Articles tagged with Analgesics
Researchers at King's College London have discovered how paracetamol works by identifying the protein TRPA1 as a key molecule needed for its analgesic effect. This breakthrough could lead to the development of less toxic and effective pain relief medications.
A UCI-led team has identified a new means of enhancing anandamide's effects, which could lead to the development of safe painkillers. Blocking FLAT protein increases anandamide's potency and may offer a promising alternative to existing pain medications.
Researchers are discovering promising treatments for pain, including mirror box therapy and a new opioid-like drug that relieves acute pain without euphoric effects. The studies also identify the neurobiological source of common morphine side effects.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center will study different approaches to improve pain clinical trial design, including patient features, study planning, and site characteristics. The goal is to boost development of new, effective treatments for chronic and acute pain.
Fibromyalgia patients who exercised after a medication holiday showed decreased brain activity in areas responsible for pain control and cognitive performance. This decrease suggests the brain is working more efficiently, with less energy devoted to processing bothersome fibromyalgia perceptions.
A new study by the University of North Carolina Health Care found that elderly patients are less likely to receive pain medication in hospital emergency departments compared to middle-aged patients. The study suggests that physicians may be cautious about potential side effects in older adults, leading to a significant gap in pain mana...
Researchers at Institut de recherches cliniques de Montreal (IRCM) have discovered therapeutic peptides affecting mitochondria. These compounds target cell mitochondria to treat various acute and chronic diseases, including ischemia reperfusion injury and neurodegenerative conditions.
A long-term study of VIVITROL, a medication for opioid dependence, found sustained efficacy over 18 months in patients who received the treatment in combination with psychosocial support. The study showed improvements in opioid-free urine screens and reductions in opioid craving.
A pilot study found Angiomax to significantly reduce major bleeding events in patients with severe aortic stenosis, compared to heparin treatment. The anticoagulant showed a 60% reduction in major bleeding events.
A large-scale study found that sustained buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) treatment reduced prescription painkiller abuse by 49% in patients with addiction. However, once the medication was discontinued, relapse rates were high, highlighting the need for sustained recovery strategies.
A large-scale study has shown that Suboxone is the most effective treatment for prescription opioid addiction, with 49% of participants benefiting from the medication. Despite this finding, relapse rates were high once the medication was discontinued, highlighting the need for continued research on long-term use.
A study published in the journal Pain found that opioid-dependent patients treated with escitalopram experienced significant reductions in pain severity and interference. The findings suggest that antidepressants may be an effective alternative to non-opioid pharmacologic therapies for managing chronic pain in this population.
A decade-long study found that regular aspirin intake halves the risk of developing hereditary cancers, including bowel and womb cancers. The study involved nearly 1,000 patients and found a 50% reduction in incidences of hereditary cancer among those taking aspirin.
A randomized controlled trial has shown that long-term use of aspirin can reduce colorectal cancer incidence by over 60% in patients at genetically increased risk. The study involved nearly 1,000 patients with Lynch Syndrome and found a significant reduction in cancer incidence after five years of aspirin treatment.
The NIH study found that etanercept reduces symptom frequency and severity in TNF receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) patients. However, long-term treatment effects on preventing amyloidosis are uncertain.
A meta-analysis of 18 studies found that acetaminophen use was associated with a 33% increased risk for renal cell carcinoma, while nonaspirin NSAIDs were linked with a 26% increased risk. Aspirin use showed no significant association.
Scripps Research scientists identify a new metabolic pathway for controlling brain inflammation, suggesting anti-inflammatory drugs with tissue-specific effects. Blocking enzyme MAGL reduces brain inflammation in mice, providing protection against conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a specific variant of the opioid receptor that mediates itch and found a way to block it without interfering with pain relief. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for treating opioid-induced itching in cancer, surgery, and chronic pain patients.
Researchers at Temple University found that cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound in marijuana, can prevent the onset of neuropathic pain caused by chemotherapy drugs. The study's lead author notes that cannabidiol may be an effective therapeutic for breast cancer patients experiencing debilitating pain.
Researchers discovered that ibuprofen and other NSAIDs selectively block endocannabinoid metabolism, potentially leading to new analgesic medications with fewer side effects. This finding raises the possibility of targeting inflammation and pain without the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks associated with traditional NSAIDs.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered that administering methylphenidate, a commonly used stimulant drug, can significantly speed up recovery from general anesthesia in rats. This breakthrough could potentially reduce post-anesthesia complications and improve patient outcomes.
A UBC journalism project documents severely constrained access to morphine globally, revealing bureaucratic hurdles and the impact of the war on drugs. The Pain Project showcases stories of patients struggling with pain and caregivers who have fought against intractable systems.
The Gerontological Society of America is releasing two new publications to improve pain relief and medication for seniors. These resources address shortfalls in pain assessment and treatment, as well as labeling changes for acetaminophen, to provide better care and quality of life for older adults.
A study found that long-term use of nonaspirin anti-inflammatory drugs is associated with an increased risk of renal cell cancer. The study analyzed data from two large prospective cohort studies and found a 51% increase in the relative risk of RCC among those who regularly used nonaspirin NSAIDs for more than four years.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that low-dose aspirin increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly when combined with other medications. However, proton pump inhibitor use can reduce this risk.
Scientists at University of Cambridge identify gene HCN2 as key regulator of chronic pain. The discovery opens up possibility of developing new, targeted pain medications.
Researchers at USC's Keck School of Medicine identified a protein called Sab that protects the liver from acetaminophen toxicity in mice. Silencing this protein also prevents liver injury caused by apoptosis and other stressors, offering a potential new target for preventing drug-induced liver disease.
A global study reveals that cheap, preventive medicines are underused to prevent heart attacks and strokes. The study found that women take these medicines less frequently than men, and low-income countries have the lowest usage rates. Generic preparations with expired patents should be prescribed more widely to patients at risk.
A Cochrane Review analyzed 35 Cochrane Reviews of randomized trials to evaluate the effectiveness of 46 different drug/dose combinations against acute pain. The review found that no single drug provides high levels of pain relief for all patients, but some options have a solid evidence base
Researchers discovered dendritic cells play a protective role in the liver against acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure. High levels of dendritic cells are associated with protection, while low levels exacerbate liver damage and death.
A new study shows that patients with coronary artery disease are more likely to experience thrombotic and bleeding complications after orthopedic surgery. The study found that increasing age, kidney disease, and female sex were strong predictors of these events.
A French registry study found that antianginal medications had no significant association with improved or worsened long-term survival in patients who suffered a heart attack. Molsidomine was associated with an increased risk of death, while nitrates showed a trend towards increased mortality.
A new study found that a nasal spray containing capsaicin from chili peppers reduces symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis. The study showed participants experienced faster relief after using the spray, on average within one minute.
SUNY Downstate researchers found that female animals had higher levels of a specific opioid receptor complex that could explain why certain opioids are more effective in women than men. This discovery suggests new molecular targets for pain management in women, taking into account the stage of their menstrual cycle.
Researchers report significant and sustained clinical improvements in 42% of patients with chronic gout resistant to conventional therapies. Pegloticase lowers uric acid levels and resolves painful swollen joint nodules, improving physical function and quality of life.
A systematic review found that taking aspirin during IVF did not increase a woman's chances of becoming pregnant. There is limited evidence on the potential benefits and risks of aspirin use in IVF, with some studies suggesting improved blood flow to the womb and ovaries.
Geneticists at the University of Montreal have discovered a key gene involved in pain perception, which could lead to new pain relief drugs. The study identified a genetic mutation that causes hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type II, a severe disorder characterized by degeneration of sensory neurons.
Group Health developed care plans for nearly 6,000 patients receiving long-term opioid therapy, standardizing use of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. The initiative aimed to enhance prescribing safety and improve care for patients with chronic pain.
Scientists have developed a battery-powered skin patch that can deliver medication for peripheral artery disease (PAD) and healing stubborn skin ulcers and burns. The patch uses transdermal iontophoresis to deliver fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), larger proteins that were previously ineffective when given by mouth or injected, result...
A systematic review of 32 trials involving 3128 patients found that cocaine-free topical anaesthetics substantially reduce pain without triggering serious side effects. These agents offer an attractive alternative to injecting pain killers into damaged tissue, making them easier and less painful for patients.
A Tel Aviv University researcher says current testing for pharmaceutical waste isn't going far enough, as drugs can break down into different forms and still be present in the environment. The researcher has identified nine degradation products of a common antibiotic, including two potentially toxic compounds.
Scientists have determined the atomic architecture of a sodium channel, which generates electrical signals in excitable cells. This achievement opens new possibilities for designing drugs for pain, epilepsy, and heart rhythm disturbances, with potential breakthroughs in treatments for neurological disorders.
Researchers extracted the plant's physiologically active components and found that 200 and 400 mg/kg doses produced analgesia comparable to aspirin. The extract may be acting through both peripheral and central pain mechanisms.
A new study found that patients with diabetes who took higher doses of Aspirin (up to 325mg/day) had a 23% lower risk of death from heart attack. Pharmacists can play a significant role in administering this treatment, working proactively with physicians and patients.
Researchers found that women with recurrent miscarriage have a cumulative incidence of natural conception of 56% after six months, 74% after 12 months, and 86% after 24 months. The median time to a subsequent pregnancy was 21 weeks, regardless of outcome.
A recent study reveals that dentists play a significant role in opioid drug abuse, with many not aware of the risks or proper prescribing guidelines. The research calls for dentists to take steps to reduce leftover painkillers, discuss medication use with patients, and utilize prescription monitoring programs to prevent misuse.
The study highlights large gaps in the evidence base for treating chronic non-cancer pain, emphasizing the need for a multi-faceted approach that considers physical and emotional functioning. Researchers urge further investigation into combination treatments to identify effective therapies for specific patient characteristics.
Despite new guidelines and educational efforts, up to 75% of surgical patients in the USA still fail to receive adequate post-op pain relief. New pain medications and techniques under development could help improve symptom relief for patients.
Opioid-related deaths are primarily caused by prescription drug harm in Utah, with methadone being responsible for one-third of deaths. Prescribing patterns and individual-level risk factors contribute to these deaths, emphasizing the need for structured care to minimize risks associated with opioid therapy.
A review article suggests a shift towards more conservative medication-prescribing practices, considering alternative interventions and weighing risks against benefits. The authors outline seven principles for conservative prescribing, including strategic decision-making and patient-centered care.
A BUSM study reveals gabapentin may cause anorgasmia in older men, a previously underreported side effect. The medication, commonly used for neuropathic pain and seizures, appears to be dose-dependent, with orgasm returning once dosage is reduced or stopped.
A gene discovery for migraine may lead to the development of a preventive pill that blocks the brain's pain channel. The discovery is significant as it opens understanding of the pain pathways that trigger migraine pain, sparking excitement among researchers and the pharmaceutical industry.
A new drug, terutroban, was found not to prevent second strokes or TIAs as effectively as aspirin in the PERFORM study. Aspirin's efficacy and cost-effectiveness make it the gold standard for secondary stroke prevention worldwide. The trial stopped early due to lack of evidence for terutroban's benefits.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully synthesized a rare natural product, conolidine, which shows potent analgesic properties comparable to morphine. The compound has remarkably few side effects, but its mechanism of action remains unknown.
A new study by American Cancer Society researchers found that long-term regular acetaminophen use was associated with a 38% lower risk of prostate cancer. The study suggests that acetaminophen may provide biological clues about prostate cancer development, warranting further research.
A Johns Hopkins study found that CT angiography in low-risk patients without symptoms leads to more aggressive care, including more drugs and tests, but no difference in heart attack or cardiac death rates. The test's benefits are unclear, and guidelines suggest it should not be used for screening in low-risk patients.
A new NIH-funded randomized clinical trial has found that aspirin and simvastatin do not provide benefits to patients with pulmonary artery hypertension. The study, which was conducted at four U.S. medical centers, enrolled 65 patients and showed no significant difference in six-minute walk distance between the treatment groups.
The BABY HUG trial shows that hydroxycarbamide safely prevents early organ damage and reduces common complications of sickle cell disease in very young children. The study's findings suggest that hydroxycarbamide therapy should be considered for all young children with the disease, regardless of symptoms.
Researchers at the University of Granada have identified specific trigger points in the head that contribute to migraine frequency and severity. Injecting botulinum toxin (botox) into these points reduces migraine crises by 50% or more in 18% of patients, with mild side effects.
A meta-analysis of proton pump inhibitor use found a 29% increase in fracture risk, particularly hip and vertebral fractures. Clinicians should carefully consider PPI prescription, especially for patients with elevated fracture risk.