The Brown University Geriatric Psychopharmacology Update articles from June 2006

The Brown University Geriatric Psychopharmacology Update archives from June 2006

New study investigates donepezil for severe Alzheimer's disease.(Alzheimer's Disease)
June 1, 2006... According to the results of a new 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the April 1 issue of The Lancet, the cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) donepezil (Aricept) may improve cognition and preserve function in nursing-home...

Advocates pleased with FDA committee review of ADHD medications.(ADHD Black Box Warning Update)(attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)
June 1, 2006... A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) committee review of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication last month indicating the need for stronger language rather than a "black box" warning about potential risks has garnered praise...

Hepatitis linked to low-dose venlafaxine.(Adverse Events)
June 1, 2006... Vasomotor symptoms, or hot flushes, in postmenopausal women have been primarily treated with hormone replacement therapy. However, concerns regarding the safety of oral estrogen have led to their declined use over the years for long-term...

Venlafaxine IR, fluoxetine and placebo effective in reducing depression in elderly.(What's New in Research)(Clinical report)
June 1, 2006... A new double-blind, placebo-controlled study reports a significant reduction in depression in elderly patients who received one of three types of treatment for 8 weeks: venlafaxine immediate release (IR), fluoxetine or placebo. There were no...

Selegiline may slow progression of Parkinson's disease.(What's New in Research)(Clinical report)
June 1, 2006... Phase III results of a 7-year Swedish study found that selegiline in combination with levodopa significantly slowed the signs and symptoms of Parkinsons's disease (PD) compared with placebo. The first 2 phases have been published in a previous...

Medroxyprogesterone for inappropriate sexual behavior in male dementia patients.(Case Report)
June 1, 2006... Five case reports document successful use of the hormone medroxyprogesterone (MPA) to treat disinhibition and inappropriate sexual behavior in male patients with dementia. MPA is a synthetic progestin indicated for various hormonal-related...

50 mg topiramate tablets.(From the FDA)(Brief article)
June 1, 2006... Tentative approval has been granted for topiramate 50 mg tablets, manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals. Tentative approval has already been given to Teva for topiramate in 25 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg strengths. Final approval is expected in...

Approval: Naltrexone injectable suspension (Vivitrol).(From the FDA)(Brief article)
June 1, 2006... On April 14 the FDA approved naltrexone injectable suspension for extended release (Vivitrol) the first injectable medication for treating alcohol dependence. Vivitrol is an opioid antagonist indicated for outpatients who can abstain from...

Mirtazapine (generic): remeron, remeron soltab (brand).(YOUR MEDICATION INFORMATION)
June 1, 2006... CLASSIFICATION: Antidepressant. COMMON USAGE: Mirtazapine is indicated for the treatment of major depression in adults. IMPORTANT SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, drowsiness, fatigue, constipation, increased appetite/weight gain (about 7% of...