Drug treatment of hyperactivity in kids may have levelled off in UK
ADHD prescriptions in UK children increased over two decades but have levelled off since 2008. Treatment tends to last longer in the UK than in other countries.
Drug Therapy
Research on treating disease with medication. Covers psychedelics, combination cancer therapy, opioid treatment in pregnancy, and personalized guidelines.
Blood test predicts success of neuroendocrine cancer therapy
A genetic blood test called NETest measures specific genes in the blood that define and predict responsiveness to PRRT. The test was found to be more than 90% accurate in predicting therapy response and non-response, with 73% of low-grade tumors responding to treatment.
SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 12, 2016
Countdown economist and parasitologist call for efficient and equitable control of NTDs
Experts argue that integrated treatment could lead to a 40% reduction in implementation costs and be cost-effective in treating school-aged children and entire communities. The authors emphasize the need for increased drug subsidies, donations from pharmaceutical companies, and improved epidemiological surveillance.
Cancer-causing virus strikes genetically vulnerable horses
A study by Cornell University researchers found genetic links between horse immune function and the papillomavirus that causes sarcoid skin tumors. The findings suggest a complex mix of virus, host genes, and tumor development, with relevance to related human conditions like cervical cancer.
SourceCornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateJun 10, 2016
Faulty assumptions behind persistent racial/ethnic disparities in behavioral health care
Faulty assumptions about addressing minority patients' needs underlie persistent racial/ethnic disparities in mental health and substance use disorders. The article recommends tailoring care, responding to patient needs, and expanding the workforce to reduce disparities.
Biosimilar switching not suitable for all patients
A study presented at EULAR 2016 found that patients with antibodies to biological infliximab are less likely to benefit from infliximab biosimilar (CT-P13). The presence of these anti-infliximab antibodies can lead to a loss of response and increased risk of side effects. The findings suggest that antibody-positive patients should not ...
Cancer drugs could target autoimmune diseases
Researchers at University College London have successfully targeted an autoimmune condition in mice using cancer drugs being tripped in human patients. The study found that by blocking a specific genetic key, the immune system's aggressive response could be prevented, reducing inflammation and damage.
Early, efficient detection and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis using new
Researchers have developed nanoparticles that can selectively deliver drugs to inflamed joint tissue, improving tolerability and reducing treatment costs. This breakthrough offers new hope for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, allowing for early diagnosis and targeted therapy.
High-priced drugs used to treat diabetic macular edema not cost-effective
Researchers found that expensive drugs like aflibercept are not cost-effective for treating diabetic macular edema compared to cheaper alternatives. To reach a threshold of $100,000 per quality-adjusted life-year, treatment costs would need to decrease by 69% for aflibercept and 80% for ranibizumab.
Blood test can help predict RA treatment response
A study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who are positive for the anti-CCP antibody respond better to abatacept, a T cell co-stimulation blocker. In contrast, patients without this antibody do not show significant differences in treatment response to TNF inhibitors.
New study lays groundwork for potential new anti-cancer therapy
Researchers identified a lymphatic endothelium origin for angiomyolipoma and lymphangioleiomyomatosis, two related tumors with previously unknown cellular origins. The study suggests a potential novel origin for LAM mechanistically dependent upon TSC inactivation as well.
New patient focussed initiatives unveiled at EULAR 2016
A survey of over 3,600 adults with RA found that patients value patient participation in multidisciplinary team conferences, leading to better outcomes. Patients want more involvement in treatment planning, with 70% satisfied but desiring fewer medications and more choices.
Heart defect prediction technology could lead to earlier, more informed treatment
Researchers developed a predictive model that uses patient-specific stem cells and genetic data to forecast heart defect types in pediatric patients. The model was tested on human cardiomyocyte cells from patients with specific mutations, achieving accurate predictions of hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy.
Gene mutation patterns in melanoma vary from North to South in New Zealand
Research suggests that melanomas from the South Island of New Zealand are more likely to carry gene mutations affecting treatment outcomes. The study found significantly higher rates of NRAS mutations in South Island patients compared to those from the North Island, with implications for targeted drug therapies and patient outcomes.
Targeted orphaned domain may lead to drug therapies
Researchers at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center have discovered that the intracellular domain of serotonin type 3A receptors can assemble into stable pentamers, suggesting a new approach to treating diseases such as epilepsy, anxiety, and Alzheimer's. This breakthrough may enable targeted therapies without undesired effects.
Treatment with Alk5 inhibitor improves tumor uptake of imaging agents
Researchers found that pre-treatment with an Alk5 inhibitor enhances the delivery of ferumoxytol to tumors, allowing for improved imaging. The study demonstrates potential for Alk5 inhibitors to improve tumor imaging and diagnosis of solid tumors.
Preliminary results comparing PD-L1 IHC diagnostic assays in lung cancer released
A study compared four PD-L1 IHC diagnostic assays in lung cancer, demonstrating similarities and differences. The findings support the use of each assay according to its specific indication, recommending utilization for distinct scoring algorithms.
Genetic test shows risk for serious adverse reaction to toxic goitre treatment
Researchers have identified gene variants associated with a serious adverse reaction to antithyroid drugs used for hyperthyroidism treatment. The study found that certain immune genes increase the risk of agranulocytosis, a life-threatening condition.
Age-related macular degeneration before and after the era of anti-VEGF drugs
A recent NIH-funded study found that half of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) maintained 20/40 vision or better after five years of anti-VEGF drug treatment. The study also showed that the two most commonly used drugs, Avastin and Lucentis, were equally effective in preserving visual acuity.
Penn-coordinated study confirms long-term benefit of anti-VEGF therapy for age-related macular degeneration
A Penn-coordinated study confirms that half of patients with age-related macular degeneration retain 20/40 vision or better after five years of treatment with Avastin or Lucentis. The study also found signs of modestly worsening disease, but overall, the therapy has shown significant benefits in slowing vision loss.
UEA drug research could prevent secondary cataract
Researchers at UEA discovered that reducing growth factor availability can impede cell invasion and improve the effectiveness of open-bag cataract surgery. Anti-VEGF treatment is being explored as a potential new approach to prevent secondary cataract.
Care disparities for Hispanic Medicare Advantage enrollees in Puerto Rico
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found significant disparities in healthcare quality for Hispanic Medicare Advantage enrollees in Puerto Rico compared to their counterparts in the US. The study analyzed data from over 7 million MA enrollees and found that Hispanic MA enrollees in Puerto Rico received worse care on 15 ...
Rituximab is superior to fingolimod for certain patients with multiple sclerosis
A new study found rituximab more effective in preventing relapses among patients with highly active multiple sclerosis switching from natalizumab. Patients infected with JC virus showed a significant reduction in clinical relapse risk after treatment switch to rituximab.
Study points to how low-income, resource-poor communities can reduce substance abuse
A recent study led by UC Riverside professor Ann Cheney found that low-income African American communities in the Arkansas Mississippi Delta have successfully reduced cocaine use through lifestyle changes and leveraging 'recovery capital.' Social networks and culturally appropriate interventions play a critical role in reducing substan...
Physicians' knowledge about FDA approval standards for 'breakthrough therapy'
A study found that physicians incorrectly believe FDA approval requires comparable effectiveness and strong evidence, leading to inadequate communication with patients. The 'breakthrough therapy' designation has been misinterpreted by many medical professionals.
Kidneys have an innate clock that affects many metabolic processes in the body
A study found that kidneys possess an innate circadian clock regulating various functions, including urine formation and excretion, which adapt to daily light-dark cycles. This internal clock also influences the levels of amino acids and lipids in the blood and affects drug elimination in individuals taking medications.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 7, 2016
CNIO scientists discover a new mechanism of resistance to chemotherapy
Researchers at CNIO have identified a protein, CDC25A, as a determinant of chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells. They used CRISPR genome editing technology to test various mutations and found that cells with this mutation were resistant to treatment.
No benefit from addition of aliskiren to 'gold standard' ACE inhibitor
The ATMOSPHERE trial found aliskiren alone or in combination with enalapril had no significant benefit on mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with heart failure. However, adding aliskiren increased the risk of symptoms like low blood pressure and elevated potassium levels.
Few patients use weight-loss medications despite FDA approval
A new study reveals that only 1.02% of eligible patients receive weight loss medications, highlighting a significant gap between guidelines and treatment practices.
Applying parameter selection and verification techniques to an HIV model
Researchers apply global sensitivity analysis to pinpoint key HIV model parameters affecting treatment plans. By fixing non-influential inputs and minimizing parameter dimensions, they better understand HIV dynamics and develop optimal treatment strategies.
SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM/ASA Journal on Uncertainty Quantification·DateMar 31, 2016
Endocrine Society calls for integrative approach to improve diabetes care
The Endocrine Society recommends a multidisciplinary approach to diabetes care, emphasizing the need for coordinated care teams and comprehensive services. The Society advocates for policy changes and increased funding to address gaps in knowledge and promote innovative treatments.
SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 23, 2016
Global team aim for faster, more effective TB diagnosis
Researchers aim to collect and analyze 100,000 TB samples to create a database of MDR-TB genes, enabling faster diagnosis using whole genome sequencing. The project, CRyPTIC, will take around five years to complete and could potentially save lives by providing the right treatment.
IBS Creates a wearable graphene-based biomedical device to monitor and combat diabetes
Researchers at IBS created a wearable GP-based patch that allows accurate diabetes monitoring and feedback therapy using human sweat. The device enables systematic corrections of sweat glucose measurements by monitoring pH and temperature, reducing the need for painful treatments like insulin shots.
Biomarkers can help guide immune-suppressing treatment after organ transplantation
Researchers have identified promising biomarkers to monitor immunosuppressive drug therapy in organ transplant recipients, with the potential for individualized treatment to reduce rejection and minimize side effects. A panel of experts recommends a preliminary set of tests for use in biomarker-based immunosuppressive drug management.
HIV drug could stop skin cancer becoming drug-resistant
A Cancer Research UK-funded study suggests an HIV drug could block the molecular switch that boosts cells' ability to survive treatment, making treatments more potent and delaying drug resistance. The research, carried out in mice, implies that nelfinavir could be used to combat melanoma skin cancers.
New 'AsthmaMap' could redefine disease and personalize treatment for patients
A new digital 'map' detailing different mechanisms contributing to asthma development could help researchers redefine the disease. The AsthmaMap allows personalized treatment by targeting specific asthma subgroups.
Doctors aren't diagnosing or treating most cases of prediabetes, UF study finds
A University of Florida study found that less than one-quarter of patients with prediabetes received treatment from their primary care physician. Prediabetes is a common condition that increases the risk of vascular problems and diabetes, yet many people remain undiagnosed or untreated.
SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateMar 8, 2016
Current treatment options for SLE published by Dove Medical Press
The review discusses conventional immunosuppressive agents and biologic therapies, including rituximab and belimumab, as effective treatments for refractory SLE. Managing co-morbidities like cardiovascular risk factors and bone health is also crucial in SLE treatment.
Better targeting of treatment gives hope to people with severe asthma
A new study is exploring whether the drug Omalizumab can be targeted at specific patients with severe asthma, who are expected to benefit most from the treatment. This research aims to identify biomarkers that will enable more effective treatment and improve symptoms for those suffering from severe asthma.
Eylea outperforms Avastin for diabetic macular edema with moderate or worse vision loss
A two-year clinical trial found that Eylea (aflibercept) performed better than Avastin (bevacizumab) in participants with moderate or worse vision loss, while Lucentis (ranibizumab) yielded similar gains. The study confirmed the effectiveness of all three drugs for diabetic macular edema treatment.
White House highlights Rare Disease Project at Precision Medicine Summit
The Patient Empowered Precision Medicine Alliance (PEPMA) aims to rapidly match patients with the right drugs for their condition. The project leverages University-derived technologies to determine whether existing drugs can be repurposed to treat rare conditions.
Study shows financial engineering could make life-saving drugs more available, affordable
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute propose securitized consumer healthcare loans to spread the cost of therapies over many years, making them more accessible to patients. This approach aims to generate attractive returns to investors while providing affordable access to life-saving drugs and cures.
Intensive blood pressure lowering treatment may harm people with diabetes
A recent study published in the BMJ found that intensive blood pressure lowering treatment using antihypertensive drugs may increase the risk of cardiovascular death in people with diabetes and systolic blood pressure levels under 140 mm Hg. However, for those with high blood pressure, treatment is crucial to prevent complications.
Unconventional treatment strategy controls -- rather than eradicates -- cancer
Researchers develop adaptive therapy that adjusts drug dose based on tumor response, controlling growth and allowing 60-80% of mice to be weaned off the drug. The treatment approach stabilizes tumors by maintaining a small population of drug-sensitive cells to suppress resistant cell growth.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2016
New insights into epilepsy drug Retigabine
Researchers found that Retigabine enhances the resting potential open state stability of K7.2/K7.3 channels, increasing potassium ion flow and decreasing electrical signals. This may help refine pharmacotherapy for epilepsy and related disorders.
Asthma linked to an increased time to pregnancy
Women with asthma experienced a significantly longer median total time to pregnancy (32.2 months vs 55.6 months) compared to those without asthma. Additionally, the birth rate was lower among asthmatic women, with fewer successful conceptions (39.6% vs 60.4%).
Pioneering discovery leads to potential preventive treatment for sudden cardiac death
Researchers develop small molecule inhibitor to address hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a common cause of sudden death in young athletes. The treatment has shown promising results in mice bred with the mutation, preventing the disease from surfacing.
Natural protein points to new inflammation treatment
Researchers at NIH/NIEHS discovered that increasing tristetraprolin (TTP) levels in mice significantly reduced or protected against inflammation. TTP may offer an effective treatment for inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2016
MyoKardia Science article demonstrates MYK-461 prevents and reverses disease in HCM mice
Researchers demonstrate MYK-461's ability to prevent and reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in genetically modified mouse models. The study supports a therapeutic hypothesis that reducing sarcomere power output can improve structural pathology, potentially treating HCM.
Pace of new drug approvals rise -- and so do their price tags
A record-breaking number of new drugs were approved last year, including biologics for rare diseases and cancer treatments. However, the high costs of these therapies pose a significant challenge for patients and the pharmaceutical industry.
Medication effective in treating nasal polyps for patients with chronic sinusitis
A study published in JAMA found that dupilumab improves nasal polyp symptoms and quality of life in patients with chronic sinusitis not responsive to corticosteroids. The medication was generally well-tolerated and showed significant improvements in endoscopic, clinical, and radiographic outcomes after 16 weeks.
Cancer drug helps combat asthma in mice
Dasatinib, a cancer treatment, reduces inflammation and improves lung mechanics in mice with allergic asthma. The drug targets tyrosine kinases involved in asthma's signaling pathways.
Oncologists issue guidance for allocating scarce chemotherapy drugs
Experts have issued a framework to guide difficult prioritization decisions among children in need of scarce life-saving chemotherapy treatment. The modified utilitarian model maximizes total benefit from available supply, considering factors like curability, prognosis, and drug importance.
SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 29, 2016
Necroptosis: How crystals precipitate cell death
Researchers at LMU Munich uncover the mechanism by which crystalline deposits induce cell death, revealing a regulated process leading to necroptosis and inflammation. This discovery offers new targets for therapies and potentially improves treatment of conditions like gout and atherosclerosis.
A woman's heart attack causes, symptoms may differ from a man's
A new scientific statement highlights differences in heart attacks between women and men, including different underlying causes, symptoms, and risk factors. Women are more likely to have atypical symptoms and undertreated with guideline-recommended medications, leading to worse outcomes.
American Heart Association makes first ever statement on female heart attacks
A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association underscores the need to understand and treat heart disease in women. Women's hearts are different from men's, with unique symptoms such as palpitations, back pain, or jaw pain, which can be misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness.
Task force provides guidance on use of osteoporosis drugs
A new report by a Task Force of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research suggests that clinicians should reassess osteoporosis medication use after 5 years. Periodic evaluation and monitoring are key to weighing benefits and risks.
Psoriasis patients have reduced access to efficient treatment method with age
A Swedish study found that psoriasis patients over 30 years old are 65% less likely to receive efficient treatment with biologics. Researchers analyzed health data from 1,465 patients and controlled for variables such as gender, BMI, and comorbidity.
Formulation scientists to rescue patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Researchers have designed controlled release microspheres to reduce the number of doses needed for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. The innovative treatment provides a convenient alternative to current therapies, which require frequent inhalation.
Asthma in many adolescents is not an allergic disease
New research reveals that many adolescents with asthma do not have elevated levels of eosinophils or neutrophils, which are typically associated with inflammation. This finding has significant implications for the development of alternative treatments for asthmatics.