OHSU surgeons challenge age-old practice
Researchers at OHSU are testing a new device called the U-plate to aid in repairing broken ribs. The study aims to identify individuals who benefit most from surgical repair versus nonsurgical therapy.
Analgesics
Articles tagged with Analgesics
Treatment developed for patients with medically unexplained symptoms
A new treatment plan involving behavior modification and pharmaceutical treatment has shown marked improvement in nearly half of patients with medically unexplained symptoms. The treatment also emphasizes improved communication between patient and doctor, highlighting the importance of the doctor-patient relationship.
Twist on chest pain drug improves heart attack outcome
Researchers found that combining antioxidants with a chest pain drug improves heart function after a heart attack by reducing free radical damage. The antioxidant derivatives TMZ-NH and TMZ-NH showed significant protection against tissue damage during reperfusion, leading to improved blood flow and reduced infarct size.
SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics·DateJul 10, 2006
Medication use linked to farmers' injuries
A study by the University of Alberta found that older farmers who stop taking prescribed pain medications are at higher risk of injury. The research identified several reasons for this, including distraction caused by pain, withdrawal symptoms, and incontinence-related discomfort.
Heat halts pain inside the body
Researchers discovered that heat, specifically above 40 degrees Celsius, blocks pain receptors by inhibiting chemical messengers. This finding has implications for developing pain relief drugs targeting P2X3 receptors.
Annals of Internal Medicine Tip Sheet for July 4, 2006
A study found that acupuncture improved knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis, even when compared to sham acupuncture. Another study revealed that Mediterranean diets improved blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels in older adults at risk for heart disease.
Target women's depression to reduce disability from chronic conditions, suggests study
Researchers found that targeting women's depression can help reduce disability associated with chronic pain. Women are more likely to experience higher levels of depression and greater pain intensity than men, and may respond differently to treatments.
New understanding of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes could revise classification of pain meds
A Queen's University study discovered a new heterodimer formed by COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in genetically modified mice. This finding may impact the development of alternative anti-inflammatory drugs, potentially reducing cardiovascular risks associated with existing pain medications.
Late-breaking Digestive Disease Week news
A phase 3 clinical study found that nearly half of patients with advanced illness experienced laxation within four hours of receiving methylnaltrexone, and over 70% responded by the end of the first week. The treatment also showed no diminishment of analgesia due to medication.
Common painkillers associated with increased risk of first hospital admission for heart failure
Researchers found a link between non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an increased risk of first-time hospital admissions for heart failure in the elderly. People taking indomethacin were three times more likely to be admitted due to osteoarthritis as their reason for taking NSAIDs.
Marijuana-derived drug suppresses bladder pain in animal models
A new marijuana-derived drug, IP 751, has shown significant promise in suppressing bladder overactivity and alleviating painful symptoms in animal models of interstitial cystitis. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine developed a liposome-based delivery system to overcome the hydrophobic properties of the drug.
Novel therapy combinations gain ground in treating hepatitis
Recent studies demonstrate improved virus suppression with novel therapy combinations for hepatitis treatment, including valopicitabine plus peg-interferon. Researchers found a higher dose of the drug showed promising results, but also led to side effects that forced dosage reduction.
Aspirin + dipyridamole better than aspirin alone to prevent circulatory problems after minor stroke
A study published in The Lancet found that patients taking aspirin and dipyridamole had fewer circulatory events compared to those on aspirin alone. This combination therapy reduced the relative risk of vascular death, stroke, or heart attack by 18%.
Acetaminophen safe to use after heart attack but doesn't protect the heart
A recent study found that acetaminophen is safe to use after a heart attack, but it does not offer any protection for the heart. The researchers tested the effects of acetaminophen on animals with induced heart attacks and found no significant impact on blood flow, heart muscle damage, or ventricular function.
Heart risks from Vioxx happen much earlier than believed, says Queen's researcher
A quarter of patients who suffered a heart attack while taking Vioxx did so within the first two weeks of use, new research shows. The study found that cardiovascular risk returns to normal within one month of stopping the drug.
Aspirin shows promise in combating a common, antibiotic-induced hearing loss
Researchers found that aspirin significantly reduces the risk of hearing loss when paired with gentamicin, a commonly used antibiotic. The study, conducted in China and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed a 75% lower incidence of hearing loss in patients given aspirin compared to those receiving placebos.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 26, 2006
Aspirin + cholesterol drugs + blood pressure drugs = Less severe strokes
Researchers found that people taking all three medications experienced less severe strokes, shorter hospital stays, and better brain function after a stroke. The study suggests that these medications may work together to improve blood flow and reduce brain cell damage.
Hypnotherapy helps relieve chest pain
A controlled trial found that hypnotherapy significantly improved sense of overall wellbeing and reduced painkiller use, while supportive therapy had no effect. Brain scans show that hypnotherapy affects the brain's processing of painful stimuli.
Brain differences could explain why males and females experience pain relief differently
Researchers found sex differences in brain regions responsible for pain transmission, with males and females responding differently to pain stimuli. Persistent pain activates this pathway more strongly in males than females, highlighting the need for tailored pain treatments.
Study points toward alternatives for Vioxx and Celebrex
Researchers found that blocking microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES)-1 in mice reduces cardiovascular risk, while retaining the benefit of Vioxx and Celebrex. The study suggests a promising alternative for patients with arthritis, conserving clinical benefits while managing cardiovascular risks.
Therapeutic prospects beyond Vioxx
Researchers identified a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs that may lessen cardiovascular risk by targeting microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES)-1. Unlike COX-2 inhibitors, mPGES-1 inhibitors do not increase the risk of heart attack and stroke while preserving some benefits.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 13, 2006
$500,000 grant launches health literacy project to benefit older adults
A new Kent State group called the Center for Health Literacy aims to improve the health literacy of adults and families. The project will evaluate all aspects of the health information-seeking process and make recommendations to help health-related institutions craft more effective health information programs and services.
Serious oral post-surgical complication identified in patient on prescribed therapy for osteopenia
A case report identified a serious oral post-surgical complication in a patient receiving IV bisphosphonates for breast carcinoma-related osteopenia. The patient developed osteonecrosis following periodontal surgical therapy, emphasizing the importance of dental evaluations before initiating IV bisphosphonate therapy.
At-risk drinking associated with higher death rates among men with certain diseases
Researchers found that older men who drank moderately or heavily and had comorbidities worsened by alcohol use had a 20% higher mortality rate than other drinkers. The study also revealed that lower drinking thresholds should be recommended for older adults with specific conditions.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 10, 2006
New mechanism found for neurodegenerative effects of amphetamines in mice
Researchers discovered that amphetamines are converted into free radicals in the brain, leading to long-term neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. The study suggests a novel mechanism for how amphetamines may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers identify potential targets for new pain therapies
A team of researchers has identified a potassium channel, Kv4.2, that plays a crucial role in pain plasticity and may be a primary target for new pain therapies. The study suggests that increasing the activity of this channel or decreasing the activity of related ERK molecule could lead to analgesic effects.
St. John's wort, Echinacea interfere with some drugs by moving them out of the body too fast
Researchers found that St. John's wort and Echinacea can alter the metabolic capacity of enzymes that process medications, potentially leading to reduced therapeutic efficacy. This interaction is particularly concerning for commonly used pharmaceuticals like oral contraceptives and antihistamines.
Disability transitions and osteoarthritis in high functioning older women
Women with lower extremity osteoarthritis are at higher risk of developing mobility difficulties, including lower extremity mobility and daily activities. Greater knee strength can reduce this risk, while obesity is a significant contributor to these limitations.
COX-2 inhibitors significantly reduce risk of cancer
A new study reveals that regular use of COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib and rofecoxib, significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer. Women who used these drugs for at least two years experienced a 71% lower risk of breast cancer compared to non-users.
Drug shown to provide much needed alternative therapy for chronic shoulder pain
A study presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons annual meeting found that sodium hyaluronate reduced chronic pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the shoulder by nearly 50%. The results were comparable to a previous study that led to the approval of the drug for knee pain, and are being reviewed by the FDA.
Wasabi's kick linked to single pain receptor
Researchers identified TRPA1 as a key pain receptor underlying the response to environmental irritants like tear gas and mustard oil. Mice lacking this receptor were found to be insensitive to pain caused by these compounds, offering new hope for developing effective pain medications.
Hopkins study shows low-dose aspirin suppresses clumping of blood platelets in both sexes
Researchers found that low-dose aspirin prevents platelet clumping in both sexes, with women's platelets reacting more strongly to aspirin before treatment. The study suggests that further research is needed to determine who benefits from aspirin and under what circumstances it works.
Experts call for balance in addressing under treated pain and drug abuse
The American Academy of Pain Medicine calls for a balance between treating legitimate pain and preventing misuse, with healthcare professionals at the forefront. Government initiatives have shifted regulatory authority from health agencies to law enforcement, leading to tension and imbalance in pain care.
Dangers of stopping clopidogrel (Plavix®) for patients with stents and certain other conditions
Discontinuing Plavix in patients with recently-placed stents can lead to clot formation and serious complications. Patients should discuss benefits and risks of anti-clotting medication with their healthcare provider and avoid stopping the medication on their own.
Aspirin to prevent heart disease is beneficial in a wider range of men
A new study suggests that aspirin is beneficial for preventing heart attacks and events in men at 5-10% coronary heart disease risk. The therapy also becomes cost-effective when combined with statins for high-risk patients.
Tip sheet Annals of Internal Medicine, March 7, 2006, issue
The article discusses scientific fraud prevention and the growing concern of community-acquired MRSA infections. The key responsibilities for addressing misconduct can be shared among institutions, co-authors, and journal editors.
Reactions to last DTaP vaccine not prevented
A study of 372 children found that ibuprofen and acetaminophen were ineffective in preventing local reactions to the DTaP vaccine, which can cause swelling and discomfort. The researchers suggest alternative approaches, such as using a lower antigen content vaccine, may be more effective in reducing reaction rates.
Inadequate prescribing practices lead to poor pain control in nursing home residents
A study found that less than half of residents with predictably recurrent pain were prescribed scheduled pain medication, highlighting the need for improved pain management practices. The use of evidence-based process measures is intended to address persistent problems in pain management and improve overall quality of life.
Pain medicine scientific research highlights
Research on hurricane Katrina victims reveals a correlation between self-reported pain, stress, and fear. The study also found that patients demonstrated resilience in coping with chronic pain after the disaster, focusing on survival rather than pain.
Morphine and topical anesthesia found effective in treating pain in newborn infants
A randomized, double-blind study found that morphine and topical local anesthesia (tetracaine) combination reduced pain during catheter placement more effectively than either alone or no analgesia. Local anesthesia was found to be a weak analgesic.
Antipsychotic drug may block addiction, UIC researchers find
Researchers at UIC found that trifluoperazine inhibits calmodulin, a molecule required for opioid activation, thereby blocking addiction. The study suggests that this antipsychotic drug could enable low-dose pain relief without dependence on opioids.
Regular use of selective COX-2 inhibitors decreases risk of breast cancer
The study found that regular use of selective COX-2 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of breast cancer. Daily doses of celecoxib (83% reduction) and rofecoxib (64% reduction) had a more significant impact on reducing the risk.
Penn study identifies patients most at-risk for secondary strokes
Researchers identified patient-population most-at-risk for secondary strokes based on five clinical factors: severe stenosis, recent symptoms, and female gender. Stenting and angioplasty in the brain may offer promising treatments for intracranial stenosis.
Aspirin therapy may be safe for some survivors of brain hemorrhage
Researchers followed 207 patients who survived intracerebral hemorrhage and found no increased risk of second hemorrhage among those taking antiplatelet therapy. The location of the original hemorrhage was associated with a higher risk of recurrence, particularly in the cerebral cortex.
For some, aspirin doesn't increase risk of recurring hemorrhagic stroke
Researchers found no association between aspirin use and increased risk of recurrent intracerebral hemorrhage. However, the benefits of aspirin for certain patients with intracerebral hemorrhage are uncertain due to limited data.
Epidural injection does not reduce long-term pain for people with shingles
A clinical trial found that epidural injections of steroids and local anaesthetics provided modest pain relief for shingles patients, but did not prevent chronic pain. The treatment was most effective during the first week after injection, but its effects were short-lived.
Aspirin reduces cardiovascular risks in men and women -- but differently
A new meta-analysis of over 95,000 patients found that aspirin significantly reduces cardiovascular events in both men and women. However, the major reasons for this risk reduction differ between the sexes, with aspirin lowering the risk of heart attacks in men and stroke in women.
Aspirin reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, though effects differ between men and women
A sex-specific meta-analysis of aspirin therapy found that it reduced cardiovascular events by 12% in women and 14% in men. However, it increased the risk of major bleeding events in both sexes. The study suggests that aspirin should be considered for primary prevention in both men and women with preexisting cardiovascular disease.
Use of proven heart medicines improves, but not enough
Researchers found that patients who consistently took aspirin had a 42% reduction in risk of death, while beta-blocker and lipid-lowering medicine users saw 37% and 48% reductions respectively. However, consistent use was low for these medications, with only 71% of aspirin users taking it regularly.
Genetics plays a role in the side effects experienced by people taking painkillers
A study found that genetic differences account for approximately 30% of variability in response to COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib and rofecoxib. This suggests a potential target for developing diagnostic methods to identify patients at increased risk of cardiovascular events.
Studying the fate of drugs in wastewater
Researchers at NIST discovered that acetaminophen, a widely used pain reliever, transforms into 11 new toxic compounds when exposed to chlorine disinfection in wastewater. The study highlights the need for environmental scientists to consider downstream reaction products when assessing pharmaceutical impacts on the environment.
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 23, 2005
Blocking previously unrecognized links between inflammatory systems could make COX-2 inhibitors safe
Researchers discovered a connection between iNOS and COX-2 pathways, enabling the development of new anti-inflammatory agents. Drugs that block these bindings may reduce side effects of COX-2 inhibitors, offering a safer form of therapy.
A spoonful of sugar makes some kids feel good
Researchers found that sweet taste's analgesic efficacy is influenced by how much a child likes sweets and their weight status. In the study, sucrose preferences were determined for 198 children, with those who preferred higher levels of sweetness experiencing reduced pain when consuming sweet tastes.
New antidepressant drug increases 'brain's own cannabis'
Researchers have discovered a new drug that raises the level of endocannabinoids, providing measurable antidepressant effects. The study found similar results to commonly prescribed antidepressants, suggesting URB597 as a safer, non-addictive alternative for pain and depression treatment.
Pretreating rogue cancer cells with aspirin cripples their resistance to targeted therapy
Pretreating rogue cancer cells with aspirin enhances their sensitivity to targeted therapy by inducing apoptosis via mitochondrial release of cytochrome c. This combination may improve treatment outcomes for cancers overexpressing the HER-2/neu gene.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 12, 2005
Pain and its impact on the treatment of rheumatic disease
Researchers explore rheumatic pain mechanisms, debunking common misconceptions. Comprehensive treatment approaches are discussed, including exercise, dietary supplements, and opioid analgesics.
New pain research: Routine Tylenol for nursing home residents with dementia increases activity
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that nursing home residents with moderate to severe dementia who received acetaminophen were more socially active than those who received a placebo. The medication increased their engagement with their environment, including watching TV and talking to themselves.
Increasing role of acetaminophen in acute liver failure in the United States
A study of over 662 US patients found that acetaminophen-related acute liver failure increased from 28% to 51% between 1998 and 2003. Unintentional overdoses, often due to combination medication use, led to more severe disease and worse outcomes.
No risk of heart attack associated with short-term use of traditional painkillers
A study of 4,975 patients found that short-term NSAID use does not increase the risk of heart attack. Long-term NSAID use, particularly for over a year, may slightly raise this risk. The findings also suggest individual NSAIDs have varying cardiovascular effects.
Nearly half of people with diabetes are not using aspirin to reduce risk of heart attack and stroke
A survey found that nearly half of people with diabetes are not using aspirin as prescribed, despite its proven benefits in reducing heart attack and stroke risk. The study highlights the need for better communication between healthcare professionals and patients, particularly those with diabetes who are at higher risk.