A somewhat controversial review, which suggests that COX-2 inhibitors may be preferential to regular NSAIDs in patients at risk of cardiovascular events taking low-dose aspirin, has been published. But many experts are not so sure about its conclusions. Heartwire
The drug, known as KB2115, cut LDL- and total-cholesterol levels 40% over a two-week period without any adverse cardiovascular effects, a previous concern for researchers, as thyroid hormones administered in high levels can have deleterious effects on the heart. Heartwire
The FDA has approved revisions to the safety labeling for levofloxacin tablets, oral solution, and intravenous injection; atorvastatin calcium tablets; and technetium Tc99m medronate injection. Medscape Medical News
Restless legs syndrome has been associated with a significantly increased risk for cerebrovascular or cardiovascular disease, a new study has shown. Medscape Medical News
A study comparing the metabolic effects of two diets, one a low-carbohydrate, high-fat, Atkins-like diet and the other a more traditional high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet, showed that both diets had similar improvements on a number of metabolic risk markers, although the traditional diet had more favorable effects on LDL-cholesterol levels. Heartwire
About 30% of patients with cardiac arrest due to ventricular arrhythmia undergo defibrillation more than two minutes after the initial recognition of arrest, a new study has shown. The delay exceeds guideline-based recommendations and results in decreased survival to discharge, say investigators. Heartwire
Dr. Bruce Spiess reviews risks associated with blood transfusions, with a focus on patient outcomes and factors that contribute to these risks. Medscape Cardiology
Review the integration and optimization of implantable devices for the heart failure patient, and discuss methods of coordinating patient care and benefits of remote patient monitoring
