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Complementary and alternative medicines

Cough medicines: do they make a difference?

Over-the-counter cough medicines, although widely used, are not particularly effective at reducing the severity or duration of... View Article

October 2023

Case study: ten men addicted to Ayurvedic medicines (Kamini and Barshasha) presenting for opioid substitution treatment

We present a special edition “Case of the week” submitted by Dr Jo Lane and Dr Susan Lane, Waitematā DHB. If you would like to... View Article

September 2020

Cold season: managing without antibiotics

For the majority of people with upper respiratory tract infections symptomatic treatment will offer better outcomes than antibiotics,... View Article

June 2018

Managing pain in osteoarthritis: focus on the person

The progression of osteoarthritis varies from person to person. Functional decline and worsening of symptoms is not inevitable,... View Article

January 2018

I dream of sleep: managing insomnia in adults - Part 2

bpacnz recognises that the assessment and management of insomnia in general practice can be difficult, especially in relation... View Article

October 2017

Do probiotics provide effective and safe protection against antibiotic-associated adverse effects?

Sales of probiotic products in the community generate billions of dollars worldwide, yet many of the health claims made by the... View Article

June 2015

Cold season in primary care

A newer article is available on this subject: Cold season: managing without antibiotics Every year New Zealanders spend significant... View Article

April 2013

Pre-conception care in general practice

Education to improve pre-conception health should be viewed as a routine aspect of primary care for all women of reproductive age. View Article

April 2011

Snippets: Iodine supplements Zoledronic acid & Atorvastatin

This article has been archived. If you would like access to the original article please contact: [email protected] View Article

August 2010

Upfront: Traditional healing and mental health: measuring the effectiveness of rongoa

Professor Sir Mason Durie writes about traditional healing (rongoa) with respect to mental health. View Article

June 2010

Oral health

Oranga niho Overall, oral health in New Zealand has improved over the last few decades, however significant inequalities remain... View Article

July 2009

Nutrition and supplements during pregnancy

Pregnancy outcomes can be improved by following important nutritional guidelines; achieve a healthy body weight prior to conception... View Article

December 2008

Is a vegetarian diet healthy for a child?

Vegetarian diets are becoming increasingly popular, but is this type of diet healthy for a child? The answer is that a well-planned... View Article

December 2008

Upfront: Mandatory fortification of bread with folic acid

What side is your bread buttered on? Mandatory fortification of bread with folic acid: the debate. View Article

August 2008

Vitamins and minerals: dietary sources supplements and deficiencies

In most cases, nutrient needs can be met by consuming a well balanced diet, without the need for supplements. When a nutrient... View Article

August 2008

Antioxidants and ageing: harmless placebo or dangerous to your health?

A new study suggests that taking antioxidant supplements, especially vitamin A, vitamin E or beta-carotene, does not prevent ageing... View Article

June 2008

Demystifying Rongoā Māori: Traditional Māorihealing

Rongoā Māori is an important aspect of health care to many Māori, representing diversity of practice and a holistic... View Article

May 2008

Dilemmas: Alternative remedies and lifestyle measures for longevity

The development and marketing of anti-ageing products is a multi-million dollar industry. There is no shortage of remedies and... View Article

February 2008

Dear Dave


• Breakthrough Bleeding
• Camphor in Pregnancy
View Article

December 2007

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome affects approximately 1 in 10 people, mainly women between the ages of 20 and 50 years. Treatment is... View Article

October 2007

The Importance of Being Regular

Assessing the risk and benefit of alternative therapy for GI conditions View Article

October 2007

Upfront: co-enzyme Q10 supplements

“Would you like fries with that”. The role of co-enzyme Q10 supplements in medical treatment. View Article

September 2007

ADHD: The Primary Care role

The role of primary care clinicians in improving outcomes for people with ADHD. View Article

February 2007