for CSF deproteinization with the CSF subsequently being stored at -20 degrees C; the values of Glu changed when the samples were stored at -20 degrees C over 8 weeks with methanol subsequently being used for CSF deproteinization before assay. This reference data suggested that the CSF sample would be better stored at -80 degrees C. If the sample is stored at -20 degrees C over 8 weeks, the Glu values change with the storage time. If strong acidic reagents are used for precipitation of protein in the CSF sample and then stored at -20 degrees C, Glu values are abnormally increased. From this study, an accurate and sensitive reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method has been developed for anti-excitotoxicity therapy and thorough study of EAAs in a clinical setting.

Naloxone attenuates development of hypertension in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats

The effects of naloxone on the development of hypertension were studied in unilaterally nephrectomized rats implanted with deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA; 200 mg/kg) and given saline to drink. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) infusion of naloxone at 150 micrograms/hr significantly lowered systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to rats not receiving naloxone, (135 +/- 4.4 vs 158 +/- 5.9 mmHg on day 16). IP infusion of naloxone at 300 micrograms/hr produced the same reductions of SBP as that at 150 micrograms/hr in DOCA-salt treated rats. In other experiments intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of naloxone at 7 micrograms/hr also significantly attenuated the DOCA-salt hypertension. The same dose given i.p. had no effect on the development of hypertension. Naloxone had no effect on plasma renin activity (PRA), plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), or concentrations of Na+ and K+ in plasma. The present data demonstrate that naloxone significantly attenuates the development of hypertension in rats given DOCA and fed a high salt diet. The attenuation of blood pressure could not be associated with the changes in PRA or plasma ANP. These results imply that the central opiate receptors play an important role in the pathogenesis of this model of hypertension.