In the News


Choice of third oral diabetes drug can depend on each patient's needs

There is no clear choice for a third oral agent for controlling A1c levels above 7% following metformin and a sulfonylurea, researchers concluded from a meta-analysis of type 2 diabetics, so the best choice depends on the patient's need.

Physicians wary of commercially supported CME, but loath to cut it

Medical professionals are concerned about commercial bias from industry-supported continuing medical education programs, but they underestimate the costs of putting on such events and are unwilling to pay higher fees to offset or eliminate event costs.

MKSAP Quiz: Abdominal pain and loose stools in ulcerative colitis

A 32-year-old man is evaluated in the emergency department for a 5-day history of worsening crampy abdominal pain and eight to ten loose bowel movements a day. The patient has a 5-year history of ulcerative colitis treated with azathioprine and topical mesalamine, and recently had sinusitis that resolved with antibiotic therapy. What is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient?

Short-term NSAIDs associated with increased myocardial infarction risk after previous heart attacks

Even short-term treatment with most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was associated with increased risk of death and a subsequent myocardial infarction in patients with prior heart attacks, reports a national cohort population study from Denmark.

Nerve blockade most effective option for managing pain after hip fracture

Nerve blockade is the most effective option for managing pain after hip fracture, according to a review funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Colonoscopy may be more frequent than recommended in Medicare patients

Medicare patients may be receiving colonoscopies more frequently than recommended by guidelines, according to a new study.

National Health Service Corps scholarship application cycle opens

The 2011-2012 application cycle is now open for National Health Service Corps awards scholarships, offered each year to students pursuing careers in primary care.

ACP wants your opinion on virtual communities

ACP is investigating whether to provide members who have similar interests the opportunity to exchange ideas, information and experiences, and to stay connected with one another through online virtual communities and/or live meetings.

Put words in our mouth

ACP InternistWeekly wants readers to create captions for our new cartoon and help choose the winner. Pen the winning caption and win a $50 gift certificate good toward any ACP product, program or service.