JENNIFER L. HUGGINS, M.D., and R. JOHN LOONEY, M.D.
Allergen immunotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for stinging-insect hypersensitivity, allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis, and allergic asthma. Unlike antiallergic medication, allergen immunotherapy has the potential to alter the disease course after three to five years of therapy.

Patient information: "Allergy Shots-What You Need to Know," p. 703

David G. Weismiller, M.D., SC.M.
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after a known or suspected failure of birth control and after intercourse without birth control. Available methods include the Yuzpe regimen, levonorgestrel, and insertion of an intrauterine device.

Patient information: "Emergency Birth Control," p. 717

Editorial: "Emergency Contraception: An Ongoing Debate," p. 655

FORREST LANG, M.D., and TIMOTHY QUILL, M.D.
If a patient is unable to make medical decisions and has not provided an advance directive, physicians and family members become responsible for choosing a plan of care. Physicians should be able to communicate with the family and provide any support or recommendations that are needed.

Patient information: "End-of-Life Choices-A Guide for Families When Your Loved One Cannot Decide," p. 725

DONNA M. ROBERTS, M.D., MICHAEL OSTAPCHUK, M.D., and JAMES G. O’BRIEN, M.D.
Colic is a diagnosis of exclusion that is made after performing a careful history and physical examination to rule out less common organic causes. Treatment generally is supportive and aimed at reassuring parents that their child is healthy.

Patient information: "Colic: What You Should Know," p. 741

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Emergency Contraception: An Ongoing Debate

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