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.
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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.
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Researchers used PET and MR imaging to show white matter volume loss precedes clinical symptoms of Huntington's disease. The study suggests a new approach to preventing the disease at an early stage by monitoring brain tissue volumes and basal ganglia dysfunction.
A recent study found that tetrabenazine, a medication currently available in Europe and Canada, showed significant improvement in reducing chorea, a hallmark symptom of Huntington's disease. The study involved 84 patients and was led by Dr. Kathleen M. Shannon.
The study found a small but significant increase in hip bone density among women taking calcium combined with vitamin D, as well as a reduced risk of hip fractures. However, the benefits were more pronounced in women who were most compliant with supplement dosing and those over 60 years old.
Rimonabant, a weight loss medication, shows modest benefit in reducing weight and improving cardiometabolic risk factors in obese patients. The study found significant reductions in weight, waist circumference, and triglycerides, as well as increases in HDL cholesterol levels.
A study analyzing electronic health records found that 2,354 outpatients (0.7%) received prescription violations of black box warnings. Patients at risk included those over 75, female, or taking multiple medications. The researchers suggest improving FDA warnings to prevent such violations.
Tetrabenazine has been shown to decrease involuntary movement by 25% and improve patient outcomes. The medication targets the excessive movements caused by the disease's mutant protein, providing relief for patients with tasks such as eating and walking.
A study of 17 trials found that pre-intervention drug treatment in ST-elevation heart attacks increased patient mortality and risk of non-fatal heart attacks, strokes, and bleeding. The practice is now recommended against outside of controlled trials.
A new study found that taking medication for overactive bladder syndrome as prescribed can significantly reduce annual healthcare costs. The research, published in the Journal of Urology, shows that participants who took their medication properly saved around $3,700 compared to those who didn't.
A year-long, double-blind study found saw palmetto to be ineffective in treating enlarged prostate. The study involved 225 patients who received either saw palmetto or a placebo twice daily for one year, with no statistically significant difference in symptoms or side effects.
A study found that a case-based online continuing medical education (CME) program effective in improving physicians' domestic violence management skills. The program showed clear improvement in eight of the 10 measures of physician partner violence preparedness twelve months after completion.
A new public information campaign is launched to educate patients and doctors about the benefits of diuretics in controlling hypertension. The campaign aims to reduce serious illnesses such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure by promoting lifestyle changes and diuretic use.
COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs can provide pain relief for patients with dormant inflammatory bowel disease without increasing the risk of flare-ups. Studies show that these medications are tolerated well by IBD patients, despite minimal risks, and can be a safe option for pain management.
A study of 270 individuals with chronic arm pain found that patients receiving sham acupuncture reported a more significant decrease in pain and symptom severity than those receiving placebo pills. The results suggest the medical ritual of a device can deliver an enhanced placebo effect beyond that of a placebo pill.
The ALLHAT study found that diuretics are more beneficial than calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, or alpha blockers as initial treatment to lower blood pressure. Diuretics are well-tolerated with few side effects, making them a cost-effective choice for first-line blood pressure treatment.
A recent study found that discontinuing antidepressant medication during pregnancy can lead to a higher risk of depression relapse compared to continuing treatment. The study, which enrolled 201 pregnant women, suggests that women taking antidepressants who anticipate pregnancy should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctors.
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.
Researchers have identified compounds in licorice root that could potentially combat tooth decay. Further studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of these compounds as cavity-fighting agents, but they show promise for use in mouthwash or toothpaste.
The Strategies for Management of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (SMART) trial found that participants on continuous antiretroviral therapy had significantly lower risk of disease progression compared to those on episodic therapy. The study also revealed increased risks of cardiovascular, kidney, and liver diseases in participants on the drug ...
A study found that one-third of congestive heart failure patients had low thiamin levels, highlighting the importance of diet in managing serious conditions. Vitamin supplements may help prevent thiamin deficiency and improve patient outcomes.
The NIH supports expansive basic and clinical research portfolios on obesity and type 2 diabetes, including genetic studies, nuclear receptors, and lifestyle interventions. Epidemiological studies provide insights into risk factors and inform future clinical endeavors.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial shows inhaled cyclosporine reduces chronic rejection by two-thirds and death rate by five times compared to placebo. The study, conducted from 1998 to 2001, included 56 lung transplant patients who received either the inhaled drug or a placebo.
A study found that medication plus beta-blocker significantly reduced the risk of ICD shocks compared to beta-blocker alone. The therapy also showed a substantial benefit in comfort and quality of life for patients with secondary prevention ICD therapy.
A 24-week open-label extension trial found memantine beneficial for patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease, maintaining clinically relevant benefits. The study showed an adverse event profile similar to the double-blind phase, supporting the drug's safety for long-term use.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine advocate for a paradigm shift in clinical trial design to account for individual variations. The studies found that genetic factors contribute significantly to drug response variability, enabling the development of personalized treatment plans.
A new clinical trials method is proposed to improve patient care by incorporating Bayesian approaches in trial design. The frequentist statistical method used today is considered too rigid and limits innovation, whereas the Bayesian approach allows for continuous updating based on interim results.
Researchers have identified a gene called p11 as being involved in the complex changes underlying depression. Decreased levels of p11 protein are found in both human patients with depression and mouse models of the disease. The study suggests that increasing p11 levels could be a new target for developing anti-depressant compounds.
A large study of over 4000 participants found no association between statin use and reduced risk of colorectal cancer. The researchers noted that if statins strongly reduced the risk, any cholesterol-lowering drug would likely show some reduction in risk due to shared users.
A nine-year study found that alcohol deterrents can help patients achieve long-term abstinence, with an abstinence rate of over 50 percent. The study suggests that the psychological role of ADs plays a key role in relapse prevention and maintenance of abstinence.
A systematic review of cardiovascular disease research reveals that most studies fail to account for ethnic diversity, leading to inadequate representation of minority groups. Researchers urge urgent action in Europe to ensure inclusive research practices and relevance to all population segments.
A promising new therapy has been approved by the FDA for patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis, offering improved lives through reduced inflammation and increased mobility. Nearly 70% of patients experienced clinical response and remission within a year of treatment.
A third of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) fully recovered from symptoms after initial treatment with antidepressant medication. Nearly 47% showed a response rate, with one in three achieving symptom-free state.
About a third of participants reached remission or virtual absence of symptoms, while nearly two thirds remained treatment-resistant. The study, STAR*D, included 2,876 participants and was conducted over six years.
The Medicare drug benefit is at risk of causing significant harm to vulnerable populations, including the poor, elderly, and disabled. A narrow six-week transition period to a new formulary may lead to difficulties in accessing essential medications, potentially resulting in health problems.
The study found that flexible drug dosing permitted patients to remain on the medication longer due to fewer side-effects, while also showing a significant clinical advantage in treating patients with epilepsy. This approach balances efficacy and tolerability, providing more realistic data on antiepileptic drugs.
A recent trial found that a 13-day perioperative course of oral amiodarone significantly reduced the incidence of atrial tachyarrhythmias after cardiac surgery, particularly in older patients and those undergoing valve surgery. This effective therapy also showed promise in reducing hospital stay and associated healthcare costs.
The CYPHER Stent showed reduced restenosis and TLR rates compared to the Taxus stent. Exponential growth in 2005, driven by positive trial results, solidified its position as the leading drug-eluting stent globally.
A new study shows that shorter courses of cephalosporins are more effective than traditional antibiotics in treating strep throat, with fewer relapses and improved patient outcomes. Pediatricians recommend using these newer drugs as a first-line treatment to combat the rising rates of antibiotic resistance.
A recent study found that traditional risk-factor scoring misses one-third of women vulnerable to coronary heart disease, highlighting the need for additional screening methods. Cardiac CT scans are recommended for certain groups of women based on their Framingham Risk Estimate and calcium scores.
A study by Indiana University found that female medical students who received religious awareness training demonstrated superior interpersonal skills compared to their male counterparts. The researchers are now investigating the impact of gender on the effectiveness of such training.
A study found that azathioprine, an immunosuppressive drug, effectively suppresses new brain lesions in relapse-remitting MS patients. The treatment showed remarkable and stable reduction of new brain lesions over a period of 12 months.
A recent study published in PLoS Medicine found that racial minority participation in clinical trials is linked more to access than attitude. The researchers discovered that the main barrier to participation is not a lack of willingness, but rather access to information about studies and logistical barriers such as child care and trave...
Preliminary results from the study show that E7389 induces partial responses in patients with refractory breast cancer. The predominant serious side effect was neutropenia, but mild to moderate side effects were also reported.
A study published in The Lancet found that good adherence to medication is associated with lower all-cause mortality in chronic heart failure patients. Patients who took more than 80% of their prescribed medication had a lower risk of death compared to those who took less, even when not taking any treatment.
Sevelamer, a new kidney disease drug, has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk by 12% in patients with chronic kidney disease, offsetting higher costs. The study found that the cost savings from avoiding cardiovascular events outweighed the increased cost of sevelamer, making it a favorable treatment option.
Two landmark papers unveiled significant breakthroughs in preventing amputations in diabetes patients. Novel Negative Pressure Wound Therapy technology has been shown to simplify complex wounds, while powerful antibiotics have demonstrated comparable efficacy when administered once daily.
Chronic major depressive episodes are associated with older age, lower education and income, medical illnesses, and lack of private insurance. African Americans and patients in primary care settings experience more chronicity.
Studies found that depressed heart patients are more likely to miss medication doses, with 14% of depressed patients not taking their meds as prescribed. Elevated stress hormones also linked to depression in heart disease patients.
A new study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that bupropion significantly reduced methamphetamine cravings and diminished the 'high' associated with its use. The research suggests that bupropion prevents methamphetamine from entering brain cells, reducing feelings of euphoria.
A recent study found that heavy drinking declined with age, although the drop was slower among men and smokers compared to women and non-smokers. The study also revealed that those who got married or quit smoking during follow-ups reduced their heavy drinking. Regular moderate drinking is likely beneficial for cardiovascular health.
A Yale University study found that methylphenidate is an effective medication for children with autism and increased hyperactivity. However, the response rate was lower than expected compared to ADHD without co-occurring PDD.
A recent clinical trial in Ghana found that IPTi reduced malaria by 25 percent and anemia by 20 percent in children up to 15 months old. Researchers are discussing the results at a symposium on IPTi, which has shown clear potential as a new prevention strategy for fighting malaria in Africa. Similar large-scale implementation studies a...
Two studies on obesity pharmacotherapy were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, exploring the efficacy of lifestyle modification and pharmacological interventions. Dr. Susan Yanovski, director of the NIDDK's Obesity and Eating Disorders Program, is available to comment on these findings.
A one-year study found that combining weight loss medication with a comprehensive program of lifestyle modification yields twice the weight loss compared to using either approach alone. The study showed participants who received combined therapy lost significantly more weight than those in other groups.
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that combining lifestyle modification with the weight loss medication sibutramine resulted in significantly greater weight loss among obese adults compared to using medication alone. Participants who kept daily food and physical activity records showed the most significant ...
The PROactive study shows ACTOS significantly reduced the recurrence of heart attacks and acute coronary syndrome in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes. The medication demonstrated a 28 percent reduction in fatal or non-fatal heart attacks, as well as a 37 percent risk reduction in acute coronary syndrome.
Researchers found that CBZ-ERC significantly reduced manic and mixed symptoms for patients with Bipolar I Disorder. The study also showed that the medication was generally well-tolerated, with only 14.3% of patients experiencing a relapse.
Research at Duke University Medical Center found that US heart patients receive blood transfusions 84% more often than Europeans and 38% more often than Asians. The study revealed wide differences in bleeding and transfusion rates among heart patients globally, with the US having significantly higher rates.
A new antimalarial combination, CDA, has shown faster time to reduce parasite levels and greater reductions in parasite viability and reproductive ability compared to current treatments. Phase III trials are planned across sub-Saharan Africa to study its safety and efficacy.
A meta-analysis of over 95,000 patients found that aspirin significantly reduces the risk of stroke in women, with a 17% reduction in ischemic stroke and a 24% reduction in hemorrhagic stroke. In contrast, aspirin has no protective effect in men and may even increase the risk of bleeding strokes.
Studies identify molecular markers that can predict clinical outcome for patients with non-small cell lung cancer treated with gefitinib. Researchers found subgroups of patients with specific biomarkers, including EGFR gene copy number and Akt activation status, have increased survival rates.