Drug Therapy
Articles tagged with Drug Therapy
Short-term and late-term effects of psilocybin on symptoms in major depression
Study links use of new obesity drugs to reduction of asthma exacerbations and inhaler use
New study reveals best dosage for ADHD medications
Obesity and dietician societies combine to issue consensus recommendations on use of incretin drugs in obesity therapy
Viagra could hold key to halting Peyronie’s disease
Wine’s leftovers could help wean chicken farms off antibiotics
New drug approval pathway benefits industry over patients, argues expert
Antibody spurs nerve fiber regrowth following spinal cord injury
A novel antibody, NG101, accelerates the regeneration of damaged spinal cord tissue by neutralizing a protein that blocks nerve fiber growth. This therapy enables new nerve fibers to form functional connections, allowing patients to become more independent and potentially recover arm and hand function.
Digoxin in patients with symptomatic rheumatic heart disease
Intravenous tirofiban after tenecteplase in acute ischemic stroke
Intravenous tenecteplase prior to endovascular treatment for ischemic stroke at 4.5 to 24 hours
ERASur colorectal cancer trial reaches one-third patient accrual milestone
The ERASur clinical trial is investigating whether total ablative therapy can improve overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, limited metastatic colorectal cancer. The study has reached one-third patient accrual milestone, signaling strong momentum.
The critical role of exercise in the GLP-1 era
Regular physical activity is essential for mitigating the regain of lost weight after discontinuing GLP-1 medications. Exercise has complementary effects beyond energy balance, including improved insulin sensitivity and increased fat oxidation. Clinicians must develop individualized strategies to improve exercise adherence.
Trial now enrolling seeks to answer key question: Does adding chemotherapy to hormone therapy improve survival for metastatic prostate cancer?
The ASPIRE trial aims to enroll 1,200 participants with advanced prostate cancer and assess the impact of chemotherapy on overall survival and disease progression. Genetic profiling is included to identify patients who benefit most from intensified treatment.
New treatment with fewer side effects reduces breast density
A new study from Karolinska Institutet shows that low doses of endoxifen reduce breast density to the same extent as tamoxifen without causing severe side effects. The results suggest a lower dose may be sufficient for therapeutic effect while being better tolerated.
GLP-1 drugs have long-term benefit for heart health
A new review found that GLP-1 weight-loss drugs significantly reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and premature death. The treatment also lowered rates of non-fatal heart attacks, hospital admissions for heart failure, and deaths from any cause.
UH professor urges better prevention and care of liver disease to reduce burden
Chronic liver disease in the US costs $41.57 billion, with prescription medication expenditures accounting for nearly half of all-cause healthcare expenditures. Poor adherence to antiviral medications is a key factor in preventing disease progression and treatment, with high out-of-pocket costs increasing non-adherence risk.
UH researchers discover potential breakthrough for Crohn’s disease treatment
Researchers from UH, Baylor College of Medicine and MD Anderson Cancer Center propose a new treatment approach for Crohn's disease by targeting the stress signal that fuels inflammation. They found that repurposing two existing cancer medications can promote natural repair and regeneration of the intestinal lining.
Opioids for dental pain still more common in US
A new study shows that while dental opioid prescription fills in the US have dropped by 27% since 2021, the rate remains higher than in other developed countries and the US territory of Puerto Rico. The study suggests that some US dentists are still overprescribing opioids.
Use of psychotropics increases already in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that people with Parkinson's disease are using psychotropics more frequently than controls, even before diagnosis. The use of psychotropic medications increases as the disease progresses, reflecting emerging non-motor symptoms and worsening disease progression.
Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Risk of drug poisoning if gabapentinoid painkillers taken with other medications
A new study by University College London found that gabapentinoids, prescribed for chronic pain, double the risk of hospitalization for drug poisoning when combined with benzodiazepines or opioids. The risk persists even after starting gabapentinoid treatment, suggesting they may not be an effective solution to reduce poisoning risks.
Anti-amyloid Alzheimer’s drugs show no clinically meaningful effect
A new Cochrane review of 17 clinical trials found that anti-amyloid Alzheimer's drugs have no significant impact on cognitive decline or dementia severity, but may increase the risk of brain swelling and bleeding. The evidence suggests that these drugs are unlikely to provide clear benefit to patients.
Penn researchers use AI to surface unreported GLP-1 side effects in Reddit posts
Researchers identified patient-reported symptoms associated with GLP-1s, including menstrual changes, fatigue, and temperature-related complaints, that may not be fully captured in clinical trials or drug labeling. Nearly 4% of Reddit users reported reproductive symptoms, and fatigue was the second most common complaint.
New AI technology to speed drug development
Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.
Without the right tests, the best medicines make no difference
A new analysis from UC San Francisco argues that diagnostics are being overlooked, slowing progress against major diseases despite advances in targeted therapies. The study suggests that nearly half of the world's population lacks adequate access to diagnostics due to inadequate investment and insurance reimbursement.
New drug combination doubles down on Alzheimer's treatments
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a safer and more effective way to treat Alzheimer's disease by combining anti-amyloid antibodies with molecules found in grapes, berries, peanuts, and turmeric. This combination approach neutralizes amyloid protein clumping in the brain, leading to better outcomes.
Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage
A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.
Alliance marks Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is enrolling adolescent and young adult cancer patients in various trials, including genetic services and treatment studies. These trials aim to address longstanding gaps in care and improve outcomes for AYAs with cancer.
City St George’s partners with Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals to investigate mechanism of osteoarthritis pain drug candidate
City St George's, University of London, is partnering with Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals to test a potential treatment for osteoarthritis. The partnership aims to investigate the mechanism of action of pentosan polysulfate sodium (iPPS) on bone marrow lesions, which are linked to pain in osteoarthritis.
Mirtazapine for methamphetamine use disorder
In this randomized clinical trial, mirtazapine effectively reduced methamphetamine use in adults with methamphetamine use disorder. The study's findings have important implications for the treatment of this condition, which currently lacks approved pharmacotherapies.
Toward strategies for extending ketamine’s antidepressant effects
Researchers identified NOX-1 as a key molecular target to prolong ketamine's therapeutic benefits. Combining ketamine with NOX-1 inhibitors significantly extended its antidepressant-like effects. K-4, a novel AMPAR modulator, also showed rapid antidepressant effects that persisted for at least 2 weeks.
Geographic shifts in early-stage biopharmaceutical innovation
Early-stage drug development has nearly doubled globally over the past decade, driven by a shift from a US-dominated system to a two-hub structure. This change may have implications for scientific workforce development, investment, and patient access to new therapies.
From engineered fungal molecules to drug leads: Chem-bio hybrid synthesis for antiparasitic drug discovery
Researchers have identified and overcome metabolic instability as the key barrier to developing ovalicin, a potent relative of fumagillin. Using chem-bio hybrid synthesis, they created metabolically stable drug candidates that worked in animal models of amebiasis.
Surgery residents fall short in key areas of pain knowledge, Concordia study finds
A Concordia-led study reveals that many Canadian surgery residents scored below the threshold of adequate pain knowledge, with limited grasp of the biopsychosocial model and unpreparedness to treat pain in children. This highlights the need for improved medical training to address this critical gap.
Bleeding events largely outnumber thromboembolic events in patients with cancer during the last phase of life, most patients continue antithrombotic therapy
A study found that cancer patients during the last phase of life experienced more bleeding events than thromboembolic events. Most patients continued their antithrombotic therapy despite increased bleeding risk, with over 28% experiencing at least one bleeding episode.
NRG Oncology/Alliance trial finds immunotherapy did not improve survival when added to chemoradiotherapy for small cell lung cancer
The NRG-LU005 trial found that immunotherapy atezolizumab did not improve survival for patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer when added to chemoradiation. Twice-daily radiation therapy, however, was associated with improved survival in this population.
Further evidence of developmental risks linked to epilepsy drugs in pregnancy
Research reveals associations between antiseizure drugs and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, with valproate and zonisamide linked to increased risks. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of new antiseizure drugs and further evaluation of their safety during pregnancy.
Antibiotic resistance can vary depending on where the bacteria live
Research shows that bacteria harbor resistance genes may respond differently to antibiotics under non-standard conditions. This affects treatment efficacy and contributes to understanding antimicrobial resistance development and spread. Understanding these variations is crucial to combat global public health threats.
Doubling of new prescriptions for ADHD medications among adults since start of COVID-19 pandemic
New prescriptions for stimulants among adults with ADHD more than doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic, with the largest increases among younger adults. The trend is driven by improved recognition and treatment of ADHD in adulthood, as well as increased access to care and virtual health services.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Life-changing drug identified for children with rare epilepsy
A new medication called zorevunersen has been found to reduce seizures in children with Dravet syndrome by up to 91%, improving their quality of life and behavior. The study, led by University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital, also showed the potential to reduce the impact of the condition on mental processes.
Low-dose lithium for mild cognitive impairment
Researchers investigated low-dose lithium as a potential treatment for mild cognitive impairment in a pilot clinical trial. The study found that none of the primary outcomes met the significance threshold, but effect size estimates suggest potential benefits for future trials.
Iron nanoparticle eliminates tuberculosis in mice and may pave the way for new treatments
A study by São Paulo State University found that an iron-based compound eliminated lung infection in mice after 30 days of treatment. The researchers developed lipid nanoparticles to improve stability and duration of action, outperforming standard antibiotics in eliminating the bacterial load.
Researchers warn: opioids aren’t effective for many acute pain conditions
The study found that opioids provide only small, time-limited pain relief for certain pain conditions, such as stomach pain and dental surgery. Regular use of opioids comes with a risk of harm, including dependence and overdose.
GLP-1 drugs combined with healthy lifestyle habits linked with reduced cardiovascular risk among diabetes patients
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System found that using GLP-1 receptor agonists in combination with adhering to healthy lifestyle habits significantly reduces cardiovascular risk among individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study showed that these two stra...
Treatment can protect extremely premature babies from lung disease
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that early hydrocortisone treatment increases the chance of surviving without lung disease for extremely premature babies. The treatment is safe and does not increase serious side effects.
UH researcher joins $3.2 million effort to develop promising new breast cancer treatment
Researchers are developing a new compound that can break down MDM2, a cancer-driving protein often found in triple-negative breast cancer, showing promise in shrinking tumors. The goal is to create an entirely new class of therapies for this aggressive and difficult-to-treat form of the disease.
Research highlights from the first Multidisciplinary Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Symposium
Studies presented at the inaugural Multidisciplinary Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Symposium highlight the growing potential of RPTs to improve cancer outcomes. A meta-analysis shows Lu-177 PSMA-617 consistently prolongs progression-free survival without adding severe side effects for patients with advanced prostate cancer.
Old drug, new target for treating opioid use disorder
Researchers at the University of Iowa Health Care identified acetazolamide as a potential target for preventing opioid use disorder relapse. The study found that blocking the activity of brain enzyme carbonic anhydrase 4 boosted acid-sensing ion channels, reducing drug-seeking behavior and relapse in mice.
Brexpiprazole as an adjunct therapy for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia
Researchers found that brexpiprazole significantly improved information processing speed without worsening psychiatric symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Cognitive dysfunction is a persistent challenge, affecting daily functioning and social participation.
FAU study: Tiny worm offers clues to combat chemotherapy neurotoxicity
Researchers used Caenorhabditis elegans to model chemotherapy-induced neurological dysfunction and tested two compounds for improved recovery. Both sildenafil citrate and Resveramorph-3 significantly reduced seizure-like behaviors and duration, suggesting their potential as therapeutic candidates.
For dementia patients, easy access to experts may help the most
Researchers discovered that collaborative care programs improve quality of life, reduce costs, and alleviate caregiver burden for dementia patients. Adding lecanemab to treatment increased healthcare costs but was offset by the savings from collaborative care.
Cost-effectiveness of semaglutide for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in US adults
A new study found semaglutide to be an effective treatment for preventing secondary cardiovascular disease in US adults. The medication meets conventional thresholds when used alone, but its cost-effectiveness is improved with combination therapy.
New therapy could make life better for kidney transplant patients
A new study offers hope that kidney transplant patients may one day have a more effective treatment regimen. The Phase 2 pilot study showed improved kidney functioning in all patients who completed the study, with no patients experiencing rejection due to antibodies produced by the immune system.
Randomized trial finds drug therapy reduces hot flashes during prostate cancer treatment
A national clinical trial found that oxybutynin significantly reduced hot flash frequency and quality of life for men undergoing hormone therapy for prostate cancer. The study showed substantial improvements in hot flash symptoms, often within the first week of treatment.
Metformin shown to prevent Long COVID across risk groups in multiple randomized trials
The study found that metformin reduces the risk of developing Long COVID by approximately one case for every 50 cases of acute SARS-CoV-2 treated with 14 days of metformin. Metformin can be used alone or combined with other treatments to prevent Long COVID in most adults.
UT Health San Antonio research shows Alzheimer’s prevention potential in pairing cannabis ingredient, anti-inflammatory drug
A new study led by Dr. Chu Chen suggests that combining THC with celecoxib may improve cognition and reduce Alzheimer's-related brain pathology in mice. The combination produced better outcomes than low-dose THC alone, including improved learning and memory performance and reduced markers of neuroinflammation.
The ISSCR addresses access and affordability in cell and gene therapies; convenes summit on 20 March 2026
The ISSCR is hosting a summit on access and affordability in cell and gene therapies to explore pricing, manufacturing, regulation, and reimbursement strategies. Experts will examine key barriers and emerging solutions across the access landscape.