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BPJ 30 August 2010

Best Practice Journal

HbA1c targets in people with type 2 diabetes - do they matter?

Maintaining good glycaemic control reduces the risk of microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes and may also reduce the risk of some macrovascular complications. HbA1c targets should be individualised. Very intensive glycaemic control may be appropriate for some individuals but it is associated with increased risks with some evidence suggesting an increased risk of mortality. View Article

An update on statins

The decision to initiate a statin should be based upon an individual’s risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the likely benefit of treatment and potential adverse effects. Targets are generally not necessary in primary prevention, where any reduction in lipid levels results in a reduction in CVD risk. In secondary prevention, lipid levels should be viewed as a guide to management, rather than targets to achieve. View Article

The pharmacological management of Alzheimer’s disease: The place of donepezil

From November 1, 2010 donepezil will be funded without Special Authority, on the Pharmaceutical Schedule. Donepezil and other acetylcholinesterase inhibitors treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and for some people, improve cognition and behaviour, and delay the need for institutionalised care. View Article

Screening for diabetic retinopathy in primary care

Sight-threatening retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes and is largely preventable through regular retinal screening and prompt treatment. Retinal screening should be carried out at least every two years, but more frequently for those who have risk factors such as a longer duration of diabetes and existing retinopathy. View Article

What’s up with the men folk? A call for successful initiatives in men’s health

In Part One of our men’s health series, we outline some national programmes and campaigns that promote men’s health. In Part Two, we hope to bring you some insight, solutions and success stories from your primary care colleagues. View Article

Upfront: Resistance to antimicrobials - an increasing problem in our community

The threat of multiple drug resistant organisms in New Zealand. The first article in a series on antimicrobial resistance. View Article

Snippets: Iodine supplements Zoledronic acid & Atorvastatin

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Correspondence: Memory loss & statins; Tepid sponging in fever

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