bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formoterol Fumarate Inhalation Powder
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six researched monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board called The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The July 2001 Formulary monographs are on ima-tinib mesylate, alemtuzumab, parecoxib sodium, pramlintide acetate, and busesonide modified-release capsules. The DUE is on galantamine.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA; New Dosage Forms and Indications; Agents Pending FDA Approval
Authors: Bake Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information; however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Adriamycin (Doxorubicin), Bleomycin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine (ABVD) Regimen
Authors: Weickum Ricke J. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: January 2018

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy makes it mandatory that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column reviews various issues related to the preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy, both commercially available and investigational.
New Interpretation of JCAHO Standard Bans Open Access to Pharmacy after Hours/Confusion between Occlusal-HP and Ocuflox/0.125 or 0.1 to 5?
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: January 2018

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program, which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-233-7767 (1-800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers’ names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.
Clarithromycin Helps Patient with Dementia/Eosinophilic Fasciitis and Dermatomyositis with “Statins”/Arrhythmia Caused by Caffeine in Health Foods/CHF and Itraconazole
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (1-800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers. Your report will be published anonymously unless otherwise requested. This feature is provided by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices in cooperation with the FDA's medWatch Program and Temple University School of Pharmacy. ISMP is an FDA medWatch partner.
Questions and Answers from the F.I.X./Naloxone Drips/Diphenhydramine/Dexamethasone/Metoclopramide Suppositories/Unfractionated Heparin after LMWH/LMWH and Atrial Fibrillation/
Authors: Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.) is an online drug information service available to subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service at http://theformulary.com , or you may log on through drugfacts.com. In this column, we present samples of recent dialog on The F.I.X. If you would like more information on The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., please call 800-322-4349.
Safe and Appropriate Use of lodinated Radiographic Contrast Agents: Is There a Reason to Use High-Osmolality lodinated Contrast Agents?
Authors: Martin William R.
Published: January 2018

The improved safety profile of low-osmolality compared with high-osmolality iodinated radiographic contrast agents supports the use of low-osmolality iodinated contrast agents in patients with a high risk for adverse reactions to contrast agents. Current pressures in the health care industry to minimize costs may warrant the continued use of high-osmolality agents in patients with relatively low risk for contrast reactions. Health-system management and pharmacists should continue to review the clinical and pharmacoeconomic issues surrounding the use of high-osmolality agents, because market factors have caused the prices of high-osmolality agents and second-generation low-osmolality agents to fluctuate. Moreover, the introduction of new agents will continue to change the risk—benefit–cost relationship.

Administration guidelines and appropriate patient monitoring are important, because both low-osmolality and high-osmolality agents carry the risk of adverse reactions. Pharmacologic pretreatment to alleviate adverse reactions to contrast agents when high-osmolality agents are used should be encouraged. Pharmacists—in cooperation with diagnostic imaging departments—should ensure that the use of iodinated radiographic contrast agents conforms to accepted guidelines.
Gabapentin and Anxiety
Authors: Norton John W. , Quarles Emily
Published: January 2018

Treatment of patients with anxiety disorders—with and without concurrent depression—is problematic. Gabapentin, a newer antiepileptic drug, is an attractive alternative to the anxiolytics currently in use. It is effective, has minimal interactions and side effects, and can be used alone or as an adjunct to antidepressants. Literature on the treatment of anxiety with gabapentin is reviewed, ten cases of successful treatment of anxiety with and without concurrent depression are reported.
Pantoprazole IV
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six researched monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board called The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The August 2001 Formulary monographs are on almotriptan maleate, crotalidae polyvalent immune fab, drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol, fondaparinux sodium, and alfuzosin. The DUE is on peginterferon alfa-2b.
Update on Lyme Disease Vaccine: Focus on Dosing and Adverse Events
Authors: Grabenstein John D.
Published: January 2018

With the rapid pace of immunologic research, it is more important than ever for readers to understand rational immunodiagnosis, immuno-prophylaxis, and immunotherapy. This column is intended to help you ensure proper immunologic drug use in your practice.
Venlafaxine: Hot Flashes
Authors: Generali Joyce , Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

Off-Label Drug Uses

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label DrugFacts, a quarterly publication available from Facts and Comparisons. Off-Label DrugFacts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific FDA-unapproved drug uses. This new guide to the literature will enable the health care professional/clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and to determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. The most relevant data are provided in tabular form so that the reader can easily identify the scope of information available. A summary of the data—including, background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations—precedes each table of published studies. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information prior to patient care decisions. Direct questions or comments on “Off-Label Drug Uses” to hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
New Drugs Approved by the FDA New Dosage Forms and Indications Agents Pending FDA Approval Labeling Changes Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information;however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Pharmacy Control of IV Solutions and Medical Gases/Audit of MAR vs Pharmacy Profile/Labeling of Medications in Syringes and Other Containers/Requirements for Unit-Dose Packaging of Medications/Issues Related to a Lack of 24-Hour Pharmacy Services/Surveying against the Sentinel Event Alert
Authors: Rich Darryl S.
Published: January 2018

This column addresses questions from readers about any issue, process, standard, or future direction of the Joint Commission, whether it relates to home care, the hospital, or other practice environment. The objective is to give you a better insight into the Joint Commission accreditation process in your own practice site. Any question is fair game.
Hypertensive Urgency: A Focus on Oral Therapy
Authors: Shaheen Valerie A.
Published: January 2018

Hospital Pharmacy welcomes contributions to this column. Articles originally published in pharmacy department newsletters are reprinted here. Material is selected because of its educational value to pharmacists and because it demonstrates the type of information of interest to newsletter readers. If you wish to have your newsletter material considered for publication in this column, mail a copy to Facts and Comparison, Attn: Journal Editor, Hospital Pharmacy, 111 West Port Plaza, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63146-3098.
Basic Bibliographies
Authors: Generali Joyce A.
Published: January 2018

In order to help readers monitor the most important developments in specialized areas of pharmacy practice in organized health systems, Hospital Pharmacy commissions Basic Bibliographies by guest editors, who have expertise in their respective fields. These guest editors survey the relevant literature and rank approximately 15 to 20 references that represent the most significant research and practice contributions in their areas. The more fundamental are listed first so that persons with limited time can select reading appropriate to their needs. A cummulative index to Basic Bibliography topics will be published semi-annually in June and December.
Alemtuzumab/Arsenic Trioxide/Imatinib Mesylate
Authors: Lawrence Julie A. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: January 2018

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy makes it mandatory that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column reviews various issues related to the preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy, both commercially available and investigational.
Confusion between Lantus and Lente Insulins/Serzone and Seroquel Mixups/Coumadin–Avandia Confusion
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: January 2018

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program, which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-233-7767 (1-800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers ‘names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.
Risk Factors for Adverse Drug Events in Nursing Home Residents/Movement Disorder Caused by Cough Syrup/Visual Disturbance with Mirtazapin/Acute Renal Failure Associated with Celecoxib/Rhabdomyolysis with Cerivastatin/Liver Toxicity with an Herbal Preparation/Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim-Induced Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (1-800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers. Your report will be published anonymously unless otherwise requested. This feature is provided by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices in cooperation with the FDA's medWatch Program and Temple University School of Pharmacy. ISMP is a FDA medWatch partner.
Questions and Answers from the F.I.X./Metered-Dose Inhalers vs Nebulizers/Amiodarone Infusion Rate in Cardiac Arrest/Lidocaine as an Additive to KCl/Review of the New NCEP Recommendations for the Management of High Cholesterol
Authors: Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.) is an online drug information service available to subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service at http://theformulary.com , or you may log on through drugfacts.com. In this column, we present samples of recent dialog on The F.I.X. If you would like more information on The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., please call 800-322-4349.
Stability of a Baclofen and Clonidine Hydrochloride Admixture for Intrathecal Administration
Authors: Godwin Donald A. , Kim Nae-Hwa , Zuniga Robert
Published: January 2018

Implantable infusion pumps for the intrathecal administration of analgesics are commonly used in the treatment of severe or intractable chronic pain. Drugs used in these pumps include morphine, baclofen, clonidine, hydromorphone, meperidine, fentanyl, and bupiva-caine. This study investigates the chemical and physical stability of baclofen (1000 mcg/mL) and clonidine hydrochloride (200 mcg/mL) at 37°C for 10 weeks using a stability-indicating HPLC assay. The formulations included baclofen alone, clonidine hydrochloride alone, and a mixture of the two drugs. At each time point, the amount of drug remaining was greater than 90% of original. Week 10 percentages were 99.7% for baclofen alone, 100.7% for clonidine alone, and 103.2% and 101.1% for baclofen and clonidine hydrochloride, respectively in the drug mixture. These results demonstrate the stability of this admixture for long-term intrathecal administration.
Commonly Used Equations for Estimating Lean Body Weight are Inaccurate
Authors: Rice Ted L. , Rice Kathryn A.
Published: January 2018

Empiric equations used to estimate lean body weight (LBW) were published in 1974 by Devine. In an attempt to validate these equations, linear regression equations using the 1959 Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MTL-59) height and weight tables were developed. However, the tables were updated in 1983 (MTL-83) with different weights, with some values as much as 17% higher. This study's purpose was to determine if the regression equations had changed. The results demonstrate that the linear relationship between height and weight is not as strong with the 1983 table values. In addition, two LBW equations indicate that the weight values reported in 1983 overestimate LBW by 7 to 13 kg. These data indicate that the Devine formulas for estimating LBW may in reality be estimating “average” weight for height. A call is made for future studies that test whether estimating LBW according to population-specific formulas leads to a more accurate representation of the clinical pharmacokinetics of drugs.
Alemtuzumab
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The September 2001 Formulary monograph topics are telithromycin, trivalent influenza vaccine, drotrecogin alfa, pime-crolimus cream, zoledronic acid, and brimonidine tartrate opththalmic solution. The DUE is on almotriptan maleate.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA/New Dosage Forms and Indications/Agents Pending FDA Approval/Labeling Changes Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information;however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Pharmacy Issues: Chemotherapy
Authors: Miller Alicia S.
Published: January 2018

This continuing feature will inform readers about the process of implementing, maintaining, and supporting computerized prescriber order entry (CPOE) at the Ohio State University Medical Center. (By “prescribers,” we refer to health care professionals authorized to prescribe medications by their states.) Practical information on what worked and what failed will be provided, along with current updates on the status of CPOE at the Medical Center.
Scanning Lead Topics in Health Care Journals
Authors: Vogenberg F. Randy
Published: January 2018

Managed health care has changed the way health services are provided and how they are financed. It is still evolving. Many pharmacists have already felt the impact of these changes. This continuing feature illuminates the many facets of managed care with special emphasis placed on how these changes may affect pharmacists working in health systems. The expertise provided by pharmacists will be needed to fulfill the potential of affordable, comprehensive, and quality health care as promised by managed care. Pharmacists must understand what is happening, why it is happening, and what is likely to happen in the future. To be an active and effective player, you must understand what is happening on the field.
Pisa Syndrome Seen with Donepezil/Adverse Reaction Due to Wrong Route of Administration/Pediatric Drug-Induced Hypersensitivity Syndrome/Burning Mouth Syndrome with Clonazepam/Bone Marrow Failure Due to Methotrexate Given in Error/Nevirapine Therapy and DRESS Syndrome
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (1-800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers. Your report will be published anonymously unless otherwise requested. This feature is provided by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices in cooperation with the FDA's medWatch Program and Temple University School of Pharmacy. ISMP is a FDA medWatch partner.
Contacting Patients with Unclaimed Prescriptions: The Pharmacist's Impact on Drug Therapy Concordance
Authors: Tavitian Sandra M. , Kidder Phyllis A. , Shane Rita
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Nonadherence to medication therapy may lead to poor control of chronic medical conditions and unnecessary utilization of health care services. Prescriptions that are filled but remain unclaimed are a marker for patient non-concordance with their medication regimens. This study evaluated the pharmacist's impact on concordance by contacting patients about their unclaimed prescriptions.

Methods

Prescriptions that were not picked up within 2 weeks of the date they were filled were reviewed by a pharmacist. Medications used for chronic disease states were targeted. Patients were called and asked a standard set of openended questions about their reasons for failing to pick up the medications. They were also asked if any doses were missed and if they had experienced side effects from the medications. They were counseled on the importance of compliance and encouraged to pick up their prescriptions. Some patients had valid reasons for not picking up their medications. The prescriptions were eventually categorized as “claimed” or “never claimed.”

Results

During the 29-week study period, there were 177 unclaimed prescriptions for chronic conditions among 141 patients. The pharmacist was able to communicate with 72 patients. From the sample of patients contacted, 45% of patients picked up their prescriptions after our intervention. The proportion of patients who picked up their medications was significantly greater (p < 0.005) when the pharmacist spoke to them, rather than leaving a telephone message.

Conclusion

The pharmacist can play an important role by educating patients, encouraging them to pick up their medications, and resolving barriers that prevent them from adhering to their drug regimens.
Almotriptan Malate
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The October 2001 Formulary monograph topics are nesiritide, soledronic acid injection, anakinra, treprostinol sidium injection, and bosentan. The DUE is on nesiritide.
Nitroglycerin (Topical): Extravasation Treatment
Authors: Generali Joyce , Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

Off-Label Drug Uses

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label DrugFacts, a quarterly publication available from Facts and Comparisons. Off-Label DrugFacts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific FDA-unapproved drug uses. This new guide to the literature will enable the health care professional/clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and to determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. The most relevant data are provided in tabular form so that the reader can easily identify the scope of information available. A summary of the data—including, background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations—precedes each table of published studies. references direct the reader to the full literature for more
New Drugs Approved by the FDA/New Dosage Forms and Indications/Agents Pending FDA Approval/Labeling Changes Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information; however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Pharmacy Issues: Bidirectional Order Interface
Authors: Miller Alicia S.
Published: January 2018

This continuing feature will inform readers about the process of implementing, maintaining, and supporting computerized prescriber order entry (CPOE) at the Ohio State University Medical Center. (By “prescribers,” we refer to health care professionals authorized to prescribe medications by their states.) Practical information on what worked and what failed will be provided, along with current updates on the status of CPOE at the Medical Center.
MOPP/ABVD and Selected MOPP/ABV(D) Hybrid Regimens for Advanced Hodgkin's Disease
Authors: Kim Stella S. , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: January 2018

The increasing complexity of cancer chemotherapy makes it mandatory that pharmacists be familiar with these highly toxic agents. This column reviews various issues related to the preparation, dispensing, and administration of cancer chemotherapy, both commercially available and investigational.
Do Not Give Hypodermic Syringes to Parents for Administering Oral Liquids to Children Report from Kansas City Gives Us Pause …
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: January 2018

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program, which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-233-7767 (1-800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.
Questions and Answers from the F.I.X. Vancomycin Peaks Interpreting Dose Range Orders Crash Carts at Remote Sites
Authors: Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.) is an online drug information service available to subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service at http://theformulary.com , or you may log on through drugfacts.com. In this column, we present samples of recent dialog on The F.I.X. If you would like more information on The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., please call 800-322-4349. If you would like to comment on any of the following questions or answers
Stability of Ciprofloxacin and Vancomycin Hydrochloride in AutoDose Infusion System Bags
Authors: Trissel Lawrence A. , Xu Quanyun A. , Zhang Yanping , Saenz Christopher A. , Ingram Delshalonda S.
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical stability of ciprofloxacin 400 mg/100 mL and vancomycin as the hydrochloride 1 g/100 mL each admixed in 0.9% sodium chloride injection packaged in AutoDose Infusion System bags.

Triplicate test samples were prepared by admixing the necessary amount of each antibiotic with a portion of 0.9% sodium chloride injection and bringing the admixture of each drug to a final volume of 100 mL with additional 0.9% sodium chloride injection. The test solutions were packaged in ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) plastic containers (AutoDose dags) designed for use in the AutoDose Infusion System. Samples were protected from light and evaluated at appropriate intervals for up to 7 days at 23°C and up to 30 days at 4°C.

Physical stability was assessed using a multistep evaluation procedure that included turbidimetric and particulate measurement as well as visual inspection. Chemical stability was assessed using stability-indicating HPLC analytical techniques based on the determination of drug concentrations initially and at appropriate intervals over the study periods. The admixtures were clear and colorless when viewed in normal fluorescent room light and with a Tyndall beam. Measured turbidity and particulate content were low and exhibited little change. HPLC analysis found that both ciprofloxacin and vancomycin hydrochloride remained stable for 30 days at 4°C and 7 days at 23°C.

Both ciprofloxacin and vancomycin hydrochloride exhibited physical and chemical stability consistent with previous studies on these drugs. The AutoDose Infusion System bags were not found to affect adversely the physical and chemical stability of these antibiotics.
Crotalidae Polyvalent Immune Fab (Ovine)
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The October 2001 Formulary monograph topics are darbepoetin alfa, alteplase for CVAD clearance, cefditoren pivoxil, digox-in immune fab, and teriparatide injection. The DUE is on darbepoetin alfa.
Naltrexone: Pathological Gambling
Authors: Generali Joyce , Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

Off-Label Drug Uses — This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label DrugFacts, a quarterly publication available from Facts and Comparisons. Off-Label DrugFacts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific FDA-unapproved drug uses. This new guide to the literature will enable the health care professional/clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and to determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. The most relevant data are provided in tabular form so that the reader can easily identify the scope of information available. A summary of the data—including, background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations—precedes each table of published studies. references direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information prior to patient care decisions. Direct questions or comments on “Off-Label Drug Uses” to hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
New Drugs Approved by the FDA New Dosage Forms and Indications Agents Pending FDA Approval Labeling Changes Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information; however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Guidelines for the Intravenous Management of Hypophosphatemia, Hypomagnesemia, Hypokalemia, and Hypocalcemia
Authors: Dickerson Roland N.
Published: January 2018

Nutrition Support Consultant features issues pertinent to the clinical aspects of pharmacy nutritional support practice.
Pharmacy Issues: Formulary Changes and Allergy Checking
Authors: Miller Alicia S.
Published: January 2018

This continuing feature will inform readers about the process of implementing, maintaining, enhancing, and supporting computerized prescriber order entry (CPOE) at the Ohio State University Medical Center. (By “prescribers,” we refer to health care professionals authorized to prescribe medications by their states.) Practical information on what worked and what failed will be provided, along with current updates on the status of CPOE at the Medical Center.
Limiting Meperidine Use in Pain Management
Authors: Fulton Conchetta White
Published: January 2018

Hospital Pharmacy welcomes contributions to this column, in which articles originally published in pharmacy department newsletters are reprinted. Material is selected because of its educational value or because it typifies the type of information that is interesting to pharmacy newsletter readers. If you wish to have your newsletter material considered for publication in this column, mail a copy and a computer disk containing the document to Jennifer Allen, Journal Editor, Facts and Comparisons, 111 Westport Plaza, Suite 300, St. Louis, Mo 63147.
Zoledronic Acid for Injection
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The December 2001 Formulary monograph topics are budesonide modified-release capsules, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, pegfilgrastim, fulvestrant, and etonogestrol/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring. The DUE is on budesonide modified-release capsules.
Another Purpose for “Purpose” Look-Alike Unit-Dose Containers Mixed up Misinterpretation of Sliding-Scale Insulin Dose
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: January 2018

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program, which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-233-7767 (1-800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.
Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia—Delayed Onset Neurotoxicity with a Fluoroquinolone Anaphylaxis with Ondansetron Delirium Associated with H2-Receptor Antagonists Topiramate-Induced Depression
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (1-800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Questions and Answers from the F.I.X. Helpful Recent Releases Stability of Split Olanzapine Tablets Calculating Creatinine Clearance Enoxaparin in Obesity
Authors: Cada Dennis J.
Published: January 2018

The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.) is an online drug information service available to subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service at http://theformulary.com , or you may log on through drugfacts.com. In this column, we present samples of recent dialog on The F.I.X. If you would like more information on The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., please call 800-322-4349. If you would like to comment on any of the following questions or answers
Advances and Controversies in Adult ICU Sedation, Part 1: An Overview of the Importance of Sedation and Agitation and Subjective Assessment Tools for Patient Evaluation
Authors: Fraser Gilles L. , Riker Richard
Published: January 2018

This feature examines the impact of pharmacologic interventions on the treatment of the critically ill patient—an area of health care that has become increasingly complex. It will review recent advances (including evolving and controversial data) in drug therapy for adult ICU patients and assess these new modalities in terms of clinical, humanistic, and economic outcomes. Direct questions or comments to Gil Fraser, PharmD, at fraseg@mmc.org .
Action Needed to Prevent Dangerous Zyrtec–Zyprexa Mix-Ups Preventing Parenteral Line Mix-Ups ADD-Vantage Bags are Latex-Free but Vials may Not be
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: January 2018

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program, which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-800-233-7767 (1-800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.
Two Cases of Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity (ACE Inhibitor and Beta-Blocker are the Causes) Another Case of DRESS Syndrome Associated with Nevirapine Pulmonary Toxicity with Gemcitabine Hepatitis B Vaccination Causes Leukoencephalitis Peripheral Edema with Mirtazapine
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), to discuss methods of prevention, and to promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (1-800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Preventing Medication Errors with a “Pharmacy Admission Note” for HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Segarra-Newnham Marisel
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To describe the utility of a clinical pharmacist's evaluation of HIV-positive patients upon hospital admission.

Methods

At our Veterans Affairs Medical Center, HIV-positive patients are assigned to the Infectious Diseases (ID) team for clinical follow-up. Since March of 1999, however, general medicine staff admit HIV-positive patients to the facility. To decrease possible medication errors, communicate medication regimens, and provide continuity of care, the ID clinical pharmacist writes a “Pharmacy Admission Note” for each HIV-positive patient. A 2-year retrospective review of these notes was conducted.

Results

Fifty-one patients were admitted during the study period. The ID clinical pharmacist provided 317 recommendations (median 4.2 per patient). One hundred seventy-three recommendations were intended to avoid medication errors (55%). The most common potential errors were “medication no longer needed” (n = 65, 38%) and “decrease dose” (n = 50, 29%).

Conclusions

The use of a Pharmacy Admission Note facilitates communication with the admitting teams, provides continuity of care, and prevents medication errors.
Patient Drug Information Handouts: Finding the Source that Best Fits Your Organization's Needs
Authors: Sommers Sunshine D.
Published: January 2018

Objective

To systematically compare patient drug information handout sources and make an informed decision about which handouts to give patients in a health maintenance organization.

Methods

Desirable patient handout structure and content elements were identified. Known drug information sources were listed and an Internet search was performed to locate additional sources. Products were scored according to the extent that they contained the desirable elements.

Results

Eight patient drug information sources were evaluated. These sources were the American Society of Health System Pharmacists, Clinical Reference Systems, First Data Bank, Gold Standard Multimedia, Lexi-comp, Micromedex, Mosby, and Multum. The maximum possible score was 75. Lexi-Comp received the highest score (67). Gold Standard Media had the second highest score (63). Conclusions: Lexi-Comp's product was found to have the best overall structure and content. The scoring system used was based on what the author deemed important and could be altered to reflect different values (eg, items could be weighted differently based on their relative importance).
Darbepoetin Alfa
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary® Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late Phase III trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. The monographs are published in printed form and on diskettes that allow customization. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The December 2001 Formulary monograph topics are budesonide modified-release capsules, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, pegfilgrastim, fulvestrant, and etonogestrol/ethinyl estradiol vaginal ring. The DUE is on budesonide modified-release capsules.
The Vaccine Identification Standards Initiative (VISI): Towards Clearer Labels and Common Nomenclature
Authors: Grabenstein John D.
Published: January 2018

With the rapid pace of immunologic research, it is more important than ever for readers to understand rational immunodiagnosis, immunopro-phylaxis, and immunotherapy. This column is intended to help you ensure proper immunologic drug use in your practice.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA New Dosage Forms and Indications Agents Pending FDA Approval Labeling Changes Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: January 2018

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications and dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Each month, new information will be added to the table (shown in bold type) and older information will be removed. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information; however, if there are any questions, let us know at hospitalpharmacy@drug-facts.com .
The Admission, Transfer, and Discharge Process
Authors: Miller Alicia S.
Published: January 2018

This continuing feature will inform readers about the process of implementing, maintaining, and supporting computerized prescriber order entry (CPOE) at the Ohio State University Medical Center. (By “prescribers,” we refer to health care professionals authorized to prescribe medications by their states.) Practical information on what worked and what failed will be provided, along with current updates on the status of CPOE at the Medical Center.
Arrhythmias Critical Care Pharmacogenetics
Authors: Generali Joyce A.
Published: January 2018

To help readers monitor the most important developments in specialized areas of pharmacy practice in organized health systems, Hospital Pharmacy commissions Basic Bibliographies by guest editors, who have expertise in their respective fields. These guest editors survey the relevant literature and rank approximately 15 to 20 references that represent the most significant research and practice contributions in their areas. The more fundamental are listed first so that persons with limited time can select reading appropriate to their needs. A cumulative index to Basic Bibliography topics will be published semi-annually in June and December.