E-DRUG: Independent Drug & Healthcare Newsletter for December 2015
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N° 166 December 2015
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In Prescrire's Spotlight this month
Ledipasvir + sofosbuvir (Harvoni°): a therapeutic advance in genotype 1 hepatitis C virus infection, despite uncertainties
FEATURED REVIEW
In seven trials including over 3000 patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection, the ledipasvir + sofosbuvir combination yielded a sustained virological response in nearly every case, while avoiding the use of peginterferon alfa and ribavirin, two drugs with numerous adverse effects and constraints. The adverse effects of the ledipasvir + sofosbuvir combination are still poorly assessed, calling for rigorous pharmacovigilance. Full review (5 pages) available for download by subscribers.
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http://english.prescrire.org/en/81/168/51611/0/NewsDetails.aspx
In the December issue of Prescrire International:
misoprostol vaginal insert (Misodel°)
FREE DOWNLOAD In this sample page from the New Products section of the December issue: misoprostol vaginal insert (Misodel°) is riskier than dinoprostone for inducing labour. Full text available for free download.
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http://english.prescrire.org/en/81/168/51612/0/NewsDetails.aspx
Smoking cessation with nicotine replacement products: cardiac adverse effects, often benign
When drug treatment is deemed necessary to assist smoking cessation, nicotine replacement products are the first-line drugs. They expose patients to benign palpitations but not to severe cardiovascular harms.
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http://english.prescrire.org/en/81/168/51613/0/NewsDetails.aspx
Depression: rule out agomelatine
At the beginning of 2015, the European health authorities decided to allow agomelatine to remain on the market, subject to producing a patient follow-up booklet. A palliative measure to enable this drug to remain on the market, whereas it is better to rule it out altogether.
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http://english.prescrire.org/en/81/168/51614/0/NewsDetails.aspx
Gastro-oesophageal reflux and pregnancy: various treatment options
Non-drug measures can often make the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux during pregnancy acceptable to patients.
The reference drugs are the same both during and outside pregnancy.
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http://english.prescrire.org/en/81/168/51615/0/NewsDetails.aspx
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