Research on pain-relieving drugs. Covers new pain-management startups, omega-3 approaches, drug safety, and AI-driven drug discovery.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 study from Michigan Medicine found that heart attack and angina patients experience difficulties sticking to their medication regimens six months after hospitalization. Forgetfulness, carelessness, and side effects are among the top reasons for non-adherence, affecting up to half of the patients studied.
A multi-center trial comparing three medications in patients with heart failure showed no significant differences between warfarin and antiplatelet therapies in terms of death, non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. However, hospitalizations for worsening heart failure were significantly less frequent in patients treated with warfarin.
A recent study found that sumatriptan nasal spray provides good to excellent headache relief in over three-quarters of children with chronic migraines. The off-label use of the medication has been shown to be effective and safe for treating this condition, especially when other treatments have failed.
A study by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that state-mandated continuing medical education (CME) programs for physicians have little association with improved heart attack care outcomes. However, CME-required states showed a significant increase in the use of branded thrombolytic therapies, which may be influenced by ...
The future of drug delivery involves 'smart' systems addressing issues like gut, skin, and lung penetration, promising improved patient compliance and treatment efficacy.
A study by Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation found that elderly patients experienced decreased pain intensity and improved sleep disturbances with once-daily Kadian dosing. The trial, KRONUS-MSP, showed a lower incidence of side effects compared to other opioids, making it an ideal option for managing chronic pain in older adults.
A Mayo Clinic study of 100 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer found that a nerve block technique, combined with pain-relieving medications, provided a 50% reduction in pain and improved quality of life. The study suggests that this treatment option could be beneficial for patients with pancreatic cancer, allowing them to live mor...
A new study published in the journal Pain found that people with depression are four times more likely to develop intense or disabling neck and low back pain. Researchers hope to uncover why these conditions are commonly linked, exploring coping methods to break a vicious cycle.
A 26-week study found that topiramate significantly reduced monthly migraine frequency (-2.1 and -2.4 mg/d) and days with migraines compared to placebo. The medication also decreased rescue medication use, providing improved treatment outcomes for patients.
A study published in Anesthesia & Analgesia found that patients who used E-TRANS Fentanyl HCI PCTS experienced better pain control and fewer withdrawals compared to those who received a placebo. The novel transdermal system, approximately the size of a credit card, allows patients to control their pain management without needles or pumps.
Two studies in the February 18 issue of JNCI investigated aspirin use and its association with two types of cancer. Regular aspirin use was found to lower Hodgkin's lymphoma risk, while patients with Barrett's esophagus may benefit from cost-effective aspirin therapy for esophageal cancer chemoprevention.
A study examined trends in potentially inappropriate drug prescribing at ambulatory care visits among older adults from 1995 to 2000. The research found that pain relievers and central nervous system drugs made up most of the inappropriate prescriptions, with rates higher for patients with multiple prescriptions and women.
A study by Northwestern Memorial researchers found that taking baby aspirin or enteric-coated aspirin with Plavix provides a good blood-thinning effect, similar to full adult-dose aspirin. The results suggest that combining these medications can enhance the effectiveness of Plavix in reducing vascular events.
A new study found that nitroglycerin can cause long-term blood vessel damage in rats, leading to increased risk of heart disease and mortality. The drug's ability to dilate blood vessels was found to be short-lived, with mitochondria producing free radicals that can damage heart cells and blood vessel walls.
Researchers found that 68% of patients experienced a reduction in pain intensity of greater than 33%, indicating promising relief. The biotoxin blocks slow sodium channel nocicipetive pain fibers in a highly selective way, making it a potential treatment option for cancer pain.
A study of over 27,000 nurses found that aspirin use was associated with a lower risk of developing adenomas, which can develop into cancer. The findings suggest that higher doses may pose greater risks of side effects such as bleeding.
The decline in hormone therapy (HT) use was attributed to the release of data from two long-term studies showing that HT did not protect against heart disease and may even increase the risk. The study found that women who took HT had a higher risk for heart disease and breast cancer compared to those who did not take HT.
A study found that patients taking statins before leg bypass surgery had better graft patency and lower risk of amputation. Patients on ACE inhibitors also had a lower risk of dying after surgery. The medications' effects outweighed PAD severity and other medical issues.
A UMHS study found that heavy drinkers with chronic back pain showed less physical disability than light drinkers on functional tests. Women were underreported for heavy drinking, suggesting doctors should be more vigilant about prescribing narcotic pain relievers.
Researchers discovered a synergistic effect when combining glucosamine with ibuprofen, resulting in enhanced pain relief. The study suggests that adding glucosamine to existing pain medications could lead to improved efficacy without increasing side effects.
A study of over 88,000 women found no significant difference in pancreatic cancer risk between aspirin users and non-users. However, extended regular aspirin use was associated with a 58% increased risk, while higher doses were linked to an 86% increased risk.
Teen ecstasy use declined for the second consecutive year due to increased perception of its risks, according to a University of Michigan study. Marijuana use also decreased in upper grades, with perceived risk increasing and overall use falling.
A study of long-haul air travelers found a 1% risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), including pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. Traditional risk factors and prophylactic measures may need further investigation to reduce the risk.
Researchers discovered levetiracetam reduces phasic spasticity in MS patients, improving balance and walking difficulties. The medication also shows promise in treating other symptoms associated with the disease.
A clinical trial found that aspirin treatment significantly reduced the risk of thrombosis, cardiovascular death, and minor bleeding events in patients with polycythemia vera. The study suggests that aspirin can be a safe and effective treatment option for these patients.
The American Medical Association highlights the growing importance of migraine prevention, which can reduce attack frequency and severity. Preventive therapy has shown dramatic results in patients transitioning from acute to combination acute and preventive therapy.
The guidelines recommend five medication types to treat neuropathic pain, including gabapentin, lidocaine patches, and narcotics. Neuropathic pain affects 4-6 million people in the US, caused by nerve damage from conditions like shingles, diabetes, and cancer.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have made significant progress in developing hollow and solid microneedles that can deliver proteins, nanoparticles, and large molecules through the skin with minimal pain. The technology has potential applications in treating various diseases, including diabetes.
Research finds that heavy use of analgesics for at least nine years prior to irreversible kidney failure is associated with anatomic changes of SICK. Over 7% of dialysis patients had SICK, with 33% having overused analgesics preceding dialysis start.
Researchers found that platelets in heart disease patients clot more easily despite taking aspirin, increasing the risk of heart attack. Further studies will investigate additional anti-clotting agents and genetic factors affecting platelet function.
UB researchers found that antidepressant drugs decrease chronic pain by inhibiting TNF production in the brain. The study showed that these drugs also increase norepinephrine release, leading to a decrease in pain and its symptoms. This finding may contribute to new strategies for treating chronic pain.
The chemical capsaicin in peppers has been found to stimulate circulation, trigger pain relief, and even ease arthritis symptoms. It is also used in repellent sprays, marine coatings, and various drugs.
Patients with a history of coronary disease are at high risk of experiencing acute coronary events, including unstable angina and heart attacks, after aspirin withdrawal. Aspirin therapy is essential in reducing the risk of developing acute blockage in coronary arteries.
Conotoxins have extraordinary promise for developing powerful new drugs, including treatments for pain, cancer, epilepsy, and depression. However, habitat loss and uncontrolled exploitation threaten the extinction of cone snail species, which are a valuable source of these medicines.
A study published in the American Journal of Managed Care found that guideline-based cancer pain management offers effective pain relief in 80% of patients compared to 30% effectiveness for non-specialty providers. The targeted approach ensures a pre-determined treatment plan, reducing variability and increasing patient outcomes.
A new international study found that a heartburn medication called esomeprazole effectively prevented ulcers among long-term painkiller users. The study showed the drug produced few side effects and was safe for daily use, offering hope to patients who need to take painkillers regularly.
A laboratory study found that methylnaltrexone blocked increases in HIV entry and replication when immune cells are exposed to therapeutic doses of morphine. The study suggests that the drug may improve care for patients with AIDS who require pain relief, potentially reducing the risk of severe constipation.
A study found racial and ethnic disparities in pain perception, diagnosis, and treatment across various specialties. Disparities were seen in emergency departments, cancer clinics, chronic pain, and disability, with African Americans and Hispanics facing unequal access to pain medication and treatment.
The Tylenol Scholarship is one of the largest merit scholarship programs in the United States for all health-related studies. Since its inception in 1991, more than $6 million in scholarship grants have been awarded to over 5,000 students by McNeil Consumer & Specialty Pharmaceuticals.
Mt. Sinai researchers found that aspirin significantly reduces the risk of a first heart attack in apparently healthy individuals by one-third. The study's findings support treatment guidelines issued by the American Heart Association and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, recommending aspirin use for those at high risk.