Articles tagged with Drug Studies
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
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Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The Bipolar CHOICE trial will evaluate the real-world advantages and disadvantages of quetiapine compared to lithium for treating outpatients with bipolar disorder. The study aims to inform day-to-day practice in psychiatry with a focus on effectiveness, not just comparing treatments.
Studies found that most anti-epileptic drugs increase the risk of non-traumatic fractures in individuals aged 50 and older. Anti-epileptic drugs are associated with greater bone density loss, particularly in post-menopausal women. The study identified phenytoin and carbamazepine as the most significant contributors to this increased risk.
Early data suggests molecular medicine can restore normal retina architecture and improve visual function in severe cases of macular degeneration. Researchers are now calling for larger human trials to validate the approach's reliability and safety.
A new study published in Science Translational Medicine found that a drug called AFQ056, developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals, showed promising results in treating Fragile X syndrome. The treatment improved symptoms in some patients with a specific DNA marker, and was well-tolerated without safety problems.
Quality of life measures are most useful in breast cancer clinical trials using non-biomedical interventions. The authors recommend including QOL measures as secondary endpoints in adjuvant therapy trials for vulnerable populations or when minimal survival difference is expected.
A new study finds that extending data exclusivity periods would result in higher drug costs in the short term but also lead to more than 200 extra drug approvals. This could potentially increase life expectancy in several decades.
Children with ADHD have difficulty focusing due to an 'off-switch' that requires higher incentives or medication to function properly. This study provides new insights into the brains of children with ADHD and how incentives can help them concentrate.
A new antibiotic therapy developed at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has shown long-lasting relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, even after treatment is stopped. The study found that patients experienced significant relief from bloating, abdominal pain, and loose stools for up to 10 weeks.
A pair of clinical trials found that two weeks of rifaximin treatment significantly reduced IBS symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain. The benefits persisted for 10 weeks after treatment was stopped, suggesting a potential underlying cause of IBS: alterations in gut bacteria.
Researchers have found that placebos work even when administered honestly, leading to improved symptoms for patients with irritable bowel syndrome. The study suggests that the performance of medical ritual may hold significant benefits, independent of patient knowledge.
A new study found that doctors' metaphors used to explain Phase III clinical trials played a significant role in whether patients agreed to participate. Most participants struggled to understand randomization, but those who paid close attention were unaffected by the metaphor used.
Researchers found that echinacea supplements reduced cold duration by an average of 7-10 hours and 10% in overall severity. The study involved over 700 participants and concluded that while the supplement showed minimal benefits, it was still considered safe for use.
A systematic review found that one in every 200 inpatients taking acid suppressive medications developed pneumonia. The study suggests that deaths from hospital-acquired pneumonia could be caused by these medications.
The study found that individuals with untreated hypersomnia incur significant economic costs, including increased medication use, hospital admissions, and unemployment. The researchers estimate that each person with violent snoring or narcolepsy costs society approximately €10,223 per year.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that denufosol can help delay the progression of lung disease in CF patients by preventing mucus formation. The study showed improved lung exhalation rates and reduced symptoms in patients receiving denufosol compared to those on placebo.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital have begun testing mecasermin, a drug that may reverse features of Rett syndrome by enhancing synapse maturation. The three-year pilot study aims to improve neurodevelopment and cardiorespiratory function in girls with the condition.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association has awarded $1.4 million to Repligen to complete preclinical work and initiate human clinical trials of a promising therapeutic compound for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The grant will enable the company to move its lead compound, RG3039, into phase I trials in healthy volunteers and patients with SMA.
Scientists successfully removed amoxicillin, a top five US-prescribed drug, and other substances like nitrates and dyes from water samples using Octolig. The process has implications for reducing environmental contamination and point-source pollution.
A Phase II study found that the combination of pertuzumab and trastuzumab had superior antitumor activity, eradicating 46% of tumors in patients with early HER2-positive breast cancer. The treatment also showed promise in eliminating tumors without chemotherapy in 17% of cases.
Researchers found exemestane to be comparable to anastrozole in preventing recurrent breast cancer and overall survival. However, exemestane showed lower cholesterol levels and fewer reports of osteoporosis, while anastrozole had more side effects on blood tests and mood changes.
Eastern Virginia Medical School researchers have identified a potential novel treatment strategy for the social impairment of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The medication, D-Cycloserine, showed promising effects in resolving the BALB/c mouse's deficits of sociability.
Researchers monitoring people with cryptogenic strokes for intermittent atrial fibrillation aim to prevent future strokes. The CRYSTAL AF trial uses an FDA-approved implanted cardiac monitor to detect arrhythmia and guide treatment.
A new Cochrane Systematic Review finds sublingual immunotherapy significantly reduces symptoms of allergic rhinitis and medication requirements. The treatment has very few serious adverse effects and is effective in children, offering a convenient alternative to injection immunotherapy.
A study by Thomas Land and colleagues found that use of tobacco cessation medication led to reduced hospital admissions for heart attacks and coronary atherosclerosis within two years. Smoking prevalence among subscribers declined by approximately 10% after the adoption of comprehensive coverage of tobacco cessation medications.
Patients receiving mechanical ventilation may benefit from listening to music, which can relax them and reduce anxiety, heart rate, and breathing rate. The review of eight trials involving 213 patients found that music listening may be a promising stress management tool for critically ill patients.
The John Theurer Cancer Center has showcased research advancements in lymphoma, multiple myeloma, stem cell transplantation, and leukemia. A study found that early autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation improved overall survival for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
Research at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital investigates managing iron overload associated with stroke prevention in young sickle cell patients. Genetic predictors of stroke risk are also being studied, with five common genetic variations validated as markers of increased risk.
Phase III trials should aim to find clinically important differences in survival outcomes, rather than just statistically significant ones. Pharmaceutical companies often prioritize minimal but detectable differences that are feasible within trial constraints.
Onconova Therapeutics presents updated clinical trial results for Estybon (ON 01910.Na) in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, showing increases in overall survival and bone marrow blast responses. Additionally, ON 013105, a Cyclin D1 inhibitor, demonstrates efficacy in nonclinical models of mantle cell lymphoma.
A study using the MEADERS (Medication Error and Adverse Drug Event Reporting System) system found that communication problems and lack of knowledge are leading causes of medication errors, with cardiovascular medications being the most commonly associated. The system has been successful in reducing harm to patients, documenting 11% of ...
Researchers are conducting a large-scale clinical trial to investigate whether treating people with HIV soon after infection can limit damage to the immune system. The SPARTAC trial, which began in 2004, is following 371 individuals across eight countries and has the potential to change how HIV is managed worldwide.
Researchers found that 25% of top-selling pediatric oral liquid medications lack dosing devices, while 99% have directions on labels and device markings that don't match. The study recommends standardizing abbreviations and ensuring matching instructions and devices to reduce parent confusion and ensure safe medication use.
Researchers discovered that exposure to high levels of air pollution narrows tiny blood vessels in the retina, increasing the risk of heart disease. Exposure to even small amounts of pollution can cause a 3% increase in heart disease risk for women living in polluted areas.
A study of 200 top-selling children's liquid medications found high variability in labeling and measuring devices, with nearly all products containing at least one inconsistency. The researchers highlight three critical areas for improvement: standardized measuring devices, consistent dosing directions, and standardized measurement units.
A randomized clinical trial found that celecoxib reduced the incidence of new nonmelanoma skin cancers but not precancerous lesions in patients with actinic keratosis. The study suggests that cyclooxygenase inhibitors may provide an additional benefit to sunscreens in preventing these cancers.
A recent study found that prescription rates for controlled medications nearly doubled among young adults and adolescents over the past 14 years. This increase was observed across multiple settings and demographics. Researchers attribute the trend to evolving pain management policies and increased awareness of mental health issues.
A new drug treatment, tribendimidine, has shown promising activity against Opisthorchis viverrini infection, with a cure rate of 70% and almost complete egg elimination. The study suggests that tribendimidine is as safe and effective as the current standard treatment, praziquantel.
A clinical trial known as iPrEx found that taking antiretroviral drugs daily can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection among men who have sex with men. The study involved 2,499 participants and showed a nearly 44% lower rate of HIV infections in those taking the drug.
A major study demonstrates the effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in reducing HIV infection risk in high-risk individuals. The iPrEx study found that PrEP reduced HIV infections by an average of 43.8% in participants who received the medication, with consistent use providing even greater protection.
The Global iPrEx study found that daily use of the oral antiretroviral combination pill was 44% effective in reducing risk of HIV infection in men who have sex with men. Risk of HIV infection fell by 50.2% among participants who took the pill at least 50% of the days.
A multinational trial found that taking an antiretroviral tablet daily can prevent HIV in gay men, with a 43.8% reduction in new infections compared to a placebo. Regular adherence and monitoring are crucial for this strategy to work.
The iPrEx trial found that once-daily TDF/FTC significantly reduced HIV risk among participants receiving a comprehensive prevention package, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the drug regimen. The results support PrEP as a promising prevention intervention for gay men and other men who have sex with men.
A daily dose of Truvada reduced HIV infection risk by 43.8% among men who have sex with men, with up to 72.8% effectiveness among adherent participants. The study provides strong evidence for PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy.
A new study found that low amounts of albumin in the urine, even at clinically insignificant levels, strongly predict faster cognitive decline in older women. This association was strongest for verbal fluency scores, suggesting albuminuria may be an early marker of diffuse vascular disease.
A small study shows that VX-770, targeting the defective CFTR protein, improves lung function and other key indicators in cystic fibrosis patients. The drug has shown promise for treating the root cause of the disease.
Prescription abandonment can undermine medical treatment and result in increased healthcare costs. Studies estimate that 20-30% of prescriptions are not filled or picked up due to cost concerns, with physicians often unaware of patient out-of-pocket costs.
A Johns Hopkins study of 950 healthy men and women found that nearly 95% of heart attacks, strokes, or heart-related deaths occurred in those with measurable artery-hardening calcium buildup; healthy individuals without calcification had minimal coronary protection. Statin therapy should only be considered for those at greatest risk.
Research published in PLOS Medicine reveals that prescribed medicines are responsible for over 3% of road traffic crashes in France. The study found that drivers taking level 2 and 3 medicines were at higher risk of being involved in a crash, with a fraction of crashes attributable to these medicines being 3.3%.
Despite a high frequency of cardiac risk factors, many patients presenting with acute heart attacks are not on primary prevention medications. The study found that nearly 400,000 patients present annually with ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the US, highlighting the need for improved preventive care.
Researchers found that injecting a platelet inhibitor directly into the heart through a coronary artery may restore blood flow more effectively than conventional administration after a severe heart attack. In contrast, erythropoietin did not reduce heart damage but may increase it in patients over 70 years old. Additionally, measuring ...
A University of Alberta study found that including pharmacists in primary care teams leads to significant drops in blood pressure among patients with Type 2 diabetes. The collaboration enables direct discussion between healthcare professionals, resulting in better medication management and reduced cardiovascular risk.
A systematic review of recombinant activated factor 7 (rFVIIa) use in patients without hemophilia found uncertain benefits and potential risks. The review suggests that the drug's use should be restricted to clinical trials due to its limited effectiveness.
A new study reveals that adopting a healthy lifestyle in young adulthood can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease in middle age. The five key behaviors include not smoking, low or no alcohol intake, weight control, physical activity, and a healthy diet. In contrast, genetics play a smaller role in determining cardiovascular h...
A randomized trial with over 600 patients found that high-dose prescription omega-3 did not reduce the recurrence of atrial fibrillation. The treatment had no significant impact on the rate of symptomatic AF or flutter events in either group, suggesting that previous findings may be due to small sample sizes.
A Penn-led study of over 18,000 patients with schizophrenia found no significant difference in nonsuicide mortality between ziprasidone and olanzapine, two second-generation anti-psychotics. The findings provide reassurance for clinicians prescribing these medications.
The NEWMEDS collaboration has pooled resources to create the single largest database of clinical trial data ever amassed in psychiatric research. The database combines data from 23,401 anonymized patients from 67 trials on 11 compounds in over 25 countries.
Experiments with artificial stomach suggest that taking Sprite with an oral anticancer drug improves its absorption and effectiveness. The study found that the soft drink helps control stomach acidity, allowing for better absorption of the drug.
A new study found that romiplostim, a drug mimicking the effects of thrombopoietin, is more effective than standard care in treating immune thrombocytopenia. The treatment significantly improved platelet levels and reduced the need for splenectomy in patients, enhancing their quality of life.
A new Cochrane systematic review found that changing family behavior can help prevent relapses in people with schizophrenia. The study analyzed data from 53 trials involving over 4,700 patients and showed significant benefits of family interventions, including reduced hospital admissions and improved social functioning.
A trial in Kenya found that using text messages to help patients adhere to their treatment improves absolute adherence rates by 12% and numbers achieving viral load suppression by 9%. Patients who received SMS support were more likely to report adherence to ART.