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Aspirin not a quick fix for preventing bowel cancer

Daily aspirin use offers no quick or reliable way to prevent bowel cancer in the general population, increasing risk of serious bleeding. However, it may have potential long-term benefits for people at high genetic risk of colorectal cancer.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 25, 2026

New study reveals how a key receptor tells apart two nearly identical drug molecules

Researchers investigated the binding thermodynamics of doxepin geometric isomers to the histamine H1 receptor, revealing differences in enthalpy and entropy contributions. The study highlights the importance of considering conformational constraints in designing ligands with optimized thermodynamic properties.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2026

A common antihistamine shows promise in treating liver complications of a rare disease complication

A study found that chlorcyclizine, a decades-old allergy medication, could potentially treat erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a condition creating extreme skin light sensitivity and toxic liver buildup. Chlorcyclizine may work by helping the liver clear toxic porphyrin buildup and reducing inflammation.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2025

Trends in phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine sales

Despite a lack of clinical efficacy evidence, phenylephrine remained the most common oral decongestant in the US from 2012-2021, with hundreds of millions of units sold annually. Most phenylephrine products were co-formulated with antihistamines or antitussives, providing symptom relief for cough and cold symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 8, 2024

Wilderness Medical Society issues new clinical practice guidelines on anaphylaxis

The Wilderness Medical Society has published evidence-based guidelines for anaphylaxis treatment in remote areas. The guidelines recommend administering intramuscular epinephrine as the primary prehospital treatment, while also discussing prevention strategies such as extracting additional epinephrine from autoinjectors and using expir...

SourceElsevier·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 15, 2022

Are you using antihistamines properly?

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights the need to rethink antihistamine use, as millions worldwide take these medications incorrectly. The study emphasizes that newer generation antihistamines are safer and more effective than first-generation antihistamines.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 6, 2021

Altering pH bumps prions out of danger zone

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered that altering pH levels can prevent prion proteins from aggregating and forming deadly diseases. The study used a laser technique to measure the speed at which proteins rearrange before clumping, and found that an antihistamine called astemizole was effective in reducing prion ag...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2017

Accident prone eczema patients

Adults with eczema are more likely to experience accidental bone fractures and other injuries, according to a new Northwestern University study. The increased risk may be linked to the side effects of steroids and sedating antihistamines commonly prescribed for eczema.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateOct 29, 2014

New study evaluates the risk of birth defects among women who take antihistamines in pregnancy

A new study from Boston University's Slone Epidemiology Center found no evidence to support suggestions of increased risks of certain birth defects associated with antihistamine use in pregnancy. The study considered over 20,000 new mothers and commonly-used antihistamines available OTC or by prescription.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 16, 2013

Women with severe morning sickness who take antihistamines more likely to experience bad outcomes

A UCLA study found that women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) who take antihistamines are more likely to experience bad outcomes, including low birth weight babies and premature births. The study also showed that these medications are not effective in treating HG symptoms

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalEuropean Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology·DateJun 10, 2013

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern outline best treatments for post-burn itching

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern recommend a hierarchy of treatment strategies to alleviate chronic itching caused by burn scars. Topical creams and ointments are often effective, while oral antihistamines may be necessary for more severe cases. Other non-medicinal treatments like lasers and massage can also provide relief.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateFeb 26, 2009