What’s New on Pharmacist's Letter: Jan 2016; Vol. 32
Topic of the month: Should we aim lower systolic blood pressure in patients with hypertension?
Hypertension is a silent killer, whereby if it is not optimally managed can result in adverse cardiovascular outcomes. There are many recently updated guidelines, which have varying recommendations on blood pressure targets for different groups of patients. The topic for this month focuses on the latest SPRINT study, a randomized controlled open-label trial, which reveals differences in cardiovascular outcomes between intensive (SBP<120mmHg) and standard (SBP<140mmHg) groups, as well as results from a recent meta-analysis on the effects of targeting lower blood pressure. Lower targets may be harder to reach and lead to adverse effects. Thus, risks and benefits need to be weighed while managing our patients. Listen to the expert opinions from the PL panel and read more on the recommended blood pressure targets for the different groups of patients.
Clinical updates:
- What is the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and which is the desirable combination of antiplatelet?
Get your answers from the PL panel on discussion on the optimal duration of DAPT.
- There are rising concerns over resistance to quinolones, so should there be a limit on its use? Find out what are the conditions where alternative antibiotics may be used.
Building up an antimicrobial stewardship programme? Check out the PL toolkit for materials.
- Do you know Aripiprazole may increase risk of impulse control behaviours? Read about it here in this PL update.
Refer to PL chart for a useful summary of comparison among the available atypical antipsychotics in the market.
Frequently asked questions at the community pharmacy:
- Are topical NSAIDs safer than oral ones?
What are the considerations for and against the use of topical NSAIDs alone? Check out for some tips and see our new PL chart for role of other available topicals for treatment of pain.
- Do we have to stop statin before flu vaccination? Learn how should your advice your patients in this PL update
- Am I too old to take oral contraceptives? Refer to this article to find out how should you respond. PL chart on oral contraceptives available
