Gamal Hussein | South College (original) (raw)

Papers by Gamal Hussein

Research paper thumbnail of Studies on the mechanism of haloacetonitriles toxicity: Inhibition of rat hepatic glutathione S-transferases in vitro

Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, Sep 1, 1989

Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 100, 271-279. Acetonitrile (AN) and seven of its halogenated derivative... more Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 100, 271-279. Acetonitrile (AN) and seven of its halogenated derivatives known to be water disinfectant by-products were evaluated for their action on hepatic cytosolic glutathione Stransferase (GST) activity using I-chloro-2.4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) as substrate. Increasing concentrations of acetonitrile, monofluoroacetonitrile (MFAN), monochloroacetonitrile (MCAN), and monobromoacetonitrile (MBAN) up to 10 IIIM failed to produce 50% inhibition of the activity of GST enzyme. However, dichloroacetonitrile @CAN), trichloroacetonitrile (TCAN), dibromoacetonitrile (DBAN), and monoiodoacetonitrile (MIAN) were potent inhibitors with 150 values of 2.49, 0.34.0.82, and 4.44 mM. respectively. At concentrations equivalent to their 150, MIAN. DCAN, and DBAN decrease both apparent K,,, and V,,, of the enzyme activity toward glutathione (GSH) to 20-50% of control. TCAN significantly increases both apparent K, and I',,,,, for GSH to 650 and 120% of control values, respectively. The inhibitory effect of haloacetonitriles (HAN) on hepatic GST activity toward CDNB was found to be of a mixed type. The inhibitory effect of DCAN, DBAN. and TCAN on the hepatic GST activity was found to be reversible and the activity was completely recovered after dialysis of the inhibited enzyme. MIAN, however, inhibited GST activity in an irreversible manner. Haloacetonitriles induced inhibition of hepatic GST activity in vitro is consistent with that observed in vivo. The data presented in this study show that haloacetonitriles induced reversible inhibition of hepatic GST activities. and this effect may lead to decreased detoxification of other electrophilicchemicals.

Research paper thumbnail of Recognition and Management of Hyperlipidemia: A Guide for Clinicians

Research paper thumbnail of Forensic Analysis of Medication Errors, Adverse Drug Events, and Drug Labeling Changes

Abstract: Over one-third of adults in the United States take prescribed medications. Prescription... more Abstract: Over one-third of adults in the United States take prescribed medications. Prescription drug use has many benefits but not without risks. Risks may result from patient misuse or medication errors (ME) by healthcare providers. While medications save lives and relief symptoms, a significant harm may be encountered when errors in prescribing, dispensing, monitoring, or administration take place. Over 400,000 preventable adverse drug events are encountered annually in the United States with an estimated cost of $3.5 billion. Errors are preventable through process/system changes as well as education to healthcare providers and patients. Medication errors may occur in the hospitals or outpatient settings with consequent liability and medico-legal actions against the healthcare providers involved. In recent years, landmark court cases addressed reactions against hospitals of all sizes, medical centers, clinics, pharmacies, and drug companies. Drug withdrawal from the market and c...

Research paper thumbnail of Forensic Toxicology

ABSTRACT Forensic toxicology is the science of applying the principles of analytical chemistry an... more ABSTRACT Forensic toxicology is the science of applying the principles of analytical chemistry and toxicology for medico-legal purpose where the results are likely to be used in court or for administrative actions. Forensic toxicology disciplines covers death investigation, and aspects related to behavioral or human performance such as impaired driving due to drug consumption, steroid use by athletes, and workplace drug testing [1]. Analyzed items may include biological samples, drugs, toxins, plants, environmental chemicals, and any product where the results of the analysis may clarify criminal activities and past or current events. Procedures utilized in forensic sciences are very significant as it is critical to document details on a) analytical methodology such as instrumentations, sensitivity, and measures of uncertainty and b) chain of custody with elements such as sample collections, processing, handling times, and all involved personnel. These data are of paramount importanc...

Research paper thumbnail of Acetone Cyanohydrin

Nitrogen and Phosphorus Solvents, 1990

Research paper thumbnail of Propionitrile

Nitrogen and Phosphorus Solvents, 1990

Research paper thumbnail of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and fosfomycin: Past, present and future

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 2015

Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a global health concern that requires immediate a... more Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a global health concern that requires immediate attention. Due to increasing resistance to cephalosporins, pursuing novel alternatives for treating N. gonorrhoeae infections is paramount. Whilst new drug development is often cumbersome, reviving antiquated antibiotic agents for treatment of modern infections has become prevalent in clinical practice. Fosfomycin exhibits bactericidal activity through a unique mechanism of action, and a variety of organisms including N. gonorrhoeae are susceptible. In vitro studies have demonstrated that fosfomycin can retain activity against ceftriaxone-resistant N. gonorrhoeae; however, it remains unclear whether there is synergy between fosfomycin and other antibiotics. Clinical investigations evaluating fosfomycin for the treatment of N. gonorrhoeae infections are confounded by methodological limitations, none the less they do provide some perspective on its potential role in therapy. Future studies are needed to establish a safe, convenient and effective fosfomycin regimen for treating N. gonorrhoeae infections.

Research paper thumbnail of A TABLE FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of AN EQUATION FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of 198 A VANCOMYCIN DOSING NOMOGRAM FOR NEONATES, INFANTS, CHILDREN, AND ADULTS

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1995

Research paper thumbnail of 168 AMINOGLYCOSIDES DOSING NOMOGRAM FOR NEONATES, CHILDREN, AND ADULTS

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1995

Research paper thumbnail of Pharmacokinetics Practical Pharmacokinetics: A Curriculum-Based Interactive Multimedia Computer Program for Teaching Clinical Pharmacokinetics

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY TESTING THE VALIDITY OF HUSSEIN'S EQUATION FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of Gabapentin interaction with felbamate

Neurology, 1996

... Troupin arid Hussein), LSU School of Medicine, New Orleans. ... Epilepsia 1994;35(Suppl 4):S2... more ... Troupin arid Hussein), LSU School of Medicine, New Orleans. ... Epilepsia 1994;35(Suppl 4):S29-S40. Nine families with the SCA3/Machado-Joseph disease type of inherited ataxia PE Greenstein, MD; D. Moore, PhD; E. Levy-Lahad, MD; K. Stephens, PhD; and TD Bird, MD ...

Research paper thumbnail of IMPACT OF LEUPROLIDE ACETATE DISEASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM ON PATIENT OUTCOMES

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2002

Background: Patient compliance and completion of a recommended course of therapy is strongly asso... more Background: Patient compliance and completion of a recommended course of therapy is strongly associated with improvement in patient outcomes. Objectives: To implement and evaluate the impact of the Lupron Depot patient education=disease management program. Methods: This is a prospective follow-up study of 3157 patients receiving Lupron therapy. Patients were evaluated at the beginning of therapy, and then received printed educational materials as well as live educational sessions over the telephone. Patients were instructed to report any encountered=suspected side eects to a 24-hour hotline. Additional telephone interviews were conducted as needed for education and disease management. Results: A total of 3,153 patients were enrolled in the study, and a total of 1356 telephone-conferences were conducted. Patient compliance with therapy increased from 74% to 98.6%. This program promoted proper utilization of healthcare resources, minimized ER visits and reduced disease complications with an estimated cost savings of $4,020,140. While the frequency of several side eects such as headache, general pain and hot¯ashes was similar to what was previously reported,

Research paper thumbnail of Construction of Drug and Disease Templates to Enhance Patient Counseling

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 1999

Patient education is essential for proper healthcare. The uninformed patient may experience compl... more Patient education is essential for proper healthcare. The uninformed patient may experience complications and not react timely or appropriately, which in turn will cost the healthcare system and citizens significantly. Comprehensive patient counseling should include both medication and disease information. Information should include correct actions upon the patient's observance of specific complications. Currently, there are no templates to be utilized by clinicians to aid in the comprehensive coverage of essential topics upon providing effective patient counseling. We have developed two templates; five axes each, to provide drug and disease information. Axes in the drug template include the name and description, directions for use, precautions and guidelines, side effects, and techniques for self-monitoring. The disease template includes general information, symptoms and complications, diagnosis and treatment, recommended actions, and sources for additional information and support. This model was applied to produce drug and disease information materials and to provide counseling for patients with epilepsy.

Research paper thumbnail of Can Propofol Cause Dystonia and Movement Disorders?

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2000

Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jn... more Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jnduction and maintenance of general anesthesia. These movements were described as involuntary movement and dystonia.' The dystonia are clinically and genetically different group of disorders with a variety of causes? There are numerous studies about the cause of dystonia due to propofol use. We attempted to evaluate critically published cases of propofol-induced dystonia and similar movement disorders. The proposed mechanisms and pathophysiology of this reaction will be analyzed. Expected patient outcomes and recommendations for proper management of such reactions are presented. We hope that this article guides clinicians to provide better care for their patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Propofol-Induced Dystonia: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 1999

Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jn... more Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jnduction and maintenance of general anesthesia. These movements were described as involuntary movement and dystonia.' The dystonia are clinically and genetically different group of disorders with a variety of causes? There are numerous studies about the cause of dystonia due to propofol use. We attempted to evaluate critically published cases of propofol-induced dystonia and similar movement disorders. The proposed mechanisms and pathophysiology of this reaction will be analyzed. Expected patient outcomes and recommendations for proper management of such reactions are presented. We hope that this article guides clinicians to provide better care for their patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Anemia and Erythropoietin (rHuEPO) Management Program for Optimal Therapeutics and Patient Care

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2003

A recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) management program was started in April 2001 to evalu... more A recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) management program was started in April 2001 to evaluate the reasons behind a sudden increase in drug utilization and to identify areas of improvement while containing costs. MedStorm TM software, a decision support tool, was utilized in data collection and patient management. A total of 608 hospital admissions were reviewed over a period of 18 months. The initial 6-month observation period provided the information about prescribing patterns and allowed the identification of the iron underutilization problem that was believed to be the cause of the increase in rHuEPO use. The following 12-month intervention phase provided an opportunity for comprehensive patient assessment and management with a focus on proper dosage and laboratory monitoring. The hallmark of this phase included increasing the use of iron supplements for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency in all patients receiving rHuEPO. This program resulted in a 63% increase in the use of iron in patients receiving rHuEPO and a $121,672 decrease in the total spending for the drug during the 12-month intervention phase. In this

Research paper thumbnail of MedStorm™: Innovative Patient Safety Software for Optimal Therapeutics

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2003

MedStrom TM provides a mean to systematically evaluate hospital data to identify opportunity for ... more MedStrom TM provides a mean to systematically evaluate hospital data to identify opportunity for optimal care and to minimize adverse drug events. MedStorm TM works in a manner that is similar to known antivirus software where preset patterns such as medical care guidelines and prescribing information are followed to identify any deviations. Once the patients at risk were identified MedStorm TM evaluates their drug data, laboratory results and organ (liver and kidney) function and provides means to enhance therapy for each specific patient. Deviation from normal laboratory values is identified and checked against patient's current medications to identify if any prescribed drug may have contributed to such abnormal lab result. MedStorm TM output includes statistical reports reflecting medical care performance and recommendations for optimal therapeutic management. Recommendations are tailored to each patient's need such as drug or dosage changes or prescribing drugs for untreated conditions. In addition to guidelines, MedStorm TM provides software modules to assess potential adverse drug event (ADE), to evaluate a drug use based on hospital-specific protocols, and to perform pharmacokinetic analysis of drug data whenever necessary.

Research paper thumbnail of Studies on the mechanism of haloacetonitriles toxicity: Inhibition of rat hepatic glutathione S-transferases in vitro

Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, Sep 1, 1989

Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 100, 271-279. Acetonitrile (AN) and seven of its halogenated derivative... more Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 100, 271-279. Acetonitrile (AN) and seven of its halogenated derivatives known to be water disinfectant by-products were evaluated for their action on hepatic cytosolic glutathione Stransferase (GST) activity using I-chloro-2.4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) as substrate. Increasing concentrations of acetonitrile, monofluoroacetonitrile (MFAN), monochloroacetonitrile (MCAN), and monobromoacetonitrile (MBAN) up to 10 IIIM failed to produce 50% inhibition of the activity of GST enzyme. However, dichloroacetonitrile @CAN), trichloroacetonitrile (TCAN), dibromoacetonitrile (DBAN), and monoiodoacetonitrile (MIAN) were potent inhibitors with 150 values of 2.49, 0.34.0.82, and 4.44 mM. respectively. At concentrations equivalent to their 150, MIAN. DCAN, and DBAN decrease both apparent K,,, and V,,, of the enzyme activity toward glutathione (GSH) to 20-50% of control. TCAN significantly increases both apparent K, and I',,,,, for GSH to 650 and 120% of control values, respectively. The inhibitory effect of haloacetonitriles (HAN) on hepatic GST activity toward CDNB was found to be of a mixed type. The inhibitory effect of DCAN, DBAN. and TCAN on the hepatic GST activity was found to be reversible and the activity was completely recovered after dialysis of the inhibited enzyme. MIAN, however, inhibited GST activity in an irreversible manner. Haloacetonitriles induced inhibition of hepatic GST activity in vitro is consistent with that observed in vivo. The data presented in this study show that haloacetonitriles induced reversible inhibition of hepatic GST activities. and this effect may lead to decreased detoxification of other electrophilicchemicals.

Research paper thumbnail of Recognition and Management of Hyperlipidemia: A Guide for Clinicians

Research paper thumbnail of Forensic Analysis of Medication Errors, Adverse Drug Events, and Drug Labeling Changes

Abstract: Over one-third of adults in the United States take prescribed medications. Prescription... more Abstract: Over one-third of adults in the United States take prescribed medications. Prescription drug use has many benefits but not without risks. Risks may result from patient misuse or medication errors (ME) by healthcare providers. While medications save lives and relief symptoms, a significant harm may be encountered when errors in prescribing, dispensing, monitoring, or administration take place. Over 400,000 preventable adverse drug events are encountered annually in the United States with an estimated cost of $3.5 billion. Errors are preventable through process/system changes as well as education to healthcare providers and patients. Medication errors may occur in the hospitals or outpatient settings with consequent liability and medico-legal actions against the healthcare providers involved. In recent years, landmark court cases addressed reactions against hospitals of all sizes, medical centers, clinics, pharmacies, and drug companies. Drug withdrawal from the market and c...

Research paper thumbnail of Forensic Toxicology

ABSTRACT Forensic toxicology is the science of applying the principles of analytical chemistry an... more ABSTRACT Forensic toxicology is the science of applying the principles of analytical chemistry and toxicology for medico-legal purpose where the results are likely to be used in court or for administrative actions. Forensic toxicology disciplines covers death investigation, and aspects related to behavioral or human performance such as impaired driving due to drug consumption, steroid use by athletes, and workplace drug testing [1]. Analyzed items may include biological samples, drugs, toxins, plants, environmental chemicals, and any product where the results of the analysis may clarify criminal activities and past or current events. Procedures utilized in forensic sciences are very significant as it is critical to document details on a) analytical methodology such as instrumentations, sensitivity, and measures of uncertainty and b) chain of custody with elements such as sample collections, processing, handling times, and all involved personnel. These data are of paramount importanc...

Research paper thumbnail of Acetone Cyanohydrin

Nitrogen and Phosphorus Solvents, 1990

Research paper thumbnail of Propionitrile

Nitrogen and Phosphorus Solvents, 1990

Research paper thumbnail of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and fosfomycin: Past, present and future

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 2015

Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a global health concern that requires immediate a... more Drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has become a global health concern that requires immediate attention. Due to increasing resistance to cephalosporins, pursuing novel alternatives for treating N. gonorrhoeae infections is paramount. Whilst new drug development is often cumbersome, reviving antiquated antibiotic agents for treatment of modern infections has become prevalent in clinical practice. Fosfomycin exhibits bactericidal activity through a unique mechanism of action, and a variety of organisms including N. gonorrhoeae are susceptible. In vitro studies have demonstrated that fosfomycin can retain activity against ceftriaxone-resistant N. gonorrhoeae; however, it remains unclear whether there is synergy between fosfomycin and other antibiotics. Clinical investigations evaluating fosfomycin for the treatment of N. gonorrhoeae infections are confounded by methodological limitations, none the less they do provide some perspective on its potential role in therapy. Future studies are needed to establish a safe, convenient and effective fosfomycin regimen for treating N. gonorrhoeae infections.

Research paper thumbnail of A TABLE FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of AN EQUATION FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of 198 A VANCOMYCIN DOSING NOMOGRAM FOR NEONATES, INFANTS, CHILDREN, AND ADULTS

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1995

Research paper thumbnail of 168 AMINOGLYCOSIDES DOSING NOMOGRAM FOR NEONATES, CHILDREN, AND ADULTS

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1995

Research paper thumbnail of Pharmacokinetics Practical Pharmacokinetics: A Curriculum-Based Interactive Multimedia Computer Program for Teaching Clinical Pharmacokinetics

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY TESTING THE VALIDITY OF HUSSEIN'S EQUATION FOR ADJUSTING PHENYTOIN DOSAGE REGIMEN

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 1999

Research paper thumbnail of Gabapentin interaction with felbamate

Neurology, 1996

... Troupin arid Hussein), LSU School of Medicine, New Orleans. ... Epilepsia 1994;35(Suppl 4):S2... more ... Troupin arid Hussein), LSU School of Medicine, New Orleans. ... Epilepsia 1994;35(Suppl 4):S29-S40. Nine families with the SCA3/Machado-Joseph disease type of inherited ataxia PE Greenstein, MD; D. Moore, PhD; E. Levy-Lahad, MD; K. Stephens, PhD; and TD Bird, MD ...

Research paper thumbnail of IMPACT OF LEUPROLIDE ACETATE DISEASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM ON PATIENT OUTCOMES

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2002

Background: Patient compliance and completion of a recommended course of therapy is strongly asso... more Background: Patient compliance and completion of a recommended course of therapy is strongly associated with improvement in patient outcomes. Objectives: To implement and evaluate the impact of the Lupron Depot patient education=disease management program. Methods: This is a prospective follow-up study of 3157 patients receiving Lupron therapy. Patients were evaluated at the beginning of therapy, and then received printed educational materials as well as live educational sessions over the telephone. Patients were instructed to report any encountered=suspected side eects to a 24-hour hotline. Additional telephone interviews were conducted as needed for education and disease management. Results: A total of 3,153 patients were enrolled in the study, and a total of 1356 telephone-conferences were conducted. Patient compliance with therapy increased from 74% to 98.6%. This program promoted proper utilization of healthcare resources, minimized ER visits and reduced disease complications with an estimated cost savings of $4,020,140. While the frequency of several side eects such as headache, general pain and hot¯ashes was similar to what was previously reported,

Research paper thumbnail of Construction of Drug and Disease Templates to Enhance Patient Counseling

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 1999

Patient education is essential for proper healthcare. The uninformed patient may experience compl... more Patient education is essential for proper healthcare. The uninformed patient may experience complications and not react timely or appropriately, which in turn will cost the healthcare system and citizens significantly. Comprehensive patient counseling should include both medication and disease information. Information should include correct actions upon the patient's observance of specific complications. Currently, there are no templates to be utilized by clinicians to aid in the comprehensive coverage of essential topics upon providing effective patient counseling. We have developed two templates; five axes each, to provide drug and disease information. Axes in the drug template include the name and description, directions for use, precautions and guidelines, side effects, and techniques for self-monitoring. The disease template includes general information, symptoms and complications, diagnosis and treatment, recommended actions, and sources for additional information and support. This model was applied to produce drug and disease information materials and to provide counseling for patients with epilepsy.

Research paper thumbnail of Can Propofol Cause Dystonia and Movement Disorders?

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2000

Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jn... more Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jnduction and maintenance of general anesthesia. These movements were described as involuntary movement and dystonia.' The dystonia are clinically and genetically different group of disorders with a variety of causes? There are numerous studies about the cause of dystonia due to propofol use. We attempted to evaluate critically published cases of propofol-induced dystonia and similar movement disorders. The proposed mechanisms and pathophysiology of this reaction will be analyzed. Expected patient outcomes and recommendations for proper management of such reactions are presented. We hope that this article guides clinicians to provide better care for their patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Propofol-Induced Dystonia: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 1999

Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jn... more Abnormal movement disorders have been reported in association with the use of propofol for the jnduction and maintenance of general anesthesia. These movements were described as involuntary movement and dystonia.' The dystonia are clinically and genetically different group of disorders with a variety of causes? There are numerous studies about the cause of dystonia due to propofol use. We attempted to evaluate critically published cases of propofol-induced dystonia and similar movement disorders. The proposed mechanisms and pathophysiology of this reaction will be analyzed. Expected patient outcomes and recommendations for proper management of such reactions are presented. We hope that this article guides clinicians to provide better care for their patients.

Research paper thumbnail of Anemia and Erythropoietin (rHuEPO) Management Program for Optimal Therapeutics and Patient Care

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2003

A recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) management program was started in April 2001 to evalu... more A recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) management program was started in April 2001 to evaluate the reasons behind a sudden increase in drug utilization and to identify areas of improvement while containing costs. MedStorm TM software, a decision support tool, was utilized in data collection and patient management. A total of 608 hospital admissions were reviewed over a period of 18 months. The initial 6-month observation period provided the information about prescribing patterns and allowed the identification of the iron underutilization problem that was believed to be the cause of the increase in rHuEPO use. The following 12-month intervention phase provided an opportunity for comprehensive patient assessment and management with a focus on proper dosage and laboratory monitoring. The hallmark of this phase included increasing the use of iron supplements for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency in all patients receiving rHuEPO. This program resulted in a 63% increase in the use of iron in patients receiving rHuEPO and a $121,672 decrease in the total spending for the drug during the 12-month intervention phase. In this

Research paper thumbnail of MedStorm™: Innovative Patient Safety Software for Optimal Therapeutics

Clinical Research and Regulatory Affairs, 2003

MedStrom TM provides a mean to systematically evaluate hospital data to identify opportunity for ... more MedStrom TM provides a mean to systematically evaluate hospital data to identify opportunity for optimal care and to minimize adverse drug events. MedStorm TM works in a manner that is similar to known antivirus software where preset patterns such as medical care guidelines and prescribing information are followed to identify any deviations. Once the patients at risk were identified MedStorm TM evaluates their drug data, laboratory results and organ (liver and kidney) function and provides means to enhance therapy for each specific patient. Deviation from normal laboratory values is identified and checked against patient's current medications to identify if any prescribed drug may have contributed to such abnormal lab result. MedStorm TM output includes statistical reports reflecting medical care performance and recommendations for optimal therapeutic management. Recommendations are tailored to each patient's need such as drug or dosage changes or prescribing drugs for untreated conditions. In addition to guidelines, MedStorm TM provides software modules to assess potential adverse drug event (ADE), to evaluate a drug use based on hospital-specific protocols, and to perform pharmacokinetic analysis of drug data whenever necessary.