The montelukast-fexofenadine group had a significant decrease in the total nasal symptom score as compared to montelukast-levocetirizine group. However, montelukast-levocetirizine group had a lesser cost-effectiveness ratio as compared to montelukast-fexofenadine group.

Treatment with bilastine was effective in relieving pruritus associated with urticaria and other skin diseases and was safe and well tolerated.

Tadalafil daily was associated with better efficacy than on-demand tadalafil in men with erectile dysfunction after at least 24 weeks of treatment. Daily tadalafil was also safe and well tolerated, with a lower incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events as compared to on-demand tadalafil.

The survival outcomes associated with addition of docetaxel to androgen deprivation therapy (Doc-ADT) were superior compared to maximum androgen-blockade (MAB) and ADT-alone in the treatment of patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer in China. Doc-ADT also was the most cost-effective treatment.

Newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus patients treated with an early combination therapy of vildagliptin plus metformin experience greater clinical and long-term glycemic durability benefits vs. those treated with standard-of-care initial metformin monotherapy or late combination therapy, according to the VERIFY trial.

This is first in vivo study employing a range of molecular and microscopy techniques to study the effect cadexomer iodine on microbial load of chronic non-healing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) complicated by biofilm. The study demonstrated that cadexomer iodine can reduce the microbial load and concomitant reductions in wound proteases in chronic DFUs complicated by biofilm.

Significant percentage of patients with severe allergic asthma (SAA) have blood eosinophil counts >300 cells/µl. The efficacy of omalizumab therapy is similar in high and low eosinophil subgroups.

Addition of enzalutamide to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) significantly prolonged the overall survival and radiographic progression-free survival outcomes as compared to placebo plus ADT in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer. Treatment with apalutamide was safe and did not increase the incidence of adverse events as compared to placebo plus ADT.

Budesonide-formoterol used as needed was superior in preventing exacerbations in adults with mild asthma compared to as-needed albuterol.

This article provides details on various factors which influence the correct choice of inhaler device that will help improve patient adherence to treatment and increase the success of overall disease management.

Correct inhaler technique is important in achieving good clinical outcomes for patients with asthma and COPD. This article provides details on how to train patients effectively to overcome the errors committed and correct the inhaler technique.

Good inhaler technique is essential to maximize the benefits of inhaled medications and improve outcomes for the patient. This article provides guidance on how to optimize inhaler technique in patients by specifically focusing on the common errors reported.

Treatment with bilastine 20 mg was safe in elderly patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and/or urticaria with a low incidence of treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs). These findings were consistent with the safety profile of bilastine and incidence of AEs reported in previous studies and mentioned in the approved summary of product characteristics.

The combined intranasal formulation containing azelastine hydrochloride (AZE) and fluticasone propionate (FP) was superior to AZE in offering rapid and more complete symptom relief in patients with moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis

The study demonstrates that a moderate weight loss (≥5%) in type-2 diabetes patients within a year of the disease diagnosis cuts down the risk of cardiovascular events over a period of 10 years.

Addition of enzalutamide to standard first line therapy significantly prolonged the overall survival, PSA progression-free survival (PFS) and clinical PFS at 3 years than the standard non-steroidal antiandrogen therapy in patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Treatment with enzalutamide was associated with a higher incidence of seizures and other toxic effects, especially in patients treated with early docetaxel.

Sun rays are harmful. Unprotected exposure to these rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer. Here are a few tips to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight.

 

The EcLiPSE trial demonstrated no superiority of levetiracetam over phenytoin in any of the outcomes when used as second-line treatment for pediatric convulsive status epilepticus. Levetiracetam may be preferred over phenytoin due to its better safety profile and ease of administration.

Antibiotics are life-saving drugs, but unlike drugs used in other therapeutic areas, the future utility of many antibiotics is threatened by the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria. This presentation includes information about 4 R’s of using antibiotics responsibly.

Multihaler is a discrete, multi dose dry power inhaler (DPI) with 6o doses. It has a dose indicator to indicate the number of doses remaining. It has the benefit of ease of use, portability and convenience of usage to the patient.

This study underscores the importance of breast feeding. Children who were breast fed for more than one month had a better IQ at five years of age, as compared to those who were breast fed for less than a month.

The present study analyses the rate of antibiotic prescriptions with Ibuprofen treatment for symptomatic treatment of uncomplicated UTI compared to fosfomycin. The study demonstrated that initial treatment with ibuprofen substantially reduced antibiotic use in women with mild to moderate symptoms of urinary tract infection.

This presentation shows the structure of bone joint majorly affected in osteoarthritis, its pathophysiology, risk factors, signs and symptoms and management options.

Treatment with bilastine 20 mg once daily for 2 weeks was effective and well tolerated by patients with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) and was associated with a rapid onset of action.

Regular use of 1.8% self-prepared hypertonic nasal saline irrigation (1.8% SPHNSI) for 4 weeks is safe in patients with allergic rhinitis. 1.8% SPHNSI is more efficacious than 0.9% commercial isotonic nasal saline irrigation in improving the quality of life and reducing the nasal congestion

Long-term treatment with riociguat had a favorable benefit-risk profile in patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) or persistent CTEPH after pulmonary endarterectomy. Improvements in exercise and functional capacity and hemodynamic parameters were sustained for upto 1 year.

The beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP)/formoterol extrafine formulation was efficiently delivered to the lungs and resulted in high drug deposition and homogenous distribution of BDP and formoterol throughout the airways, irrespective of the pathophysiology and lung function.

The study reveals bilastine to be clinically beneficial in patients with Japanese Cedar (JC) pollinosis. Bilastine had a rapid onset, and long duration of action against nasal symptoms induced by the 3-day consecutive exposure to JC pollen in the OHIO Chamber.

The 2019 GINA strategy report represents the most significant change in asthma management in over 30 years. The 2019 GINA report includes important new recommendations for treatment of mild asthma and severe asthma.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition and a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older. This patient education leaflet on AMD gives a brief description of the disease and answers basic questions faced by a AMD patient.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common and most serious of the ocular complications of diabetes mellitus. This patient education leaflet on DR gives a brief description of the disease and answers basic questions faced by a DR patient.

Ramadan fasting not only alters the timings of meals, but it may also disturb sleeping patterns and biological rhythms, all of which can affect a person’s metabolic state. As patients’ dietary and exercise timings change during this month of Ramadan, insulin dosage may need to be altered. This infographic shares concise information on insulin dosage & timing alteration as per IDF-DAR guidelines on Diabetes & Ramadan.

Ramadan fasting not only alters the timings of meals, but it may also disturb sleeping patterns and biological rhythms, all of which can affect a person’s metabolic state. As patients exercise and dietary timings change during this month of Ramadan, some drugs may need to be altered or their dose needs to be reduced. This infographic shares concise information on drug alteration timing & dosage as per IDF-DAR guideline on Diabetes & Ramadan.

The combined intranasal formulation containing azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate was safe and well tolerated after 3 months continuous use in children aged 4 to 11 years with allergic rhinitis (AR)

This study gives a fair picture of the prevalence of dry eye disease and their types in India. The study also determines various risk factors associated with the disease.

Fasting & feasting during Ramadan in diabetes patients is associated with altered glucose level which may lead to low or high blood sugar level. This leaflet gives information on warning signs for high & low blood glucose level. Certain Do’s & Don’ts during Ramadan fasting help to manage diabetes more effectively & safely.

The formulation with L-carnitine (LC) and its active form L-acetylcarnitine exerted beneficial effects on the sperm motility, vitality and DNA fragmentation in men with idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia. Seminal LC concentrations play a vital role in maintaining the male fertility. Combining metabolic and micronutritive factors is beneficial for male infertility.

Fasting & feasting during Ramadan in diabetes patients is associated with increased risk of complications such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, ketoacidosis etc. Pre-Ramadan patient risk assessment & structured counselling helps to manage diabetes in patients who observe fast during Ramadan. This presentation focuses on key components of Ramadan focused educational program, risk stratification, dietary & exercise advise,  pharmacological management & post-Ramadan follow-up.

Fluticasone propionate is a potent inhaled corticosteroid with high lipophilicity, greater retention at the steroid receptors and negligible oral bioavailability compared to budesonide. It is more effective even at half the dose of budesonide. For more details click on the link for datasheet.

The present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of oral ciprofloxacin in the management of external bacterial otitis. The 10-day treatment with ciprofloxacin demonstrated clinical and microbiological efficacy with minimum adverse events.

PROMISE is the largest study of antimicrobials performed in complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAIs) patients. The study compared the clinical and bacteriological efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin versus ertapenem for the treatment of cIAIs. The findings showed that moxifloxacin was non-inferior to ertapenem in terms of clinical and bacteriological efficacy in treatment of cIAIs.

Treatment with vibegron was associated with reduction in the frequency of nocturnal voiding, increase in the volume per nocturnal void and volume of first nocturnal voiding in overactive bladder (OAB) patients with >1 voids. The extension of HUS led to improved quality of sleep. Vibegron could be a useful therapeutic option for improving the nocturia in OAB patients

Smoking cessation is the most important intervention in management of COPD. This article details the importance of smoking cessation, and therapeutic options available for smoking cessation.

This article deals with multidisciplinary approach to pulmonary rehabilitation which is essential to achieve optimal results. Detailed information is presented on the diverse program components in pulmonary rehabilitation and will serve as a useful guide for the clinicians.

This large-scale study reaffirms albuminuria to be an independent marker of subsequent all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events in insulin-treated type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Reducing albuminuria to achieve optimal CV protection should be an important target for high-risk T2DM patients.

The OSTRICH trial found no benefits of short course of oral steroids over placebo for treating persistent otitis media with effusion in children.

This booklet is intended to provide physicians with all the essential information on inhaler devices.

This booklet aims to update clinicians with the developments in the diagnosis and management of severe asthma.

Early use of vacuum therapy significantly improved the erectile dysfunction and penile shrinkage in men post radical prostatectomy (RP) and enhanced the advantages of penile rehabilitation when used along with PDE-5i. Overall, vacuum therapy resulted in an overall excellent therapeutic effect with no serious adverse events.

This booklet is intended to provide physicians with all the essential information on spacer devices.

This survey of doctors in Myanmar revealed that spirometry and peak flow meter use could be increased. Budesonide, Salmeterol/fluticasone, formoterol/budesonide and Salbutamol are the most preferred molecules. Awareness about inhalers and inhalation therapy are important to overcome apprehension in patients’ minds. Regular and repeated device training can improve adherence and asthma control.

A recent prospective study concluded that the extended lymph node dissection (LND) in bladder cancer patients undergoing radical cystectomy did not show any significant benefits over limited LND in terms of recurrence free survival, cancer specific survival and overall survival. There were survival differences between the groups but they were statistically insignificant.

This survey of doctors in Nepal revealed that spirometry and peak flow meter use could be increased. Budesonide, Salmeterol/fluticasone, formoterol/budesonide and Salbutamol are the most preferred molecules. pMDIs and spacers are very popular. Adherence is low and remains a challenge.

This slide set covers basic understanding of probiotics and mechanism of action focussing on Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG strain.

The current treatment paradigm of asthma has been steered in the direction of tailored management. This booklet focuses on the identification, management and advances in Severe Asthma.

Treatment for chronic constipation has evolved with the advent of newer targeted therapies. Prucalopride is the first, selective and specific serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonist with enterokinetic properties. In view of its excellent affinity for 5-HT4 receptors devoid of the cardiac adverse effects seen with other prokinetics, prucalopride provides an effective alternative for patients who fail previous laxative treatment. This slide set gives an overview of the mechanism, efficacy, safety and place in therapy for prucalopride.

Riociguat, a stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase, has been globally approved for the treatment of PAH and inoperable CTEPH and persistent/recurrent PH after pulmonary endarterectomy. Findings from the phase III CHEST and PATENT studies indicate that riociguat significantly improves exercise capacity and a range of secondary end points, including pulmonary hemodynamics, NT-proBNP levels, and WHO FC, in patients with inoperable CTEPH and persistent/recurrent CTEPH and in PAH.

This 52 –week trial presents the efficacy and safety results of budesonide-formoterol used as needed in comparison with short-acting β2-agonists (SABAs) terbutaline used as needed or budesonide maintenance therapy in mild asthmatic patients. The results showed that budesonide – formoterol demonstrated superior asthma symptom control and asthma exacerbations risk reduction compared to terbutaline used as needed in patients with mild asthma.

The SYGMA-2 trial demonstrated the non-inferiority of as-needed budesonide-formoterol vs. maintenance budesonide in patients with mild asthma.

Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) therapy reduced the rate of recurrence in patients at high risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), irrespective of grade and stage of tumors and significantly reduced progression in papillary tumors without concomitant carcinoma in situ. The long-term effect of BCG treatment makes it suitable as the first line adjuvant treatment in patients with high risk NMIBC.

A recent survey determined that there was a high burden of COPD among females as-well-as non-smokers in Nepal. Doctors in Nepal were following GOLD recommendations for the treatment of COPD. DPI was the most preferred device, nevertheless, in the patients who used pMDI, the use of spacer can be increased. Evaluation of inhalation technique in every visit can improve the adherence level among COPD patients.

The article consists of basic information on Parkinson’s disease, its common features, management and tips to cope with the disease.

This slide set contains basic understanding of common mental health problems in old age, early warning signs and tips for better mental health care.

This slide set discusses the issue of substance abuse in India with the risk factors, common reasons, early signs, and treatment of substance abuse.

This slide set contains general understanding of principal features, risk factors, and treatment for ADHD in children and adults.

This slide set discusses the importance of mental health, factors contributing to mental health issues, and ways to maintain positive mental health.

This survey of doctors in Malaysia revealed that spirometry and peak flow meter use could be increased. Budesonide, Salmeterol/fluticasone, formoterol/budesonide and Salbutamol are the most preferred molecules. pMDIs and spacers are very popular. Adherence is low and remains a challenge.

An Indian study demonstrates persistent reduction in risk of T2DM even 3 years after withdrawal of active SMS-based lifestyle intervention.

Polymyxins have been associated with a risk of nephrotoxicity. Different studies have evaluated the toxicity of polymyxins and have demonstrated a wide variation in the rates of nephrotoxicity. However, there are no prospective studies which have compared the nephrotoxicity of colistin and polymyxin B when they are administered in high doses and as per current recommendations

The prospective, community-based 26-year follow-up study looks at the impact of diabetes on kidney function decline in a general population.

Results of the SERAPHIN study demonstrated that treatment with macitentan resulted in significant reduction in morbidity and mortality in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

The inhaled route of drug delivery is the mainstay for treating chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). No matter how good a drug is, it is ineffective if it does not reach the targeted area in lungs. Incorrect inhaler use in patients with asthma and COPD is unacceptably high in real-life. Though a lot has been done in the space of newer drug molecules, over the years there is little change in the drug delivery platforms. Problems with the use of inhalers by patients were noted shortly after the launch of the pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) in the late 1950s and prevail till date.

As a part of its ongoing commitment to inculcate excellence in the practice of respiratory medicine, Cipla introduces Synchrobreathe, world’s first breath actuated pMDI with dose counter. Synchrobreathe® is a well-researched device and backed by evidence that establishes its superiority over pMDIs to help patients achieve better control of their airway disease.  

This presentation includes information pertaining to the molecule Luliconazole, which is a novel topical imidazole antifungal agent used for the treatment of superficial fungal infections.

Nicotine Chewing Gum offers a nicotine that enables quitting with the principle of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).  Nicotine Chewing Gum provides the nicotine that you normally get from cigarettes but in a lower quantity than cigarettes. Over a period of time, your body adjusts to the reduced supply of nicotine until you no longer need any. A 12-week therapy programme using Nicotine Chewing Gum will help you get back to life without dependence on nicotine.

Combination of Abiraterone with ADT is highly efficacious in treating men with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer with manageable adverse effects. LATITUDE trial establishes a new indication for abiraterone (metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer), filling in a therapy need as a less toxic alternative to chemotherapy.  

The results of the study revealed that long-term or cumulative PPI use was not associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in community-dwelling older persons with Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, current PPI use increased the risk of hip fracture. The risk was elevated in subjects currently using PPIs for less than 1 year.

Macitentan is an orally active, potent, tissue targeting ERA that is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). It is the first proven ERA therapy to show reduction in morbidity and mortality in patients diagnosed with PAH. This presentation covers the pharmacology and key studies of macitentan.

This trial evaluated the influence of Target workshops on antibiotic prescription and antibiotic use among healthcare providers. The study found TARGET antibiotic workshops may improve antibiotic use.
 

Long-term but not short-term maternal use of acetaminophen during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of ADHD in offspring, as per this study.

Parenteral macrolide therapy is needed for patients with moderate to severe CAP/AECB. This booklet gives an overview of the efficacy and safety of intravenous clarithromycin, its place in therapy of LRTIs and its advantages over other macrolides.

Inhalation therapy is the main route of drug administration in patients with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Inhaled drug delivery systems are available in four principal categories: pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs), breath actuated inhalers (BAIs) and nebulizers; each class with its unique strengths and weaknesses. This booklet focuses on information that builds on principles of DPIs and its application.

Metformin is superior to intermittent IIT for preservation of beta-cell function and better glycemic control in early Type-2 diabetes patients.

The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), irrespective of the dose, taken with or without diuretics, did not lower the levels of serum magnesium in non-critically ill patients.

There was no significant reduction in the rate of perinatal transmission of HBV with the maternal use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).

This slide set covers the basics of pathophysiology and treatment for functional dyspepsia, which is defined as per the Rome III criteria.

This booklet addresses common queries on diagnosing and identifying severe asthma and management with Omalizumab.

The CARDIA study with a 30-year follow-up demonstrated an inverse association between lactation duration and progression of diabetes in women.

Cough is one of the most common symptoms that doctors encounter during their clinical practice. In this video, Dr Sundeep Salvi demonstrates various types of cough.  Listening carefully to the cough sound can help in identifying the location of the pathology and diagnosing the respiratory disease.

The booklet addresses common queries on the role of intranasal steroids (INCS) in management of allergic rhinitis.

Visual discomfort is a frequent complaint of computer workers. Eyestrain, headaches and blurred vision are the most common problems reported. This video addresses ways to optimize your computer workstation to reduce the specific risks of computer vision syndrome (CVS).

Stress is a common problem in everyday life. The slide set discusses about signs and symptoms of stress, effective stress management strategies, and work-life balance.

In this long-term study, alendronate 10 mg treatment for over 10 years demonstrated sustained clinical efficacy and safety in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory disease caused when the immune system attacks body’s own tissues. This leaflet gives an overview of SLE, its symptoms, causes, complications and treatment.

Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D may help prevent bones from becoming weak and less likely to fracture.  This article gives a list of food items rich in calcium and Vitamin D.

Calcium and vitamin D are two essential nutrients long known for their roles in maintaining bone health. This article gives comprehensive recommended dietary allowances for calcium and Vitamin D.

The slide set encompasses basic understanding of depression and its symptoms, treatment and support, common myths and facts, and healthy lifestyle tips.

This study demonstrated that shortening the treatment duration during initial therapy for drug-sensitive tuberculosis can be achieved with gatifloxacin  and moxifloxacin. 

The analysis of three Phase III trials was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of the recently introduced pangenotypic sofosbuvir-velpatasvir fixed dose combination across the Hepatitis C genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. The fixed dose combination was found to be highly effective, safe and well tolerated by the treatment-naïve as well as treatment experienced patients. The sustained virologic response at 12 weeks remained unaffected in previously treated and untreated patients including those with uncompensated cirrhosis.

Combination therapy of vildagliptin/metformin demonstrated consistent HbA1c reduction across wide spectrum of drug naïve Asian T2DM patients.

Celiac disease is one of the most prevalent digestive conditions. Diagnosis requires strict criteria with a life-long gluten-free diet that needs to be correctly prescribed. Genetic susceptibility an important contributory factor in response to unknown environmental factors leading to development of an immune response that is subsequently triggered by the ingestion of gluten. The disease has many clinical manifestations, ranging from severe malabsorption to minimally symptomatic or non-symptomatic presentations. This slide set covers the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of celiac disease. 

The ERS 2017 conference proceedings gives an overview of the latest updates in the field of respiratory medicine; especially recent research in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergic rhinitis, infections and lung cancer; as well as obstructive sleep apnoea.

The real-world study concluded that twice daily Fluticasone/Formoterol administered via Revolizer significantly improved asthma control, peak flow and quality of life of patients with persistent asthma.

This slide set covers the epidemiology, disease progression and management of HIV-HCV coinfection in the era of directly acting antivirals available for HCV management. 

Ulcerative colitis is a complex, chronic disease that affects the digestive tract, particularly the colon. An introduction to this disease is given in this slide set. 

The latest ADA recommendations (2017) on antihyperglycaemic therapy for type 2 diabetes management have been provided in a easy-to-use format. It provides information on usage of oral as well as insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes patients.

Ocular complications may occur in patients with ulcerative colitis. This slide set describes the ocular manifestations that may affect ulcerative colitis patient. 

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects liver of 170 million people across the globe. It is one of the largest causes of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer globally. Each year around 700, 000 people due to Hepatitis C. In this slide set, the prevalence, genotypes, it diagnosis and treatment has been covered. 

The GOLD 2017 Update is the fourth major revision since the last GOLD 2011 Update. It has some significant changes in guideline recommendations with respect to definitions, diagnosis and treatment. The GOLD 2017 gives a revised definition of COPD and refined ABCD assessment tool. Treatment recommendations are tailored to “patients’ needs” i.e. patient’s perception on symptom control, escalation and de-escalation of pharmacotherapy. The assessment and regular evaluation of adherence and inhaler technique for patients with COPD has been added. Management of exacerbations and comorbidities in COPD patients have been updated.

The diagnosis of PH requires a clinical suspicion based on signs and symptoms, followed by review of a comprehensive set of investigations to confirm that haemodynamic criteria are met and to describe the aetiology and the functional and haemodynamic severity of the condition. 

The current treatment strategy for PAH patients includes initial approach with general measures, followed by initiating therapy with high-dose CCB in vasoreactive patients or drugs approved for PAH in non-vasoreactive patients according to the prognostic risk of the patient. The importance of expert referral centers and upfront combination therapy in the management of PAH patients has been highlighted in the revised treatment algorithms.

This algorithm, for management of melasma is based on clinical experience of eminent dermatologists of India and review of the evidence from available literature.

This algorithm gives the sequence that should be followed while diagnosing diseases of chronic airflow limitation in a patient.  

The latest ADA recommendations (2017) on diabetic kidney disease – including screening, diagnosis and management have been summarized in a reader-friendly infographic format.

The latest ADA recommendations (2017) on diagnosis and management of diabetes have been summarized in an easy-to-use infographic format.

The proposed treatment algorithm for the management of status epilepticus (adapted from evidence-based guidelines by American Epilepsy Society) starts with a stabilization phase (0-5 minutes) which includes standard initial first aid for seizures. If seizure continues, initial therapy (5-20 minutes) with benzodiazepines, second-therapy phase (20-40 minutes), and third-therapy phase (40-60 minutes) should be carried out.

The article consists of basic information on schizophrenia, common myths associated with it, general management and caregiving tips.

The CANVAS Program demonstrates that canagliflozin reduces the risk of CV events in type-2 diabetes patients who are at high risk of CVD.

The present review and meta-analysis supports the early use of adjunctive fenofibrate therapy in diabetes patients for the prevention of microvascular complications.

Caregiver’s guide contains basic understanding of schizophrenia and general caregiving and healthy living tips for the patients and their caregivers.

Here are some healthy practices that will help prevent typhoid – one of the most common communicable diseases in India. 

The present study demonstrated that polyethylene glycol can effectively treat functional constipation especially in children aged above 6 months.

As per the study sacubitril/valsartan causes greater reduction in HbA1c vs. enalapril and cuts new insulin initiation in diabetes patients with HFrEF.

This slide set covers the common musculoskeletal manifestations of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and its management. The spectrum of these manifestations vary according to the type of IBD. IBD-associated musculoskeletal disorders include: arthritis, periarticular inflammation, metabolic bone disorders and impaired growth.

This user-friendly tool developed by Harvard School of Public Health estimates a healthy individual’s 20-year risk of CVD. 

In this video Dr Arup Dasbiswas highlights the superiority of the new generation thrombolytic (reteplase) over older generation agent, streptokinase.

Treatment for chronic hepatitis C has evolved rapidly from an interferon based regimen of modest efficacy with significant adverse events to a well-tolerated, highly effective all-oral directly acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. It is the first DAA that has shown safety and efficacy to treat genotype 3 chronic HCV infections without the need for co-administration with interferon or ribavirin in most patients except cirrhosis. Daclatasvir, especially in combination with other antiviral agents such as sofosbuvir, is a very promising drug for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in HCV genotype 3 patients This slide set gives an overview on the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and place in therapy for daclatasvir- sofosbuvir combination in chronic hepatitis C.

In this video. Dr Ajit Bhagwat shares some interesting studies to show why one of the newer generation thrombolytic agent is better than another.

The first Indian physician-based survey which provides unique insights on managing dyslipidemia in routine clinical practice published in the peer-reviewed ‘Lipids in Health and Disease’ journal. 

The Indian Council of Medical Research–INdia DIABetes (ICMR-INDIAB) study is an ongoing study initiated to estimate the national prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in India. The study revealed a great variation in the prevalence of diabetes across the country. Diabetes epidemic seems to be gaining a more severe form in economically advanced states of India. Preventive measures are important in economically backward regions of the country owing to the spread of the epidemic in such regions.

American Thoracic Society (ATS) 2017 conference was conducted on 19-24 May 2017 at Washington DC, US. It marked the 113th year of the conference, making it the longest running, large-scale conference in the world offering groundbreaking research in pulmonary, oncology, and sleep medicine. 

Highlights of the ATS 2017 emphasizes on role of drugs, risk factors, importance of devices and relevant therapy updates in asthma, COPD, IPF, PH, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and other pulmonary diseases. In addition, the highlights cover the newer research on both therapy and investigational new drugs in respiratory medicine.

Treatment for chronic hepatitis C has evolved rapidly from an interferon based regimen of modest efficacy with significant adverse events to a well-tolerated, highly effective all-oral directly acting antiviral therapy. Specifically, the combination therapy sofosbuvir and velpatasvir offers a pangenotypic regimen with high sustained viral response. Availability of this highly efficacious, well tolerated, all oral regimen formulated as a single pill, can potentially simplify hepatitis C treatment. This slide set gives an overview on the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and place in therapy for sofosbuvir - velpatasvir combination in chronic hepatitis C.

Inflammatory bowel diseases-associated hepatobiliary disorders include: autoimmune hepatitis/ primary sclerosing cholangitis overlap syndrome, IgG4-associated cholangiopathy, primary biliary cholangitis, hepatic amyloidosis, granulomatous hepatitis, cholelithiasis, portal vein thrombosis and liver abscess. The spectrum of these manifestations varies according to the type of inflammatory bowel diseases. Successful therapy of EIM is essential for improving quality of life of patients with IBD. This slide set covers the common liver manifestations and its management.  

Extra intestinal manifestations are common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. These manifestations can affect different organ systems of a patients. The skin and the mucosa often affected as a result of inflammatory bowel disease. Common manifestations when this organ system is affected includes Erythema Nodosum, Pyoderma Gangrenosum, Sweet’s syndrome and Aphthous Stomatitis. Successful therapy of EIM is essential for improving quality of life of patients with IBD. This slide set covers the common skin manifestations and its management.  

Up to 3% of pregnant women suffer from pregnancy-associated liver diseases, which are the most frequent cause of liver dysfunction in pregnancy. Due to significant morbidity and mortality for both mother and infant in severe cases, a rapid evaluation is essential to distinguish it from non-pregnancy-related liver dysfunction.  Besides, liver disease unrelated to pregnancy can present de novo in pregnancy, or pregnancy can occur in women with pre-existing liver pathology.  The risks of pregnancy in women with pre-existent liver pathology and recent advances in our understanding of specific risks and outcomes has been recently discussed in the study by Westbrook, Rachel H. et al. published in the Journal of Hepatology (J Hepatol. 2016;64:933-45). This booklet aims to provide an overview on the liver diseases specific to the pregnancy and an update on their pathogenesis, treatment and outcomes.

Pre-conception is the period during which many couples plan their pregnancy. Pre-conception care provides an opportunity to a couple to improve their health before trying for a baby. During this time, even the male partner needs to make lifestyle and diet changes such that they can help in conception.

Prostate is one of the most common cancers in men. This material describes risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Also, tips to prevent risk of prostate cancer are given in a simple manner. 

Risk factors, signs & symptoms, factors known to reduce ovarian cancer, diagnosis, treatment options and how to reduce risk of ovarian cancer given along with relevant pictures for better understanding. 

Throughout the years there have been many cancer myths floating around. This article will help clear the myths related to cancer.

Infection during cancer, causes, sign and symptoms and tips for prevention are given in this patient education material in a simplified manner. 

Among all body organs, eye manifests drug toxicity, second only to the liver. Ocular disorders occur not only from topical drugs, but also from their systemic administration. The current presentation gives a brief on the ocular manifestations of systemic medications and its management. 

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection during pregnancy is an emerging problem. While not negatively affecting acute hepatitis, it may exacerbate chronic hepatitis and worsen liver function in woman with liver cirrhosis. The burden of HCV in pregnant women is largely underappreciated. New HCV antiviral regimens based on direct-acting antiviral agents without interferon have greatly expanded the pool of patients eligible for treatment and have dramatically improved treatment outcomes. This slide set discusses the management of hepatitis C infection in pregnancy.  

Advances in hepatitis B treatment has now reached the clinic. The latest developments for clinicians in hepatitis B discussed at EASL 2017 is covered here. 

Hepatic encephalopathy continues to be a vexing problem for clinicians. Different approaches discussed at EASL 2017 have been covered in this booklet. 

Hepatitis C underwent an evolution with the introduction of the new direct acting antivirals. The latest drug to be introduced, velpatasvir, has been discussed at EASL 2017. This along with real world evidence presented at EASL 2017 in different populations is covered here. 

Causes, signs and symptoms, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer has been described in this article. 

Basic understanding of cervical cancer including risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and prevention is explained in this article. 

Alcoholic liver disease includes a broad spectrum of entities from simple steatosis, acute alcoholic hepatitis with or without underlying cirrhosis, to hepatocellular carcinoma as a complication of cirrhosis. The approach to management of this condition along with the latest developments are covered in this slide set. 

The Acetaminophen versus Ibuprofen in Children with Asthma (AVICA) was initiated to determine whether the use of acetaminophen vs. ibuprofen under clinical indication would result in higher morbidity related to asthma in children with mild persistent asthma. The findings revealed no differences in terms of the incidence of asthma exacerbations or asthma-related complications with the as-needed use of acetaminophen vs. ibuprofen over a period of 48 hours.

It is recognized that around 5-10% of patients with asthma have severe disease which remains inadequately controlled; despite high-dose ICS/LABA and additional controller medication if required. Due to the associated morbidity, these patients represent an important segment of asthma population. This slide set focuses on the identification, management and advances in severe asthma.

Air pollution is becoming a major risk factor for health problems and is also responsible for increased rates of cardiovascular and respiratory mortality. Lungs being the most vulnerable organ to the effects of pollution, people are experiencing high prevalence of respiratory symptoms due to exposure to air pollutants.  This booklet is a general guide to the clinicians on the effects of pollutants on respiratory system on healthy individuals and vulnerable population & essential steps which can help in protecting against these harmful effects. 

A nationally representative mortality survey that monitored 1.3 million households over a decade’s time was conducted in India to estimate the number of adult deaths from renal failure, and to determine the contribution of diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, along with changes over time. The survey confirmed renal failure to be a rising cause of premature deaths in adults. Moreover, diabetes was identified as the most robust predictor of death due to renal failure among the Indians.

Clinicians are required to assess abnormal liver chemistries on a daily basis. The most common liver tests done are serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. This slide set discusses the new clinical guideline from the American College of Gastroenterology on the first recommendations in over a decade for the evaluation of abnormal liver chemistries. For the first time in a liver test guideline, the authors define a normal healthy serum ALT level based on gender and recommend that levels above this should be assessed.

The Global Initiative for MRSA Pneumonia (GLIMP) study, is an international, multicenter study aimed to determine the point prevalence and specific risk factors associated with MRSA infection in hospitalised patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The results of this study showed low prevalence of MRSA pneumonia, differing between countries and continents. The study also identified specific MRSA risk factors among community-dwelling patients hospitalised with pneumonia.

This study evaluated safety and efficacy of dapsone gel 5%, in treatment of acne when used in combination with adapalene gel 0.1% or benzoyl peroxide gel 4% or moisturizer. The 12 week results showed that dapsone gel 5% in combination with either adapalene gel 0.1% or benzoyl peroxide gel 4% was safe and well tolerated in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Beta-lactam Infusion in Severe Sepsis (BLISS) study is a prospective, two-centre, open labelled, randomized controlled trial of continuous infusion versus intermittent bolus dosing of beta-lactam antibiotics in critically ill patients with severe sepsis from ICUs in Malaysia. The study results reveal the most beneficial method of administration of  beta-lactam antibiotics in critically ill patients with severe sepsis.

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in pregnancy is an important global health problem. Over 50% of the estimated 240–350 million chronic hepatitis B carriers acquire the infection perinatally. Without immunoprophylaxis, infants born to HBeAg-positive mothers have a 40–90% risk of vertical transmission. Women of childbearing age with chronic HBV infection remain an important source of HBV transmission. Hence, management of chronic HBV during pregnancy and strategies to prevent mother to child transmission is important in the global control of HBV infection and the morbidity and mortality associated with it. The knowledge of newer developments like father to baby transmission and the use of antivirals to prevent transmission are necessary for the treating physician. This booklet outlines the latest updates for the optimal approach to HBV infection in pregnancy and includes strategies for the prevention of perinatal transmission of HBV.

This presentation gives an overview of the link between allergic rhinitis and asthma, with results from a large scale survey (CARAS) determining the association between the two conditions in Indian patients.  

The present study was conducted to assess the patient compliance factors like ease of use, confidence, satisfaction and preference with Revolizer, a novel dry powder inhaler in Indian healthy individuals and patients with asthma or COPD. The study concluded that Revolizer was an easy to use and preferred device in patients with asthma and COPD as well as healthy individuals having no previous experience of using inhalation devices. It scored high in terms of confidence and satisfaction in the patients and was highly preferred as it was easy to use and operate. It has the potential to become the device of choice for patients as well as the physicians.

The trial was carried out to predict the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatits-B infection and compare it with the estimated incidence of HCC using REACH-B model.

The HOPE (The Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation)-3 study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combined LDL cholesterol lowering and BP lowering strategy vs. placebo for preventing major cardiovascular (CV) events in individuals without CVD but at intermediate-risk. Fixed doses of rosuvastatin (10 mg/day) and candesartan (16 mg/day) + hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg/day) significantly lowered the risk of CV events as compared to dual placebo during the 5.6 years of treatment in intermediate risk population with average lipid and BP levels but without CVD, indicating that lowering BP and LDL-C lowered the risk of CV events in intermediate-risk patients who do not have a history of CVD.

The Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE)–3 trial was conducted to evaluate the long-term effects of rosuvastatin in intermediate-risk, multi-ethnic population without cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cholesterol lowering with low-dose rosuvastatin (10 mg/day) for a period of 5.6 years significantly lowered the risk of CV events in an intermediate-risk, multi-ethnic population without CVD and having lipid levels in normal range.

This infographic highlights the evidence based recommendations by the American academy of dermatology for the management of acne vulgaris.

You may be handling the responsibility of a caregiver if your loved one is diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy. A caregiver may have lot of questions related to the therapy and what are the challenges involved while taking care of such a person. This publication will help you to understand the role of a caregiver and to have an effective communication with the person suffering with hepatic encephalopathy.

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe episodes of pain, redness, stiffness and swelling of joints because of high levels of uric acid in the body. This patient education gives a comprehensive overview of gout, its symptoms, causes and treatment.

This study aimed at determining the impact of oral antidiabetic (OAD) pretreatment on clinical outcomes and health resource utilization among type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. OAD treatment modestly delayed the initiation of insulin therapy and lowered the total healthcare costs for hospitalizations, physician office visit and emergency department visit in the study subjects.

The presence of depression in patients with diabetes mellitus is of vast importance, as it is usually associated with poor disease control, adverse health outcomes and quality of life impairment. ‘Mind Matters Issue -3 – Escitalopram: Depression Associated with Diabetes’ sheds light on the following topics – the debilitating comorbid condition of depression and diabetes, bidirectional relationship of depression and poor glycaemic control, impact of depression in developing diabetes, management of depression associated with diabetes using the well-established selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant, escitalopram.

Influenza, commonly known as "the flu," is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract causing mild to severe illness. It affects all age groups; however, children are at higher risk than adults. Although, humans have been afflicted for more than a century with influenza, the overall awareness about the disease is undermined. Help the child’s parents know all about influenza, how it spreads, its symptoms, means of prevention, the importance of vaccination and the right selection from the available vaccines against influena.

Influenza (flu), is an acute respiratory viral illness that occurs as seasonal epidemic with higher attack rates in children. Also, children are the main disseminators of influenza in the community as they are in frequent contact with their family members. Help the family know all about influenza, its symptoms, means of prevention, the need for vaccination and the right choice from the available vaccines in order to protect oneself and their loved ones against influenza.

Glance through this referral recommendations that The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has created in collaboration with Surgical Sections of the AAP. It is intended to assist general pediatricians in determining when and to whom to refer their patients for pediatric surgical specialty care.

The study was conducted to determine the link between larger iron stores during pregnancy and the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) using novel biomarkers of iron status. The findings revealed that higher iron concentrations during pregnancy (as indicated by higher hepcidin and ferritin concentrations and a lower soluble transferrin receptor:ferritin ratio) elevated the risk of GDM significantly even in absence of any chronic prepregnancy disease. 

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study was conducted to determine the association of migraine (with or without aura) with ischemic stroke, and stroke subtypes. The study with a follow-up of 20 years revealed that late-middle-aged individuals having migraine with visual aura had a greater risk of cardioembolic stroke rather than that of lacunar or non-lacunar thrombotic stroke. Such an association was not evident amongst migraine patients without visual aura.

Menstruation is a natural process, yet it is not spoken about openly due to unnecessary embarrassment and shame. Good menstrual hygiene is crucial for the health, education, and dignity of girls and women. These slides talk about the taboos related to menstruation & the basic steps to be followed for effective menstrual hygiene.

This presentation encompasses information about all aspects of changes that take place in boys during and after puberty, including male reproductive system, physical and emotional changes and different concerns that boys might face.

The current trial was conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of a single-dose Russian-backbone live attenuated influenza virus (LAIV) vaccine in pediatric population of rural and urban regions of Bangladesh. The intranasal LAIV proved to be very effective in the study population and its use was associated with very few adverse events. Thus, integration of LAIV program in low-income countries like Bangladesh might diminish the burden of influenza illness.

The CARAS survey was conducted to assess the prevalence of allergic rhinitis in Indian asthmatic patients and to determine their inter-relationship. The survey showed a high prevalence of concomitant allergic rhinitis in Indian patients with asthma, especially in Southern region of India. A positive link was found between perennial allergic rhinitis and the severity of asthma.  The results reinforced the need for early diagnosis and co-management of the two diseases. 

The current study was conducted to compare the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of two treatment approaches: treat-to-target (TTT) and benefit-based-tailored strategy (BTT) for the management of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in five low-income and middle-income countries (India, China, Ghana, Mexico, South Africa). The BTT strategy provided superior protection against future cardiovascular events and microvascular events and was also cost-effective as compared to TTT strategy.

Non-Cardiac Chest Pain (NCCP) is a term used to describe chest pain that resembles heart pain (also called angina) in patients who do not have heart disease. As the heart and esophagus are in close proximity, the pain due to both organs takes the same path to the brain. Thus, it becomes difficult to distinguish between cardiac pain and esophageal pain.  This slide set gives a brief overview of the differentiating factors between GERD and NCCP.

Diarrhoea is a leading cause of death in India usually during the rainy season. Ignoring it may prove hazardous to life. A person can be protected from diarrhoea by taking few preventive measures that are described here.

The Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) is a device that delivers a specific and pre-metered amount of medication to the lungs, in the form of an aerosol spray that is inhaled by the patient. It consists of a canister of pressurized medication that fits into a plastic actuator sleeve and connects to the mouthpiece. The formulation in an MDI is made up of the drug and a liquefied gas propellant. Cipla MDIs are designed to deliver accurate dosing by employing the right formulation technology and using the most sophisticated metered dose valves, canisters and actuators. Detailed steps of usage and cleaning are shown here.

The revolizer is a novel DPI device, which is the result of a design and development programme to address the critical requirements of an ideal inhalation device. It provides accurate dosing and excellent lung deposition even at low inspiratory flow rates combined with ease of use. It provides an improved respirable fraction while adding style and modern design to give patients a revolution in inhalation therapy.

European Respiratory Society (ERS) conference was conducted on September 3-7, 2016 in London, United Kingdom. It is conducted every year to present a wealth of information on all aspects of respiratory health and disease as well as an innovative educational programme that drives standards in respiratory care. Highlights of the ERS 2016 emphasizes on role of drugs, risk factors, importance of devices and relevant therapy updates in asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and other pulmonary diseases. The highlights also covers the newer research on both therapy and drugs being investigated in pulmonary disease.

This presentation gives an overview on the involvement of cholinergic system in asthma and further discusses the use tiotropium as an add-on to ICS/LABA in asthma.

Influenza continues to remain one of the most severe respiratory infections causing annual seasonal epidemics. Among the various public health strategies in place to combat influenza, vaccination is the most cost-effective strategy. Currently, live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV), has been widely accepted for use in protecting healthy individuals; however, it is contraindicated in certain group of individuals. This patient screening questionnaire along with the information on LAIV will help the health care professionals to check for vaccine-eligible patients.

The diagnosis of urinary tract infection (UTI) is delayed in roughly 10% of the pediatric population due to lack of pyuria. This consequently delays the treatment. This study was conducted to determine various factors associated with absence of pyuria in symptomatic UTI patients with a positive urine culture. The findings revealed that pyuria might not be evident in children with UTIs due to certain pathogens such as Enterococcus and Klebsiella species and P aeruginosa. Hence, urinalysis and urine culture must be performed in all the pediatric patients suspected of having UTI.

The POSEIDON trial was planned to explore the point prevalence of symptoms and medical conditions for which a patient visits a primary health-care practitioner in India. Results showed that respiratory symptoms were the main reason for visits to a primary health-care practitioner and hypertension and obstructive airway diseases were the most common diagnoses. 

Around 50% of women experience at least one episode of UTI at some point in their lifetime and recurrent UTI occur in about 20-40% of women. European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines have suggested that, antimicrobial prophylaxis for prevention of rUTI should be considered only after counselling and behavioural modification has been attempted and when non-antimicrobial measures have been unsuccessful. Cranfit (a combination of cranberry and D-mannose) is one such non-antimicrobial solution that helps in promoting urinary tract health and reducing the frequency of UTIs. This slide set provides detailed information on the mechanism of action, clinical efficacy and safety studies as well as dosage and administration of cranberry and D-mannose.

Fungal infections of the skin are very common and include athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections. It can be easily acquired from the surroundings or from infected individuals. Here are few tips on how fungal infections can be avoided.

The world's first transparent Rotahaler™ is a dry powder inhaler (DPI). Rotahaler™ is used with Rotacaps, which is pre-metered single dose medication for inhalation. DPIs are breath-actuated devices and eliminate the need for co-ordination of actuation and inspiration. Rotahaler^TM is a simple to use device and its transparency provides visual confirmation to the patient that the drug has been inhaled. The user has to insert the Rotacap, twist the base of the Rotahaler, and then inhale. 

Colorectal Cancer Laparoscopic or Open Resection (COLOR) II trial, compared 3-year rates of cancer recurrence in the pelvic or perineal area (locoregional recurrence) and survival after laparoscopic and open resection of rectal cancer. Results showed similar efficacy and safety with laparoscopic surgery and open surgery.

Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile. This presentation highlights the pharmacology, efficacy and safety as well as dosage of cefuroxime in various approved indications.

Influenza, one of the most common infectious diseases, is an acute respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. A country like India, apart from having a huge population, also faces challenges in influenza diagnosis and management; thus, annual vaccination would be an ideal and principal intervention for preventing influenza and reducing the public health impact of epidemics and pandemics. This article provides information on Trivalent live attenuated influenza vaccine (NASOVAC-S), Its usage and other relevant details that will be of interest to all healthcare professionals.

Prostate cancer has become a major public health burden worldwide and its incidence rates are increasing in India.  Hormonal therapy or androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the mainstay of therapy in treatment of advanced prostate cancer.This slide set presents the burden of prostate cancer worldwide and in India and focuses on the management of advanced prostate cancer. There are many concerns regarding timing of starting ADT, use of combined androgen blockade and adverse effects associated with ADT. These concerns are addressed in this slide set based on the available evidences and guideline recommendations 

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections. Around 50% of women experience at least one episode of UTI at some point in their lifetime and recurrent UTI occur in about 20-40% of women. Fosfomycin is a broad-spectrum bactericidal antibiotic. It is recommended by the current EAU and IDSA guidelines as first-line antibiotic for empirical treatment of women with acute uncomplicated cystitis. Fosfomycin is the only antibacterial approved by US FDA as a single-dose therapy for acute uncomplicated cystitis. This presentation provides brief overview on the mechanism of action, unique features, clinical efficacy and safety studies, dosage and recommendations of fosfomycin in the treatment of acute uncomplicated cystitis. 

Zerostat VT™ spacer is a unique static free transparent spacer with a valve mechanism which increases the drug fraction reaching the lungs. It acts as a reservoir where the actuated aerosol cloud can be held prior to inhalation and thus overcomes the actuation inhalation co-ordination. It has all the features which a spacer should ideally have i.e. static free, transparent, flow gate valve, shape of an aerosol plume and volume 250-300 ml. The time available for inhalation is prolonged by using polyamide, which is a static free material. The half – life of aerosol in the Zerostat VT™ spacer is 60 sec. Unidirectional flow from the holding chamber is achieved by using a one-way valve. 

The European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) annually conducts a scientific meeting for all clinicians involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. This meeting has now become the largest international annual conference on diabetes worldwide. Selected abstracts from the 52^nd Annual Meeting of EASD are compiled here.

Good personal hygiene is the first step to good health. But for women, it's also about taking care of the hygiene of their most intimate area – the vagina. Here is a list of important tips that will help in maintaining proper intimate hygiene.

The AMBITION (Ambrisentan and Tadalafil in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension) trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of initial combination therapy with oral ambrisentan and tadalafil in previously untreated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients. The results showed that in treatment naïve PAH patients, the risk of clinical failure was significantly lower among those who received initial combination therapy with tadalafil and ambrisentan as compared to those who received either ambrisentan or tadalafil monotherapy.

Asthma is a widely prevalent childhood disease. There are lot of challenges associated with it, in terms of diagnoses, management, prescribing inhalers and handling patient queries. This article provides a simple and concise update on diagnosis and management of childhood asthma based on the recent guidelines.

Variations in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic is widely reported among ICU patients when ‘standard’ b-lactam dosing is applied leading to suboptimal antibiotic exposure. In this post-hoc analysis of DALI study comparison of the PK/PD and clinical outcomes among the different method of administration in critically ill patients  was assessed.  Results indicated that prolonged infusion was associated with better clinical and PK/PD outcomes.

Good personal hygiene is the first step to good health. But for women, it's also about taking care of the hygiene of their most intimate area – the vagina. These slides talk about the normal vaginal environment and pH, risk factors that can alter the pH, consequences of altered pH and a new lactic acid hygiene wash which can help maintain the normal vaginal pH and prevent infections. 

Teriparatide has recently gained increasing popularity for the treatment of severe osteoporosis due to its unique mode of action. This presentation briefly covers the mode of action, dosage, contraindications and efficacy and safety of teriparatide in severe osteoporosis. 

Asthma and COPD patients have many myths regarding the treatment and the inhaler use. Role of paramedic is very important to counsel and solve all the patient queries associated with the treatment regimen and inhaler use & maintenance. This would further help in improving the acceptance and adherence to the therapy. This booklet is a guide for paramedics, which would help them in learning how to use and maintain various inhaler devices; along with answers to common patient queries. 

Patients of the STENO-2 trial were followed up for a period of 21.2 years to determine the potential long-term impact of 7.8 years of intensified multifactorial intervention in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and microalbuminuria. As per the findings, intensified, multifactorial, target-driven treatment reduced mortality and the risk of cardiovascular events in the study subjects.

Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of stomach and the upper portion of small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Most peptic ulcers are caused by infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Another common cause is the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).This patient education sheet provides information on peptic ulcer disease- its causes, risk factors, symptoms, complications, treatment options and prevention.

ACCORD Eye trial was conducted to determine the impact of intensive treatment strategies on the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. According to the findings, intensive glycemic control and intensive dyslipidemia management (addition of fenofibrate to the current lipid management strategy) slowed down the progression of DR in T2DM patients. 

ACCORDION trial represents the extended follow-up of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with regards to progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) after discontinuation of intensive treatment regimens. The results revealed that the benefits in terms of reduced rates of DR persisted in the study subjects even 4 years after discontinuation of the intensive glycemic treatment. The benefits of fenofibrate (for intensive dyslipidemia management) were however not evident during the extended follow-up (after discontinuation), thus suggesting that incorporating fenofibrate in the treatment regimen of T2DM may have a valuable role in reducing the progression of DR.

COU-AA-302 is a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomised phase 3 study which evaluated the role of abiraterone acetate and prednisone together in overall survival of men with chemotherapy-naive castration-resistant prostate cancer as compared to prednisone alone.

This study compared the efficacy of live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) vs. inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) in children and adolescents of the Hutterite community. Vaccinating children with LAIV did not provide better community protection against influenza virus as compared to IIV. LAIV did not provide any additional benefits over IIV.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disease which encompasses a wide range of symptoms for the patient. The diagnosis of GERD is often based on the patient’s history if the symptoms are typical. However, in case of atypical symptoms additional tests are required by the physician to confirm the diagnosis of GERD. This document gives a glance of the various diagnostic approaches for gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Gastroesophageal disease occurs when contents of the stomach back flow into the esophagus. Patients often experience a burning sensation in the chest known as heartburn. Majority of patients are relieved of symptoms through changes in diet and lifestyle. However, some of them may require medications. This patient education sheet provides information on GERD- its causes, symptoms, treatment, and long term complications.

SPRINT was conducted to compare the clinical benefits of intensive vs. standard systolic blood pressure (SBP) lowering in non-diabetic patients at high risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease. As per the results, SBP target <120 mm Hg vs. <140 mm Hg lowered the rates of fatal and nonfatal major CV events and death from any cause in the study subjects. Nevertheless, the incidence of adverse events was significantly high in the patients treated intensively.

CDC has recently released updated guidance for U.S. health care providers taking care of women in the reproductive age group with possible Zika virus exposure. It includes recommendations on coun­seling women and men with possible Zika virus exposure who are interested in conceiving. 

This presentation discusses basics of inhalation therapy. It gives an overview and pros & cons of various types of inhalation devices - pMDI, spacer, DPIs, Autohaler and Nebulizer.  

Presence of free radicals in the skin affect its cellular structures. It also depletes the natural reservoir of antioxidants in the skin which leads to the ageing of skin. Topical antioxidant therapy is preferred for the treatment of photoageing. VCX serum is a topical combination of antioxidants which aims at introducing these antioxidants directly to the skin. This booklet highlights the properties of each antioxidant and the rationale behind its combination.

Mucormycosis are the group of invasive infection caused by filamentous fungi of the Mucoraceae family. This slide set enumerates prevalence, incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, different types and management of Mucormycosis.

Early initiation of antifungal therapy is a major contributor to enhanced survival rate. This set of slides highlights incidence and risk factors of Invasive Fungal Infections. It gives idea on fungal diagnostic techniques. It also highlights on the 2016 Revised Recommendations for the Management of Candidiasis.

Disseminated TB results from widespread blood borne dissemination of TB bacilli. This presentation includes causes and risk factors of disseminated tuberculosis. It also includes the management approach of ARDS with Disseminated Tuberculosis.    

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) have emerged as a major cause of morbidity and mortality amongst critically ill patients. This presentation gives outline on incidence and risk factors for invasive fungal infections, fungal diagnostic techniques, management of invasive fungal infection, summary of IDSA guideline for treating Invasive Candidiasis and Aspergilliosis.

Invasive fungal infection is a significant and often lethal problem in transplant patients. This set of slides highlights which are the fungal pathogens & infections after transplantation, the rate of invasive candida infections reported in various transplant types, the incidence and risk factors of invasive fungal infections, strategies for the management of neutropenic patients at high risk for invasive fungal infection and management of fungal infections in renal transplant recipients.

A study determining the efficacy and safety of Saccharomyces boulardii (SB) in the treatment of acute childhood rotavirus diarrhea in Indian setting demonstrated that twice daily oral administration of 250 mg SB for 5 days significantly shortened the diarrhea duration and the duration of hospitalization without any adverse effects. Thus, SB appears to be a safe and effective option for treating acute rotavirus diarrhea in a setting of developing country like India.

VALENCE is a phase III trial which is an extension of LONESTAR-2 phase II trial. The results from the VALENCE study confirm the efficacy and safety of oral Sofosbuvir-Ribavirin therapy in Hepatitis C genotype-2 and -3 infected patients.

POSITRON trial assessed the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir in patients with HCV genotype 2 or 3 infection for whom treatment with peginterferon and ribavirin was not an option. Results at 12 weeks showed that treatment with sofosbuvir and ribavirin was effective. 

FUSION trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir plus ribavirin in HCV treatment-experienced patients with genotype 2 or 3. Twelve weeks of treatment with sofosbuvir and ribavirin can be an effective option for patients with HCV genotype 2 infection. However, for patients with genotype 3 infection, particularly cirrhotics or who have not had a response to prior treatment with interferon, extending the duration of treatment to 16 weeks may provide an additional benefit.

The PHOTON 2 trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of the sofosbuvir-ribavirin combination for the treatment of HIV patients co-infected with hepatitis-C (genotype 1, 2, 3, or 4). The study demonstrated that a 12/ 24 weeks therapy with the combination achieved a good sustained virologic response (SVR) in majority of patients, without major adverse events. The interferon-free combination can thus be considered a useful treatment option for this patient subgroup

PHOTON 1 trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of the sofosbuvir-ribavirin combination for the treatment of HIV patients co-infected with hepatitis-C (genotype 1, 2, or 3). The study demonstrated that a 12/ 24 weeks therapy with the combination achieved a good sustained virologic response (SVR) in majority of patients, without major adverse events.

The FISSION trial is a randomized, open-label study which compared the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir plus ribavirin to peginterferon plus ribavirin in HCV patients. The study showed a similar efficacy of sofosbuvir plus ribavirin to that of peginterferon plus ribavirin at week 12.

NEUTRINO study evaluated the efficacy and safety of regimens containing sofosbuvir (SOF) in HCV Treatment Naïve Patients. Results of the study demonstrated that treatment with SOF combined with peginterferon – ribavirin had high efficacy with apparent reductions in adverse effects in HCV patients with predominantly genotype 1 or 4.

Prostate cancer has become a major public health burden worldwide. Castration or hormonal therapy is the mainstay of treatment for the management of advanced prostate cancer.  Initially patients respond to the primary hormonal treatment or androgen deprivation therapy and eventually after 1 to 2 years patient becomes resistant to it, this is termed as castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). 

This slide set explains the concept of CRPC, mechanisms of development of CRPC and management of CRPC focusing on abiraterone acetate. This slide set also mentions about mechanism of action of abiraterone acetate, the available clinical evidence on the drug and precautions to be advocated while prescribing it in patients with metastatic CRPC. 

Sofosbuvir has marked a new era in the hepatitis C management. It has brought in improved cure rates with favourable safety and shorter duration of treatment. The slide set covers the basic pharmacology, and key Phase 3 trials of sofosbuvir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.

Treatment for hepatitis C is rapidly evolving from injectable interferons to the revolutionizing all oral direct-acting antivirals. The advent of sofosbuvir has rapidly changed the hepatitis C treatment paradigms. Sofosbuvir has brought in an era of treating hepatitis C with all-oral regimens, coupled with high cure rates and favourable safety profiles. This document gives a glance of the treatment-evolution, treatment approaches and recommendations for treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced hepatitis C patients. 

Analyzing the respiratory sounds is an important diagnostic process in children with respiratory symptoms. In this video, Dr. H. Paramesh emulates the various respiratory sounds in children and the several diagnosis which can be inferred from analyzing them.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an inflammatory response of urothelium to bacterial invasion. UTI is found to be more common in females and it is found that around 50% of healthy women suffer from UTI at some point of time in their life. The following slide set elaborates on the prevalence, pathophysiology and diagnosis of UTI. It also describes the clinical presentation and recommended antimicrobial therapy for the treatment of uncomplicated UTI. 

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the method of preventing exposures of HIV to blood and body fluids and it is considered to be the most important strategy for preventing occupationally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. It refers to the prophylactic use of antiretrovirals to prevent establishment of HIV infection after an occupational exposure to HIV. PEP is majorly used for health care professionals who come in contact with blood or bloody fields in the hospital or laboratory. The current WHO guidelines recommends antiretroviral drug regimens and duration of prophylaxis post exposure of HIV in Health care professionals.

HIV is the strongest risk factor for developing tuberculosis (TB) disease in those with latent or new Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Prevention of TB is one of the most important measures needed to reduce morbidity and mortality among PLHIV. Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) has proved effective in reducing TB rates among HIV-infected patients. WHO recommends at least 36 months of isoniazid preventive therapy for adults and adolescents living with HIV, who have an unknown or positive tuberculin skin test status and among whom active TB disease has been safely ruled out. The fixed dose combination of Sulfamethoxazole (800mg) /Trimethoprim (160 mg) /Isoniazid (300 mg) /Pyridoxine (25 mg) can provide the overall protection from all the opportunistic infection including TB.

Tuberculosis is the most common opportunistic infections among people living with HIV. Isoniazid preventive therapy is effective strategy to reduce the risk of active TB among HIV infected. WHO recommends at least 36 months of isoniazid preventive therapy for adults and adolescents living with HIV, who have an unknown or positive tuberculin skin test status and among whom active TB disease has been safely ruled out. Prophylactic use of co-trimoxazole (Sulfamethoxazole 800mg and trimethoprim 160mg), broad-spectrum antimicrobial drug, reduces morbidity and mortality in adults and children with HIV. In most settings co-trimoxazole prophylactic therapy is recommended indefinitely. The present concept document describes the newer fixed dose combination of Isoniazid + Pyridoxine + Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim, role of each ingredient, need for novel formulation and its benefits.

Early HIV diagnosis, timely care and treatment can prevent many AIDS-related deaths among children living with HIV. The Global Plan towards the elimination of new HIV infection among children and keeping their mother’s alive has made significant progress since its launch in 2011. By the end of 2014, the Global Plan countries had reduced new infection among children by 48% although only 31% of the children with HIV had access to antiretroviral therapy. This has been a remarkable achievement for the Global Plan countries in the fight against HIV. Provider initiated testing and counselling in antenatal care is a vital component in the attempt to eliminate mother-to-child HIV transmission. Option B+ treatment rollout and prevention of mother-to-child transmission programmes have helped reduce AIDS-related deaths among women of reproductive age by 45% over the last five years. It has also reduced the rate of mother-to-child transmission from 28% in 2009 to 14% in 2014. Among the 21 countries within the Global Plan, the provision for antiretroviral medicines to pregnant women living with HIV has averted 1.2 million paediatric infections since 2009. This booklet presents clinicians with an overview on the current recommendations on diagnosis, antiretroviral treatment and prophylaxis in managing paediatric HIV.

Many factors can impair asthma control. One which is frequently overlooked is Allergic Rhinitis (AR). Both AR and asthma are highly prevalent and often co-morbid conditions. In this talk, a renowned Chest Physician, Dr. PA. Mahesh from Mysore has explained in a very lucid manner with specific statistical data, on the link between AR and asthma and the strategies involved in the diagnosis and management of these two concurrent upper and lower airway diseases.

This patient education article provides a brief overview on the incidence, causes, risk factors, types of urinary stones and symptoms, diagnosis as well as management of urinary stones with few dietary and lifestyle modifications for preventing urinary stone formation in a simple manner.

PrEP is the use of an antiretroviral medication by HIV-negative individuals to prevent them from acquiring HIV. These slides give an overview of the WHO and the Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of HIV Infection in the United States – 2014 Clinical Practice Guideline recommendation on PrEP for HIV negative individuals at substantial risk

Post-surgical constipation is one of the challenges which both the doctor and the patient face after a surgery. Effective treatment of post-surgical constipation is of primary concern to the doctor to minimise the hospital stay and improve the overall post-surgery health of the patient. This presentation includes the definitions, various causes and the treatment modalities for post-surgical constipation. 

This patient education leaflet provides a brief overview on the incidence, causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infection with few tips on preventing UTI in a simple manner.

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory diseases world-over and it affects people of all ages and more specifically children. As part of our initiative to keep Indian physicians abreast of the latest in asthma and its management, we have developed this Q and A series using questions received during a CME program - “Helping you Deliver in your Asthma Practice’’. This is the second issue of booklet which covers Q & A on treatment of asthma. 

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) annually conducts a scientific meeting for all healthcare professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the 76^th Annual Meeting of ADA are compiled here.

This talk by Dr. Vikram Jaggi, an expert in the field of allergy, describes why Allergic Rhinitis (AR) should be considered as a serious condition in todays practice; the impact of AR on a patient’s QoL; how AR should be differentiated from common cold, as well as practical aspects in the diagnosis and management of the disease.

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory diseases world-over and it affects people of all ages and more specifically children. As part of our initiative to keep Indian physicians abreast of the latest in asthma and its management, we have developed this Q and A series using questions received during a CME program– “Helping you Deliver in your Asthma Practice’’. This is the first issue of booklet which covers Q & A on asthma pathophysiology, risk factors and diagnosis. 

Allergic rhinitis is a very common disorder that affects people of all ages, however, peaking inthe teenage years. Considered innocuous, it is detrimental to health interms of the individual quality of life and also to the society in terms ofhampered individual productivity.This booklet attempts to elucidate the mechanisms behind the manifestation of the symptoms, the characteristics, the diagnosis and the treatment of allergic rhinitis

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic relapsing disorder that affects the digestive tract. It symptoms include, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, painful urge to pass stools. This disease can be effectively managed through the use of anti-inflammatory medications.

Causes and prevention of constipation along with symptoms usually experienced in this condition have been listed in this booklet to help patients understand and deal with their situation.

While bisphosphonates reduce fracture risk over 3 to 5 years, the optimal duration of treatment is uncertain. This study suggest that almost all patients who have received six annual infusions of zoledronic acid can stop medication for up to 3 years with apparent maintenance of benefits.

The latest issue of Allergy Express brings to you news on allergies and its impact of asthma control such as food allergy and asthma control,  high prevalence of allergic rhinitis in patients with asthma in the capital city of India, as well as poor asthma control in patients having rhinitis during pregnancy.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health problem with complications of cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Nearly 185 million people globally are infected with hepatitis C. The high number of chronically infected individuals, the burden of disease and the absence of a vaccine indicates that early screening and treatment is crucial in the control of the disease. However, the majority of those with persistent infection are unaware of their infection, and lack knowledge about the management strategies. This booklet outlines the disease epidemiology, screening strategies and diagnostic approach in hepatitis C.

Women with poor ovarian response (POR)present a significantchallenge in assisted reproductive technology. This document gives the criteria to define and diagnose POR, which was developed at an ESHRE Campus Workshop organized in Bologna.

Depression is not uncommon in children, but, for many reasons, it often escapes diagnosis. Children are often unable to explain how they are feeling, especially when depressed. The problem for parents is that depression in children can be difficult to spot. If it does occur to them, parents may be reluctant to voice their fears and may find little practical information about depression in young children. This presentation provides useful information about identifying the symptoms and causes of depression in children and best possible ways to safeguard children from its ill-effects.

The understanding of HBV infection is continuously improving and these advances are included in the APASL 2015 hepatitis B management guidelines. This slide set covers the latest recommendations from this guideline. Changes in recommendations are noted in natural history, screening, counselling, assessment of the stage of liver disease, choice and duration of treatment. Updates in the management of special situations like childhood, pregnancy, co-infections, renal impairment and pre-and post liver-transplant have been covered here.

The American Diabetes Association annually conducts a scientific conference for all health care professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the ADA 75^th Scientific Sessions, 2015 are compiled here.

The American Diabetes Association annually conducts a scientific conference for all health care professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the ADA 75^th Scientific Sessions, 2015 are compiled here.

Prevention is better than cure when it comes to any illness, and influenza (flu) is no exception. Find out how to safeguard yourself, your healthcare personnel and your patients from flu.

Glance through this comprehensive overview of epidemiology, clinical manifestations, transmission, impact and diagnosis of one of the most common and contagious infectious disease – the seasonal influenza (flu).

Swine flu can be diagnosed only through test in a specialised laboratory by identifying the particular antigens associated with the virus type. Here is a list of 21 laboratories across India that are equipped to test H1N1 viruses.

With the scare of swine flu looming in our country and the death toll increasing, Indian Medical Association and subject experts have issued a joint statement on recommendations for influenza vaccination and preventive measures for health care workers and general public.

Swine Flu due to H1N1 virus is a contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even mortality if not treated timely. Government of India urges you to identify the flu symptoms and take the following actions to protect yourself and others from flu.

The risk of hepatitis B virus (HB) reactivation is high in patients receiving chemotherapy for solid or hematological malignancies which may lead to premature termination of chemotherapy or delay in treatment schedules. The consequences of HBV reactivation range from self-limited conditions to fulminant hepatic failure and death. The following slide-set reviews the pathogenesis, risk factors, diagnosis and management of HBV reactivation in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Ebola is a hot topic across the world, but with the flu season also in full swing, it’s important to know the difference between the two. Find out the difference between these two vastly different viral diseases that begins similarly but ends differently.

This presentation includes the detailed description about the mode of action, pharmacokinetics and clinical efficacy & safety of paracetamol injection: a well known analgesic agent indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate pain, especially following surgery; and, short-term treatment of fever.

The World Allergy Organization International Scientific Conference (WISC 2014) held in December 2014 at Brazil, threw some light on the latest updates in the field of allergy. Summarized here are a few abstracts on the latest in airway allergies; i.e. asthma and allergic rhinitis. A large number of abstracts focused on Indian data on the prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis, as well as aeroallergens in India.

Osteoporosis is a silent old age disease that is complicated by low trauma fractures & increases medical burden on ageing individuals. This infographic focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men aged 50 and older.

Allergic rhinitis is a contributing factor in 60% to 80% of patients with chronic sinusitis. Both these diseases have a significant impact on patients quality of life and is associated with illness related productivity loss in the workplace. Therefore, the relationship between allergic rhinitis and rhinosinusitis is a relevant issue; and this booklet reviews this link between the two diseases suggesting an appropriate approach for its management in clinical practice.

Carbapenems are preferred as an empirical therapy for the treatment of serious infections since last two decades, and still holds its position in current antibacterial armamentarium. But, as the treatment of resistant pathogens becomes difficult and very few new antimicrobial agents are available after development of carbapenem resistance, the best approach is to optimize the currently available antimicrobials. This set of slides highlights the rationale behind the optimization of carbapenem therapy by using the 3D approach: Right Dose, Right Duration and Right Drug combination.

If one decides to remain in or travel to or return from an Ebola-affected West African country, make sure to take a glimpse through these recommendations provided by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

This article summarises the definition, classification, pathogenesis, assessment, prognosis, diagnosis and treatment for PH.

A quick glance at the facts and myths regarding Ebola virus disease will help combat fear and clear confusion. 

Care of an Ebola patient is the most challenging situation presently faced by the clinicians in relation to the current outbreak. Recommendations by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India for the healthcare professionals on managing an Ebola case in a hospital  are summarized here.

Here is an overview of the reasons why deriving an optimum therapy for Ebola Virus Disease has been so difficult and the treatment approaches available for Ebola Virus Disease including therapeutic approaches as well as vaccines being used in the current outbreak.

Sunscreens have become an indispensable part of every person’s skin care routine. But there are many myths about the use of sunscreen. This leaflet includes few myths and facts about sunscreens.

The European Association for the Study of Diabetes annually conducts a scientific meeting for all healthcare professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the 50th Annual Meeting of EASD are compiled here.

This latest issue of Allergy Express, gives you a first look at the recommendations for treatment of drug allergy, coming from the International Consensus on Drug Allergy. Also, an interesting article on the benefits of treating allergic rhinitis in children with asthma shows that apart from severity of exacerbations, other parameters should be considered in treating patients with asthma.

This document aims to help patients understand the triggers, causes and management options for allergic rhinitis; and also differentiate a common cold from allergic rhinitis. 

This latest issue of Allergy Express, focuses on the risks of developing allergies in children during the early years of life. It discusses the use of antibiotics in children and risk of developing asthma and the introduction of diet and its link to food allergy. Also, an interesting article on the effect of oxidative hair dyes has shown thathairdressers are a risk of occupational asthma, rhinitis and contact urticaria due to exposure to oxidative dyes.

At the end of 2011, there were 34.2 million people living with HIV, with women comprising almost half of this population. Women face a number of risk factors that may contribute to their risk for HIV infection. HIV infection impacts various stages of a woman’s life, from menarche to menopause. This booklet specifically discusses the management of the HIV-infected woman, based on available guidelines and recommendations.

This 2nd issue of ‘Allergy Express’ brings to you the latest news on the most prevalent allergy in children i.e. food allergy, throws some light on the latest techniques in diagnosis of allergies, and brings to you an interesting article on the association of asthma and allergy in the elderly.

The article summarizes the Indian epidemiological data for MRSA infections, along with treatment of MRSA infections and infection control measures.

The caregivers of a dementia patient are faced with many challenges when taking care of the patients. This short presentation gives a brief on dementia and tips to the caregivers on how to manage various aspects viz. feeding, clothing, sleep schedules etc.

The American Diabetes Association annually conducts a scientific conference for all health care professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the ADA 74th Scientific Sessions, 2014 are compiled here.

The American Diabetes Association annually conducts a scientific conference for all health care professionals involved in diabetes research or the delivery of diabetes care. Selected abstracts from the ADA 74th Scientific Sessions, 2014 are compiled here.

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is described as an ongoing inflammatory condition of the pancreas specified by irreversible morphologic damages resulting in pancreatic exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Medical, endoscopic and surgical treatment of CP should aim at control of symptoms, prevention of progression of the disease and correction of complications. The following slide-set reviews the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of CP.

Physician update (issue 3) takes you through the recent news & information related to Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) followed by the various criteria’s for defining UTI events, risk factors as well as the journey through the management of complicated and uncomplicated UTI in adults.

Muscle cramps of varied severity and frequency are common in patients with liver disease and are associated with a significant decrease in the health-related quality of life (QoL). Muscle cramps has not been acknowledged to be of sufficient importance and its treatment in general and in liver patients still remains empirical. The clinical features, pathophysiology and therapeutic approach to cramps in patients with liver disease has been covered here.

Slide set on the U.S. Public Health Service recommendations for the management of health-care personnel who have occupational exposure to blood and other body fluids that might contain Hepatitis B virus.

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory disease characterized by acute abdominal pain of varying severity and associated with extensive morbidity and mortality. The increased incidence of pancreatitis, coupled with new treatment options, poses a challenge in its management for the physicians. The following slide-set reviews the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of acute pancreatitis.

This book is a compilation of key abstracts from the posters presented at 24th ECCMID, held at Barcelona, Spain.

This slide set summarizes the key 2014 clinical practice recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) on the screening, diagnosis and management of diabetes and its complications.

The 70th Annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology Conference 2014 was held in Boston, USA from 28th February to 4th March 2014. Interesting abstracts in the field of asthma and allergies from the conference have been compiled in this proceedings.

This antibiotic reckoner presents the information on the approved dosage and indications of various antibiotics commonly used in the clinical practice. It also provides the details of antibiotic concentrations attained in different body tissues. This booklet is intended for use by healthcare providers who treat diverse infections.

This publication discusses the phase III clinical trial conducted with URIMAX D which is a combination of selective ?_1A-blocker tamsulosin hydrochloride and dual action 5 ARI dutasteride in patients with BPH.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a functional disorder of the digestive system. Although it’s prevalence in India is lower as compared to the western countries, it is still one of the most common disease managed by gastroenterologists. Within these slides, the diagnosis, management and treatment of this condition is covered.

This presentation provides information on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of Group IV pulmonary hypertension (PH) i.e. chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

This newsletter summarizes the 2012 IDSA guidelines and discusses the management and the recommendations regarding antibiotic choices and dosing. The guidelines are intended for use by healthcare providers who care for adult and paediatric patients with group A streptococcal pharyngitis.

Nails are not only an important aspect of the external appearance; they are also mirrors of internal health. This booklet highlights examples of fingernail and toenail abnormalities that can provide clues to underlying systemic diseases

Healthy hair is not only a pleasure to behold; it is pleasing to person who has it. Healthy looking hair is a sign of excellent general health. This leaflet highlights few tips for healthy hair.

A compilation of the highlights of important presentations and clinical trials discussed at the recent Annual Scientific Sessions Meeting of the American Heart Association (AHA) held at Texas in November, 2013.

The European Respiratory Society's (ERS) Scientific Conference was held in Barcelona, Spain from 7th to 11th September 2013. Presented here are the key abstracts in the field of asthma, COPD, pulmonary infections, sleep apnoea and PAH.

This poster provides information on the sites and types of urinary stones as well as the different treatment options available for the management of urinary stones in a simple manner.

In India, hypertension has reached epidemic proportions and as per the latest estimates, one in 3 adults in India has hypertension. This slide set mainly discusses the prevalence, risk factors and recommendations from the Indian Guidelines on Hypertension – III, published in 2013.

Back pain is a common problem that affects most people at some point in their life. This leaflet provides simple guidelines to keep back in good shape to avoid back pain and is available in English & Hindi.

Simple dietary changes can help control Gout, a disease characterized by excess uric acid in blood. This leaflet provides information on the foods to be eaten and to be avoided in patients suffering from Gout, and is available in English & Hindi.

Clostridium difficile associated diarrhoea (CDAD) is an important cause of nosocomial morbidity and mortality and has heightened clinicians’ awareness of CDAD in the recent past emphasizing the importance of early recognition and its appropriate treatment. A quick algorithm on management of CDAD may help to guide the therapy.

This booklet emphasizes that patients with DFI should be evaluated for an ischaemic foot, and the employment of multidisciplinary foot teams improves outcomes. Clinicians and healthcare organizations should attempt to monitor, and thereby improve, their outcomes and processes in caring for DFI.

This factfile is designed to serve as quick reference guide, providing clinically relevant information on Pulmigen such as the efficacy and safety, use in children, mode of administration, place in therapy and advantages it offers.

Highlights of the World Allergy Organization (WAO) International Scientific Conference 2012 Presented here are key abstracts from the recently concluded WAO International Scientific Conference held at Hyderabad, India.

This slide set focuses on the complications of epilepsy in women. These complications can range from PCOS (which affects fertility) to teratogenicity associated with the use of AEDs during pregnancy. It also throws light upon management of epilepsy during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

ID Week 2012 conference was held from October 17-21 at San Diego with the theme—Advancing Science, Improving Care. The conference highlighted the recent therapy approaches in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiology of infectious diseases.

Pregnancy demands extra attention in any woman and if the woman has epilepsy, the vulnerability increases. Women with epilepsy have many questions pertaining to pregnancy. This booklet is a humble attempt to address few such queries.

This booklet summarizes the IDSA 2012 Guidelines on Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis which addresses key issues, including an algorithm for the subsequent management, based on the risk assessment for antimicrobial resistance and evolution of clinical responses.

The artesunate plus mefloquine combination is one of the five WHO recommended ACT’s for uncomplicated malaria. It is indicated for the treatment of multidrug resistant falciparum infection. This monograph provides insights into the clinical efficacy and safety of artesunate plus mefloquine administered as a fixed-dose combination.

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Prescribing a drug to a patient with renal failure? Utilize this tool as a reference to the varied degrees of creatinine clearance in patients suffering from renal insufficiency.

Indigestion, a common problem faced by individuals is often a reason for a visit to a doctor. Treating this condition often needs a fair amount of counseling along with medication to give the patient effective relief. This booklet has been designed as an aid for counseling of this condition and has different sections that deal with the various aspects of indigestion the patient faces. Facts have been provided in a lucid and simple manner to help patients.

This literature provides information on role of pyridoxine in prevention of recurrence of calcium oxalate stones.

This booklet gives overview on diagnosis & management of urological infections and provides information on recommendations for antimicrobial therapy for treatment as well as prophylaxis.

A compilation of key studies presented at the AHA 2012 Scientific Sessions

Over the past decade, the proportion of hospital-acquired infections caused by Acinetobacter spp. has increased worldwide.  A renewed interest in sulbactam as a true beta-lactam antibiotic has been noted recently, owing to its intrinsic activity against the Acinetobacter spp. This monograph describes the various clinical aspects on efficacy and safety of sulbactam in MDR, carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter infections.

This patient education booklet is designed to provide useful information to patients diagnosed with hepatitis B with the goal of helping them and their caregivers understand and manage this disease. The information supplied here is presented in the form of answers to commonly asked questions regarding the disease, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

The European Congress in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) is one of the conferences that cover a comprehensive series of keynote lectures, symposia, educational workshops and meet-the-expert sessions, covering the entire field of infection-related diseases. Selected abstracts from ECCMID 2012, held from 31st March – 3rd April at London, United Kingdom, are presented here.

A quick glance of antibacterial and antifungal spectrum against various clinically relevant pathogens.

This slide set takes a physician through prevalence and hazards of smoking and smokeless tobacco especially in India. NRT as a form of providing nicotine, mechanism of action of NRT, studies on efficacy and safety of NRT.

Allergic rhinitis is considered as a major global health problem and is classified into two categories based on the frequency of symptoms: seasonal and perennial. This presentation elaborates on the role of montelukast, a leukotriene-receptor antagonist, in seasonal allergic rhinitis management including its dosage and administration in this condition.

It explains the causes, risk factors, symptoms and treatment options for angina, as well as the various do’s and don’t’s in a patient-friendly language. This patient education is available in 3 languages – English, Hindi and Marathi.

BPH commonly affects the aging population. This presentation is a patient education tool which provides information on presenting symptoms and treatment of BPH in a simple manner.

'This booklet aims to provide practical pointers on how a physician can ensure safe and favourable pregnancy for his/her patients with asthma.'

This document features the list of precautions to be taken if RBC, WBC or platelet count are below normal.

This algorithm outlines the approach for diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated malaria when microscopy results are available within 24 hours and when microscopy results are not available within 24 hours.

Practice Enhancer
Diagnosis and Treatment of Malaria in India

Introduction

Clinical Features

Manifestations of Severe Malaria

Diagnosis

Rapid Diagnostic Test

Note: It should be noted that Pf (P. falciparum) Histidine rich protein 2 (HRP2) based kits may show positive results up to 3 weeks of successful treatment.

Aims of Malaria Treatment

Referral to a Specialist / Hospital

How to Recognize the Danger Signs?

Ask

Look

General Management of Uncomplicated Malaria

Treatment of Uncomplicated Malaria

Treatment of P. Vivax Cases

Note: Each tablet contains 150mg base

Note: Tablets available in 2.5 mg, 7.5 mg and 15 mg strengths

Treatment of P. Falciparum Cases

Indications for Treatment with Act

Note: Tablets available in 2.5 mg, 7.5 mg and 15 mg strengths

Treatment of Mixed Infections

Treatment Based on Clinical Criteria Without Laboratory Confirmation

Algorithm for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Malaria

Treatment of Severe Malaria

Specific Antimalarial Treatment

Never Give a Bolus Injection of Quinine.

Note: Doxycycline is contraindicated in pregnant women, and children below 8 years of age; instead, clindamycin 10 mg / kg body weight, 12-hourly for 7 days, should be used.

Severe Malaria Caused by P. Vivax

Chemoprophylaxis

Note: Doxycycline is contraindicated in pregnant women, and children less than 8 years old.

Note: Mefloquine is contraindicated in cases with a history of convulsions, neuropsychiatric problems and cardiac conditions.

Reference

1 .Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Malaria in India, 2009.
2. http://apps.who.int/malaria/docs/healthworkers/healthworkers.htm.
Last accessed on 06/08/09.

Annexure

This presentation discusses the hidden facts of PUO.

Booklets with summaries of key studies presented at 46th annual meeting of European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) in Berlin, Germany from March 30 – April 3, 2011.

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\nBooklet 1: Entecavir in Hepatitis B
\nBooklet 2: Fatty Liver Disease
\nBooklet 3: Hepatic Encephalopathy and Cirrhosis
\nBooklet 4: Tenofovir in Hepatitis B\n

One of the most crucial goals in long term chronic hepatitis B therapy is potent HBV DNA suppression without concurrent development of resistance. The challenge for the treating physician is to choose the right therapy and monitoring schedule, and pay close attention to development of resistance and ensure good adherence.

This booklet is intended as a quick reference guide to all physicians to provide some pointers on how he/she can help an asthmatic patient enjoy his/her vacation safely.

An important proportion of patients are admitted or become colonized in the ICU, but only few subsequently develop systemic candidal infection . Candida score is a simple scoring system that may assist clinicians in differentiating between Candida species colonization and proven candidal infection when they are considering preemptive antifungal treatment for non-neutropenic critically ill patients.

Paracetamol has the advantage of being the only non-opioid analgesic available in oral, rectal and now intravenous formulations. The intravenous route is especially advantageous in postsurgical situations when oral (e.g. infections with severe fever or vomiting) or rectal (e.g. high variability in uptake and bioavailability) routes are not suitable or effective, or patients have contraindications to the administration of NSAIDs or opioid analgesics. This booklet covers intravenous paracetamol in details with the pharmacokinetics, probable mode of action, indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions.

The article summarizes the Indian epidemiological data for MRSA infections, along with treatment of MRSA infections and infection control measures.

Brief information on the treatment strategy and selection of oral antihyperglycemic agents in type 2 diabetes is summarised in this document.

Most relevant information on management of dyslipidemia, a common comorbidity observed in diabetes patients, has been summarised in this document.

Nebulization, the process of transforming liquid medications into mists, is most suited for children and elderly, in whom coordination is a problem. This booklet serves as a guide on patient, device and drug related factors that affect the efficacy of nebulisation therapy and a list of various drugs, dosages and combinations available for nebulisation.

Hypertension elevates the risk of micro-and macro-vascular complications in diabetes. Here is a summary on the BP treatment goals in diabetes patients.

Pulmonary disease has emerged as a major cause of death in scleroderma patients with PAH as one of the most likely complications. With the availability of modern treatments prognosis for this life-threatening disease has changed. This booklet is a guide for Rheumatologists who have an important role in early recognition of PAH in connective tissue diseases.

Choice of a first-line hepatitis B drug should take into account antiviral potency, safety and risk of antiviral resistance. The ideal therapy should be safe, effective and associated with a sustained and durable response. This booklet outlines the principles of initiating anti-hepatitis B virus therapy in treatment-naive patients.

Good hand hygiene, the simple task of cleaning hands at the right time and in the right way by any health care worker is essential for patient care. Here is an illustrative practice guideline on hand hygiene adapted from ‘WHO Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care, 2009’.

Know more about the risk factors, associated ill-effects and tips for management of hypertension or high blood pressure. 

Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines have been widely used globally for managing patients with allergic rhinitis. ARIA 2010 is an updation based on current best evidence, to provide explicit, unambiguous, and transparent clinical recommendations. This booklet attempts to present the highlights of ARIA 2010, in a concise manner.