Australian Prescriber

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)–targeted therapies were developed specifically for migraine prevention. These include monoclonal antibodies, administered by subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion, and small-molecule CGRP receptor antagonists (gepants), taken orally.

Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is one of 3 options to screen for fetal chromosome conditions such as Down syndrome. NIPT requires a single blood test after 10 weeks gestation. It has a high level of accuracy, but genetic counselling and confirmatory invasive diagnostic testing are recommended for patients with a high-probability result.

Vancomycin is an important antimicrobial for the treatment of Gram-positive infections. To optimise efficacy and minimise toxicity, monitoring the area under the vancomycin concentration–time curve over 24 hours (AUC₂₄) is preferred over monitoring trough concentrations in many patients.

Errors with clonazepam oral liquid have been reported. Unlike most liquid medicines, clonazepam oral liquid should be ordered and measured in DROPS, not millilitres. Standardising the way this medicine is ordered and measured can reduce the risk of error.

Lenacapavir is a first-in-class injectable antiretroviral treatment. It joins the limited range of therapies specifically indicated for people with HIV-1 and significant drug resistance.

Nelarabine is a treatment option for T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia or T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma that has not responded to or has relapsed following treatment.

Osilodrostat is a new treatment for adults with endogenous Cushing syndrome who have been unsuccessful with surgery or unable to receive surgery. Regular cortisol monitoring is essential while on this medication.