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Yagnala N, Moreland-Head L, Zieminski JJ, Mara K, Macielak S. Assessment of Dofetilide or Sotalol Tolerability in the Elderly. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2024; 29:10742484231224536. [PMID: 38258374 DOI: 10.1177/10742484231224536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background: Dofetilide and sotalol are potassium channel antagonists that require inpatient QTc monitoring during initiation, due to increased risk of fatal arrhythmias. Elderly patients are especially subject to an increased risk of fatal arrhythmias due to polypharmacy, comorbidities, and physiologic cardiac changes with aging. This study will describe the tolerability and risk factors associated with the initiation of sotalol or dofetilide in patients ≥80 years of age. Methodology: This is a multicenter, retrospective, descriptive study of patients ≥80 years old who were initiated on either dofetilide or sotalol between May 8, 2018 and July 31, 2021 at institutions within the Mayo Clinic Health System. The percentage of patients who received nonpackage insert recommended doses was identified. Incidence of and reasons for dose reductions or discontinuations due to safety-related events or clinical concerns during the initial loading period were collected. Results: The final analysis included 104 patients. The majority of patients (75%) received nonstandard initial doses of dofetilide or sotalol based on baseline estimated creatinine clearance or QTc. Overall, 39% (N = 41) of patients experienced a dose reduction or discontinuation due to a safety-related event or concern. Patients who received nonstandard initial doses of dofetilide or sotalol had 4.7 times greater odds of experiencing a safety-related event requiring dose reduction or discontinuation. Conclusion: Following package insert dosing in elderly patients increases safety and tolerability relative to more aggressive dosing of dofetilide or sotalol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikitha Yagnala
- Pharmacy Resident, Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Kristin Mara
- Senior Biostatistician, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Shea Macielak
- Pharmacist, Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Savelieva I, Fumagalli S, Kenny RA, Anker S, Benetos A, Boriani G, Bunch J, Dagres N, Dubner S, Fauchier L, Ferrucci L, Israel C, Kamel H, Lane DA, Lip GYH, Marchionni N, Obel I, Okumura K, Olshansky B, Potpara T, Stiles MK, Tamargo J, Ungar A. EHRA expert consensus document on the management of arrhythmias in frailty syndrome, endorsed by the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS), Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society (APHRS), Latin America Heart Rhythm Society (LAHRS), and Cardiac Arrhythmia Society of Southern Africa (CASSA). Europace 2023; 25:1249-1276. [PMID: 37061780 PMCID: PMC10105859 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing proportion of the general population surviving to old age with significant chronic disease, multi-morbidity, and disability. The prevalence of pre-frail state and frailty syndrome increases exponentially with advancing age and is associated with greater morbidity, disability, hospitalization, institutionalization, mortality, and health care resource use. Frailty represents a global problem, making early identification, evaluation, and treatment to prevent the cascade of events leading from functional decline to disability and death, one of the challenges of geriatric and general medicine. Cardiac arrhythmias are common in advancing age, chronic illness, and frailty and include a broad spectrum of rhythm and conduction abnormalities. However, no systematic studies or recommendations on the management of arrhythmias are available specifically for the elderly and frail population, and the uptake of many effective antiarrhythmic therapies in these patients remains the slowest. This European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) consensus document focuses on the biology of frailty, common comorbidities, and methods of assessing frailty, in respect to a specific issue of arrhythmias and conduction disease, provide evidence base advice on the management of arrhythmias in patients with frailty syndrome, and identifies knowledge gaps and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Savelieva
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Stefano Fumagalli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Geriatric Intensive Care Unit and Geriatric Arrhythmia Unit, University of Florence and AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Rose Anne Kenny
- Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, Department of Medical Gerontology, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stefan Anker
- Department of Cardiology (CVK), Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK) partner site Berlin, Germany
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Athanase Benetos
- Department of Geriatric Medicine CHRU de Nancy and INSERM U1116, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Jared Bunch
- (HRS representative): Intermountain Medical Center, Cardiology Department, Salt Lake City,Utah, USA
- Stanford University, Department of Internal Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Nikolaos Dagres
- Heart Center Leipzig, Department of Electrophysiology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sergio Dubner
- (LAHRS representative): Clinica Suizo Argentina, Cardiology Department, Buenos Aires Capital Federal, Argentina
| | - Laurent Fauchier
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Trousseau et Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | | | - Carsten Israel
- Evangelisches Krankenhaus Bielefeld GmbH, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Hooman Kamel
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deirdre A Lane
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Niccolò Marchionni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, General Cardiology Division, University of Florence and AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Israel Obel
- (CASSA representative): Milpark Hospital, Cardiology Unit, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ken Okumura
- (APHRS representative): Saiseikai Kumamoto Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Brian Olshansky
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa CityIowa, USA
- Covenant Hospital, Waterloo, Iowa, USA
- Mercy Hospital Mason City, Iowa, USA
| | - Tatjana Potpara
- School of Medicine, Belgrade University, Serbia
- Cardiology Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, Serbia
| | - Martin K Stiles
- (APHRS representative): Waikato Clinical School, University of Auckland and Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Juan Tamargo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, CIBERCV, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea Ungar
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Geriatric Intensive Care Unit and Geriatric Arrhythmia Unit, University of Florence and AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
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Efficacy Evaluation of the Mahuang-Fuzi-Xixin Decoction in Combination with Shenmai Injection for Bradyarrhythmia Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:7280627. [PMID: 36785750 PMCID: PMC9922179 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7280627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Bradyarrhythmia treatment is often not timely enough, posing a potential threat to health. It is necessary to find a strategy with stable curative effects and high safety. Mahuang-Fuzi-Xixin (MFX) decoction and Shenmai injection (SMI) are compound Chinese Patent Medicines. Recent evidence has shown that the combined use of these two drugs can effectively treat bradyarrhythmia. Purpose To evaluate the effect of MFX decoction combined with SMI on bradyarrhythmia. Methods PRISMA was followed as the guideline for this systematic review. RevMan 5.4 software was applied for meta-analysis. Results Eight studies were included in the analysis, with a total of 340 patients in the intervention and control groups. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the effective rate of MFX combined with SMI treatment was higher than that of SMI alone (OR = 3.27, 95% CI (2.18, 4.89), P < 0.01); after treatment, MFX combined with SMI treatment and SMI alone had no significant difference in heart rate. In the subgroup of patients with an age less than 60, the effect of MFX combined with SMI treatment on the 24-hour mean heart rate was better than that of SMI alone (MD = 3.68, 95% CI (3.14, 4.22), P < 0.01), as did the 24-hour minimal heart rate (MD = 3.48, 95% CI (3.03, 3.93), P < 0.01). In addition, the effect of MFX combined with SMI treatment on the Traditional Chinese Medicine syndrome score (TCMSS) was significantly better than that of SMI alone (MD = -2.69, 95% CI (-3.10, -2.28), P < 0.01). In terms of safety, two adverse events were reported in the SMI combined with MFX group compared to 12 in the SMI alone group. Conclusions MFX combined with SMI treatment is effective in treating bradyarrhythmia. However, the results were heterogeneous. The safety of MFX combined with SMI treatment should be verified and treated with caution.
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Cecchini F, Mugnai G, Iacopino S, Abugattas JP, Adriaenssens B, Al-Housari M, Almorad A, Bala G, Bisignani A, de Asmundis C, De Greef Y, Maj R, Osòrio TG, Pannone L, Schwagten B, Sieira J, Sorgente A, Stroker E, Wolf M, Chierchia GB. Safety and long-term efficacy of cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation in octogenarians: a multicenter experience. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2022; 65:559-571. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01313-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Holmuhamedov EL, Chakraborty P, Oberlin A, Liu X, Yousufuddin M, Shen WK, Terzic A, Jahangir A. Aging-associated susceptibility to stress-induced ventricular arrhythmogenesis is attenuated by tetrodotoxin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 623:44-50. [PMID: 35870261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Aging is associated with increased prevalence of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, but mechanisms underlying higher susceptibility to arrhythmogenesis and means to prevent such arrhythmias under stress are not fully defined. We aimed to define differences in aging-associated susceptibility to ventricular fibrillation (VF) induction between young and aged hearts. VF induction was attempted in isolated perfused hearts of young (6-month) and aged (24-month-old) male Fischer-344 rats by rapid pacing before and following isoproterenol (1 μM) or global ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury with or without pretreatment with low-dose tetrodotoxin, a late sodium current blocker. At baseline, VF could not be induced; however, the susceptibility to inducible VF after isoproterenol and spontaneous VF following I/R was 6-fold and 3-fold higher, respectively, in old hearts (P < 0.05). Old animals had longer epicardial monophasic action potential at 90% repolarization (APD90; P < 0.05) and displayed a loss of isoproterenol-induced shortening of APD90 present in the young. In isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from older but not younger animals, 4-aminopyridine prolonged APD and induced early afterdepolarizations (EADs) and triggered activity with isoproterenol. Low-dose tetrodotoxin (0.5 μM) significantly shortened APD without altering action potential upstroke and prevented 4-aminopyridine-mediated APD prolongation, EADs, and triggered activity. Tetrodotoxin pretreatment prevented VF induction by pacing in isoproterenol-challenged hearts. Vulnerability to VF following I/R or catecholamine challenge is significantly increased in old hearts that display reduced repolarization reserve and increased propensity to EADs, triggered activity, and ventricular arrhythmogenesis that can be suppressed by low-dose tetrodotoxin, suggesting a role of slow sodium current in promoting arrhythmogenesis with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekhson L Holmuhamedov
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA; Aurora Cardiovascular and Thoracic Services, Aurora Sinai/Aurora St. Luke's Medical Centers, Advocate Aurora Health, 2801 W. Kinnickinnic River Parkway, Ste. 880, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA
| | - Praloy Chakraborty
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Andrew Oberlin
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Xiaoke Liu
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mohammed Yousufuddin
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Win K Shen
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA; Mayo Clinic Arizona, 13400 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA
| | - Andre Terzic
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Arshad Jahangir
- Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA; Aurora Cardiovascular and Thoracic Services, Aurora Sinai/Aurora St. Luke's Medical Centers, Advocate Aurora Health, 2801 W. Kinnickinnic River Parkway, Ste. 880, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA; Center for Advanced Atrial Fibrillation Therapies, Aurora Sinai/Aurora St. Luke's Medical Centers, Advocate Aurora Health, 2801 W. Kinnickinnic River Parkway, Ste. 777, Milwaukee, WI, 53215, USA.
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Bottino R, Carbone A, D'Andrea A, Liccardo B, Cimmino G, Imbalzano E, Russo V. Pharmacokinetic determinants for the right dose of antiarrhythmic drugs. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2022; 18:165-176. [PMID: 35209796 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2022.2046733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) show a narrow therapeutic range and marked intersubject variability in pharmacokinetics (PK), which may lead to inappropriate dosing and drug toxicity. AREAS COVERED The aim of the present review is to describe PK properties of AADs, discussing the main changes in different clinical scenarios, such as the elderly and patients with obese, chronic kidney, liver, and cardiac disease, in order to guide their right prescription in clinical practice. EXPERT OPINION There are few data about PK properties of AADs in a special population or challenging clinical setting. The use and dose of AADs is commonly based on physicians' clinical experience observing the clinical effects rather than being personalized on the individual patients PK profiles. More and updated studies are needed to validate a patient centered approach in the pharmacological treatment of arrhythmias based on patients' clinical features, including pharmacogenomics, and AAD pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Bottino
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Andreina Carbone
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonello D'Andrea
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Liccardo
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, Umberto I° Hospital Nocera Inferiore, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cimmino
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Egidio Imbalzano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Division of Cardiology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
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Lee WC, Wu PJ, Chen HC, Fang HY, Liu PY, Chen MC. Efficacy and Safety of Ablation for Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation in Elderly Patients: A Meta-Analysis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:734204. [PMID: 34616785 PMCID: PMC8489560 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.734204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Age affects the efficacy of pharmacological treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter ablation, including radiofrequency (RF) or cryoballoon ablation, is an effective strategy for symptomatic AF. This meta-analysis aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of AF ablation in elderly patients with AF compared to non-elderly patients with AF. Methods: We searched several databases for articles published between January 1, 2008 and March 31, 2020. Eighteen observational studies with 21,039 patients were analyzed. Data including recurrence of AF or atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA), complications, procedural time, and fluoroscopic time were compared between the elderly and non-elderly groups. Results: The elderly patients had significantly higher incidences of recurrent AF or ATA after AF ablation compared to the non-elderly patients (<60 years old) (odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-1.33). The elderly patients had significantly higher incidences of complications of AF ablation compared to the non-elderly patients (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.14-1.64). However, elderly AF patients with age ≥75 years old had similar incidence of recurrent AF or ATA and complication after AF ablation compared to non-elderly patients with AF. Conclusions: The elderly patients had significantly higher incidences of recurrent AF or ATA and complications after ablation for non-paroxysmal AF compared to non-elderly patients with AF (<60 years old), except in patients ≥75 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chieh Lee
- College of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jui Wu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Huang-Chung Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Yu Fang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Yen Liu
- College of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Mien-Cheng Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Asif T, Lee Chuy K, Malhotra S. Asystole following Regadenoson administration: Review of literature, risk factors and management. J Nucl Cardiol 2021; 28:2046-2055. [PMID: 32462632 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-020-02136-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Regadenoson, a selective A2A receptor agonist, is widely used for vasodilator stress myocardial perfusion imaging and has a superior adverse effect profile when compared with other agents. However, with widespread use, there have been several reported cases of Regadenoson induced bradyarrhythmias and even asystole in patients with no known conduction system disease. In this article, we report a case of asystole following Regadenoson administration, evaluate mechanisms and risk factors for Regadenoson induced bradyarrhythmias to better identify patients at risk. We also review the available treatment options and propose recommendations for limiting its risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talal Asif
- Division of Cardiology, Cook County Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Saurabh Malhotra
- Division of Cardiology, Cook County Health, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Division of Cardiology, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Lee WK, Shameem M, Ganti L, Banerjee PR, Shivdat J. Cardiac Arrest Following Treatment With Diltiazem for Atrial Fibrillation With Rapid Ventricular Response. Cureus 2020; 12:e11678. [PMID: 33391915 PMCID: PMC7769750 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.11678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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10
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Lin ZQ, Luo ZR, Li QZ, Chen LW, Lin F. Efficacy, safety, and long-term survival of concomitant valve replacement and bipolar radiofrequency ablation in patients aged 70 years and older: a comparative study with propensity score matching from a single-Centre. J Cardiothorac Surg 2020; 15:291. [PMID: 33008467 PMCID: PMC7531126 DOI: 10.1186/s13019-020-01322-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Concomitant bipolar radiofrequency ablation and valve replacement in the elderly remains controversial. In the current study, we aimed to compare the outcomes of concomitant valve replacement and bipolar radiofrequency ablation with valve replacement alone in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods This was a retrospective study of patients aged ≥70 years who underwent valve replacement with or without bipolar radiofrequency ablation in a single-centre between January 2006 and March 2015. The early postoperative results and long-term clinical outcomes were compared after propensity score matching. Results A total of 34 pairs of patients (73.94 ± 2.64 years old; 34 in the AF with ablation group and 34 in the AF without ablation group) were enrolled in the propensity score matching analysis. There were no significant differences between the two matched groups in terms of surgical mortality (5.88% vs. 2.94%, P = 0.555) and major postoperative morbidity. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a significantly better overall survival in the AF with ablation group compared to the AF without ablation group (P = 0.009). Cumulative incidence curves showed a lower incidence of cardiovascular death in the AF with ablation group (P = 0.025, Gray’s test). Patients in the AF with ablation group had a reduced incidence of stroke compared to patients in the AF with ablation group (P = 0.009, Gray’s test). The freedom from AF after 5 years was 58.0% in the AF with ablation group and 3.0% in the AF without ablation group. Conclusions The addition of bipolar radiofrequency ablation is a safe and feasible procedure, even in patients aged ≥70 years, with a better long-term survival and a reduced incidence of stroke compared to valve replacement alone. These findings suggest that bipolar radiofrequency ablation should always be considered as a concomitant procedure for elderly patients with AF who require cardiac surgery. However, a large-scale, prospective, multi-centre, randomized study should be performed in the future to fully validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Qin Lin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xinquan Road 29#, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeng-Rong Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xinquan Road 29#, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian-Zhen Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xinquan Road 29#, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang-Wan Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xinquan Road 29#, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Lin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Union Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Xinquan Road 29#, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, People's Republic of China.
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Lewis J, Gregorian T, Portillo I, Goad J. Drug interactions with antimalarial medications in older travelers: a clinical guide. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5644627. [PMID: 31776555 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Increasingly older adults are traveling to international destinations with malaria as a present risk. Surveillance systems indicate that older adults are more likely to suffer severe complications from malaria. The role of health care providers in selecting an appropriate medication for chemoprophylaxis or treatment of malaria in adults becomes more difficult as older adults undergo physiologic changes that alter the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic nature of medications potentially causing increased drug interactions, adverse events and altered drug action. A comprehensive literature search from 1970 to present, with a focus on the past 10 years, was conducted on drug interactions, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects on antimalarials in adults. It was determined that due to pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic changes in older adults, especially renal and cardiovascular, special attention should be given to this population of travelers in order to minimize the likelihood of adverse events or altered drug efficacy. Antimalarial drug-disease interactions in older adults can occur more often due to QT prolongation, exacerbation of hypoglycemia, decreased renal elimination and decreased hepatic metabolism. Older antimalarials have well-documented drug-drug interactions. Tafenoquine, a new antimalarial, requires glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase screening like primaquine and monitoring of new potential drug interaction with MATE1 and OCT2 substrates. While drug-drug interactions in older travelers may occur more often as a result of polypharmacy, data did not indicate adverse reactions or decreased drug efficacy is greater compared with younger adults. Overall, with the exception of recently approved tafenoquine, much is known about antimalarial drug and disease interactions, but new drugs are always being approved, requiring travel health providers to understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antimalarial drugs to predict the impact on safety and efficacy in travelers. This guide provides travel health providers with valuable insights on potential outcomes associated with drug interactions in adults and recommended monitoring or drug regimen modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Lewis
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Tania Gregorian
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ivan Portillo
- Leatherby Libraries, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jeff Goad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
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Pharmacokinetic profiles of boosted darunavir, dolutegravir and lamivudine in aging people living with HIV. AIDS 2020; 34:103-108. [PMID: 31490233 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The pharmacokinetics of antiretroviral drugs may differ in elderly people living with HIV (PLWH) because of age-related physiological changes. We aimed to assess the pharmacokinetics of several antiretroviral drugs in aging PLWH enrolled in the Swiss HIV Cohort (SHCS). DESIGN Full pharmacokinetic profiling nested in a multicenter, observational, prospective cohort study. Additional collection of single point pharmacokinetic data during SHCS follow-up visits (unselected PLWH). METHODS PLWH were eligible for the full pharmacokinetics investigation if they were over the age of 55 years, on a stable boosted darunavir-containing or dolutegravir-containing regimen. Single point measurements were prospectively collected during SHCS follow-up visits to compare antiretroviral drug exposure in aging (≥65 years) and younger (<65 years) PLWH. RESULTS Nineteen PLWH with a median age of 64 years participated in the full pharmacokinetic investigations. Single point pharmacokinetic data were collected for 804 PLWH with a median age of 52 years. Boosted darunavir clearance was 40% lower in aging (≥65 years) compared with younger (<65 years) PLWH, consistent with other drugs predominantly metabolized by CYP3A. Dolutegravir exposure was similar between age groups whereas lamivudine exposure increased by 11% in aging PLWH. Median boosted darunavir, dolutegravir and lamivudine t1/2 were 148%, 45% and 32% higher in aging compared with younger PLWH. CONCLUSION Advanced age did not affect boosted darunavir exposure to a clinically significant extent despite the observed high variability in exposure. Age minimally affected dolutegravir and lamivudine exposure. Thus, dose adjustment based on age is a priori not warranted.
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Abstract
The Beers Criteria identifies potentially inappropriate medications for patients who are 65 years of age and older. Initially published in 1991, the criteria have been updated multiple times, most recently in 2015. The Beers Criteria is a tool designed to alert health-care providers to the potential harms of specific medications so they may better tailor therapeutic regimens for their elderly patients. The expert panel of the 2015 update made changes to a number of previous recommendations and provided 2 new tables on select drug interactions and select medications requiring renal dose adjustments. The purpose of this review is to provide additional details and rationale behind selected noteworthy changes within the 2015 criteria. Specific information is provided on the changes in recommendations for the use of nitrofurantoin, antiarrhythmics, nonbenzodiazepine receptor agonist hypnotics, antipsychotics, and proton pump inhibitors in the elderly. Additional comparisons are made between the 2012 recommendations and newer recommendations made in the 2015 update, along with rationale for the change. This review will allow practitioners to apply the 2015 Beers Criteria and integrate their clinical judgment when evaluating and selecting drug therapy for elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Salbu
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Touro College of Pharmacy, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
- Guardian Consulting Services, NY 11042, USA
- Current affiliation
| | - Judith Feuer
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Touro College of Pharmacy, New York, NY, USA
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Antonio B, Gianni T, Elena F, Alice D, Gabriele T, Valentina S, Valentina S, Massimo Z, Giorgio R, Oliviero O. Emergency Department Readmission in Elderly Patients After Acute Rhythm or Rate Control Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2016; 9:1387. [PMID: 27909529 PMCID: PMC5129682 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.1387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Revised: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an age-related increasing disease, characterized by a high number of relapses frequently leading the patients to Emergency Department (ED). Despite AF relapses may be clinically heterogeneous, a proper management requires either a fast and effective restore of the sinus rhythm or a satisfactory control of the ventricular rate. Whether the strategy adopted in the ED could affect the course of disease is still debated. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the number of ED readmission for AF related symptoms and the event-free period in patients older than 70 years previously treated in ED for an AF recurrence, in order to assess a possible relationship with the acute strategy. An overall number of 302 recurrences of AF were drawn randomly, regarding 102 patients (mean age 78 years). We found that 206 cases (68.2%) were treated with rhythm restoration strategy (RR) whereas 96 (31.8%) with rate control strategy (RC). The median following event-free period was 118.6 +/- 15.5 and 212.9 +/- 37.1 days (p < 0.05) for RR and RC strategy, respectively. Within 6 months, 124 (60.1%) out of RR group patients and only 44 (45.8%) out of RC group patients had to be readmitted to ED for AF related symptoms (whether a recurrence or inefficient rate control symptoms) (p< 0.05). This advantage was substantially confirmed (79.1% vs 65.6% respectively, p < 0.05) after a 12 months follow-up. Our results indicate that acute treatment of AF may affect the long-term outcome of the disease and the ED readmission rate of the patient. Ventricular rate control seems to be associated with a longer event-free period if compared to the rhythm control strategy in the elderly patients. This suggests an age-based work-up of patients admitted to the ED, preferentially using ventricular rate control in elderly subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonora Antonio
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Turcato Gianni
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy, Postgraduate School of Emergency Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Franchi Elena
- Department of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata,Verona, Italy
| | - Dilda Alice
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Taioli Gabriele
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy, Postgraduate School of Emergency Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Serafini Valentina
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy, Postgraduate School of Emergency Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Sivero Valentina
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy, Postgraduate School of Emergency Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Zannoni Massimo
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Ricci Giorgio
- Emergency and Intensive Care Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Olivieri Oliviero
- Professor of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata,Verona, Italy, Chief of Postgraduate School of Emergency Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
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Emerging concepts on the use of antiretroviral therapy in older adults living with HIV infection. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2015; 28:17-22. [PMID: 25377310 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the overwhelming success of combination antiretroviral therapy, HIV infection is now a chronic, but manageable, medical condition. Consequently, HIV-infected cohorts are ageing leading to new challenges in the life-long management of this condition. Here, we review recent data concerning the modern treatment of older HIV-infected adults. RECENT FINDINGS HIV-infected cohorts are ageing with the majority of those infected predicted to be more than 50 years old within the next 2 decades. There is emerging evidence of increased antiretroviral drug exposure in older individuals, but the evidence this leads to increased toxicity is less clear-cut. In addition, the choice of antiretroviral agents is more challenging in older HIV-infected patients because of the presence of comorbidities, which occur more commonly and at a younger age than in HIV-uninfected individuals and because of a higher propensity for drug-drug interactions due to the use of concomitant medications. Specific recommendations regarding antiretroviral treatment of older HIV-infected individuals are lacking and prospective trials in older age groups are urgently needed. SUMMARY The use of antiretroviral therapies in older individuals is complex. Development of novel antiretrovirals and antiretroviral combinations with a low propensity for toxicity, drug-drug interactions and reliable pharmacology regardless of age is urgently needed.
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Walton RD, Jones SA, Rostron KA, Kayani AC, Close GL, McArdle A, Lancaster MK. Interactions of Short-Term and Chronic Treadmill Training With Aging of the Left Ventricle of the Heart. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2015; 71:1005-13. [PMID: 26248561 PMCID: PMC4945880 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glv093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With aging, there is a decline in cardiac function accompanying increasing risk of arrhythmias. These effects are likely to be mechanistically associated with age-associated changes in calcium regulation within cardiac myocytes. Previous studies suggest that lifelong exercise can potentially reduce age-associated changes in the heart. Although exercise itself is associated with changes in cardiac function, little is known about the interactions of aging and exercise with respect to myocyte calcium regulation. To investigate this, adult (12 months) and old (24 months) C57/Bl6 mice were trained using moderate-intensity treadmill running. In response to 10 weeks’ training, comparable cardiac hypertrophic responses were observed, although aging independently associated with additional cardiac hypertrophy. Old animals also showed increased L- and T-type calcium channels, the sodium–calcium exchange, sarcoendoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase, and collagen (by 50%, 92%, 66%, 88%, and 113% respectively). Short-term exercise training increased D-type and T-type calcium channels in old animals only, whereas an increase in sodium–calcium exchange was seen only in adult animals. Long-term (12 months) training generally opposed the effects of aging. Significant hypertrophy remained in long-term trained old animals, but levels of sarcoendoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase, sodium–calcium exchange, and collagen were not significantly different from those found in the adult trained animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anna C Kayani
- Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool
| | - Graeme L Close
- Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool
| | - Anne McArdle
- Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication use is a potentially modifiable risk factor for falling; psychotropic and cardiovascular drugs have been indicated as main drug groups that increase fall risk. However, evidence is mainly based on studies that recorded falls retrospectively and/or did not determine medication use at the time of the fall. Therefore, we investigated the associations indicated in the literature between medication use and falls, using prospectively recorded falls and medication use determined at the time of the fall. METHODS Data from the B-PROOF (B-vitamins for the prevention of osteoporotic fractures) study were used, concerning community-dwelling elderly aged ≥65 years. We included 2,407 participants with pharmacy dispensing records. During the 2- to 3-year follow-up, participants recorded falls using a fall calendar. Cox proportional hazard models were applied, adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, health status variables and concomitant medication use. RESULTS During follow-up, 1,147 participants experienced at least one fall. Users of anti-arrhythmic medication had an increased fall risk (hazard ratio [HR] 1.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-2.32) compared with non-users. Similarly, non-selective beta-blocker use was associated with an increased fall risk (HR 1.41 [95% CI 1.12-1.78]), while statin use was associated with a lower risk (HR 0.81 [95% CI 0.71-0.94]). Benzodiazepine use (HR 1.32 [95% CI 1.02-1.71]), and antidepressant use (HR 1.40 [95% CI 1.07-1.82]) were associated with an increased fall risk. Use of other cardiovascular and psychotropic medication was not associated with fall risk. CONCLUSION Our results strengthen the evidence for an increased fall risk in community-dwelling elderly during the use of anti-arrhythmics, non-selective beta-blockers, benzodiazepines, and antidepressant medication. Clinicians should prescribe these drugs cautiously and if possible choose safer alternatives for older patients.
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Ahmed N, Frontera A, Carpenter A, Cataldo S, Connolly GM, Fasiolo M, Cripps T, Thomas G, Diab I, Duncan ER. Clinical Predictors of Pacemaker Implantation in Patients with Syncope Receiving Implantable Loop Recorder with or without ECG Conduction Abnormalities. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2015; 38:934-41. [PMID: 25973599 DOI: 10.1111/pace.12666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implantable loop recorders (ILR) allow prolonged cardiac rhythm monitoring and improved diagnostic yield in syncope patients. Predictive factors for pacemaker (PM) implantation in the ILR population with unexplained syncope have not been adequately investigated. In this single center, retrospective, observational study we investigated factors that predict PM implantation in this population. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed our ILR database of patients aged over 18 years who underwent ILR implantation for unexplained syncope between January 2009 and June 2013. Patient case notes were examined for demographics, history, electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, investigations, and events during follow-up. The primary end-point was the detection of a symptomatic or asymptomatic bradycardia requiring PM implantation. RESULTS During a period of 4.5 years, 200 patients were implanted with ILR for unexplained syncope, of who n = 33 (16.5%) had clinically significant bradycardia requiring PM implantation. After multivariable analysis, history of injury secondary to syncope was found to be the strongest independent predictor for PM implantation (odds ratio [OR]:9.1; P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: (3.26-26.81). Other significant predictors included female sex, PR interval > 200msec, and age >75 years. In patients without conduction abnormalities on the ECG, history of injury secondary to syncope was found to be the strongest independent predictor for PM implantation (OR: 8.16; P = 0.00027; 95% [CI]: (2.67-26.27). CONCLUSIONS A history of injury secondary to syncope and female sex were independent predictive factors for bradycardia necessitating PM implantation in patients receiving an ILR for syncope with or without ECG conduction abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nauman Ahmed
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Frontera
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Carpenter
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Stafenia Cataldo
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Georgia M Connolly
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tim Cripps
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Glyn Thomas
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Ihab Diab
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Edward R Duncan
- Bristol Heart Institute, University Bristol Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Mestres C, Agustí A, Puerta L, Barba M. Prescription of potentially inappropriate drugs for geriatric patients in long-term care: improvement through pharmacist's intervention. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2014-000509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Amos TB, Keith SW, Del Canale S, Orsi P, Maggio M, Baccarini S, Gonzi G, Liu M, Maio V. Inappropriate prescribing in a large community-dwelling older population: a focus on prevalence and how it relates to patient and physician characteristics. J Clin Pharm Ther 2014; 40:7-13. [PMID: 25271047 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE The prescription of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) for older adults is a well-known population health concern. Updated country-specific estimates of inappropriate prescribing in older adults using germane explicit criteria are needed to facilitate physician-tailored quality improvement strategies. Therefore, we sought to determine the prevalence of PIMs for older adults in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, using the updated Maio criteria. We also evaluated patient and general practitioner (GP) characteristics related to inappropriate prescribing. METHODS Older adults (≥ 65) in 2012 were evaluated in a one-year retrospective study using administrative health care data. The 2011 Maio criteria includes 25 medications reimbursed by the Italian National Formulary, in the following categories in terms of severity: 16 medications that 'should always be avoided,' 3 that are 'rarely appropriate,' and 6 that have 'some indications although they are often misused.' To evaluate the extent of associations between patient and GP related characteristics, we used generalized estimating equations with an exchangeable covariance design to fit robust logistic regression models. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION A total of 865,354 older adults were in the cohort and 28% had at least one PIM. Of the entire cohort, 8%, 10%, and 14% of individuals were prescribed at least one medication that 'should always be avoided,' is 'rarely appropriate,' and has 'some indications but are often misused,' respectively. Older patients (≥ 75) and females were more likely to be exposed to PIMs. 2,923 GPs were identified in the region, each having prescribed at least one PIM, of which older GPs (≥ 56), male GPs, and solo practice GPs were more likely to prescribe PIMs to their older patients. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION The high prevalence of PIM exposure among older adults is a substantial issue in the region. Knowing how patient and GP characteristics relate to PIMs exposure may improve the design and targeting of initiatives for improving prescribing safety in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- T B Amos
- School of Population Health, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Palmisano P, Accogli M, Zaccaria M, Vergari A, De Masi GDL, Negro L, De Blasi S. Relationship between seasonal weather changes, risk of dehydration, and incidence of severe bradyarrhythmias requiring urgent temporary transvenous cardiac pacing in an elderly population. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2014; 58:1513-1520. [PMID: 24146304 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-013-0755-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Revised: 07/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
There is little information on any seasonal variations or meteorological factors associated with symptomatic bradyarrhythmias requiring cardiac pacing. The aim of this single-center study was to investigate the seasonal distribution of the incidence of severe, life-threatening bradyarrhythmias requiring urgent temporary transvenous cardiac pacing in an elderly population. Consecutive patients who underwent urgent temporary transvenous cardiac pacing between 2007 and 2012 were enrolled. The baseline characteristics of the patients and some meteorological parameters, including the calculation the daily heat index (HI), were recorded. During the study period, 79 consecutive patients (mean age 82 ± 8 years, 41% male) underwent urgent temporary transvenous cardiac pacing, mainly for third-degree atrioventricular block (79%). The incidence of bradyarrhythmias was significantly higher in summer than in the other seasons (P < 0.001). Moreover, the highest incidence was observed in months with HI > 90 °F for >3 h per day for at least 10 days (P < 0.001). A direct correlation was found between the average monthly temperature and the monthly number of patients undergoing temporary cardiac pacing (r = 0.54, P < 0.001). Compared with other patients, those observed during the hottest months were significantly older and more frequently affected by chronic disabling neurological diseases (all P < 0.05). In addition, they more frequently showed biochemical indices of dehydration, renal function impairment and hyperkalemia (all P < 0.05). This study showed an increased incidence of severe bradyarrhythmias in an elderly population during the hottest months of the year. In these months, in subjects characterized by increased susceptibility to dehydration, the risk of developing bradyarrhythmias was increased significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Palmisano
- Cardiology Unit, "Card. G. Panico" Hospital, Via S. Pio X, 4, 73039, Tricase, Lecce, Italy,
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Predictive factors for pacemaker implantation in patients receiving an implantable loop recorder for syncope remained unexplained after an extensive cardiac and neurological workup. Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:3450-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.04.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 02/12/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Winston A, Jose S, Gibbons S, Back D, Stohr W, Post F, Fisher M, Gazzard B, Nelson M, Gilson R, Orkin C, Johnson M, Palfreeman A, Chadwick D, Leen C, Schwenk A, Anderson J, Gompels M, Dunn D, Khoo S, Sabin C. Effects of age on antiretroviral plasma drug concentration in HIV-infected subjects undergoing routine therapeutic drug monitoring. J Antimicrob Chemother 2013; 68:1354-9. [PMID: 23435690 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of antiretroviral therapy may differ in older compared with younger subjects with HIV infection. We aimed to assess factors associated with plasma antiretroviral drug exposure, including age, within a large HIV-infected cohort undergoing therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). METHODS Data from the Liverpool TDM Registry were linked with the UK Collaborative HIV Cohort (CHIC) Study. All TDM of protease inhibitors (PIs) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) was included and in order to account for different antiretroviral drugs the plasma concentrations were standardized by group measurements according to drug, dosing and timing of TDM. Regression modelling was used to evaluate associations of drug exposure with age and clinical parameters, including hepatic transaminase results and time to antiretroviral treatment modification. RESULTS Data from 3589 TDM samples were available from 2447 subjects. The greatest numbers of plasma concentrations were assessed for lopinavir (22.4%), efavirenz (18.5%), atazanavir (17.0%) and saquinavir (11.6%). As age increased, median standardized NNRTI concentrations remained constant, whereas PI concentrations increased (correlation coefficient 0.04, P = 0.033). In a regression analysis stratified by antiretroviral drug class, standardized plasma concentrations were significantly associated with age for PIs (0.05 increase in standard deviation of drug concentration with each 10 year increase in age, P = 0.044), but not for NNRTIs or other clinical parameters, including hepatic transaminase results or time to antiretroviral treatment modification. CONCLUSIONS With increasing age, statistically significant rises in plasma PI exposure, but not NNRTI exposure, were observed. The clinical relevance of this observation merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Winston
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Division of Medicine, Imperial College London, St Mary's Hospital Campus, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.
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Cardiac arrhythmia and heart failure: From bench to bedside. J Geriatr Cardiol 2012; 8:131-2. [PMID: 22783298 PMCID: PMC3390068 DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1263.2011.00131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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