The safety of methadone hydrochloride.

Methadone is an interesting analgesic for multiple reasons. The unique properties of the agent, low cost and widespread availability have led to increases in methadone prescribing. Despite advantages, methadone is challenging to work with, particularly in patients with high opioid requirements.

Management of common opioid-induced adverse effects.

Opioid analgesics are useful agents for treating pain of various etiologies; however, adverse effects are potential limitations to their use. Strategies to minimize adverse effects of opioids include dose reduction, symptomatic management, opioid rotation, and changing the route of administration. Nausea occurs in approximately 25 percent of patients; prophylactic measures may not be required.

Tibolone: a unique version of hormone replacement therapy.

Objective: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of tibolone in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and the prevention of osteoporosis.

Data Sources: Information was obtained from a MEDLINE search (1966-July 2003) and from Organon International. The bibliographies of reviewed literature were searched for additional studies.