Oral Agents for the Treatment of Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Lung cancer claims the lives of more people than any other cancer worldwide. In the US, lung cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. In 2018, there were approximately 234,030 new cases diagnosed and over 154,000 lung cancer related deaths. Lung cancers are histologically (microscopic tissue structure) defined as small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), accounting for 15% and 85% of cases, respectively. Adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype of NSCLC. Because early lung cancer is largely asymptomatic, more than half of the cases have metastasized at the time of diagnosis... Read More »
Heartburn: Appropriate Use of OTC Medications
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that may radiate toward the neck, throat, and occasionally, the back. It most often results from the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. Heartburn is among the most common gastrointestinal complaints, and is a common reason people seek medical care. The worldwide prevalence of reflux symptoms that occur at least once a week is estimated to be 13%, but varies widely among countries. In the US, the prevalence ranges from 6% to 30%. It is higher among individuals who are 50 years or older, those who are smokers, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) and/or aspirin users, and obese individuals.. Read More »
Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants
This issue will review the evidence supporting DOACs and their place in therapy for: 1) atrial fibrillation (AF); 2) the acute treatment and long-term secondary prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE); and 3) DVT and PE prevention after major orthopedic surgery and in medically ill patients. The differences among DOACs will be highlighted (eg, side effect profiles, dosing considerations and drug interactions), and DOACs will be compared with warfarin for conditions where both are indicated. Bleeding management and the use of reversal agents will also be addressed.. Read More »
