The influence of multiple doses of ofloxacin (ORF 18489) on the disposition of theophylline was studied in 15 male volunteers. Subjects were confined in the Clinical Research Unit for 13 days and given a xanthine-free diet. A single dose (3 mg/kg) of theophylline was given orally, and blood samples were collected at fixed time intervals for 36 h. The concentrations of theophylline were measured with TDX (Abbott Diagnostics, Irving, Tex.), and clearance was calculated. Theophylline clearance was used to individualize subsequent doses to achieve average steady-state theophylline concentrations in plasma of 10 mg/liter. Individualized theophylline doses were administered every 8 h until steady-state conditions were reached. Theophylline clearance was determined again at steady state and on days 7 and 8. On day 8, ofloxacin (400 mg every 12 h) was given concomitantly with theophylline. Theophylline clearance was measured again on day 12, after the last theophylline dose. Administration of ofloxacin for 1 day did not change theophylline clearance, but coadministration for 4 days significantly decreased theophylline clearance by 12.1% (P < 0.05). The area under the concentration-time curve for theophylline increased 9.9% (P < 0.05), and average steady-state concentrations in plasma increased 10.3% (P < 0.05). Despite changes in clearance, adverse effects of theophylline did not increase during coadministration of ofloxacin. Although statistically significant, the interaction between ofloxacin and theophylline is unlikely to be of major clinical importance.
An extended standardized patient scenario (ESPS) is described that utilizes standardized patients (SPs) in palliative care education of medical students and residents. The goals of the ESPS will be to: (1) improve physician communications skills in regard to breaking bad news and end-of-life care; (2) integrate evidence-based medicine into patient recommendations; and (3) enhance clinical skills in the practice of palliative medicine, particularly the evaluation and management of total suffering. The main features of the ESPS include a single SP scenario that is presented over several sessions, portraying an extended period in the patient's life. The ESPS requires little in the way of equipment, but is labor intensive. The ESPS is a promising modality that deserves further scrutiny and outcomes research.
Undergraduate orthodontic education in Australian university dental schools reflects a strong British influence. The Australian Dental Council is now responsible for undergraduate course accreditation and the development of a more distinctly Australian model might be expected, although not in isolation from the traditional British and American influences. Postgraduate specialty training has been more directly influenced by the North American dental schools, and specialist registers in the states and territories reflect that influence. The Australian Dental Council will commence accreditation of postgraduate specialty courses in 1999.
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