Articles tagged with Analgesics
Women with acute coronary syndrome are being prescribed aspirin, beta-blockers, and statins as frequently as men, according to a recent study. However, significant disparities remain in the use of lipid-lowering medications, with women living significantly longer after their hospitalization.
A new study confirms that patients who stop taking aspirin after a stroke are at increased risk of another ischemic stroke. Researchers found that 77% of strokes related to aspirin discontinuation occurred within the first eight days of stopping the medication.
A study by McGill University researchers found that COX-2 inhibitors like Vioxx increase the risk of heart attack by 24% in users who have not previously suffered a heart attack. Aspirin use can help mitigate this risk, but only in those taking low doses of Vioxx.
A survey found that nearly half of US adults aged 40 and over who are at increased risk of heart disease do not take aspirin to reduce their risk. The study suggests a need for improved communication between doctors and patients about the importance of aspirin therapy.
Recent studies on COX-2 inhibitors have found that celecoxib may not increase blood pressure, while rofecoxib does, and that these drugs are safe for patients with type 2 diabetes. However, patients taking warfarin with COX-2 inhibitors or NSAIDs have an increased risk of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
A study by researchers at Michigan Medicine and the University of South Florida found a significant generation gap in chronic pain coping among black and white adults. Older adults generally scored higher on pain intensity and disability measurements, but younger adults experienced more depression symptoms and sleep disturbances.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 63% of growth in COX-2 use came from patients with low risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Heavy marketing and the tendency to equate 'newer' with 'better' medicines contributed to the overuse of these drugs.
Researchers analyzed data from the National Center for Health Statistics to show that COX-2 inhibitors were frequently prescribed to patients at low risk of gastrointestinal side effects. The study found a rapid nationwide shift away from older, inexpensive drugs with better established safety and efficacy.
Current cardiology guidelines suggest clopidogrel as an alternative to low-dose aspirin, but recent research indicates it may impair ulcer healing and increase bleeding rates. Patients at high-risk for gastrointestinal complications should consider a combination of aspirin and stomach ulcer medications.
A recent study found that most physicians prescribed potentially inappropriate medications for elderly patients, but adding awareness and education led to changes in prescribing practices. The researchers suggest using tools like the Beers criteria to identify these medications and plan interventions to improve elderly care.
Researchers have developed a new treatment that significantly reduces morphine use after hysterectomies, leading to improved lung function and more consistent pain relief. The treatment combines two non-opioid drugs, gabapentin and rofecoxib, which work together to alleviate movement-related pain and promote better breathing.
A study of 43 patients found that 71% who used NSAIDs for over 90 days had visible injury to their small intestine, ranging from small erosions to severe ulcers. The study highlights the potential risks of long-term NSAID use and calls for further research on the clinical significance of these findings.
A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that aspirin use is underutilized among diabetic women and young adults. The researchers discovered a significant disparity in aspirin use between men and women with diabetes, with only 34% of women using aspirin regularly compared to 42% of men.
Price promotions benefit consumers overall, but not manufacturers or retailers in the long run. Introducing store brands is beneficial to premium brand manufacturers and offers increased profit margins for retailers.
Researchers at Brown Medical School and Quality Partners tested a rapid-cycle quality improvement model to address persistent pain in nursing home residents. The study showed a significant reduction in pain, with 44% of homes using appropriate pain assessments and 82% using non-drug pain treatments.
A study found that virtual colonoscopy can detect significant polyps as accurately as conventional colonoscopy, reducing the need for invasive procedures. The research suggests reserving conventional colonoscopy for patients with a higher likelihood of harboring significant polyps.
A study found that Concord grape juice increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels and decreased inflammatory markers, including soluble CD40 ligand, in patients with coronary artery disease. The positive effects were attributed to the polyphenolic compounds in the grape juice.
A subanalysis of a broader study found that patient-controlled, transdermal pain management system IONSYS TM provided similar pain relief to IV PCA morphine after gynecologic surgery. The study showed no significant differences in overall pain control, supplemental medication use, or adverse events between the two groups.
Researchers from Rutgers University found that acetaminophen significantly reduced infarct size in treated dogs, with reductions of up to 63% compared to untreated control groups. The study also suggested anti-arrhythmic action of acetaminophen, with treated hearts appearing more stable electrically during ischemia and reperfusion.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that generic anti-inflammatory drug etodolac reduces rates of gastrointestinal complication by more than 60% compared to naproxen, resulting in fewer hospitalizations and cost savings. This significant finding has led the Pharmacy Benefits Management Strategic Healthcare Group for the Vet...
Chronic daily headache (CDH) affects a significant percentage of the population, with substantial disability and quality-of-life impact. Physicians and patients need to be educated on medication-overuse headaches, which can be prevented by carefully examining medical history.
DepoDur offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional epidural analgesia, providing up to 48 hours of effective pain control without the need for continuous infusion. This single-shot epidural formulation has been shown to improve treatment of postoperative pain following major surgery.
Researchers discover marijuana-like compounds can slow disease progression in ALS patients and protect brain cells from Parkinson's damage. THC and cannabidiol treatments delay disease progression by seven days and extend survival by six days in mouse models.
Researchers found that systematic relaxation significantly reduced post-operative pain and increased patients' sense of control, leading to fewer requests for pain medication. The study used a random sample of 102 adults who underwent various abdominal surgeries.
Researchers found complete pain relief in 76% of patients treated with low-dose ketamine infusions, with some experiencing relief lasting over three years. The study's findings suggest a novel approach to treating complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
Researchers at NIST studied four pharmaceuticals and their reactions with chlorine, finding multiple products some of which are highly toxic. The resulting compounds were more hydrophobic than the original drugs, raising concerns about potential environmental and health impacts.
The new guideline suggests tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, lidocaine skin patch, and opioids as effective in reducing pain from postherpetic neuralgia. However, the long-term effects of these treatments are not yet supported by sufficient data.
A study found that imagery reduced children's post-operative pain and anxiety after elective tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. The 'To Tame the Hurting Thing' intervention, which included deep breathing and relaxation techniques, was effective in reducing pain levels.
A retrospective study found that low-dose ketamine infusions provided complete relief from CRPS pain for 76% of patients, with 54% remaining pain-free for three months or more. The therapy's effectiveness was linked to its ability to block NMDA-receptor complexes involved in pain processing.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that acupuncture is more effective than medication in reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting, as well as decreasing pain levels. The study, which used electro-acupuncture, showed significant improvements in patient satisfaction and comfort after major breast surgery.
A recent study found that IV access does not provide a significant advantage for healthy children undergoing minor ear surgery. Children without IV access experienced reduced pain requirements and shorter hospital stays. Meanwhile, parents whose children did not receive IV access reported higher satisfaction rates with the procedure.
The ACTION study found that adding nifedipine to existing treatments for stable angina reduces the need for hospital interventions by 13% and prevents heart attacks and strokes. Nifedipine also reduces hospitalizations for heart failure in patients with stable angina.
The TARGET study found that COX2 inhibitor lumiracoxib significantly reduces ulcer complications in osteoarthritis patients, but no significant difference was seen in cardiovascular events. Lumiracoxib showed a three to four-fold reduction in ulcer complications compared with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
A new study led by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that imagining a favorite place reduced pain in children after surgery. The study used audio tapes and video tapes to help children manage their anxiety and pain, suggesting a potential multi-faceted approach to pain management.
A study found that adding aspirin to clopidogrel therapy increased the risk of intracranial and gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with a history of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Despite this, combination therapy did not significantly reduce the primary outcome measure at 18 months.
Experts disagree on acetaminophen's safety; William M. Lee advocates for stricter regulation to reduce overdoses, while Barry H. Rumack suggests therapeutic doses are safe and most cases may be intentional overdose attempts.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that chronic high-dose consumption of Vioxx raises blood pressure and increases the risk of serious heart problems. A substantial number of patients continue to receive high doses of the drug, despite evidence suggesting its potential harm.
A new study found that pain medications NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors can slow healing after shoulder surgery. The research used laboratory rats to test the effects of these medications on tendon-bone healing.
Researchers discover COX-2 enzymes can produce DNA-damaging genotoxins, increasing cancer risk. Vitamin C may also contribute to DNA damage under certain conditions.
Researchers found that over half of COX-2 patients take aspirin, leading to a loss of GI protective effects and increased risk of bleeding. Patients should consider alternative NSAIDs or proton pump inhibitors for added protection.
A new clinical trial demonstrates that treating migraine with Relpax during mild pain provides greater efficacy than waiting for pain to become more severe. Patients who treated early experienced significantly higher two-hour pain-free rates compared to those who waited.
Researchers found that Cox-2 inhibitors slowed disease progression in men with recurrent prostate cancer by inhibiting tumor growth and increasing programmed cell death. The study showed significant results in 22 of 24 patients, with a 92% reduction in PSA levels after three months.
Researchers found that COX-2 inhibitors significantly reduced postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, and allowed patients to return home sooner. The study showed a 21% reduction in opiate use and improved patient satisfaction with minimally invasive surgery.
A new study suggests that aspirin reduces breast cancer risk by 20% among women with ER-positive tumors, a type of postmenopausal breast cancer. The protection is strongest among daily aspirin users and those taking seven or more tablets per week.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends against routine ovarian cancer screening due to no evidence that it reduces mortality. In contrast, they support regular eye exams for children under 5 to detect amblyopia and other causes of visual impairment. Early detection can improve visual acuity and prevent long-term harm.
A study found that frequent users of aspirin and other NSAIDs had a 20-28% lower risk of breast cancer compared to nonusers. The inverse association was most pronounced among frequent users and those with hormone receptor-positive tumors.
Researchers found that African-American and Hispanic outpatients with back pain were less likely to receive painkillers than white patients. The study attributes this disparity to racial stereotypes among physicians, suggesting a potential issue with racism in the US healthcare system.
Researchers found that consumer awareness of NSAID side effects has increased over time, but many patients still take excessive doses, putting themselves at risk for serious complications. The study emphasizes the need for education and discussion with physicians to recognize risk factors and prevent adverse reactions.
A new molecule, AM1172, has been identified as a potential treatment for overeating and drug dependency. By regulating the brain's natural 'bliss' system, AM1172 may help counterbalance feelings of anxiety and depression that contribute to obesity and substance dependence.
A multicentre, randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study is underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Tectin in moderate to severe inadequately controlled cancer-related pain. The trial has shown promising results, with almost three-quarters of patients experiencing a clinically meaningful analgesic response.
A multicenter study found that the maximum daily OTC dose of acetaminophen (4000mg) was as effective as prescription doses of naproxen (750mg) for osteoarthritis pain relief. The study involved 551 patients with mild-to-moderate OA and showed no significant differences in efficacy between the two treatments over a six-month period.
A University of Michigan team found that only half of pharmacies in non-white areas had a sufficient supply of opioid painkillers. Pharmacies in wealthier ZIP codes tended to have better supplies, while those in poorer areas were less likely to carry the drugs due to perceived threats of robbery and street value.
The KRONUS-MSP trial found that switching to sustained-release opioid Kadian improves pain relief and quality of life, while reducing the need for medication. Patients who previously exceeded recommended doses of OxyContin or MS Contin found relief with Kadian.
Researchers developed a new technique to selectively delete C-fiber neurons, which transmit chronic pain signals, using the drug resiniferatoxin. In animal studies, this approach reduced pain and improved behavior without side effects.
A study of 160 pregnant women with genetic risk factors for thrombophilia found that enoxaparin significantly reduced pregnancy loss compared to low-dose aspirin. Women taking enoxaparin had a normal live birth rate of 86% and healthy newborns, while those on aspirin suffered more pregnancy losses.
A new AAN guideline has resolved debate surrounding the role of Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) in stroke risk. The guideline found no evidence to support or refute closing PFOs, but notes an increased risk for younger patients with both a PFO and atrial septal aneurysm (ASA). Further research is needed to determine the best treatment options.
Researchers found that statin use was associated with a 50% reduced risk of developing wet AMD, while aspirin use was linked to a 40% lower risk. The study suggests that these medications may prevent irreversible vision loss in older adults.
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at increased risk of nonvertebral fractures from high-dose inhaled corticosteroid treatment. Researchers also found greater acetaminophen use linked to newly diagnosed asthma in women. Air pollution exposure worsens cystic fibrosis patients' pulmonary exacerbations.
A study published in JAMA found that a transdermal patch delivering fentanyl is equivalent to an intravenous pump for postoperative pain control. The patch, called PCTS, eliminated the need for needles and mobility restrictions. Patient assessments showed high rates of good or excellent pain control with both methods.
A new transdermal system, E-TRANS fentanyl PCTS, has been shown to be as effective as traditional IV pumps for post-surgical pain relief. The system delivers pain medication through the skin with a low-level electric current and can be used for patients with moderate to severe post-operative pain after various surgeries.