The flu vaccine shortage will put new emphasis on FluMist and antivirals

November 2004

The flu vaccine shortage will put new emphasis on FluMist and antivirals.

FluMist is now recommended for healthcare workers under 50. This is different from last year's guidelines. Those 50 and over or pregnant should still get the injection.

FluMist contains a live virus...and poses a slight risk of transmission to contacts. But it's okay unless recipients care for SEVERELY immunocompromised patients in special care units.

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New treatments are being used for skin infections
The flu vaccine shortage will put new emphasis on FluMist and antivirals
Anticoagulants stop warfarin prior to surgery or other invasive procedures
Anticoagulants The new oral anticoagulant Exanta (ximelagatran) won't be replacing warfarin any time soon
Asthma single IM dose of methylprednisolone instead of oral steroids
NSAIDs Lots of patients are asking about alternatives to Vioxx
Pediatrics Mild croup will be treated more frequently with dexamethasone
Pediatrics Nuvo lotion for head lice
Osteoporosis Do carbonated beverages cause bone loss
Women's Health Diflucan once a WEEK to PREVENT recurrent vaginal yeast infections
Supplements if prickly pear cactus can prevent hangovers
Neurology & Pain Parcopa, a new carbidopa/levodopa tablet that dissolves on the tongue
Neurology & Pain Acomplia (rimonabant), a promising new drug for obesity, smoking cessation, and high cholesterol
Gastroenterology Celiac disease (sprue) is more common than previously thought
Cardiology risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias with erythromycin

The flu vaccine shortage will put new emphasis on FluMist and antivirals

Get concise, unbiased advice for effective drug therapy, plus CE/CME

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