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Drugs for GERD and Peptic Ulcer Disease

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 4, 2022; (Issue 1647)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common GI condition encountered in the outpatient setting; it affects about 20% of people in the...

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common GI condition encountered in the outpatient setting; it affects about 20% of people in the US.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Apr 4;64(1647):49-56 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Comparison Table: H2-Receptor Antagonists and PPIs (online only)

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 4, 2022; (Issue 1647)

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View the Comparison Table: H2-Receptor Antagonists and PPIs

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2022 Apr 4;64(1647):e56-7 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for GERD and Peptic Ulcer Disease

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 15, 2018; (Issue 1538)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most frequent GI condition encountered in the outpatient setting; it affects about 20% of the US population. Heartburn and regurgitation are the classic...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Jan 15;60(1538):9-16 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Comparison Table: Drugs for GERD and Peptic Ulcer Disease (online only)

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 15, 2018; (Issue 1538)

...

View the Comparison Table: Drugs for GERD and Peptic Ulcer Disease

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2018 Jan 15;60(1538):e16-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease and GERD

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2014; (Issue 140)

H2-RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS (H2RAs) — Currently available H2RAs are listed in Table 1. These drugs inhibit the action of histamine at the H2-receptor of the gastric parietal cell, decreasing basal acid secretion and, to a lesser degree, food-stimulated acid secretion. All H2RAs are about equally effective for treatment of PUD and GERD. H2RAs are faster acting than PPIs in relieving symptoms of dyspepsia or GERD, but they are not as effective as PPIs in relieving symptoms or in healing erosive esophagitis. Repeated administration of H2RAs leads to pharmacologic tolerance and has been associated with the development of new dyspeptic symptoms. Rebound acid hypersecretion can occur after stopping H2RAs.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2014 Apr;12(140):25-30 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Citalopram (Celexa) and QT Interval Prolongation

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 3, 2012; (Issue 1398)

The FDA has asked the manufacturers of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant citalopram (Celexa, and others) to revise the labeling of the drug to include new warnings about the...

The FDA has asked the manufacturers of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant citalopram (Celexa, and others) to revise the labeling of the drug to include new warnings about the risk of QT interval prolongation.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2012 Sep 3;54(1398):71-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease and GERD

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2011; (Issue 109)

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is usually caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or by infection with Helicobacter pylori. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be caused by...

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is usually caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or by infection with Helicobacter pylori. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be caused by transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, reduced lower esophageal sphincter tone, hiatal hernia, delayed gastric emptying or hormonal changes due to pregnancy. Acid suppressive therapy is the cornerstone of management for both PUD and GERD.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2011 Sep;9(109):55-60 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Primary Prevention of Ulcers in Patients Taking Aspirin or NSAIDs

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 8, 2010; (Issue 1333)

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common causes of peptic ulcer disease. Patients infected with Helicobacter pylori who take aspirin or another NSAID have an especially high...

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common causes of peptic ulcer disease. Patients infected with Helicobacter pylori who take aspirin or another NSAID have an especially high risk. Drugs that have been tried for prevention of ulcers in patients taking NSAIDs including H₂-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids, the prostaglandin misoprostol (Cytotec, and others), and antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori.

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Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2010 Mar 8;52(1333):17-9 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

PPI Interactions with Clopidogrel Revisted

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 23, 2009; (Issue 1306)

Current guidelines recommend use of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to decrease the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients taking clopidogrel (Plavix) with aspirin. A recent issue of The Medical Letter...

Current guidelines recommend use of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to decrease the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients taking clopidogrel (Plavix) with aspirin. A recent issue of The Medical Letter considered whether omeprazole (Prilosec, and others) or other PPIs could interfere with the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel. The conclusion was that patients taking both drugs should probably continue to do so until more data became available. Several new publications require reconsideration of that recommendation.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009 Feb 23;51(1306):13-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Tobacco Dependence

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2008; (Issue 73)

Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. The greater the number of office visits and the longer the counseling time, the higher the smoking...

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Sep;6(73):61-5 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Treatment of Peptic Ulcers and GERD

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2008; (Issue 72)

Peptic ulcers caused by treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are mainly gastric ulcers. Most duodenal and other gastric ulcers are caused by the gram-negative bacillus Helicobacter pylori. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by gastric acid reflux into the esophagus. Drugs that suppress gastric acid production are the primary treatment for GERD and peptic ulcers.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Aug;6(72):55-60 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Antifungal Drugs

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 1, 2008; (Issue 65)

The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the tables. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA. Other guidelines are available from...

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2008 Jan;6(65):1-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Allergic Disorders

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2007; (Issue 60)

Allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, anaphylaxis and asthma (reviewed in Treatment Guidelines 2005; 3:33 and not included here), are prevalent worldwide, especially in...

Allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, anaphylaxis and asthma (reviewed in Treatment Guidelines 2005; 3:33 and not included here), are prevalent worldwide, especially in industrialized countries. Pharmacologic treatment of these disorders continues to improve in efficacy and safety. In addition to using drugs to prevent and control the symptoms of their allergic diseases, patients should also be instructed to avoid, if possible, specific allergens and/or environmental conditions that trigger or worsen their symptoms.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2007 Aug;5(60):71-80 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs in the Elderly

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 16, 2006; (Issue 1226)

The physiologic changes that occur with aging can affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of many prescription and over-the-counter drugs, increasing the likelihood of adverse...

The physiologic changes that occur with aging can affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of many prescription and over-the-counter drugs, increasing the likelihood of adverse effects.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2006 Jan 16;48(1226):6-7 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Antifungal Drugs

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2005; (Issue 30)

The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the table that begins on page 8. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the...

The drugs of choice for treatment of some fungal infections are listed in the table that begins on page 8. Some of the indications and dosages recommended here have not been approved by the FDA.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2005 Feb;3(30):7-14 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Alprazolam (Xanax, and others) Revisited

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 17, 2005; (Issue 1200)

Alprazolam, a short-acting benzodiazepine, is one of the most widely prescribed drugs in the US. It is approved by the FDA for treatment of anxiety and panic disorder. An extended-release formulation, Xanax XR,...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2005 Jan 17;47(1200):5-7 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Intermittent Claudication

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 16, 2004; (Issue 1176)

Management of intermittent claudication, the most common symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), involves both risk factor modification and symptomatic treatment (WR Hiatt, N Engl J Med 2001; 344:1608; RM...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Feb 16;46(1176):13-5 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Peptic Ulcers

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 1, 2004; (Issue 18)

Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related...

Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related ulcers are gastric. H. pylori infection causes both duodenal and gastric ulcers. Eradication of H. pylori promotes healing and markedly decreases recurrence of both duodenal and gastric ulcers (A Shiotamni and DY Graham, Med Clin North Am 2002; 86:1447; FKL Chan and WK Leung, Lancet 2002; 360:933). The first step in the management of peptic ulcers is the diagnosis and treatment of H. pylori.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2004 Feb;2(18):7-12 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Zolmitriptan (Zomig) Nasal Spray for Migraine

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 19, 2004; (Issue 1174)

Zolmitriptan (Zomig - AstraZeneca) nasal spray was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of migraine. It is the second selective serotonin receptor agonist ("triptan") to become available as a nasal spray;...

Zolmitriptan (Zomig - AstraZeneca) nasal spray was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of migraine. It is the second selective serotonin receptor agonist ("triptan") to become available as a nasal spray; sumatriptan has been available in this form since 1997. Some patients with migraine cannot take tablets because of nausea and vomiting, and nasal sprays are more convenient than subcutaneous injections.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2004 Jan 19;46(1174):7-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Allergic Disorders

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 1, 2003; (Issue 15)

Allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria and anaphylaxis, along with asthma (reviewed in Treatment Guidelines 2002; 1:7 and not included here), have increased in prevalence...

Allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria and anaphylaxis, along with asthma (reviewed in Treatment Guidelines 2002; 1:7 and not included here), have increased in prevalence during the past 30 years and are now epidemic worldwide, especially in industrialized countries. Many safe and effective drugs are currently available for prevention and relief of symptoms in these disorders, but pharmacological treatment alone may not be sufficient. Patients should also be instructed to avoid specific allergens or environmental conditions that trigger their symptoms. Allergen-specific immunotherapy, parenteral administration of gradually increasing doses of the allergen ("allergy shots"), has been effective in allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis and allergic asthma, and also in prevention of anaphylaxis triggered by stings from bees, yellow jackets, hornets and wasps. It has not been effective in food allergy, atopic dermatitis or urticaria.

Treat Guidel Med Lett. 2003 Nov;1(15):93-100 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drug Interactions

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 8, 2003; (Issue 1158)

Changes caused by one drug in the absorption, distribution, metabolism or excretion of another may lead to a pharmacokinetic adverse drug interaction (DN Juurlink et al, JAMA 2003; 289:1652). Additive drug interactions, such as vasodilation caused by both sildenafil (Viagra) and nitrates, can also have adverse effects.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2003 Jun 8;45(1158):46-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Pantoprazole IV (Protonix IV)

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 29, 2002; (Issue 1129)

An IV formulation of pantoprazole sodium (Protonix IV - Wyeth-Ayerst), a benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor (PPI), has been approved by the FDA for short-term treatment of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) and...

An IV formulation of pantoprazole sodium (Protonix IV - Wyeth-Ayerst), a benzimidazole proton pump inhibitor (PPI), has been approved by the FDA for short-term treatment of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in patients who cannot take oral drugs. Pantoprazole is the first PPI to be approved for IV use in the US.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2002 Apr 29;44(1129):41-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Meloxicam (Mobic) for Osteoarthritis

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 29, 2000; (Issue 1079)

Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with some cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selectivity in vitro, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of...

Meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with some cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selectivity in vitro, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of osteoarthritis.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 May 29;42(1079):47-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Dofetilide for Atrial Fibrillation

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 15, 2000; (Issue 1078)

Dofetilide (Tikosyn - Pfizer), a new methanesulfonamide antiarrhythmic drug, has recently been marketed for oral treatment of atrial fibrillation and...

Dofetilide (Tikosyn - Pfizer), a new methanesulfonamide antiarrhythmic drug, has recently been marketed for oral treatment of atrial fibrillation and flutter.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 May 15;42(1078):41-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Two New Drugs for Epilepsy

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 17, 2000; (Issue 1076)

Oxcarbazepine, which is chemically similar to carbamazepine, and levetiracetam, a pyrrolidine acetamide chemically unrelated to other antiepileptic drugs, are the sixth and seventh drugs approved by the US Food...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Apr 17;42(1076):33-5 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Epirubicin for Adjuvant Therapy in Node-Positive Breast Cancer

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 7, 2000; (Issue 1071)

Epirubicin, an analog of doxorubicin that has been available in Europe and Canada for 15 years, has now been approved by the FDA for adjuvant use after resection of the primary tumor in breast cancer patients...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000 Feb 7;42(1071):12-3 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Zaleplon for Insomnia

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 8, 1999; (Issue 1063)

Zaleplon, a pyrazolopyrimidine hypnotic, was recently approved by the FDA for short-term treatment of insomia. Zaleplon, like zolpidem, is a non-benzodiazepine that binds to benzodiazepine...

Zaleplon, a pyrazolopyrimidine hypnotic, was recently approved by the FDA for short-term treatment of insomia. Zaleplon, like zolpidem, is a non-benzodiazepine that binds to benzodiazepine receptors.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1999 Oct 8;41(1063):93-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Citalopram for Depression

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 4, 1998; (Issue 1041)

Citalopram hydrobromide (Celexa - Forest/Parke-Davis), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) available in Europe since 1989, has now been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for...

Citalopram hydrobromide (Celexa - Forest/Parke-Davis), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) available in Europe since 1989, has now been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of depression. It is being advertised as having a 'favorable side-effect profile.'

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Dec 4;40(1041):113-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Sildenafil: An Oral Drug for Impotence

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 8, 1998; (Issue 1026)

Sildenafil citrate (Viagra - Pfizer) is the first oral drug approved by the FDA for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Alprostadil is also marketed for this indication but must be injected into the corpus...

Sildenafil citrate (Viagra - Pfizer) is the first oral drug approved by the FDA for treatment of erectile dysfunction. Alprostadil is also marketed for this indication but must be injected into the corpus cavemosum (Caverject) or pushed into the urethra (MUSE).

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 May 8;40(1026):51-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Zolmitriptan for Migraine

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 27, 1998; (Issue 1021)

Zolmitriptan (Zomig - Zeneca), a selective serotonin (5-HT1)-receptor agonist, is now available in the USA for oral treatment of migraine headache. Zomitriptan structurally resembles sumatriptan (Imitrex -...

Zolmitriptan (Zomig - Zeneca), a selective serotonin (5-HT1)-receptor agonist, is now available in the USA for oral treatment of migraine headache. Zomitriptan structurally resembles sumatriptan (Imitrex - Medical Letter 34:91, 1992). Drugs currently used for acute treatment of migraine include injectable, oral and nasal spray formulations of sumaptriptan, injectable dihydroergotamine, dihydroergotamine nasal spray, ergotamine tartrate alone or with caffeine, and various analgesics. Anoterh 5-HT1-receptor agonist, naratriptan (Amerge - Gaxo Wellcome), has been approved by the FDA but has not been marketed yet.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Feb 27;40(1021):27-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Cerivastatin for Hypercholesterolemia

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 16, 1998; (Issue 1018)

Cerivastatin (Baycol - Bayer), a new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (or "statin"), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Cerivastatin is the sodium salt of a synthetic fluorophenyl...

Cerivastatin (Baycol - Bayer), a new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (or "statin"), has been approved by the FDA for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Cerivastatin is the sodium salt of a synthetic fluorophenyl pyridinyl-substituted heptanoic acid.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1998 Jan 16;40(1018):13-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Pramipexole and Ropinirole for Parkinson's Disease

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 21, 1997; (Issue 1014)

Pramipexole (Mirapex - Pharmacia & Upjohn) and ropinirole (Requip - SmithKline Beecham), two new dopamine agonists, have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of both early (without levodopa) and advanced (with levodopa) Parkinson's disease. Bromocriptine (Parlodel) and pergolide (Permax) are older dopamine agonists marketed in the USA for adjunctive use with levodopa.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Nov 21;39(1014):109-10 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Bromfenac for Analgesia

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 10, 1997; (Issue 1011)

Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to...

Bromfenac sodium (Duract - Wyeth-Ayerst), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is being heavily advertised as an alternative to narcotics for short-term treatment of pain.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Oct 10;39(1011):93-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Carvedilol for Heart Failure

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 26, 1997; (Issue 1010)

Carvedilol (Coreg - SmithKline Beecham and Boehringer-Mannheim), a betaadrenergic and alpha-adrenergic blocker approved by the FDA for treatment of hypertension in 1995, but not marketed at that time, has now...

Carvedilol (Coreg - SmithKline Beecham and Boehringer-Mannheim), a betaadrenergic and alpha-adrenergic blocker approved by the FDA for treatment of hypertension in 1995, but not marketed at that time, has now been approved and marketed for treatment of mild or moderate (NYHA class II or III) heart failure stabilized on other drugs. It is being promoted as an add-on drug that reduces the morbidity and mortality of the disease.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Sep 26;39(1010):89-91 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Midodrine for Orthostatic Hypotension

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 20, 1997; (Issue 1003)

Midodrine hydrochloride (ProAmatine - Roberts), an alpha1-selective adrenergic agonist, is now available for treatment of severe symptomatic orthostatic hypotension. Other treatments for this condition...

Midodrine hydrochloride (ProAmatine - Roberts), an alpha1-selective adrenergic agonist, is now available for treatment of severe symptomatic orthostatic hypotension. Other treatments for this condition include other sympathomimetics, constrictive garments, erythropoietin (Epogen; Procrit) and fludrocortisone with salt (D Robertson and TL Davis, Neurology, 45 suppl 5: S26, 1995).

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Jun 20;39(1003):59-60 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Donepezil (Aricept) for Alzheimer's Disease

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 6, 1997; (Issue 1002)

Donepezil hydrochloride (Aricept - Eisai), a piperidine-based acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, is now being marketed for oral treatment of cognitive symptoms in patients with mild to moderate dementia due to...

Donepezil hydrochloride (Aricept - Eisai), a piperidine-based acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, is now being marketed for oral treatment of cognitive symptoms in patients with mild to moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. Donepezil is the second drug approved for this indication; tacrine hydrochloride (Cognex), also an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, has been available in the USA for four years (Medical Letter, 35:87, 1993).

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Jun 6;39(1002):53-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 3, 1997; (Issue 991)

Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori. The majority of NSAID-related ulcers are gastric. H. pylori have been associated with both duodenal and gastric ulcers. Eradication of H. pylori promotes healing and markedly decreases recurrence of both duodenal and gastric ulcers (AH Soll, JAMA, 275:622, 1996).

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1997 Jan 3;39(991):1-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Terbinafine for Onychomycosis

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 16, 1996; (Issue 981)

Terbinafine (Lamisil - Sandoz), an allylamine synthetic antifungal, previously available in the USA in a topical formulation (Medical Letter, 35:76, 1993) has now been marketed for oral use in the treatment...

Terbinafine (Lamisil - Sandoz), an allylamine synthetic antifungal, previously available in the USA in a topical formulation (Medical Letter, 35:76, 1993) has now been marketed for oral use in the treatment of fungal nail infections caused by dermatophytes. Oral terbinafine has been available in Europe since 1992.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Aug 16;38(981):72-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Cetirizine - A New Antihistamine

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 15, 1996; (Issue 970)

Cetirizine (Zyrtec - Pfizer), a histamine H 1 -receptor antagonist, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis, perennial allergic rhinitis and...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Mar 15;38(970):21-3 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Nisoldipine-A New Calcium-Channel Blocker for Hypertension

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 16, 1996; (Issue 968)

Nisoldipine (Sular -Zeneca), a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker structurally similar to nifedipine, has been approved for marketing by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is available in an oral...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1996 Feb 16;38(968):13-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Metformin for Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 12, 1995; (Issue 948)

Metformin (Glucophage - Bristol-Myers Squibb), a hypoglycemic agent, was recently marketed in the USA for oral treatment of patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) not adequately...

Metformin (Glucophage - Bristol-Myers Squibb), a hypoglycemic agent, was recently marketed in the USA for oral treatment of patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) not adequately controlled by diet alone. Previously marketed in more than ninety countries, including Canada, metformin (dimethylbiguanide) is chemically related to phenformin (phenylethylbiguanide), which was withdrawn from the US market in 1976 because it caused a high incidence of lactic acidosis. In approving metformin, the US Food and Drug Administration stipulated that a post-marketing controlled trial of 10,000 patients be conducted to determine the incidence of lactic acidosis.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1995 May 12;37(948):41-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 22, 1994; (Issue 927)

Most peptic ulcers not caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are now thought to be associated with infection of the gastric mucosa by the gram-negative bacilli Helicobacter pylori (NIH Consensus Development Panel, JAMA, 272:65, July 6, 1994). NSAID-related ulcers are usually gastric. H. pylori have been associated with both duodenal and gastric ulcers.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Jul 22;36(927):65-7 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

LAAM - Long-Acting Methadone for Treatment of Heroin Addiction

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 10, 1994; (Issue 924)

Methadone, an opioid agonist that can be taken orally, has been used for maintenance treatment for many years in the USA (DM Novick et al, Drug Alcohol Depend, 33:235, 1993). Last year, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the distribution and use of L-alpha-acetyl-methadol (LAAM; ORLAAM - Bio Development Corporation, McLean, VA), a long-acting congener of methadone. LAAM, like methadone, will be available for this indication only through federal and state-regulated treatment programs.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 Jun 10;36(924):52 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Fluvastatin for Lowering Cholesterol

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 27, 1994; (Issue 923)

Fluvastatin (Lescol - Sandoz), an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A synthetic mevalonolactone derivative, it is chemically distinct from...

Fluvastatin (Lescol - Sandoz), an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. A synthetic mevalonolactone derivative, it is chemically distinct from previously available drugs in this class.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1994 May 27;36(923):45-6 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Rimantadine for Prevention and Treatment of Influenza

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 26, 1993; (Issue 910)

Rimantadine hydrochloride (Flumadine - Forest), the alpha-methyl derivative of amantadine (Symmetrel, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for prevention and treatment of...

Rimantadine hydrochloride (Flumadine - Forest), the alpha-methyl derivative of amantadine (Symmetrel, and others), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for prevention and treatment of influenza A virus infections in adults and for prevention of influenza in children.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Nov 26;35(910):109-10 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Paclitaxel (Taxol) for Ovarian Cancer

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 14, 1993; (Issue 896)

Paclitaxel (Taxol - Bristol-Myers Squibb) is now available in the USA for treatment of metastatic ovarian cancer refractory to other drugs. The new drug is a natural product extracted in small amounts from...

Paclitaxel (Taxol - Bristol-Myers Squibb) is now available in the USA for treatment of metastatic ovarian cancer refractory to other drugs. The new drug is a natural product extracted in small amounts from the inner bark of the Western yew tree found mainly in the Pacific northwest (Taxus brevifolia). Efforts to synthesize the drug have been unsuccessful to date, but a semi-synthetic product (taxotere) prepared from the needles of European yews has shown some promise (R Pazdur et al, J Natl Cancer Inst, 89:1781, 1992), and a fungus (Taxomyces andreanae) growing on the Pacific yew was recently found to produce paclitaxel even after removal from the tree (A Stierle et al, Science, 260:214, April 9, 1993). In any case, supply of the drug is currently keeping up with demand.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 May 14;35(896):39-40 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Zolpidem For Insomnia

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 30, 1993; (Issue 895)

Zolpidem (Ambien - Searle), an imidazopyridine hypnotic available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for short-term treatment of...

Zolpidem (Ambien - Searle), an imidazopyridine hypnotic available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for short-term treatment of insomnia.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Apr 30;35(895):35-6 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Paroxetine for Treatment of Depression

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 19, 1993; (Issue 892)

Paroxetine (Paxil - SmithKline Beecham), a new selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is now available in the USA. Two other SSRIs, fluoxetine (Prozac - Medical Letter, 30:45, 1988; 32:83, 1990) and...

Paroxetine (Paxil - SmithKline Beecham), a new selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is now available in the USA. Two other SSRIs, fluoxetine (Prozac - Medical Letter, 30:45, 1988; 32:83, 1990) and sertraline (Zoloft - Medical Letter, 34:47, 1992), were approved previously.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Mar 19;35(892):24-5 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Clozapine

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 19, 1993; (Issue 890)

Clozapine (Clozaril - Sandoz), an antipsychotic drug, was first marketed in the USA three years ago (Medical Letter, 32:3, 1990). Because of its hematological toxicity, the US Food and Drug Administration...

Clozapine (Clozaril - Sandoz), an antipsychotic drug, was first marketed in the USA three years ago (Medical Letter, 32:3, 1990). Because of its hematological toxicity, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the drug only for patients with schizophrenia who cannot tolerate or do not respond to standard antipsychotic drugs.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1993 Feb 19;35(890):16-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Ticlopidine

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 10, 1992; (Issue 874)

hydrochloride (Ticlid - Syntex), a platelet aggregation inhibitor that has been available in Europe for more than a decade, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to decrease the risk...

hydrochloride (Ticlid - Syntex), a platelet aggregation inhibitor that has been available in Europe for more than a decade, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to decrease the risk of thrombotic stroke in men and women who have had premonitory signs of stroke or have had a completed thrombotic stroke. The manufacturer is promoting the drug for patients intolerant to aspirin or with conditions for which aspirin has not been approved (previous thrombotic stroke; transient ischemic attacks in women). The drug has also been used for prevention of myocardial infarction.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Jul 10;34(874):65-6 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Safety of Terfenadine and Astemizole

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 7, 1992; (Issue 863)

Terfenadine (Seldane - Marion Merrell Dow) and astemizole (Hismanal - Janssen) are nonsedating antihistamines widely used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (Medical Letter, 27:65, 1985; 31:43, 1989)....

Terfenadine (Seldane - Marion Merrell Dow) and astemizole (Hismanal - Janssen) are nonsedating antihistamines widely used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (Medical Letter, 27:65, 1985; 31:43, 1989). Both are available without a prescription in Canada, and the US Food and Drug Administration is apparently considering terfenadine for over-the-counter availability in the USA.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1992 Feb 7;34(863):9-10 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Felodipine - Calcium-Channel Blocker For Hypertension

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 13, 1991; (Issue 859)

Felodipine (Plendil - Merck), an extended-release preparation of a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker was recently marketed in the USA for oral treatment of hypertension. An immediate-release formulation...

Felodipine (Plendil - Merck), an extended-release preparation of a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker was recently marketed in the USA for oral treatment of hypertension. An immediate-release formulation is available in some other countries.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Dec 13;33(859):115-6 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs For Treatment of Peptic Ulcers

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 29, 1991; (Issue 858)

Drugs that accelerate healing and prevent relapse or reurrence of peptic ulcers act either by decreasing gastric acidity or by enhancing mucosal defense mechanisms. Risk factors that may cause breakdown of mucosal defenses include the use of aspirinor other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacterial in the gastric antrum (AH Soll, Engl J Med, 322:909, 1990; WL Peterson, N Engl J Med, 324:1043, 1991).

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Nov 29;33(858):111-4 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Estazolam - A New Benzodiazepine Hypnotic

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 4, 1991; (Issue 854)

Estazolam (ProSom - Abbott), a triazolobenzodiazepine derivative similar in structure to alprazolam (Xanax) and triazolam (Halcion), was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of...

Estazolam (ProSom - Abbott), a triazolobenzodiazepine derivative similar in structure to alprazolam (Xanax) and triazolam (Halcion), was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of insomnia.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1991 Oct 4;33(854):91-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Moricizine for Cardiac Arrhythmias

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 2, 1990; (Issue 830)

Moricizine (mor i'; siz een) hydrochloride (Ethmozine - Du Pont), a class I antiarrhythmic drug developed in the USSR, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral treatment of...

Moricizine (mor i'; siz een) hydrochloride (Ethmozine - Du Pont), a class I antiarrhythmic drug developed in the USSR, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for oral treatment of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1990 Nov 2;32(830):99-100 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Drugs for Treatment of Fungal Infections

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 15, 1990; (Issue 820)

...

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1990 Jun 15;32(820):58-60 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Bupropion For Depression

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 3, 1989; (Issue 804)

Bupropion (Wellbutrin - Burroughs Wellcome) was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of depression. First approved by the Food and Drug Administration in late 1985, the drug was withdrawn from the...

Bupropion (Wellbutrin - Burroughs Wellcome) was recently marketed in the USA for treatment of depression. First approved by the Food and Drug Administration in late 1985, the drug was withdrawn from the market in early 1986 because of a high incidence of seizures in one study.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1989 Nov 3;31(804):97-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Nicardipine - A New Calcium-Entry Blocker

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 5, 1989; (Issue 791)

Nicardipine (Cardene - Syntex), a dihydropyridine calcium-entry blocker structurally related to nifedipine (Procardia; Adalat), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment...

Nicardipine (Cardene - Syntex), a dihydropyridine calcium-entry blocker structurally related to nifedipine (Procardia; Adalat), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of angina and hypertension. Advertisements for the drug claim that nicardipine is more vasoselective; than other calcium-channel blockers and does not depress myocardial contractility.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1989 May 5;31(791):41-2 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Prevention of Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 7, 1988; (Issue 776)

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is a common cause of death in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). PCP is the first serious opportunistic infection in more than 60% of patients with AIDS, and about 80% of AIDS patients develop PCP at least once (AE Glatt et al, N Engl J Med, 318:1439, June 2, 1988). Many studies using drugs to prevent PCP in patients with AIDS have recently been reported.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1988 Oct 7;30(776):94-5 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Nizatidine (Axid)

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 12, 1988; (Issue 772)

Nizatidine (Axid - Lilly), a new H2-receptor antagonist similar to cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment...

Nizatidine (Axid - Lilly), a new H2-receptor antagonist similar to cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of active duodenal ulcer and for maintenance therapy after healing. Cimetidine, ranitidine and famotidine are also approved for treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger- Ellison syndrome; cimetidine is approved in addition for treatment of gastric ulcers.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1988 Aug 12;30(772):77-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction

Choice of Benzodiazepines

The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 26, 1988; (Issue 760)

Since The Medical Letter last reviewed the choice of benzodiazepines (Volume 23, page 41, 1981), several new drugs have been marketed and some old ones are now available generically. Most of the...

Since The Medical Letter last reviewed the choice of benzodiazepines (Volume 23, page 41, 1981), several new drugs have been marketed and some old ones are now available generically. Most of the benzodiazepines available for oral use in the USA are listed in the table on page 28.

Med Lett Drugs Ther. 1988 Feb 26;30(760):26-8 | Show Full Introduction Hide Full Introduction