Accurately measuring blood pressure is imperative for diagnosis and control of hypertension. There is a range of devices and methods for measuring blood pressure that each have advantages and limitations. To ensure accuracy of blood pressure measurement and hypertension diagnosis, clinicians and patients should use an accurate and validated blood pressure measurement device, an appropriately sized cuff, and take several measurements rather than only one measurement, using a standardised measurement protocol. Out-of-clinic measurement, using an ambulatory or home blood pressure monitoring device, depending on patient preference, should be used to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment of hypertension. There are emerging new technologies for blood pressure measurement (e.g. wearable technologies) that are yet to be validated and have the potential to improve blood pressure monitoring and patient self-management.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity. It affects around 3 to 5% of adults. The main pharmacotherapies for adults with ADHD include psychostimulants, such as methylphenidate and amphetamines (dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine), and non-psychostimulants such as atomoxetine. In Australia, the eligibility for subsidy under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme varies depending on whether the patient was diagnosed with ADHD during childhood or adulthood. Individuals prescribed ADHD drugs should be monitored for both physical (e.g. cardiac symptoms, appetite changes, seizures) and psychiatric (e.g. mood disturbances, anxiety, psychosis) adverse effects. While pharmacological treatment is effective for adults with ADHD, it should be integrated into a broader, multidisciplinary approach that also includes nonpharmacological strategies such as psychological therapies and allied health support.

SUMMARYAminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin and amikacin) are highly effective parenteral drugs commonly used as initial empirical therapy of serious Gram-negative infections. They have rapid bactericidal activity and relatively low rates of resistance in Australia compared with other antibiotics used to manage Gram-negative infections.Therapeutic Guidelines: Antibiotic was updated in March 2025 and provides new guidance on the role of aminoglycosides, optimised dosing, and drug selection. The guidelines now recommend that dosing in adults is based on lean body weight, and provide calculators to assist with dose calculations.Therapeutic drug monitoring is required when aminoglycoside therapy is expected to continue beyond 48 hours; monitoring the area under the aminoglycoside concentration–time curve is recommended in adults.

SUMMARYNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are useful for many conditions, frequently in preference to other therapies such as opioids. They play an important role in osteoarthritis, headache disorders, acute musculoskeletal injury, dysmenorrhoea and dental pain. In axial spondyloarthritis, they can modify disease and represent first-line therapy.Most NSAIDs have comparable efficacy for most conditions, despite their different pharmacodynamic effects. The pharmacokinetic profile of different NSAIDs might confer varying risks and advantages for acute or chronic conditions that influence their selection.NSAIDs have well-recognised adverse effects, including cardiovascular, renal and gastrointestinal risks. While these risks vary between NSAIDs, all of them confer some increased risk. Proton pump inhibitors reduce upper gastrointestinal complications but not lower gastrointestinal ones. Other important precautions relate to pregnancy and hypersensitivity reactions.

SUMMARYGlucocorticoids can be stopped abruptly, without tapering, in patients prescribed them for less than 3 to 4 weeks.Prolonged glucocorticoid use (more than 3 to 4 weeks) can cause hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, necessitating gradual stopping (tapering) to prevent the consequences of adrenal insufficiency.For some patients on prolonged glucocorticoids, the dosage can be tapered and stopped without testing serum cortisol concentrations.For some patients on prolonged glucocorticoids, morning serum cortisol testing can be used to assess HPA axis recovery and guide glucocorticoid cessation.Further testing of the HPA axis, with an adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation test, and referral to endocrinology services may be required in patients with repeated low cortisol concentrations despite a prolonged period at a physiological glucocorticoid dose.

SUMMARYOpioid dependence is a chronic condition that can lead to significant harm if left untreated. People who experience opioid dependence and the treatments themselves are highly stigmatised. Person-centred trauma-informed services are critical to therapeutic engagement and effectiveness.Buprenorphine and methadone are highly effective, evidence-based medicines for opioid dependence. In recent years, long-acting injectable buprenorphine has emerged as a safe and effective treatment option, offering flexible weekly or monthly dosing.The long-term treatment of opioid dependence can be undertaken in primary care settings. General practitioner and nurse practitioner prescribing, and community pharmacist dispensing, are essential for ongoing care.Australian jurisdictions have differing regulations that guide the prescribing of medicines for opioid dependence. Health professionals should be familiar with their local jurisdiction’s guidelines as well as the national guidelines. Drug and alcohol telephone services are available in each jurisdiction and can provide advice to health professionals.