Many Canadian jurisdictions are facing decisions about new oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (the most common type of irregular heartbeat). Although the new drugs are as effective as standard therapy, they are more expensive and little is known about their long-term safety. CADTH’s review led to a recommendation that these drugs be considered second-line options.

Risks associated with this defect could include tissue necrosis in one or more organs that could result in stroke, myocardial infarction, respiratory failure, and loss of renal and hepatic function.

Opioid pain medications such as hydromorphone have life-threatening consequences if overdosed.

Ultra-rapid metabolizers are more likely to have higher than normal amounts of morphine in their blood after taking codeine. High levels of morphine can result in breathing difficulty, which may be fatal.