Comparative effectiveness of second-generation antidepressants in the pharmacologic treatment of adult depression

Depressive disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD), dysthymia, and subsyndromal depression (including minor depression) may be serious disabling illnesses. MDD is the most prevalent, affecting more than 16 percent (lifetime) of U.S. adults. In 2000, the U.S. economic burden of depressive disorders was estimated to be $83.1 billion. More than 30 percent of these costs are attributable to direct medical expenses. more  

Choosing pain medicine for osteoarthritis (consumer guide)

This consumer guide is based on a government-funded review of the research about pain-relief medicines for osteoarthritis. It includes over-the-counter (OTC) medications and some prescription (Rx) drugs. more

Marijuana: Facts for teens

Explains the current knowledge about marijuana and the latest scientific information on its effects. Provides teens with answers to frequently asked questions about marijuana, including what it is, who uses it, how it affects a person physically and mentally after short- and long-term use. more  

Marijuana: Facts parents need to know

Provides valuable information from research on the dangers of marijuana. Gives parents explanations of the latest scientific information about the drug and suggestions on how to talk to teenagers about this drug. more

Dry mouth (Xerostomia)  

Dry mouth, also called xerostomia (ZEER-oh-STOH-mee-ah), is the condition of not having enough saliva, or spit, to keep the mouth wet. Dry mouth can happen to anyone occasionally—for example, when nervous or stressed. However, when dry mouth persists, it can make chewing, eating, swallowing and even talking difficult. Dry mouth also increases the risk for tooth decay because saliva helps keep harmful germs that cause cavities and other oral infections in check. more

Seal out tooth decay: A booklet for parents  

Sealants are thin plastic coatings that protect the chewing surfaces of children’s back teeth from decay (cavities). Because they have small pits and grooves, these surfaces are rough and uneven. Food and germs can get stuck in the pits and grooves and stay there for a long time because toothbrush bristles cannot brush them away. Sealants fill in the grooves and keep the food out. more

New guidelines for assessing lymphoma treatment

An international team of cancer specialists and imaging experts has developed standardized guidelines for assessing lymphoma response to treatment. The guidelines will provide clinicians worldwide with uniform criteria to compare and interpret clinical trials of lymphoma treatments and should facilitate the development of new therapies. more

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