[Chronic use of sleep medications--how serious is it in Israel?].

The prevalence of chronic insomnia in the adult population in Israel is 29.8%, which is comparable to other Western countries. The consequences of insomnia include fatigue, accidents, low level of well-being, and a high need for medical services.

Factors contributing to compliance with osteoporosis medication.

Background: Bisphosphonates are effective in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, yet their use is suboptimal.

Objectives: To measure bisphosphonate compliance among first-time users and identify factors associated with compliance.

Methods: We conducted a prospective follow-up of all women aged 45+ in the second largest health management organization in Israel who were prescribed bisphosphonates for the first time.

Brand versus generic alendronate: gastrointestinal effects measured by resource utilization.

Background: Adverse reactions related to the upper gastrointestinal tract (UGIT) that are associated with generic alendronate formulations may differ from those associated with the brand drug.

Objective: To test the hypothesis that adverse UGIT effects of alendronate formulations may differ between generic and brand products.

Methods: We conducted a database health resource utilization analysis of UGIT outcomes in patients who started treatment with generic or brand alendronate formulations during 2001-2005.

Independent risk factors for carriage of penicillin-non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Antibiotic treatment, day-care center (DCC) attendance and young age are associated with penicillin-non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae (PNSSp) carriage. Yet, it is unclear whether each is an independent risk factor for the individual. This cross-sectional surveillance study was designed to answer this question.