How international health links can help the NHS workforce develop
Brenda Longstaff explores how health links between the NHS and developing countries deliver benefits to the NHS workforce. (Source: HSJ)

Toxicity of new seizure meds
3.5 out of 5 stars Emergent Complications of the Newer Anticonvulsants.  Wade JF et al.  J Emerg Med 2010;38:231-7. Abstract This instructive article reviews the adverse effects and overdose presentation of some of the newer anticonvulsant medications.  Studying the toxicology of these drugs is often difficult because #8212; among other impediments #8212; serum drug levels are not readily available.  In general, overdose on these drugs causes lethargy, sedation, and/or increased seizure activity.  The newer anticonvulsants include: • Topiramate (Topamax®) #8211; This drug causes sedation, and a significant decrease in cognition.  Topiramide is a carbonic anhydrase-inhibiting diuretic, and as such can cause metabolic acidosis (non-anion-gap).  Although this effect if often not...