Effects of dexmedetomidine in non-operating room anesthesia in adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Abstract Background: Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is an α2-adrenergic receptor agonist used for its sedative, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects. Non-Operating Room Anesthesia (NORA) is a modality of anesthesia that can be done under general anesthesia or procedural sedation or/and analgesia. In this particular setting, a level-2 sedation, such as the one provided by DEX, is beneficial. We aimed to study the effects and safety of DEX in the different NORA settings in the adult population. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted. Interventions using DEX only or DEX associated with other sedative agents, in adults (18 years old or more), were included. Procedures outside the NORA setting and/or without a control group without DEX were excluded. MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, LILACS, and SciELO were searched. The primary outcome was time until full recovery. Secondary outcomes included hemodynamic and respiratory complications and other adverse events, among others. Results: A total of 97 studies were included with a total of 6,706 participants. The meta-analysis demonstrated that DEX had a higher time until full recovery (95% CI = [0.34, 3.13] minutes, a higher incidence of hypotension (OR = 1.95 [1.25, 3.05], p = 0.003, I2 = 39%) and bradycardia (OR = 3.60 [2.29, 5.67], p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%), and a lower incidence of desaturation (OR = 0.40 [0.25, 0.66], p = 0.0003, I2 = 60%). Conclusion: DEX in NORA procedures in adults was associated with a lower incidence of amnesia and respiratory effects but had a long time to recovery and more hemodynamic complications..

Sedative use and incidence of falls and hip fractures among older adults in an outpatient geriatric clinic / Perfil de uso de sedativos e ocorrência de quedas e fratura de fêmur entre idosos em um ambulatório de geriatria

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the use of sedatives by older adults attending a private outpatient geriatric clinic in Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil, and its association with falls and hip fractures. METHODS: Using a longitudinal design, the prevalence of benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine ("z-drugs") intake by older adults was described and their association with the incidence of falls and fractures (30 days after the initial visit) was evaluated through logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 7821 older adults were included in the study, most of them women (72.50%), with a mean age of 77.5 years and a mean Clinical-Functional Vulnerability Index (IVCF-20) score of 16.5. The overall prevalence of sedative use (any sedative) was 6.19%, with 4.48% benzodiazepines and 1.98% z-drugs. The most widely used sedatives were clonazepam (29.04%), zolpidem (28.65%), and alprazolam (23.44%). Falls were reported for 182 patients (2.33%), with a higher incidence among users of any sedatives (4.34; p = 0.002; OR = 1.94, adjusted for sex, age, and IVCF-20) and benzodiazepines (5.14%; p < 0.001; OR = 2.28) than among non-users (2.19%). Hip fractures occurred in 33 patients (0.42%), and again were more frequent among users of sedatives (1.03%; p = 0.032; OR = 2.57) and benzodiazepines (1.43%; p = 0.003; OR = 3.45) than among non-users (0.38%). CONCLUSIONS: The use of sedatives, especially benzodiazepines, is associated with an increased incidence of falls and hip fractures in older adults

OBJETIVO: Investigar a utilização de sedativos entre idosos atendidos em ambulatório privado de geriatria em Belo Horizonte (MG), bem como sua associação com quedas e fraturas de fêmur. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de estudo longitudinal, no qual foi descrita a prevalência de uso de benzodiazepínicos e drogas Z entre idosos (60 anos ou mais) e avaliada sua associação com a incidência de queda e fratura (30 dias após consulta inicial) por meio de regressão logística. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 7821 idosos, com maioria feminina (72,50%), idade média de 77,5 anos e Índice de Vulnerabilidade Clínico Funcional (IVCF-20) médio de 16,5 pontos. A prevalência de uso de sedativos em geral foi de 6,19%, sendo 4,48% de benzodiazepínicos e 1,98% de drogas Z. Os medicamentos sedativos mais utilizados foram clonazepam (29,04%), zolpidem (28,65%) e alprazolam (23,44%). Relatou-se queda para 182 idosos (2,33%), com incidência maior entre usuários de sedativos (4,34; p = 0,002; OR = 1,94 ajustada por sexo, idade e IVCF-20) e de benzodiazepínicos (5,14%; p < 0,001; OR = 2,28) do que entre não usuários (2,19%). Identificou-se fratura de fêmur em 33 idosos (0,42%), sendo mais frequente entre usuários de sedativos (1,03%; p = 0,032; OR = 2,57) e de benzodiazepínicos (1,43%; p = 0,003; OR = 3,45) do que entre não usuários (0,38%). CONCLUSÃO: Concluiu-se que a incidência de quedas e fraturas de fêmur em idosos possui associação com o uso de medicamentos sedativos, em especial os benzodiazepínicos

Uso ambulatorio de medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados en adultos mayores usuarios de la RAP Metropolitana de ASSE durante 2019 / Potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults assisted as outpatients in ASSE's Metropolitan RAP (Primary Health Care) during 2019 / Uso ambulatorial de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados em idosos usuários da RAPE Metropolitana da ASSE durante 2019

Introducción: los adultos mayores son una población de riesgo para el desarrollo de reacciones adversas a los medicamentos. Los medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados son aquellos que representan mayores riesgos que beneficios en este grupo etario. Se cuenta con herramientas de apoyo a la prescripción en geriatría que permiten identificar a estos medicamentos y mediante la aplicación de estudios de utilización de medicamentos, podemos describir o analizar el uso de los mismos en una población. Objetivos: reconocer disponibilidad de medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados para adultos mayores en la RAP metropolitana de ASSE durante 2019 y establecer un diagnóstico de situación de consumo de los mismos durante ese año. Método: se realizó un análisis del vademécum institucional mediante la aplicación de los Criterios de Beers 2019 y dos escalas de riesgo anticolinérgico para identificar medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados. Posteriormente se realizó un estudio de utilización de los medicamentos identificados, mediante datos de dispensación de farmacia entre el 1 de enero y 31 de diciembre de 2019. El consumo se expresó en Dosis Diarias Definidas por cada 1000 adultos mayores-año (DHD). Resultados: se identificaron 16 medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados, de los cuales los más usados fueron clonazepam (DHD 69), quetiapina (65,6), alprazolam (DHD 43,7), flunitrazepam (DHD 42,7) y zolpidem (DHD 36,4). Conclusiones: la aplicación de herramientas explícitas facilita la identificación de medicamentos potencialmente inapropiados para adultos mayores y se evidenció un consumo elevado de los mismos durante el año 2019 a expensas de derivados benzodiazepínicos y quetiapina.

Introduction: older adults are at higher risk for developing adverse drug reactions. Potentially inappropriate medications are drugs that have more risks than benefits in this age group. There are a number of tools to support the prescription of medication in geriatrics that allow the identification of these medications, and by applying studies developed on the use of medications we may describe or analyze their impact on a given population. Objectives: to recognize availability of potentially inappropriate medications in older adults in ASSE's Metropolitan RAP during 2019 and to draw conclusions about the current situation in terms of the consumption of this kind of medications. Method: an institutional analysis of medications available in each healthcare provided was conducted through the application of Beers Criteria 2019, and two anticholinergic risk scales were used to identify potentially inappropriate medications. Subsequently, the use of the medications identified was studied by applying pharmacy dispensing data between January 1 and December 31, 2019. Consumption was expressed in defined daily doses every 1000 adults per year (DHD). Results: 16 potentially inappropriate medications were identified, the most widely used of which were clonazepam (DHD 69), quetiapine (65.6), alprazolam (DHD 43.7), flunitrazepam (DHD 42.7) and zolpidem (DHD 36.4). Conclusions: Applying explicit tools makes it easier to identify potentially inappropriate medications for older adults. An increased consumption of these kinds of drugs was noticed during 2019, as a result of benzodiazepine derivatives and quetiapine.

Introdução: os idosos são uma população de risco para o desenvolvimento de reações adversas a medicamentos. Medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados são aqueles que apresentam maiores riscos do que benefícios nessa faixa etária. Existem ferramentas de apoio à prescrição em geriatria que permitem identificar esses medicamentos e, por meio da aplicação de estudos de utilização de medicamentos, descrever ou analisar seu uso em uma população. Objetivos: reconhecer a disponibilidade de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados para idosos na RAP metropolitana da ASSE durante o ano de 2019 e estabelecer um diagnóstico de consumo durante esse ano. Método: o formulário institucional foi analisado utilizando os Critérios de Beers 2019 e duas escalas de risco anticolinérgico para identificar medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados. Posteriormente, foi realizado um estudo de consumo dos medicamentos identificados, através dos dados de dispensação da farmácia entre 1 de janeiro e 31 de dezembro de 2019. O consumo foi expresso em Doses Diárias Definidas por 1000 idosos-ano (DHD). Resultados: foram identificados 16 medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados, sendo clonazepam (DHD 69), quetiapina (65,6), alprazolam (DHD 43,7), flunitrazepam (DHD 42,7) e zolpidem (DHD 36,4) os mais utilizados Conclusões: a aplicação de ferramentas explícitas facilita a identificação de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados para idosos; foi observado um alto consumo dos mesmos em detrimento dos derivados benzodiazepínicos e da quetiapina durante o período do estudo.

Estratégias para manejo e prevenção da síndrome de abstinência em pacientes pediátricos críticos: revisão sistemática / Strategies for the management and prevention of withdrawal syndrome in critically ill pediatric patients: a systematic review

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar as estratégias de prevenção e tratamento da síndrome de abstinência em unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica. Métodos: Trata-se de revisão sistemática nas bases de dados PubMed®, Lilacs, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, Cinahl, Cochrane Database Systematic Review e CENTRAL. Uma estratégia de busca em três etapas foi utilizada para esta revisão. O protocolo da revisão foi aprovado no PROSPERO (CRD42021274670). Resultados: Foram incluídos na análise 12 artigos. Observou-se grande heterogeneidade entre os estudos incluídos, principalmente em se tratando de esquemas terapêuticos utilizados na sedação e na analgesia. As doses de midazolam variaram de 0,05mg/kg/hora a 0,3mg/kg/hora. A morfina também variou consideravelmente, de 10mcg/kg/hora a 30mcg/kg/hora entre os estudos. A escala mais utilizada para identificação da síndrome de abstinência, entre os 12 estudos selecionados, foi a Sophia Observational Widrawal Symptoms Scale. Em três estudos, houve diferença estatística relevante na prevenção e no manejo da síndrome de abstinência com a implantação de protocolos (p < 0,01 e p < 0,001). Conclusão: Observou-se grande variação entre o regime de sedoanalgesia utilizado entre os estudos e o método de desmame e avaliação de síndrome de abstinência. São necessários mais estudos para fornecer evidências mais robustas acerca do tratamento mais indicado para prevenção e redução dos sinais e sintomas de abstinência em crianças criticamente doentes. Registro PROSPERO:CRD 42021274670

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify strategies for the prevention and treatment of abstinence syndrome in a pediatric intensive care unit. Methods: This is a systematic review in the PubMed database®, Lilacs, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, Cinahl, Cochrane Database Systematic Review and CENTRAL. A three-step search strategy was used for this review, and the protocol was approved in PROSPERO (CRD42021274670). Results: Twelve articles were included in the analysis. There was great heterogeneity among the studies included, especially regarding the therapeutic regimens used for sedation and analgesia. Midazolam doses ranged from 0.05mg/kg/hour to 0.3mg/kg/hour. Morphine also varied considerably, from 10mcg/kg/hour to 30mcg/kg/hour, between studies. Among the 12 selected studies, the most commonly used scale for the identification of withdrawal symptoms was the Sophia Observational Withdrawal Symptoms Scale. In three studies, there was a statistically significant difference in the prevention and management of the withdrawal syndrome due to the implementation of different protocols (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). Conclusion: There was great variation in the sedoanalgesia regimen used by the studies and the method of weaning and evaluation of withdrawal syndrome. More studies are needed to provide more robust evidence about the most appropriate treatment for the prevention and reduction of withdrawal signs and symptoms in critically ill children. PROSPERO register: CRD 42021274670

Prevalência do Uso de Álcool, Tabaco e Hipnóticos/Sedativos por Idosos Atendidos em Estratégias de Saúde da Família / Prevalence of Alcohol, Tobacco and Hypnotic/Sedative use by the Elderly in Family Health Strategies

Introdução: A população idosa está crescendo cada vez mais, e esse aumento da longevidade traz consigo a percepção sobre os prejuízos no acúmulo de carga tabágica e alcoólica. O idoso acumula também comorbidades que requerem medicações prescritas. Destaca-se o uso de hipnóticos/sedativos nesta população. Métodos: Estudo observacional com delineamento transversal prospectivo em indivíduos com 60 anos ou mais atendidos em três unidades de Estratégias de Saúde da Família. Resultados: Foram avaliados 350 idosos sendo a maioria da amostra composta por mulheres (61,1%), com a mediana de idade de 69,0, maioria era de casadas (53,7%), ensino fundamental incompleto (57,1%), aposentadas (68%) e com renda menor que 3 salários mínimos (56%). Dos entrevistados, 21,4% apresentavam transtorno depressivo maior, 16,9% transtorno de ansiedade generalizada e 48,0% insônia. 38,6% dos idosos, faziam uso de hipnóticos/sedativos, com prevalência de benzodiazepínicos (28%), 34% das pessoas fizeram uso de bebidas alcoólicas e 14,3%, de cigarros. Conclusão: Foi possível concluir que a população com maior prevalência sobre o uso de álcool, tabaco e hipnóticos/sedativos foi de mulheres, casadas, aposentadas, de baixa renda e baixa escolaridade. Tanto no álcool quanto no tabaco, o homem necessita mais de intervenção. Quando são analisadas ambas as substâncias, percebe-se que 54% dos que fumaram nos últimos 3 meses também ingeriram bebidas alcoólicas. Existe uma relação íntima entre as comorbidades estudadas e o uso de hipnóticos/sedativos, visto que estes são utilizados na maioria dos tratamentos dessas doenças. Tal relação já não foi possível ser feita com álcool e tabaco.

Introduction: The elderly population is growing progressively, and this increase in longevity brings with it the perception of the damages of accumulating a tobacco and alcohol load. The elderly also develop comorbidities that require prescribed medications. The use of hypnotics/sedatives in this population stands out. Method: observational study with prospective cross-sectional design in individuals aged 60 years or older seen at three Family Health Strategy units. Results: After evaluating 350 elderly, most of the sample was composed of women (61.1%), with a median age of 69.0, most were married (53.7%), had incomplete elementary school education (57.1%), were retired (68%) and had an income of less than three minimum wages (56%). Of the interviewed, 21.4% had major depressive disorder, 16.9% had generalized anxiety disorder, and 48.0% had insomnia. Also, 38.6% of the elderly used hypnotics/sedatives, with a prevalence of benzodiazepines (28%), 34% used alcoholic beverages, and 14.3% used cigarettes. Conclusion: It was possible to conclude that the population with the highest prevalence of the use of alcohol, tobacco, and hypnotics/sedatives were women, married, retired, with low income and low education. Both in alcohol and tobacco, men need more intervention. After analyzing both substances, it was clear that 54% of those who smoked in the last three months also drank alcoholic beverages. There is an intimate relationship between the comorbidities studied and the use of hypnotics/sedatives. Since these are predominant treatments for these diseases, such a relationship could not be made with alcohol and tobacco.

Uso de benzodiazepinas y fármacos relacionados en el seguro social para adultos mayores de Argentina / Use of benzodiazepines and related drugs in social security for older adults in Argentina

Resumen El uso clínico de las benzodiazepinas (BZD) y fármacos relacionados es un tema controversial, especialmente la prescripción prolongada en adultos mayores, que es contraria a las recomendaciones generales. Nuestro objetivo fue describir el uso de BZD y de los hipnóticos denominados fármacos Z (zolpidem, zopiclona y eszopiclona) en los adultos mayores beneficiarios del Instituto Nacional de Servicios Sociales para Jubilados y Pensionados (INSSJP-PAMI) de Argentina. Se realizó un estudio de utilización de medicamentos observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, a partir de la base de datos de dispensa de medicamentos del Instituto. Se incluyeron los beneficiarios de ambos sexos de 65 años y más. Se calculó para cada fármaco la prevalencia de uso en 2018 y las dosis diarias definidas (DDD) por cada 1000 habitantes/día (DHD). Se inclu yeron 3 864 949 beneficiarios (77.6 % de la población argentina de esa edad, 61.2 % mujeres), con 184 000 nonagenarios y más de 5000 centenarios. El 30.3 % recibió al me nos una dispensa de BZD o fármacos Z durante 2018, con mayor prevalencia de uso en mujeres (35.6%) que en varones (22.0%) y con aumento progresivo hasta los 85-89 años, y descenso posterior. Las BZD más recetadas fueron alprazolam (41.6%) y clonazepam (41.1%), seguidas por lorazepam (9.9%). La dispensa alcanzó 252.7 DHD, representado un promedio de 0.8 DDD por usuario y por día, valor que disminuyó con la edad. La prevalencia de uso encontrada está entre las más elevadas a nivel internacional, justificando la implementación de intervenciones clínicas y de salud pública para mejorar esta situación.

Abstract The clinical use of benzodiazepines (BZD) and related drugs is a controversial issue, especially prolonged prescription in older adults, which is contrary to general recommendations. Our objective was to describe the use of BZD and the hypnotics called Z drugs (zolpidem, zopiclone and eszopiclone) in elderly beneficiaries of the National Institute of Social Services for Retirees and Pensioners (INSSJP-PAMI) of Argentina. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional drug use study was conducted based on the Institute's drug dispensing database. Beneficiaries of both sexes aged 65 years and over were included. The prevalence of use in 2018 and the defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants / day (DHD) were calculated for each drug. A total of 3 864 949 benefi ciaries were included (77.6% of the Argentine population of that age, 61.2% women), with 184 000 nonagenar ians and more than 5000 centenarians; 30.3% of whom received at least one dispensation of BZD or "Z drugs" during 2018, with a higher prevalence of use in women (35.6%) than in men (22.0%) and with a progressive increase until 85-89 years, with a subsequent decrease. The most prescribed BZDs were alprazolam (41.6%) and clonazepam (41.1%), followed by lorazepam (9.9%). The dispense drugs reached 252.7 DHD, representing an average of 0.8 DDD per user and per day, a value that decreased with age. The prevalence of use found is among the highest at international level, justifying the implementation of clinical and public health interventions to improve this situation.

Dependence on hypnotics: a comparative study between chronic users of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs

Objective: To evaluate dependence among chronic benzodiazepine and Z-drug users in Brazil. Methods: Chronic users of benzodiazepines (n=94), Z-drugs (n=74), or both (n=11) were recruited from the community, underwent a psychiatric evaluation and completed self-report instruments on hypnotic dependence, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Users of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs were compared using t-tests, and logistic regression models were employed to explore significant predictors of a dependence diagnosis. Results: There was no difference in the prevalence of dependence among benzodiazepine (77.2%) and Z-drug (69.4%) users. Benzodiazepine users reported increased psychosocial aspects of dependence, anxiety, and depression. Preoccupation with the availability of medication (prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.39 [1.15-5.20]) and insomnia (PR = 1.10 [1.02-1.19]) were associated with a diagnosis of dependence (n=175). Conclusion: The prevalence of dependence was similar among both drug classes. The increased self-reported dependence, anxiety, and depression among benzodiazepine users may be due to behavioral rather than pharmacological aspects of medication use. Behaviors related to hypnotic use were important predictors of dependence.

What's new in insomnia? Diagnosis and treatment / Quais a novidades em insônia? Diagnóstico e tratamento

ABSTRACT Although, insomnia is one of the most common diseases that health professionals face in their practice, it receives little attention in medical training. Diagnosis is based on a careful history taking, and physicians must be aware of the diagnostic criteria. Insomnia should not be considered a symptom, but a comorbid condition. Although cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been the mainstay treatment for insomnia for many years, it is usually regarded as a novel therapeutic strategy, both because of scarcity of qualified psychologists and of limited knowledge about insomnia among physicians. GABA receptor acting drugs are being abandoned in the treatment of insomnia because of abuse and dependence potential and accident risk. Two main current therapeutic options with the best scientific evidence are the tricyclic antidepressant, doxepin, and a new melatoninergic receptor agonist, ramelteon. Newer drugs to treat insomnia are in the pipeline. Hypocretine blocking agents will be marketed in the near future.

RESUMO Embora a insônia seja uma das doenças mais comuns encontrada por profissionais de saúde em sua prática quotidiana, está ainda é negligenciada nos currículos médicos. O diagnóstico baseia-se em anamnese cuidadosa e os médicos devem conhecer os critérios diagnósticos. A insônia não deve ser considerada apenas um sintoma, mas uma comorbidade. Apesar de a terapia cognitivo comportamental (TCC) para insônia ser a principal opção terapêutica há muito anos, esta modalidade terpêutica ainda é considerada uma nova estratégia pela escassez de psicólogos qualificados e pelo desconhecimento médico acerca da insônia. Os fármacos que atuam nos receptores GABA vêm sendo abandonados no tratamento da insônia devido ao potencial de abuso e dependência e pelo risco de acidentes. As duas principais opções terapêutica para insônia com melhor evidência científica são um antigo antidepressivo tricíclico, a doxepina, e um novo agonista do receptor melatoninérgico, a ramelteona. Novas drogas para insônia estão em processo de aprovação regulatória e comercialização. As mais próximas de serem liberadas para o mercado são as drogas bloqueadoras do sistema da hipocretina.

Prescribing Pattern of Benzodiazepine Receptor Agonists (BZRA) and Factors Associated With Duration of BZRA Use in a Malaysian Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic

@#Introduction: Benzodiazepine receptor agonist (BZRA) are among the most frequently used psychotropic medications worldwide. We aim to understand the pattern of prescription of BZRA in the government healthcare facilities and identify factors affecting the likelihood of BZRA prescription and duration of use. Method: This is a retrospective study. Data was obtained from record of outpatient clinical notes. Medications studied were midazolam, alprazolam, lorazepam, bromazepam, clonazepam, diazepam and zolpidem. Mean duration per prescription, mean dosage per prescription and duration per patient per year were calculated for each sedative hypnotic. The likelihood of factors affecting duration of prescription were also analysed. Results: The prevalence of sedative hypnotic use in psychiatry outpatient clinic was 12.16%. Clonazepam was found to have the longest duration per patient per year (306.5 days). Insomnia and anxiety are the two most common reasons for sedative hypnotic prescription. Factors found to affect duration of prescription were unemployment, borderline personality disorder, alcohol and substance use disorders. Conclusion: Implementation of effective monitoring system on sedative hypnotic prescribing and increase use of non-pharmacological interventions for insomnia and anxiety are necessary to curb prolonged use of sedative hypnotic.

Effect of obesity on dose-effect relationship of remimazolam when combined with alfentanil in painless gastroscopy / 中华麻醉学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of obesity on the dose-effect relationship of remimazolam when combined with alfentanil in painless gastroscopy.Methods:American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Ⅰor Ⅱ patients of both sexes, scheduled for elective painless gastroscopy, aged 18-64 yr, were divided into 2 groups according to the body mass index (BMI): normal (BMI 19-24 kg/m 2) group and obese (BMI≥28 kg/m 2) group.Alfentanil 5 μg/kg combined with remimazolam was given intravenously in all the patients, and the dose of remimazolam was determined by the modified Dixon′s up-and-down method.The initial dose of remimazolam was 0.25 mg/kg, and each time the dose was increased or decreased by 0.05 mg/kg based on the sedative effect.The response was defined as positive when the responses that affected the operation of examination developed during insertion of the gastroscope and within the first 2 min of examination such as swallowing, bucking or body movement.This process was repeated until the seventh intersection occurred.The 50% effective dose (ED 50), 95% effective dose (ED 95), and 95% confidence interval ( CI) of remimazolam were calculated by probit method. Results:There were 26 patients in normal group and 18 patients in obese group.The ED 50 (95% CI) of remimazolam was 0.196 (0.087-0.274) mg/kg, and the ED 95 (95% CI) was 0.322 (0.256-1.397) mg/kg in normal group.The ED 50 (95% CI) of remimazolam was 0.125 (0.102-0.148) mg/kg, and the ED 95 (95% CI) was 0.161 (0.141-0.242) mg/kg in obese group.The ED 50 and ED 95 were significantly lower in obese group than in normal group ( P<0.001). Conclusions:Obesity increases the potency of remimazolam when combined with alfentanil 5 μg/kg in the patients undergoing painless gastroscopy.

Aromatherapy combined with Yin-Yang massage for treatment of insomnia / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effects of aromatherapy combined with Yin-Yang massage on insomnia in patients. Methods:A total of 120 patients with insomnia who received treatment in Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between September 2017 and December 2019 were included in this study. They were randomly assigned to undergo either aromatherapy (control group, n = 60) or aromatherapy combined with Yin-Yang massage (observation group, n = 60) for 7 days. After treatment, response rate and anxiety status were recorded in each group. Before and after treatment, the scores of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, frequency of taking sleeping pills, and the incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups. Results:Response rate in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group [90.00% vs. 73.34%, χ2 = 5.57, P < 0.05]. After treatment, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group [(9.47 ± 3.65) points vs. (12.45 ± 2.17) points, t = 5.44, P < 0.05]. The frequency of taking sleeping pills in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group [(1.19 ± 0.41) times vs. (2.07 ± 0.98) times, t = 6.42, P < 0.05]. There were 0, 3 and 57 cases of severe, moderate and mild anxiety in the observation group, and 5, 18 and 37 cases of severe, moderate and mild anxiety in the control group. There was significant difference in anxiety status between the two groups ( Z = 19.78, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups ( P > 0.05). Conclusion:Aromatherapy combined with Yin-Yang massage can effectively alleviate anxiety in patients with insomnia, improve sleep quality and is highly safe.

Associação entre fatores sociodemográficos e consumo de álcool, tabaco e hipnóticos em mulheres rurais / Asociación entre factores sociodemográficos y consumo de alcohol, tabaco e hipnóticos en mujeres rurales / Association between sociodemographic factors and consumption of alcohol, tobacco and hypnotics in rural women

Objetivo: investigar a associação entre fatores sociodemográficos e consumo de álcool, tabaco e hipnóticos em mulheres rurais. Método: estudo transversal realizado com 259 mulheres rurais. Para a coleta dos dados, utilizou-se formulário estruturado e o Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test. Para a análise empregou-se o Teste qui-quadrado e/ou Exato de Fisher com intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados: observou-se associação entre o uso do tabaco e a cor (p=0,041), a crença religiosa (p=0,001) e benefício governamental (p=0,006). Houve associação entre o consumo de álcool e a crença religiosa (p≤0,001). Quanto a necessidade de intervenção, observou-se associação entre tabaco e cor (p=0,009), renda (p=0,001) e benefício governamental (p=0,006), assim como álcool e idade (p=0,035), crença religiosa (p=0,006) e renda (p=0,002). Conclusão: fatores como religião, cor, renda, idade e benefício governamental estão associados ao uso de álcool e tabaco em mulheres rurais.

Objetivo: investigar la asociación entre factores sociodemográficos y consumo de alcohol, tabaco e hipnótico en mujeres rurales. Método: estudio transversal realizado con 259 mujeres rurales. Para la recolección de datos, se utilizó un formulario estructurado y se utilizó la Prueba de Detección de Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test. Para el análisis se utilizó el Chi-Cuadrado y/o la Prueba Exacta de Fisher con un intervalo de confianza del 95%. Resultados: hubo asociación entre el consumo de tabaco y el color (p=0,041), la creencia religiosa (p=0,001) y el beneficio gubernamental (p=0,006). Hubo una asociación entre el consumo de alcohol y las creencias religiosas (p≤0,001). En cuanto a la necesidad de intervención, hubo una asociación entre el tabaco y el color (p=0,009), los ingresos (p=0,001) y el beneficio del gobierno (p=0,006), así como el alcohol y la edad (p=0,035), las creencias religiosas (p=0,006) y los ingresos (p=0,002). Conclusión: factores como la religión, el color, los ingresos, la edad y el beneficio del gobierno están asociados con el consumo de alcohol y tabaco en las mujeres rurales.

Objective: to investigate the association between sociodemographic factors and alcohol, tobacco and hypnotic consumption in rural women. Method: cross-sectional study conducted with 259 rural women. For data collection, a structured form was used and the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test was used. For the analysis, the Chi-Square and/or Fisher's Exact Test with a 95% confidence interval was used. Results: there was an association between tobacco use and color (p=0.041), religious belief (p=0.001) and governmental benefit (p=0.006). There was an association between alcohol consumption and religious belief (p≤0.001). Regarding the need for intervention, there was an association between tobacco and color (p=0.009), income (p=0.001) and government benefit (p=0.006), as well as alcohol and age (p=0.035), religious belief (p=0.006) and income (p=0.002). Conclusion: factors such as religion, color, income, age and government benefit are associated with alcohol and tobacco use in rural women.

Prácticas nacionales de analgesia, sedación y delirium en las Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos de adultos en Chile / Analgesia, sedation, neuromuscular blockade and delirium management practices in Chilean intensive care units

Background: The appropriate use of analgesia, sedation, neuromuscular blockade and the diagnosis and prevention of delirium (ASBD) are associated with better outcomes in critically ill patients at Intensive Care Unit (ICUs). Aim: To know the practices about analgesia, sedation, delirium, and neuromuscular blockade use among healthcare professionals working in adult ICUs in Chile. Material and Methods: An electronic survey was sent to 812 professionals working in ICUs using a previously published instrument, which was adapted and authorized by the author. Results: We received 278 surveys. Fifty two percent of respondents were physicians, 34% nurses and 11% physical therapists. Their age ranged between 30 and 39 years in 43% and was over 50 years in 9%. Eighty four percent evaluated pain routinely, but only 26% use a validated scale. Sedation was routinely evaluated with a validated scale and 73% referred to have a protocol. Neuromuscular block is seldom used, and little monitoring occurs (43%). Delirium is routinely evaluated by 48% of respondents, usually using the CAM-ICU scale. Conclusions: There is a heterogeneous adherence to the ASBD recommended practices. The main gaps are in the assessment of pain, monitoring of neuromuscular blockade and diagnosis of delirium through validated instruments.

Abuse of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Its Prevention / 法医学杂志

Abuse of pharmaceutical drugs is a major public health and social problem worldwide. Mostly abused drugs mainly include opioids such as morphine, tramadol, methadone and fentanyl, sedative-hypnotics such as benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines, and central stimulants such as Ritalin (methylphenidate), Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) and modafinil. Abuse of pharmaceutical drugs not only causes direct damage to multiple systems of the body, but also significantly increases risks of mental and physical diseases, imposing a heavy burden on individuals, families and society. Therefore, the prevention and control of pharmaceutical drug abuse are of vital importance. The Chinese government has taken strict administration measures for pharmaceutical drugs with abuse risk. However, confronting endless new drugs and changing abuse trends, it is necessary to further strengthen management and prevention of pharmaceutical drugs, monitor the trend of abuse, establish rapid response mechanisms, popularize relevant knowledge, and develop specific therapeutic drugs and intervention means, in order to promote prevention and treatment of pharmaceutical drug abuse.

Psychometric properties of the Benzodiazepine Dependence Self-Report Questionnaire - Portuguese Version (BENDEP-SRQ-PV)

Abstract Objective To assess psychometric properties of the Benzodiazepine Dependence Self-Report Questionnaire - Portuguese Version (BENDEP-SRQ-PV) in a sample of Brazilian chronic hypnotic users. Methods One hundred and seventy-nine chronic hypnotic users (benzodiazepines and Z-drugs) were recruited, attended a psychiatric evaluation, and answered the BENDEP-SRQ-PV. Factor structure, reliability, and influence of covariates (dependence diagnosis and type of drug consumed) were assessed in a structural equation modelling environment. Discrimination was assessed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) plots and stability with the test-retest method. Results Participants, mostly women (91.6%), aged 51 to 64 years old, had been using hypnotics for an average of 34.8 months, with a mean defined daily dose of 0.72. Psychometric analysis demonstrated construct and criterion validity, reliability, and response stability. The factor structure was maintained as originally proposed: problematic use (ω = 0.73), preoccupation (ω = 0.74), lack of compliance (ω = 0.74), and withdrawal (ω = 0.93). Conclusion The BENDEP-SRQ-PV is an adequate measure of hypnotic dependence in the Brazilian population of chronic users. Our results support using the scale for follow-up in clinical and research applications and in correlational studies.

Assessment Of Drug Utilization Among Pediatric Patients In Private Clinic And Public Hospital Of Bangladesh

Objective: Aim of the study was to assess drug utilization among pediatric patients in both private practice and hospital settings in Rajshahi city, Bangladesh. Methods: This observational study was conducted during a period of two months (March to April) in 2017. Prescriptions were randomly collected from patients and recorded in a predesigned questionnaire form. The data analysis was carried out by using a statistical software package GraphPad Prism. Results: The study involved a total of 185 patients, of which 62.70% were male and 37.30% were female. The patient’s age ranges from 1 mo-12 y and highest number of patients visited physicians belong to group 1 mo-1 y (47.57%). Most commonly occurring disease conditions were pneumonia (24%), the leading cause of hospitalizations among the children's age group of 1 mo-1 y. The results indicated that physician’s handwriting was not clear and legible in 50 (27.03%) prescriptions. A total of 468 drugs were prescribed with an average of 2.53 per prescription. However, none of the drugs were prescribed by generic name. The most commonly prescribed drugs were antibiotics 173 (93.5%). About 78% patients were exposed to antibiotics, of which single antibiotic was prescribed in 116 (62.70%) and two antibiotics in 23 (12.43%) prescriptions. Among the drugs, NSAIDS 65 (35.14%), anti-histamine 57 (30.81%), anti-asthmatic 49 (26.49%) drugs were assigned in prescriptions followed by vitamin and minerals 51 (27.57%). Steroids 57 (30.81%) and hypnotics 26 (14.05%) were also accounted in many prescriptions. Interestingly, antibiotics were indiscriminately prescribed in private practices without any bacteriological examinations, whereas in hospital settings, most of the treatment was initiated after culture and sensitivity tests. Conclusion: Children were highly exposed to antibiotics, steroids and hypnotics in both private practice and hospital settings.  So Medical practitioners should be aware of current guidelines for prescriptions of antibiotics and drugs in child.

Bloqueio neuromuscular e manuseio das vias aéreas na intubação endotraqueal em unidades de terapia intensiva brasileiras: um levantamento nacional / Neuromuscular blockade and airway management during endotracheal intubation in Brazilian intensive care units: a national survey

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o uso do bloqueio neuromuscular e de outras práticas entre os médicos brasileiros atuantes em unidades de terapia intensiva para pacientes adultos. Métodos: Um levantamento nacional on-line foi aplicado a intensivistas brasileiros. As questões foram selecionadas utilizando o método Delphi e avaliavam os dados demográficos dos médicos, as características da unidade de terapia intensiva, as práticas relativas ao manuseio das vias aéreas e o uso de bloqueio neuromuscular e sedação durante a intubação endotraqueal na unidade de terapia intensiva. Como desfecho secundário, aplicamos uma análise multivariada para avaliar fatores associados com o uso do bloqueio neuromuscular. Resultados: Responderam ao questionário 565 intensivistas de todas as regiões do país. A maioria dos que responderam era homens (65%), com média de idade de 38 ± 8,4 anos, e 58,5% dos participantes tinham título de especialista em terapia intensiva. Apenas 40,7% dos intensivistas relataram o uso de bloqueio neuromuscular durante todas ou em mais de 75% das intubações endotraqueais. Na análise multivariada, o número de intubações realizadas por mês e a especialização do médico em anestesiologia se associaram diretamente com o uso frequente de bloqueio neuromuscular. Etomidato e cetamina foram utilizados mais comumente na situação clínica de hipotensão e choque, enquanto propofol e midazolam foram mais comumente prescritos em situações de estabilidade hemodinâmica. Conclusão: O relato de uso de bloqueio neuromuscular foi baixo entre intensivistas, e os fármacos sedativos foram escolhidos segundo a estabilidade hemodinâmica do paciente. Estes resultados podem ajudar no delineamento de futuros estudos relativos ao manuseio das vias aéreas no Brasil.

Abstract Objective: To describe the use of neuromuscular blockade as well as other practices among Brazilian physicians in adult intensive care units. Methods: An online national survey was designed and administered to Brazilian intensivists. Questions were selected using the Delphi method and assessed physicians' demographic data, intensive care unit characteristics, practices regarding airway management, use of neuromuscular blockade and sedation during endotracheal intubation in the intensive care unit. As a secondary outcome, we applied a multivariate analysis to evaluate factors associated with the use of neuromuscular blockade. Results: Five hundred sixty-five intensivists from all Brazilian regions responded to the questionnaire. The majority of respondents were male (65%), with a mean age of 38 ( 8.4 years, and 58.5% had a board certification in critical care. Only 40.7% of the intensivists reported the use of neuromuscular blockade during all or in more than 75% of endotracheal intubations. In the multivariate analysis, the number of intubations performed monthly and physician specialization in anesthesiology were directly associated with frequent use of neuromuscular blockade. Etomidate and ketamine were more commonly used in the clinical situation of hypotension and shock, while propofol and midazolam were more commonly prescribed in the situation of clinical stability. Conclusion: The reported use of neuromuscular blockade was low among intensivists, and sedative drugs were chosen in accordance with patient hemodynamic stability. These results may help the design of future studies regarding airway management in Brazil.

Diferencia entre los signos y síntomas del consumo y la abstinencia por Basuco y Cocaína: estudio piloto en Manizales, Colombia / Difference between the signs and symptoms of consumption and abstinence by Basuco y cocaine: Pilot study in Manizales, Colombia

Objetivo: el Basuco es una sustancia psicoactiva derivada de la hoja de coca; hasta ahora no se ha descrito la sintomatología que genera su consumo ni su síndrome de abstinencia, por lo que suele incluirse en el mismo grupo sindromático de la cocaína. En este estudio se pretende determinar si existen signos y síntomas característicos del Basuco. Materiales y métodos: etudio piloto de carácter descriptivo y transversal, empleando una encuesta heteroaplicada a pacientes que consumieran exclusivamente Basuco, donde se les preguntaba si habían presentado determinados signos y síntomas durante su consumo o durante el síndrome de abstinencia por Basuco. Resultados: en el consumo se encontró predominio del insomnio, hiporexia, disminución de la sensación del cansancio, delirios y aislamiento social, mientras que durante la abstinencia predominó la depresión, irritabilidad, hipersominia e hiperfagia, asociado a sensación de deterioro y deseo de abandonar el consumo. Conclusiones: la sintomatología tanto del consumo como del síndrome de abstinencia por Basuco parece tener diferencias respecto a la generada por la cocaína..(AU)

Objetive: the Basuco is a psychoactive substance derived from the coca leaf, which has not been described the symptoms that generate the consumption or withdrawal syndrome, so they are included in the same syndromic group of cocaine. This study aims to identify if there are signs and symptoms characteristic of Basuco to improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate syndromic management. Materials and methods: bservational and cross-sectional study, using a hetero-applied survey of patients who exclusively consumed Basuco, in which they were asked if they had presented certain signs and symptoms during the intoxication or during the withdrawal syndrome by Basuco. Results: during the consumption, the insomnia, hyporexia, decreased sensation of tiredness, delusions and social isolation were predominant, while during depression abstinence, irritability, hypersomnia and hyperphagia, associated with a sense of deterioration and desire to abandon the consume were more representative. Conclutions: the symptomatology of both intoxication and withdrawal syndrome by Basuco has important differences with respect to those generated by cocaine..(AU)

Rapid Determination of 13 Sedative Substances and Their Metabolites in Blood by LC-MS/MS / 法医学杂志

Objective To establish an analysis method for simultaneous determination of 13 sedative substances and their metabolites in blood by liquid-liquid extraction and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry （LC-MS/MS） technology and to apply the method to actual cases. Methods The samples were extracted with ethyl acetate after an internal standard was added. The extract was condensed until it was nearly dry and then its residues were dissolved with methanol, filtered through 0.22 μm filter and finally determined. The 13 sedative substances and their metabolites were separated through the C18 chromatographic column, then gradient elution was performed on them with methanol and 20 mmol/L ammonium formate （containing 0.1% formic acid） solution. After that, they were determined in the electrospray positive ion mode and quantified by internal standard method. Results The 13 sedative substances and their metabolites in blood showed good linearity in the range of 5-200 μg/L with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.990 3 to 0.999 8. The detection limits were 0.1-1.0 μg/L. Recovery rates of sedative substances were in the range of 71.2%-93.4% when solutions with concentrations of 10, 50 and 200 μg/L were added. The deviations of intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviations （RSD） were not more than 8.6%. Accuracies （bias） were within ±9.8%. Conclusion This method is rapid, simple, effective and sensitive, and can be applied to analysis of 13 sedative substances and their metabolites in blood in forensic toxicology.

Strategies against sleep deprivation in military personnel: Recent progress / 第二军医大学学报

Modern military actions and non-military operations characterized by high-intensity, sudden emergencies and long continuous working inevitably lead to sleep deprivation of military personnel. High-intensity actions require military personnel to maintain excellent action abilities all the times; sudden emergencies need them to maintain alert; and the continuous work need them to maintain a healthy mental state. Therefore, how to effectively combat sleep deprivation, keep alert and have high stress ability have become the focus of modern military medical research. This article reviews the research progress of central nervous system stimulants, preventive sleep medications, sleep induction and rapid recovery drugs, and non-drug measures to combat sleep deprivation.