Significant Publications on Infectious Diseases Pharmacotherapy in 2017.

PURPOSE: The most significant peer-reviewed articles pertaining to infectious diseases (ID) pharmacotherapy, as selected by panels of ID pharmacists, are summarized. SUMMARY: Members of the Houston Infectious Diseases Network (HIDN) were asked to nominate peer-reviewed articles that they believed most contributed to the practice of ID pharmacotherapy in 2017, including the areas of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). A list of 33 articles related to general ID pharmacotherapy and 4 articles related to HIV/AIDS was compiled. A survey was distributed to members of the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP) for the purpose of selecting 10 articles believed to have made the most significant impact on general ID pharmacotherapy and the single significant publication related to HIV/AIDS. Of 524 SIDP members who responded, 221 (42%) and 95 (18%) members voted for general pharmacotherapy- and HIV/AIDS-related articles, respectively. The highest ranked articles are summarized below. CONCLUSION: Remaining informed on the most significant ID-related publications is a challenge when considering the large number of ID-related articles published annually. This review of significant publications in 2017 may aid in that effort.

Significant Publications on Infectious Diseases Pharmacotherapy in 2016.

PURPOSE: This is a summary of the most important articles on infectious diseases (ID) pharmacotherapy published in peer-reviewed literature in 2016 as selected by clinical pharmacists with ID expertise. SUMMARY: The Houston Infectious Diseases Network (HIDN) was asked to identify articles published in peer-reviewed literature in 2016 that were believed to contribute significantly to ID pharmacotherapy, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). A list of 46 articles on general ID pharmacotherapy and 8 articles on HIV/AIDS were nominated. Members of the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists (SIDP) were surveyed to select 10 general ID articles believed to have made a significant impact on general ID pharmacotherapy and 1 article most significant to HIV/AIDS pharmacotherapy. Of 445 SIDP members surveyed, 212 (47.6%) and 95 (21.3%) members voted for general ID pharmacotherapy- and HIV/AIDS-related articles, respectively. The 11 highest-ranked papers (10 general ID-related articles and 1 HIV/AIDS-related article) are summarized here. CONCLUSION: With the large number of ID-related articles published each year, it can be challenging to stay current with the most relevant ID publications. This review of significant publications in 2016 may provide a starting point for that process.

Peramivir: an intravenous neuraminidase inhibitor.

INTRODUCTION: Peramivir (BCX-1812, RWJ-270201) is a highly selective inhibitor of influenza A and B neuraminidase that has recently been approved in the USA by the FDA to treat acute, uncomplicated influenza in adults. AREAS COVERED: This review examines the discovery and development of peramavir as well as its role in the treatment of influenza. Peramivir is currently the only FDA-approved anti-influenza agent that can be given as an intravenous injection, granting it a unique role in therapy with the potential to improve adherence and outcomes in patients who are unable to tolerate oral agents. In vitro, animal, human and safety data are presented as well as information regarding special populations, resistance and drug approval. EXPERT OPINION: Clinical trial data support the use of peramivir to relieve influenza symptoms in acute, uncomplicated influenza, with improvements over placebo similar to those of other approved anti-influenza treatments. The ability to give a one-time injectable dose offers improved adherence over currently available oral regimens. While not approved for hospitalized patients, available data suggest that multiple dose peramivir may also have a role in treatment of severally ill, hospitalized patients. Supportive data for the use of peramivir in special patient populations such as pediatrics and those especially at-risk to develop severe influenza symptoms are promising; however, they require further study.

Drug shortages and patient safety: an overview of essential information for the infusion nurse.

Drug shortages present a growing problem in the United States, with the majority of shortages occurring among sterile injectable medications. Although the impact of shortages has been shown to adversely affect patient care in a variety of settings, those who are dependent on outpatient or home infusion therapy are especially vulnerable. Legislative action and the efforts of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have helped reduce the occurrence of new shortages; however, the problem is not likely to be eliminated in the short term and requires effective management strategies.