Thursday, June 23, 2011

Neudexta (Avanir): newly approved drug contains DXM

For over 20 years, I have subscribed to The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics. This nonprofit publication does not accept advertising. Its subscriber base is primarily medical doctors. Occasionally, I'll cite a Medical Letter article (www.medicalletter.org) on new drugs.

The June 13, 2011 issue has an overview of newly FDA- approved Nuedexta / Avanir. This new drug contains dextromethorphan and quinidine sulfate, and is indicated for the oral treatment of pseudobulbar affect in patients with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) and multiple sclerosis. "Pseudobulbar affect, also known as pathological laughter and crying or emotional lability, is common in ALS and MS." Some of the side effects noted in The Medical Letter of this drug combination are nausea, headache, diarrhea, fatigue and dizziness.

Remember to interview your suspect/arrestee about medical conditions, and the treatment they are receiving for the condition (s). Better to learn during the investigation phase, rather than be surprised in court!

No comments:

Post a Comment