A randomized controlled study comparing rofecoxib, diclofenac sodium, and placebo in post-bunionectomy pain.

Objective: The relative efficacy of rofecoxib, diclofenac sodium, and placebo were compared in the treatment of acute pain after bunionectomy surgery.

Research Design And Methods: This was a double-blind, randomized, two-part study of 252 patients with moderate-to-severe pain the day after first metatarsal bunionectomy. Patients were treated with a single dose of rofecoxib 50 mg (N = 85), enteric-coated diclofenac sodium 100 mg (N = 85), or placebo (N = 82) on study Day 1 (Part I), and subsequently with daily rofecoxib 50 mg or placebo (diclofenac patients switched to placebo) over study Days 2-5 (Part II).

The effect of a switch to ziprasidone in an adult population with autistic disorder: chart review of naturalistic, open-label treatment.

Background: The present investigation retrospectively assessed the effect of an open-label switch to ziprasidone from other atypical antipsychotics on behavior, weight, and lipid levels in an adult population with autistic disorder.

Method: We conducted a chart review of 10 adults (mean +/- SD age = 43.8 +/- 6.

Treatment of out-of-hospital status epilepticus with diazepam rectal gel.

Intravenous access cannot always be promptly obtained when treating status epilepticus outside the hospital. We compared the efficacy and safety of diazepam rectal gel to IV lorazepam in our long-term care facility for adults with developmental disabilities. Diazepam rectal gel was given more quickly and reliably, reducing total seizure time, potential neuronal injury and other complications.

Elevation of carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide by quetiapine.

A 52-year-old woman and a 56-year-old man who were receiving carbamazepine experienced markedly elevated levels of its active metabolite, carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide (CBZ-E), after starting quetiapine therapy. The CBZ-E:carbamazepine ratio increased 3-4-fold in each patient. Levels of CBZ-E returned to baseline after discontinuing this drug combination.