Articles tagged with Analgesics
A study by Georgetown University Medical Center researchers found that acupuncture blunts activity in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing production of stress hormones. This mechanism is similar to that of antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, which exert their therapeutic effects on these same pathways.
A study found that non-chronic opioid users with low prescribed doses are at risk of overdose, contradicting current guidelines. Concurrent sedative use also contributes to overdose risk.
SLU pain researcher Daniela Salvemini has been awarded the NIH's Cutting-Edge Basic Research Award to develop new painkillers that can quell terrible pain while minimizing debilitating side effects. The two-year grant will support her search for innovative ways to mitigate opioid side effects and preserve their pain-relieving ability.
A Tel Aviv University study found that hyperbaric oxygen treatment can drastically reduce or eliminate fibromyalgia symptoms, enabling patients to discontinue pain medication. The research also identified the primary factor causing fibromyalgia: brain mechanism for processing pain disruption.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that taking a combination of antidepressants and common painkillers increases the risk of bleeding. The researchers analyzed data from over four million patients and found a substantially increased bleeding risk with combined use of antidepressants and NSAIDs, especially in men.
A nationwide study found that individuals of any age who used illicit drugs had a higher likelihood of misusing prescription pain relievers. Adults aged 50 and above were more likely to acquire pain relievers through multiple doctors, while younger individuals relied on friends, relatives, or drug dealers.
Researchers have discovered thousands of new peptide toxins in the venom of a single type of Queensland cone snail, opening up promising leads for new pain and cancer treatments. The study's innovative method allows for deeper analysis of venom toxins than ever before.
Scientists at UC Davis have identified endoplasmic reticulum stress as the significant driver of neuropathic pain. The discovery opens new avenues for treating chronic pain from various conditions, such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers at the University of Hawai'i Cancer Center found that aspirin can inhibit the growth of mesothelioma by blocking HMGB1. This could lead to improved survival rates for patients with this aggressive cancer, which kills around 3,200 people annually.
A pharmacy professor argues that a two-tier system of prescription or non-prescription drugs would be simpler and less confusing for consumers. The current pharmacy medicine category has limited benefits and lacks evidence to support its value.
Researchers identified nicotine use and substance abuse as top risk factors for long-term opioid use. Patients with these histories should proceed with caution when offered opioid prescriptions, says lead author W. Michael Hooten.
Researchers found that afamelanotide significantly improves pain-free sun exposure and quality of life in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. The treatment reduced the number of phototoxic reactions and improved overall quality of life, offering patients increased daily functionality.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMTh) decreased postpartum low back pain by over 70 percent in women who had given birth at least three months before beginning treatment. Participants reported a significant improvement in quality of life, with a 7...
Researchers found that male and female mice process pain using different cells, with female mice relying on T cells to sound the pain alarm. This discovery has far-reaching implications for developing targeted pain medications and highlights the need for more inclusive preclinical research.
Scientists at the University of York and GlaxoSmithKline Australia have made a groundbreaking genetic discovery in poppies that could lead to more effective painkillers. The discovery of the STORR gene provides new insight into how poppy plants produce morphine, a key step towards developing bespoke poppy varieties.
Primary care physicians incorrectly thought that abuse-deterrent pills were less addictive than standard counterparts, despite evidence showing they are equally addictive. The study highlights the importance of patient and provider education regarding abuse-deterrent products.
Researchers at Duke University developed a mathematical model of acetaminophen metabolism based on lab rat data, finding that glutamine may boost the body's ability to recover from overdose. The study suggests that adding glutamine alongside standard antidote N-acetylcysteine could prevent liver damage.
A new treatment approach uses a non-narcotic inhibitor to reduce excessive BH4 production, leading to pain relief without addiction or tolerance. The research, led by Boston Children's Hospital, shows promise for treating conditions like diabetic peripheral neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis.
A new trial found that hydroxychloroquine does not reduce pain, disability, or joint stiffness in patients with primary hand osteoarthritis. The study suggests that this medication should no longer be prescribed for this condition, highlighting the need for alternative treatment options.
A recent study examining 2,400 post-mortem records from VA hospitals found that nearly half of veterans who died from opioid overdoses were also receiving benzodiazepines. Veterans prescribed higher doses of benzodiazepines with opioids had a greater risk of overdose death than those on lower doses.
A new evidence-based protocol to treat acute, severe pain in emergency department patients has been shown to be effective and safe. The study found that simply asking patients if they want more pain medication resulted in satisfactory pain control for 99% of participants.
Researchers found that naturally fermented milk-based products can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in mice, offering potential antioxidant and cardioprotective benefits. The study suggests that these compounds could be used as potential ingredients for improving human cardiovascular health.
A lab study found that daily aspirin was effective at blocking breast tumor growth. Aspirin appears to affect cancer stem cells, preventing them from reproducing. Experts recommend consulting a doctor before starting a daily aspirin regimen due to potential risks and side effects.
A new study confirms that 53% of menopausal women use at least one type of CAM for symptom management, raising safety concerns due to lack of medical consultation. Healthcare providers need to be aware of CAM therapies and guide patients to coordinate safe care.
American physicians with buprenorphine waivers can increase access to effective medication-assisted treatment for heroin and prescription painkiller addiction. The study found a 74% increase in potential access to treatment from 2002 to 2011, reducing rural disparities.
Researchers discovered that chronic pain causes brain inflammation, altering mood and motivation regions. A new treatment approach may help restore dopamine release and reward-motivated behavior in patients with chronic pain.
UC Davis researchers identified molecular interactions between capsaicin and the TRPV1 receptor, paving the way for more selective and effective pain relief drugs. The study found that sweet peppers contain a compound called capsiate, which is almost identical to capsaicin but differs at one key interaction site.
A study suggests that consumers often ignore active ingredient labels on OTC medicine boxes, leading to potential overdoses. Participants with medical expertise correctly weighed the risks of combining medications, while those without did not.
A Finnish-Swedish study found that certain psychotropic drugs, including painkillers and benzodiazepines, are associated with an increased risk of committing a homicide. The study analyzed prescription drug use among 959 persons convicted of a homicide between 2003 and 2011.
A study by Dr Erdogan Ozturk and colleagues found that smokers need more anaesthetic and painkillers compared to non-smokers, while passive smokers also require higher doses. The researchers suggest that nicotine may affect anaesthetic metabolism or desensitize pain-sensing nerve cells.
Dr. Min Zhuo's team identified a molecule that can reduce chronic pain-related anxiety by blocking pre-LTP in neurons of the ACC, which mediates anxiety. The study reveals the biological basis for the link between pain and anxiety, with implications for treating both conditions.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a technology to convert adult human blood cells into functional neurons, providing insights into pain perception and potential new treatments. This breakthrough could lead to the development of personalized pain medications that target specific neural pathways.
A new national poll finds that more U.S. adults are concerned about prescription painkiller abuse than heroin, with nearly four in ten knowing someone who has struggled with addiction. The poll also reveals differing views on government action and treatment coverage, highlighting the need for comprehensive solutions to address the crisis.
Researchers found no significant differences in co-occurring substance use between medical cannabis patients using prescription pain medication and those who did not. Medical cannabis may be a safer alternative for chronic pain management, but communication between doctor and patient is key.
A large study found that regular aspirin use was associated with a slower progression of percent emphysema on CT scans over 10 years. Even after adjusting for confounding factors, participants who used aspirin regularly had a significantly slower rate of progression compared to those who did not.
A literature review highlights the alarming rise of opioid use in the US, with orthopaedic surgeons as the third highest prescribers. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk assessment and patient-physician relationship trust to avoid overprescribing opioids.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have discovered a new compound called boronicaine that offers longer-lasting painkilling effects compared to lidocaine. The compound provides about five times longer relief, making it a potential alternative for treating sports injuries and joint replacement procedures.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have been awarded a $2.4 million grant to expand development of new pain medications that utilize the same biological target as morphine but with fewer side effects. These new compounds aim to reduce respiratory suppression and persistent constipation associated with current opioid drugs.
Researchers at The Hormel Institute discovered that aspirin may exert its chemopreventive effects against colorectal cancer by normalizing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in gastrointestinal precancerous lesions. This finding suggests EGFR as a novel target for preventing colorectal cancer.
Research from Cornell University finds that texting during minor surgery under local anesthesia can significantly reduce pain demand, with stranger interactions more effective than companion conversations. Patients who texted with strangers received up to six times less narcotic pain relief compared to those without phone access.
A new study found a 19% drop in prescription opioid supply and a 20% decrease in overdose rates following the introduction of abuse-deterrent OxyContin and propoxyphene's removal from the market. The drop was partially offset by an increase in heroin overdose deaths.
The study found a 19% decrease in opioid dispensing and a 20% drop in overdose rates following the introduction of abuse-deterrent extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride. However, heroin overdose rates increased by 23%. The findings suggest that regulatory mandates or voluntary company actions can help stem prescription abuse.
TOPOFEN, a proprietary gel formulation of ketoprofen, has demonstrated greater improvement in pain assessments and faster time to pain response compared to placebo in moderate and severe migraine sufferers. The study results suggest that TOPOFEN can be a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients suffering from acute migraine.
A national survey found that over half of US older adults are now taking a daily dose of aspirin for primary prevention, with 81% having no prior heart attack or stroke. The reasons cited for its use include heart attack and stroke prevention, as well as cancer prevention.
Researchers at Saint Louis University discovered that targeting the A3 adenosine receptor can 'turn off' pain signals in the spinal cord, providing potential relief for patients with chronic pain. The study found that activating this receptor promotes GABA signaling, which is often lost or diminished in chronic pain conditions.
A study by University of Florida researchers found that the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program in Florida led to a 25% decrease in oxycodone-related deaths. The program's database helped healthcare providers monitor controlled substance prescriptions, leading to better prescribing decisions.
A study published in Clinical Toxicology found that US poisonings are underreported by 60-90%, with charges approaching $8 billion annually. Alcohol and illicit drug use were the most common reasons for hospital visits.
Researchers found that acetaminophen blunts positive emotions in users, reducing the intensity of both pleasant and disturbing photos. This study provides new insights into the broader consequences of using common pain relievers like Tylenol.
A study published in Cell Reports reveals that pain signaling pathways influence the sensitivity of opioid receptors on neuron surfaces. The findings may help develop non-addictive pain management drugs.
A Vanderbilt University study finds that pregnant women prescribed opioids are more likely to give birth to babies with drug withdrawal syndrome. The study highlights the dangers of overprescription and the need for state and federal policy makers to address the opioid epidemic's impact on mothers and infants.
Researchers at UCSF have visualized the TRPA1 protein, also known as the 'wasabi receptor', at near-atomic resolution. This discovery provides valuable insight into how anti-inflammatory pain drugs can be designed to target this receptor.
A recent study published in PAIN found that combining morphine and nortriptyline provides better pain relief than using either drug alone, with 87% of patients experiencing significant pain reduction. The combination treatment also showed no worsening of common side effects such as constipation and dry mouth.
A new study by Dr. Faraj Adballah found that single-shot nerve blocks provide limited pain relief after shoulder surgery, lasting only six to eight hours. After this initial period, patients who received the shot experienced a phenomenon known as rebound pain, which worsened their symptoms.
A study published in PAIN journal reports that 20-30% of opioid analgesic drugs prescribed for chronic pain are misused, while the rate of opioid addiction is approximately 10%. The researchers note variability in rates across studies and question whether the benefits of opioids for chronic pain outweigh the consequences.
A new study published in JAMA finds that using a stent to widen narrowed brain arteries does not provide better outcomes than medication alone. The trial enrolled 112 patients and found increased stroke or TIA risk with stent use, as well as higher mortality rates.
Patients with Parkinson's disease experienced improved or eliminated preoperative pain after eight years following subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation. However, new musculoskeletal pain developed in 75% of patients during the follow-up period.
Researchers from the University of Melbourne found that genetic variation affects the protective effect of aspirin on bowel cancer risk. The study analyzed data from 8,624 participants and found that about 1 in 25 people do not benefit from taking aspirin, potentially increasing their risk.
Research reveals spinal cord neurons in the dorsal horn use glycine to inhibit pain signals, while also controlling various forms of itch. The discovery offers new insights into the Gate Control Theory and potential therapeutic targets for pain management.
A new study found that regular use of aspirin and NSAIDs is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in those with certain genetic variations on chromosome 15. However, about 4% of participants with two rare genotypes on chromosome 12 had an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Researchers identified genetic markers that determine who benefits from aspirin and NSAIDs in lowering colorectal cancer risk. Aspirin and NSAID use is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer among individuals with a specific genotype.