Drug dependence associated with triptans and ergot derivatives: a case/non-case study.

Introduction: The aim of this case/non-case study was to assess and compare the risk of drug dependence associated with different migraine-specific drugs, i.e., ergot derivatives and triptans, using the French pharmacovigilance database.

Avoidability of adverse drug reactions spontaneously reported to a French regional drug monitoring centre.

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are now recognized as a major category of iatrogenic illness in terms of morbidity and mortality.

Objective: To describe the type and frequency of avoidable ADRs spontaneously reported to a regional drug monitoring centre following inappropriate prescribing, as a basis for preventive actions.

Methods: A prospective, observational study of ADRs reported to the Regional Drug Monitoring Centre of Tours, France, between 26 November 2002 and 28 November 2003.

Upper gastrointestinal complications associated with NSAIDs in children.

Objective: To analyse serious upper gastrointestinal (UGI) complications associated with non-salicylate non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in children.

Methods: All serious UGI complications associated with non-salicylate NSAIDs approved in France to treat moderate pain or fever in children, spontaneously reported to the French Pharmacovigilance system or to the companies, between the launching of each study drug in France to December 31, 2000.

Results: Serious UGI complications were reported in 61 children aged from 11 months to 15 years during treatment with niflumic acid (27), ibuprofen (23) and tiaprofenic acid (11).