A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of carvedilol versus metoprolol on the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing coronary ...artery bypass grafting in randomized controlled trials. Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, CENTRAL, and Excepta Medica (EMBASE) were searched up to March 2013 for suitable randomized controlled trials. Data were pooled using random-effects model for pairwise analyses. A total of 4 trials with 601 patients were included in this analysis. Pairwise analyses showed that compared with metoprolol, carvedilol significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation (odds ratio 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.32 to 0.80). In conclusion, compared with metoprolol, carvedilol significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.
Abstract Team-based cardiovascular care, including the use of clinical pharmacists, can efficiently deliver high-quality care. This Joint Council Perspectives paper from the Cardiovascular Team and ...Prevention Councils of the American College of Cardiology provides background information on the clinical pharmacist’s role, training, certification, and potential utilization in a variety of practice models. Selected systematic reviews and meta-analyses, highlighting the benefit of clinical pharmacy services, are summarized. Clinical pharmacists have a substantial effect in a wide variety of roles in inpatient and ambulatory settings, largely through optimization of drug use, avoidance of adverse drug events, and transitional care activities focusing on medication reconciliation and patient education. Expansion of clinical pharmacy services is often impeded by policy, legislation, and compensation barriers. Multidisciplinary organizations, including the American College of Cardiology, should support efforts to overcome these barriers, allowing pharmacists to deliver high-quality patient care to the full extent of their education and training.
Abstract Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors serve as a valuable addition to the armamentarium of lipid lowering agents and have promising potential. By inhibiting the ...PCSK9 enzyme, this novel molecule leads to increase low density lipoprotiein (LDL) receptor density and decreased circulation of LDL. The fact the agent is a monoclonal antibody has led to limited drug interactions and minimized adverse drug events. It is critical for all providers to have a basic understanding of these novel therapies with their introduction and use for treatment.
PDF
