Generic Clopidogrel: Has Substitution for Brand Name Plavix® Been Effective?

Background: Following the expiration of brand name exclusivity of Plavix® in 2012, generic clopidogrel bisulfate was approved. As a widely prescribed medication with significant inter-patient pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variability, data regarding the impact of switching to generic clopidogrel bisulfate on patients is needed.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether generic clopidogrel bisulfate is as efficacious as Plavix® for the inhibition of platelet aggregation.

Cannabis and Migraine: It's Complicated.

Purpose Of Review: The use of cannabis for the treatment of migraine has become an area of interest with the legalization of medical cannabis in the USA. Understanding the mechanisms of cannabinoids, available studies, and best clinical recommendations is crucial for headache providers to best serve patients.

Recent Findings: Patients utilizing medical cannabis for migraine have reported improvement in migraine profile and common comorbidities.

A Review of Cannabis and Interactions With Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Agents.

Legalization of medical cannabis has occurred in 33 states and the District of Columbia, and recreational use has increased exponentially since 2013. As a result, it is important to understand how cannabis interacts with other drugs and has potential risks for patients on concomitant medications. Components of medical cannabis can inhibit or compete for several cytochrome P450 (CYP) hepatic isoenzymes, UDP-glucuronosyltransferases, and P-glycoprotein.

L-Methylfolate Calcium Supplementation in Adolescents and Children: A Retrospective Analysis.

Previous studies have shown l-methylfolate to be a safe and beneficial therapy for neuropsychiatric conditions, including major depressive disorder and schizophrenia in adults. The purpose of this study was to assess safety and describe patient experience using l-methylfolate calcium in a real-world pediatric and adolescent population. A retrospective chart review of patients (7 to 20 y of age, mean age 16 y) prescribed l-methylfolate calcium at a psychiatry clinic in Amherst, NY, between January 1, 2010 and November 10, 2015 was conducted.

Prospective Determination of Aspirin Sensitivity in Patients Resistant to Low Dose Aspirin: A Proof of Concept Study.

This study tested the capability of an assay to predict aspirin response and reduce ischemic events, and healthcare costs, and delays to optimal treatment. Patients who needed aspirin in the course of normal medical care were included. Patients were excluded if they had disorders affecting platelet function, alcohol use within 24 hours of a test, or NSAID use.