The risk of esophageal obstruction associated with an anti-allergy medication (Claritin-D 24-Hour--original formulation).

Purpose: To investigate a possible increased risk of esophageal obstruction among users of loratadine and pseudoephedrine (Claritin-D 24-Hour [C-D 24], the original, round, extended-release formulation) compared to two other tablet formulations of loratadine.

Methods: Pharmacy data of 12 managed care plans were screened to identify users in the three groups from 1 September 1996 to 31 December 1998. Users with a medical claim following their first loratadine prescription (Index prescription) indicating an esophageal obstruction or endoscopic procedure were considered claims-identified cases.

Incidence of idiopathic acute liver failure and hospitalized liver injury in patients treated with troglitazone.

Objective: Troglitazone, a thiazolidinedione antidiabetic agent, was withdrawn from the U.S. market in March, 2000, after 94 cases of acute liver failure (ALF) were reported with its use.

A study of compliance with FDA recommendations for pemoline (Cylert).

Objective: To assess compliance with product labeling recommendations to use pemoline as second-line therapy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to obtain baseline and biweekly liver enzyme tests.

Method: Retrospective cohort study using administrative claims data to identify first-line therapies and liver enzyme tests among pemoline users between January 1, 1998, and March 31, 2000. Prescriptions for first-line therapy were searched for 90 days prior to the first pemoline claim.

Ambulatory use of psychotropics by employer-insured children and adolescents in a national managed care organization.

Objective: To provide a description of the ambulatory use of psychotropic medications by children and adolescents in a large, geographically diverse employer-insured population.

Design: This retrospective observational study used administrative claims data for 1995-1999 for members under age 20 in 6 Independent Practice Association health plans affiliated with UnitedHealth Group. We calculated the prevalences of use for 4 major therapeutic drug classes: central nervous system stimulants (CNSSs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and other antidepressants (OADs).