Tiny biodegradable circuits for releasing painkillers inside the body
A tiny biodegradable electronic circuit made from magnesium can release controlled amounts of painkillers over several days. The implant degrades safely inside the body after use.
Analgesics
Research on pain-relieving drugs. Covers new pain-management startups, omega-3 approaches, drug safety, and AI-driven drug discovery.
Aspirin improves liver function after embolization of hepatocellular carcinoma
A retrospective review of 304 patients found that aspirin therapy improved lab values and overall survival post-TAE for HCC, with lower bilirubin levels at 1 day, 1 month, and 1 year after embolization. Aspirin use was also associated with longer median overall survival period after TAE.
One in 75 new mothers go on to long-term opioid painkiller use; risk rises with size of Rx
A recent study of over 308,000 women who gave birth from 2008 to 2016 found that nearly half received opioid prescriptions as part of their birth experience, with one in every hundred still filling them a year later. The percentage of women filling opioid prescriptions declined over time, suggesting growing awareness of the national op...
Children with medical emergencies during airline flights have limited aid
A study by Duke University researchers found that children's common ailments like vomiting and fever require pediatric versions of therapies, which are often lacking in airline first-aid kits. Most incidents were handled by flight crew members, but parents should carry on medications for their children to ensure prompt treatment.
Opioid prescribing rates higher in US compared with other countries
A recent study found that US physicians prescribe opioids more frequently to patients during hospitalization and at discharge compared to peers in other countries. The study adjusted for pain severity and patient illness, but still observed a significant difference.
SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Hospital Medicine·DateJul 24, 2019
University of Guelph researchers unlock access to pain relief potential of cannabis
Researchers uncover how cannabis creates potent pain-relieving molecules, targeting inflammation and offering a non-psychoactive alternative to opioids. The discovery enables the development of naturally derived pain treatments with potentially significant benefits for chronic pain sufferers.
Enhanced recovery pathway for bariatric operations cuts hospital stays by half
A new bariatric surgery protocol has been implemented to reduce postoperative hospital stays and readmissions. The Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, which includes early ambulation and liquid administration, as well as targeted pain management, has been shown to reduce hospital stays by half and readmissions by 38%.
Combined online self-management for pain, associated anxiety and depression works
A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that online symptom self-management works to decrease pain, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The study also showed that combining online self-management with clinician telecare leads to greater symptom improvement for some individuals.
Researchers find widespread aspirin use despite few benefits, high risks
A quarter of adults aged 40+ take daily aspirin for heart disease prevention without physician's advice. Nearly half of adults 70+ report taking aspirin daily due to potential harm outweighing benefits.
Using antibiotics without a prescription is a prevalent public health problem
Nonprescription antibiotic use is a significant public health concern, with varying prevalence rates across different socioeconomic groups. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and education to prevent unnecessary antibiotic use and its associated adverse events.
Music may offer alternative to preoperative drug routinely used to calm nerves
A clinical trial suggests music can reduce anxiety before peripheral nerve block, with similar effects as midazolam. However, patients in the music group were less satisfied due to limited music choice, and communication was harder.
Mathematical model explores daily rhythms in pain sensitivity
A computational model simulates how pain is transmitted from a nerve to the spinal cord's dorsal horn, reproducing experimental results on pain sensitivity. The model suggests a potential mechanism for neuropathic pain's flipped sensitivity rhythm: a change from inhibition to excitation in synaptic connections between nerve cells.
Opioid use is reduced in patients treated with NSAIDS
Researchers found that patients treated with ibuprofen and Percocet used less opioids than those prescribed just Percocet after arthroscopic shoulder instability repair. This study suggests a possible reduction in post-operative narcotics distribution, addressing the public health crisis of opioid abuse.
Novel therapy for acute migraine shows promise in phase 3 clinical trial
Rimegepant, a novel gepant therapy, demonstrates significant relief from acute migraine pain and associated symptoms in a large-scale clinical trial. The study found that rimegepant effectively blocks the CGRP pathway, providing a new option for people with migraine not helped by existing medications.
More money, more gabapentin
Research found that more physicians receiving industry money prescribed brand-name gabapentin, increasing concerns about its potential for abuse. Gabapentin prescriptions have tripled in the US since 2002.
Could marijuana be an effective pain alternative to prescription medications?
A peer-reviewed survey of 1,000 people in Colorado found that 80% of cannabis users for pain relief also stopped using prescription painkillers. Additionally, 84% of those using cannabis to aid sleep reported a reduction or stoppage of over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids.
Sickle cell drug showing promise in clinical trial
A clinical trial for a new sickle cell disease treatment, IMR-687, has shown early promise with an increase in F-cells and a reduction in pain, improving biomarkers of the disease.
New device sheds light on mechanism, efficacy of arthritis treatment
A new study by Cornell University provides insight into the mode of action of hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, finding a direct correlation between lubricating properties and pain relief in patients. The research suggests that HA products should be reclassified as drugs to better regulate their treatment options.
App helps improve pain control and reduce opiate use after surgery
A smartphone app called PainCoach helps patients reduce their use of opiate painkillers and improve pain control after total knee replacement surgery. The app provides personalized advice on pain relief and exercises to help patients manage their pain levels, resulting in lower opiate use and improved quality of life.
More than half of patients in pain management study took no opioids after operations
A study by the University of Michigan found that over half of patients used no opioids after surgery, with most reporting manageable pain. The study's results suggest a new approach to pain management that reduces opioid use can be effective.
SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMay 31, 2019
US dentists out-prescribe UK dentists when it comes to opioids
Researchers found US dentists prescribe 37 times more opioids than UK counterparts in 2016, a peak year in the US opioid crisis. The study emphasizes the importance of adopting national guidelines for treating dental pain and promoting judicious opioid prescribing among US dentists.
New opioid speeds up recovery without increasing pain sensitivity or risk of chronic pain
Researchers developed a non-addictive painkiller that accelerates recovery time and prevents relapse to chronic pain. The new opioid, ZH853, outperforms morphine in treating pain while diminishing inflammation and reducing recovery time.
University of Virginia chemist IDs possible addiction-free pain reliever
Researchers at the University of Virginia have identified a possible new drug target for reducing chronic pain and inflammation. A naturally occurring enzyme called diacylglycerol lipase-beta (DAGL?) has been found to produce chemical signals that control inflammation, making it a viable target for non-addictive pain relief.
Bullying linked to student's pain medication use
A school-based survey study in Iceland found that bullied students were more likely to use pain medications, despite controlling for pain levels. The study suggests that interventions aimed at reducing bullying may help reduce analgesic use in adolescents.
Aspirin before at-home colorectal cancer screening test didn't significantly improve ability to detect cancer precursors
Researchers investigated whether taking aspirin before a fecal immunochemical test could improve the ability to detect cancer precursors. The study found no statistically significant difference in detection rates between those who took aspirin and those who took a placebo.
Does insulin resistance cause fibromyalgia?
Researchers have discovered a significant link between insulin resistance and fibromyalgia, enabling the use of metformin medication to reduce pain levels. The study found that most patients with fibromyalgia can be identified by their A1c levels, which reflect average blood sugar levels over two to three months.
Deadly box jellyfish antidote discovered using CRISPR genome editing
Researchers at University of Sydney have discovered an antidote to the deadly Australian box jellyfish sting, blocking necrosis, skin scarring and pain. The medicine was developed using CRISPR genome editing techniques, which identified a pathway in human cells that can be targeted by a known cholesterol-blocking drug.
Novel method developed by HKBU scholars could help produce purer, safer drugs
Researchers from Hong Kong Baptist University have invented a new method that can detect target molecules in pharmaceuticals and pesticides in just five minutes. This breakthrough could lead to the production of higher quality medicinal drugs with no side effects.
New discovery in how mammals sense the cold could lead to new pain relief drugs
Researchers have identified distinct sensory neuron systems for detecting different intensities of cold in mammals, which may lead to the development of new drugs for treating cold-related pain. The study found that Trpm8 neurons detect acute cold and NaV1.8-expressing neurons detect prolonged extreme cold.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 24, 2019
Study: Opioid dose variability may be a risk factor for opioid overdose
A study by Kaiser Permanente found that patients with fluctuating opioid doses were 3 times more likely to experience an overdose compared to those with stable doses. Discontinuing long-term opioid therapy for 3 or more months significantly reduced the risk of overdose.
The Lancet: Inappropriate pain management after surgery is a major cause of the opioid crisis
Chronic post-surgical pain affects 10% of patients, often requiring higher levels of opioids that can lead to tolerance and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Opioid prescribing for surgery patients poses a challenge, with increases in misuse and abuse linked to inadequate pain management.
Active ingredient of aconite root against peripheral neuropathic pain is identified as neoline
Processed aconite root relieves neuropathic pain in murine models, with neoline emerging as the active compound. Neoline is stable and shows promise for pain alleviation.
Combining opioids and marijuana may be advantageous for pain sufferers
Researchers found that combining cannabinoids with morphine did not increase impulsivity or memory impairment in rhesus monkeys, suggesting a safe way to cut opioid dosage for pain sufferers. The study's findings support the notion that opioid-cannabinoid mixtures can be effective for treating pain without greater adverse effects.
Study suggests 'rest is best' for carpal tunnel and similar injuries
A four-week rest period was nearly as effective as an experimental drug in reducing discomfort and regaining function after injury from repeated moderate-strain activity. The study suggests that rest may be a good first treatment choice for common musculoskeletal disorders, with exercises and pain reducers used to aid recovery.
OHIO study: Acetaminophen can reduce positive empathy for others
A new Ohio University study shows that taking acetaminophen limits a person's positive empathetic feelings towards others. The study, conducted on 114 participants, found no effect of acetaminophen on perceptions of pleasure and positivity.
Scientists find new therapy target for drug-induced liver failure
A new study suggests that increasing thrombospondin-1 levels may aid liver recovery after acetaminophen overdose. Mice with higher thrombospondin-1 levels showed improved liver function and reduced cell death compared to those without the protein.
Opioid epidemic is increasing rates of some infectious diseases
The opioid epidemic is driving a surge in infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, heart infections, and skin and soft tissue infections. Comprehensive treatment that addresses both substance use disorder and underlying infections can improve outcomes for patients.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 3, 2019
Acetaminophen may increase stroke risk for those with diabetes
Researchers found that acetaminophen use was associated with a slightly higher risk of stroke in people with diabetes. In contrast, the medication did not increase the risk of heart attacks or overall deaths. The study suggests that older adults with diabetes should exercise caution when taking acetaminophen.
Pairing music with medication offers potential therapeutic strategy to manage pain
Researchers at the University of Utah Health found that pairing music with pain medications improved analgesic outcomes by up to 90% in mouse models. The study showed significant reductions in inflammation and pain responses, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for managing pain.
Study: To keep leftover opioids out of harm's way, give surgery patients disposal bags
A new study suggests that giving surgery patients disposal bags to safely dispose of leftover opioids can double the percentage of patients who properly dispose of their unneeded pills within six weeks. The study showed that providing only an informational brochure had a much smaller effect on safe disposal rates.
Woman with novel gene mutation lives almost pain-free
Researchers discovered a novel gene mutation that reduces activity of the FAAH gene, which is involved in pain sensation and anxiety. The mutation is associated with enhanced wound healing, reduced anxiety, and fearlessness, potentially leading to new treatments for post-surgical pain and anxiety.
UTSA psychologist helps train first responders on the front line of the opioid crisis
James Bray, a UTSA psychologist, is training first responders in Houston to recognize prescription opioid overdoses and administer naloxone. This project aims to provide treatment services for overdose victims through the Houston Recovery Center.
Stopping DAPT after one-month improved outcomes in stent patients
Patients who stopped taking aspirin and continued clopidogrel fared significantly better after one year, with a reduced risk of bleeding and no increase in clot-related events. The study suggests that stopping DAPT after one month may be a good option for patients after drug-eluting stent implantation.
Stopping aspirin three months after stenting does not increase risk of death
Patients who stopped taking aspirin three months after receiving a stent had a significantly lower rate of bleeding and no higher rate of death from any cause, heart attack, or stroke compared to those following standard therapy. The study's results balance ischemic and bleeding risks in patients undergoing PCI.
ACC/AHA guidance for preventing heart disease, stroke released
The new guideline provides comprehensive recommendations for preventing cardiovascular disease through lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. It also emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing personal or social barriers to adopting these habits.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2019
Apixaban plus P2Y12 inhibitor and no aspirin safest for patients with both AFib and ACS
Patients treated with apixaban and a P2Y12 inhibitor had lower rates of bleeding and no increase in heart attacks or strokes compared to those receiving warfarin and aspirin. The combination reduced the risk of major bleeding by up to 47% without increasing mortality or hospitalization.
Study suggests painkillers taken during pregnancy not a cause of asthma in kids
A study of nearly 500,000 women found that taking paracetamol or other painkillers during pregnancy increases the risk of asthma in children, but the risk is similar when other types of painkillers are used. The research suggests that another factor linked to painkiller use and asthma risk may be chronic pain and stress.
Opioid crisis: Only a US phenomenon?
The opioid crisis is expanding globally, with Norway, Sweden, and Denmark reporting a surge in prescription opioid prescriptions for chronic non-cancer pain. The study highlights the need to curtail the use of strong painkillers like oxycodone, which can lead to overdose deaths.
HSS orthopedic surgeons address opioid epidemic head on
HSS has developed a pain management pathway that combines multimodal analgesia and alternative treatments, resulting in a significant decrease in opioid use without sacrificing pain control. The initiative involves surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other care team members.
No difference in IV versus oral acetaminophen for pain after hip replacement
A study published in the Journal of Arthroplasty found that intravenous and oral acetaminophen work equally well to manage post-surgery pain after hip replacement. The researchers tested both forms as part of a multimodal analgesia protocol, with patients showing low pain scores and minimal side effects.
New target for chronic pain relief confirmed by scientists
Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered a potential new target for chronic pain treatment by activating the REV-ERBs receptor. This discovery could lead to more effective drugs for various types of chronic pain, including sciatica, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.
No link found between MMR vaccine and autism
A nationwide cohort study of Danish children found no link between MMR vaccination and autism. The study included 657,461 children and analyzed their risk for autism after vaccination. No increased risk was observed in susceptible subgroups or during specified time periods.
Study: More than one-third of patients risk major bleeding by doubling up on blood thinners
A Michigan Medicine study reveals that combining aspirin with warfarin increases the risk of major bleeding events. The study found that nearly 2,500 patients were taking both medications without a clear reason, and that clinicians should review medical history to determine if it's necessary.
Machine learning could eliminate unnecessary treatments for children with arthritis
Researchers developed a machine learning tool to classify children with arthritis into seven distinct groups based on joint patterns. This allowed them to predict which children will go into remission faster or develop more severe disease, enabling doctors to tailor treatment and spare patients unnecessary medication side effects.
THC found more important for therapeutic effects in cannabis than originally thought
Researchers at the University of New Mexico found that THC content is more important for symptom relief than previously thought. The study analyzed real-time measurements of cannabis effects using a mobile app and found that patients experienced an average symptom improvement of 3.5 points on a 0-10 scale.
Stopping inflammation from becoming chronic
Researchers developed a cell model to investigate anti-inflammatory drug efficacy in both acute and resolving phases of chronic inflammation. The model reveals that conventional drugs can impair the resolution phase, leading to prolonged inflammation.
10 percent of Chinese adults have high heart disease risk, aren't treated for it
A study of 1.7 million Chinese adults found 10% at high heart disease risk, yet only 3% taking statins or aspirin for prevention. The low uptake is attributed to a lack of awareness among patients and providers in China.
Study finds acetaminophen significantly reduced in-hospital delirium
A study published in JAMA found that intravenous acetaminophen reduced postoperative delirium incidence by 70% and ICU length of stay by 25%. Acetaminophen also reduced opioid use, suggesting effective pain control without increasing delirium risk.
New painkiller lasts longer, is less addictive than morphine
Researchers have developed a new nano-painkiller that bypasses the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to be effective in treating intense pain without severe side effects. The new approach uses Leu-enkephalin-based nanoparticles that target peripherally located opioid receptors with lower abuse potential than morphine.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 13, 2019
IU School of Medicine makes breakthrough toward developing blood test for pain
Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in developing a blood test that can objectively determine the severity of pain in patients. The test, led by psychiatrist Alexander Niculescu, uses biomarkers found in the blood to match with potential treatment options.