In episode 270, the Mikes and Tina and James stay viral, and discuss the best available evidence around the use of antiviral medications for treatment of the flu. At the end, we all agree there is an effect and that the person who should make the decision should be the patient once they have had the benefits and harms appropriately explained.  Shared decision-making, a concept that is certainly nothing to be sneezed at.

Show notes

 1) Tools for Practice

Anti-virals for Flu: Looking for evidence for “Stockpile, store, expire, repeat” 

In episode 269, the Mikes and James go viral on the HPV vaccine. We discuss what the evidence shows around the use of the HPV vaccine in females and males and in contrast to many people, we actually present the numbers so that you can help people, or help yourself make decisions.

Show notes

1) Tools for Practice

How effective is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in preventing cervical lesions or genital warts (condyloma)?

In episode 268, Mike and James discuss the use of benzodiazepines in the management of agitation in demented elders. We discuss the evidence and realise that the evidence is at best iffy. Nonetheless, they seem to be as effective as antipsychotics but both classes of drugs have side effects and should be used in low doses and stopped as soon as possible. 

Show notes

1) Tools for Practice

Agitation in Dementia: Are benzos a back-up?