 |
|
Medical food reduces medical costs and use of anti-convulsant medication
October 27, 2009Diabetic patients diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy had lower medical costs and reduced use of anticonvulsant medications when treated with a folate-enriched prescription medical food, according to data presented today at the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research 12th Annual European Congress.
The results of the HealthCore, Inc. study, funded by Pamlab, L.L.C., which manufactures the medical food Metanx®, showed that patients' health plan costs to treat diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy were reduced by about $400 a year.
"In this study, health care savings were driven by lower costs related to hospitalization and outpatient services," said Ron Wade, lead researcher and research operations director for HealthCore, the outcomes research subsidiary for WellPoint, Inc. "Overall, this was more than a 30 percent reduction in costs for medical care related to diabetic peripheral neuropathy."
The study, "Administrative Claims Analysis of an L-Methylfolate Combination Product in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy," was co-authored by Wade and Qian Cai of HealthCore and Dr. Tina Thethi, assistant professor of endocrinology, Tulane School of Medicine. The abstract for this study was published in the Sept. 15 online edition of Value in Health.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves usually affecting the hands and feet, causing weakness, numbness, tingling and pain. Anticonvulsant medication is commonly used to control these symptoms.
The HealthCore study found that the group of patients prescribed Metanx tablets reduced their use of anticonvulsants by 31 percent one year after treatment, compared with the control group that reduced their use by 10 percent.
Metanx contains L-methylfolate, pyridoxyl-5-phosphate, and methylcobalmin and has been shown in pilot studies to increase epidermal nerve fiber density in humans, restore sensation and reduce neuropathic pain by increasing nitric oxide levels, which improves endothelial function and increases blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet.
"From clinical trials, we are seeing what Metanx can do clinically, but it is also reassuring to know that in this time of soaring health care costs that Metanx may help reduce costs related to patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy," said Chet Busby, head of Pamlab's scientific affairs.
HealthCore
The study, "Administrative Claims Analysis of an L-Methylfolate Combination Product in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy," was co-authored by Wade and Qian Cai of HealthCore and Dr. Tina Thethi, assistant professor of endocrinology, Tulane School of Medicine. The abstract for this study was published in the Sept. 15 online edition of Value in Health.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves usually affecting the hands and feet, causing weakness, numbness, tingling and pain. Anticonvulsant medication is commonly used to control these symptoms.
The HealthCore study found that the group of patients prescribed Metanx tablets reduced their use of anticonvulsants by 31 percent one year after treatment, compared with the control group that reduced their use by 10 percent.
Metanx contains L-methylfolate, pyridoxyl-5-phosphate, and methylcobalmin and has been shown in pilot studies to increase epidermal nerve fiber density in humans, restore sensation and reduce neuropathic pain by increasing nitric oxide levels, which improves endothelial function and increases blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet.
"From clinical trials, we are seeing what Metanx can do clinically, but it is also reassuring to know that in this time of soaring health care costs that Metanx may help reduce costs related to patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy," said Chet Busby, head of Pamlab's scientific affairs.
HealthCore
Peripheral Neuropathy Current Events and Peripheral Neuropathy News RSSStructural biology scores with protein snapshot
In a landmark technical achievement, investigators in the Vanderbilt Center for Structural Biology have used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods to determine the structure of the largest membrane-spanning protein to date.
Marijuana rivals mainstream drugs for HIV/AIDS symptoms
Those in the United States living with HIV/AIDS are more likely to use marijuana than those in Kenya, South Africa or Puerto Rica to alleviate their symptoms.
Triglycerides implicated in diabetes nerve loss
A common blood test for triglycerides - a well-known cardiovascular disease risk factor - may also for the first time allow doctors to predict which patients with diabetes are more likely to develop the serious, common complication of neuropathy.
Mayo Clinic researchers say agent provides treatment option for women with hot flashes
A pill used for nerve pain offers women relief from hot flashes, Mayo Clinic researchers report at the 45th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
First comprehensive paper on statins' adverse effects released
A paper co-authored by Beatrice Golomb, MD, PhD, associate professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and director of UC San Diego's Statin Study group cites nearly 900 studies on the adverse effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), a class of drugs widely used to treat high cholesterol.
Diabetics with previous foot ulcers may be able to participate in walking program
More than 20 million Americans are living with diabetes, and that number is expected to increase by more than 5 million by 2010.
Study shows common vitamin and other micronutrient supplements reduce risks of TB recurrence
New findings show a link between micronutrient supplementation and reduced risk of recurrence during tuberculosis chemotherapy, according to a study published in the June 1 issue of The Journal of Infectious Diseases, now available online.
Mutation may cause inherited neuropathy
Mutations in a protein called dynein, required for the proper functioning of sensory nerve cells, can cause defects in mice that may provide crucial clues leading to better treatments for a human nerve disorder known as peripheral neuropathy, which affects about three percent of all those over age 60.
A pain-free window into painful neuropathies
Scientists have demonstrated a new technique for detecting a painful nerve condition known as neuropathy, which affects millions of people with diabetes and many other patients as well.
Scientists link fragile X tremor/ataxia syndrome to binding protein in RNA
Scientists have discovered a key protein in the toxic brain pathway that leads to fragile X tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), an inherited neurodegenerative disorder.
More Peripheral Neuropathy Current Events and Peripheral Neuropathy News Articles
 |
Peripheral Neuropathy: When the Numbness, Weakness, and Pain Won't Stop (American Academy of Neurology) by M.D. Norman Latov (Author) Peripheral neuropathy, the variety of conditions that result when the nerves that connect to the brain and spinal cord are damaged or diseased, is commonly associated with diseases such as diabetes, HIV, alcoholism, and lupus. Although widespread — it affects 10–20 million people in the United States — information about the condition has been difficult to obtain. This essential guide explains what is known about peripheral neuropathy, including its causes and manifestations, and what can be done to manage it. Topics include drug therapy for the condition and its symptoms, interventional therapy, alternative medicines, caring for the feet, and much more. This book will enable patients to make informed decisions about their care. |
 |
You Can Cope with Peripheral Neuropathy: 365 Tips for Living a Full Life by Mims Cushing (Author), M.D. Norman Latov (Author) Peripheral neuropathy has reached epidemic proportions in recent years. This condition has numerous causes, but can be associated with diseases such as HIV, alcoholism, diabetes, and lupus and may result from medical treatments such as chemotherapy. Symptoms include pain, numbness, loss of balance, and tingling or burning in the extremities. Although widespread, neuropathy is not well understood, and finding reliable information about it can be difficult. Written by a leading doctor in the field and a patient-expert, You Can Cope with Peripheral Neuropathy: 365 Tips for Living a Full Life covers such diverse topics as what to ask at doctor appointments, how to make the house easier to navigate, where to find a support group, how to use vitamins and herbs for treatment, ways to travel... |
 |
Coping With Peripheral Neuropathy: How to handle stress, disability, anxiety, fatigue, depression, pain, and relationships by CIDP, Scott I Berman MD (Author) Peripheral neuropathies are a large group of chronic illnesses that cause changes in your life far beyond simply damaging nerves. Sufferers often confront pain, weakness, depression, anxiety, fatigue and insomnia. In addition there are long term changes in roles and relationships. Dr. Berman tackles these psychological and social issues in Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy from the viewpoint both of an experienced psychiatrist and of a fellow-sufferer with neuropathy. He details strategies to deal with changing roles at work and at home. He explores relationships and sexuality. Dr. Berman lays the groundwork for learning to cope and improve your quality of life in the face of these chronic diseases. He draws on experience treating chronically physically ill patients... |
 |
The Numb Foot Book - How to Treat and Prevent Peripheral Neuropathy (Numb Toes) by Dr. Alexander McLellan (Author), Dr. Marc Spitz (Author), April Jackson (Editor), Chris Gibson (Editor) The Numb Foot Book, is the latest addition to the best selling Numb Toes series, and has quickly become the must read book for Diabetics or anyone suffering from peripheral neuropathy. Drs. Alex McLellan and Marc Spitz have taken the reins from the legendary John Senneff, who pioneered layperson literature by focussing on treatment and coping options for neuropathy (nerve pain) sufferers. This new book is considered the best in the series to date. WHAT IS COVERED: 1-The latest information on medical treatment options, including oral and topical drugs and their side effects. 2-The most important nutritional supplements which can slow the progression or even reverse peripheral neuropathy. 3-New treatments such as Laser and Infrared... |
 |
Peripheral Neuropathy: 2-Volume Set by Peter James Dyck (Author), P. K. Thomas (Author) Edited by internationally acclaimed experts in the field, this authoritative 2-volume Gold Standard comprehensively covers the neurobiology and diseases of the peripheral nervous system. It encompasses neurobiology, clinical neurophysiology, molecular genetics, and clinical diagnosis and management. The 4th Edition has been rewritten and updated to provide a fresh account of all subjects, with an emphasis on new information about cell biology, genetics, proteomics, clinical manifestations, and new treatments. And, a user-friendly organization allows readers to quickly find specific information, or access more in-depth coverage when needed. * Provides authoritative, in-depth information on neurobiology and diseases of the peripheral nervous system. * Presents complete coverage of... |
 |
Numb Toes and Aching Soles: Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy by John A. Senneff (Author) A comprehensive guide for the millions who have painful and disabling peripheral neuropathy. Covered are causes, symptoms, tests and treatments- both conventional and alternative- and ways of coping day to day. The book is written from a patient's point of view with over 200 patient comments on treatments. There are also special sections for those with diabetic or HIV-related neuropathies (up to half in these groups are affected), as well as reports on experimental drugs in the pipeline. Inputs from 12 leading neurologists have been incorporated. |
 |
Nerve Support Formula Nutritional Supplement for Peripheral, Diabetic & Poly Neuropathy by Wellness Support Network It is important to understand that neuropathy is a condition that if you don't take effective action against, it simply gets worse. Unfortunately, drugs and medications only treat the symptoms and usally do nothing to addres the underlying causes. The good new is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and nautral breakthrough for people who are affected by neuropathy. Up to 60% of all diabetics suffer from neuropathy, and there are many people with neuropathy from chemotherapy, toxins, trauma, etc. Neuropathy is a condition where the nerves around the periphery (outer part of the body) are damaged. This type of neuropathy can affect sensory nerves in the feet, legs, hands and arms, and it can occur on both sides of the body. It is one of... |
 |
The Official Patient's Sourcebook on Peripheral Neuropathy: A Revised and Updated Directory for the Internet Age by Icon Health Publications (Author) This book has been created for patients who have decided to make education and research an integral part of the treatment process. Although it also gives information useful to doctors, caregivers and other health professionals, it tells patients where and how to look for information covering virtually all topics related to peripheral neuropathy (also Mononeuritis Multiplex; Mononeuritis, Peripheral; Mononeuropathym Peripheral; Multiple neuritis; Multiple Peripheral Neuritis; Neuritis - peripheral), from the essentials to the most advanced areas of research. The title of this book includes the word official. This reflects the fact that the sourcebook draws from public, academic, government, and peer-reviewed research. Selected readings from various agencies are reproduced to give you some... |
 |
Numb Toes and Other Woes: More on Peripheral Neuropathy by John A. Senneff (Author) Consumer text, offering useful ideas for coping with peripheral neuropathy. A sequel to Senneff's Numb Toes and Aching Soles: Coping with Peripheral Neuropathy, C1999. Offers insight on complementary and alternative strategies, as well as traditional medications and forms of relief. Softcover, hardcover not yet available. |
 |
Pain Banishment, Not Pain Management: A Non-Invasive Treatment for RSD, CRPS, Peripheral Neuropathy, Migraines, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, and Other Chronic Pain ~ EVEN WHEN NOTHING ELSE WORKS ~ by Dr. Donald Rhodes (Author), Patricia Boeckman (Author) A must-have item for anyone in chronic pain, PAIN BANISHMENT, NOT PAIN MANAGEMENT is a fast-read book designed to introduce those in pain to a unique therapy. For years, this drugless, non-invasive treatment system has offered a solution to long-term chronic pain sufferers for whom nothing else has worked. Their desperate, last attempt for relief lay in traveling to South Texas to a doctor they typically learned about from word of mouth. Most arrived in various extreme conditions, such as in wheel chairs, on heavy duty drugs, with implanted morphine pumps, with purple, swollen limbs, and in agonizing pain. Skeptical but willing to try almost anything, they were in for a surprise. Dr. Donald Rhodes tested them as no one else before him had, with machines that gauged their pain level.... |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |