University of Kentucky Gill Heart researchers study abdominal aortic aneurysms
Abdominal aortic aneurysm affects 78.8 million baby boomers, with over half at risk by age 50; researchers seek pharmacological solution with $8.5M NIH funding.
Drug Therapy
Research on treating disease with medication. Covers psychedelics, combination cancer therapy, opioid treatment in pregnancy, and personalized guidelines.
Targeted therapy shows significant benefits over standard treatment for advanced kidney cancer
A recent study published by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has shown that a targeted therapy called sunitinib is effective in treating patients with advanced kidney cancer. The study found that sunitinib significantly improved progression-free survival and tumor shrinkage compared to standard treatment with interferon-alpha.
Osteoporisis treatment update
Research suggests strontium ranelate strengthens bone architecture for at least five years, reducing fracture risk. Bisphosphonates remain effective for extended periods, but may pose risks to young patients with osteoporosis.
OHSU Cancer Institute study points to future of personalized medicine
A study led by Michael C. Heinrich, M.D., found that patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) responded differently to Sunitinib depending on their tumor's genetic abnormality. The research highlights the importance of personalized medicine in cancer treatment.
Early treatment favored for multiple sclerosis
Research suggests that initiating MS therapy with an immunomodulating drug as soon as possible following a diagnosis can significantly reduce future disease activity and progression of disability. Studies have shown that delaying treatment is associated with more progression of disability and larger volumes of disease damage.
New data show OAB therapy Enablex® does not impair memory function compared to alternative
A new study found that Enablex, a prescription medication for overactive bladder (OAB), did not cause significant memory impairment in healthy adults aged 60 and older. In contrast, the alternative treatment Ditropan XL caused noticeable memory deterioration, despite the patients being unaware of this change.
Therapeutic communities: A three country comparison
A study comparing therapeutic communities in the US, China, and Thailand will examine client and program characteristics to understand treatment effectiveness. The research aims to advance substance abuse treatment services globally by developing a standardized model.
Study indicates when to discuss early mortality risk in patients with epilepsy
Patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy who don't respond to treatment have increased mortality compared to the general population. In contrast, those who become seizure-free at follow-up do not experience a rise in mortality rates.
Particular treatments effective for alcohol dependence
A study published in JAMA found that medical management with naltrexone significantly improved drinking rates and days abstinent. The researchers also discovered that combining behavioral therapy with medical management showed better results than treatment with placebos alone.
Fertility drugs given 'all-clear' in new study
A new study examining 911 babies treated with either letrozole or clomiphene citrate found no statistically significant difference in major and minor malformations or chromosomal abnormalities between the two groups. The findings confirm concerns about a link between letrozole and birth defects are unfounded.
Protein's potential as a regulator of brain activity discovered
Scientists have discovered that agrin controls nerve cell excitability by regulating sodium pump activity in the brain, potentially leading to new treatments for epilepsy. Agrin also regulates potassium levels in heart tissue, raising the possibility of its use in treating congestive heart failure.
Plexxikon advances first oncology development candidate
Plexxikon's V600E B-Raf inhibitor demonstrated robust efficacy in xenograft models using a once-daily low oral dose, showing tumor shrinkage and prolonged delay of tumor growth. The company intends to file an IND application and initiate Phase 1 clinical trials for the oncogenic B-Raf inhibitor.
Brain imaging can predict effectiveness of cognitive behavior therapy for treating depression
Researchers found that individuals with depression who exhibit increased activity in certain brain regions are more likely to respond to CBT. The study used fMRI to identify these regions, which included the subgenual cingulate cortex and amygdala.
Life or death can depend on teenage cancer patients taking their treatments properly
Experts warn that non-compliance with treatment is a major issue among teenage cancer patients, who are at high risk due to poorer prognosis rates. Improving communication skills and addressing barriers such as family support and information overload can help increase adherence.
Clinical pharmacology needs to be revitalised in the UK
Renowned clinicians call for collaborative effort to revive clinical pharmacology in the UK. The Lancet experts advocate for joint action by medical schools, government bodies, and industry partners to bolster this crucial field.
Clinton Foundation, Yale and Ethiopian Ministry of Health forge partnership
The Clinton Foundation, Yale University, and the Ethiopian Ministry of Health have partnered to expand access to HIV/AIDS treatment in Ethiopia. A team of mentors from Yale will work with Ethiopian health officials to identify systemic changes that can improve healthcare services for 76 million people.
Study finds incidence of hypertension reduced with early intervention
A four-year study of over 800 patients with pre-hypertension found that treatment with candesartan cilexetil significantly reduced the risk of developing hypertension. The study suggests that early intervention may be an effective way to prevent the disease's progression.
Paclitaxel-releasing stent more effective than radiation therapy for preventing restenosis
A multicenter randomized trial found that paclitaxel-eluting stents significantly reduce ischemic target vessel revascularization by 40 percent and angiographic restenosis at 9 months compared to VBT. Drug-eluting stents are now considered the treatment of choice for most patients with ISR of previously implanted bare-metal stents.
New study reveals promising osteoporosis treatment
A new study suggests a calcium phosphate-based supplement improves bone strength and thickness in rats with mineral deficiency-induced osteoporosis. The Mg/Zn/F-CaP supplement showed substantial improvement in bone properties without the side effects of current pharmaceutical treatments.
Acupuncture is as effective as standard drug treatments for migraine
A clinical trial found that acupuncture reduced migraine days equally to standard therapy, with no difference between real and sham acupuncture. The study's results are surprising, as the underlying mechanisms are unknown, but suggest that efficacy is more important than understanding treatment mechanisms.
Folk remedies widely used by older adults in North Carolina
A study found that older adults in North Carolina predominantly use food home remedies and other home remedies for health management, often as a form of self-care. The study also revealed significant differences in CAM therapy use among ethnic groups, with African-Americans and Native Americans showing higher rates of use.
Treatment of severe coronary artery disease with drug-eluting stents a viable alternative to CABG
A study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that angioplasty with drug-eluting stents resulted in outcomes equivalent to bypass surgery for patients with left main coronary artery disease. The treatment was shown to have similar short- and intermediate-term clinical outcomes, despite higher risk patient demographics.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 27, 2006
Methotrexate treatment for rheumatoid arthritis effective the second time
A study of 79 patients found that renewed methotrexate treatment was effective in 53.2% of patients who had previously failed the drug. Lower initial doses were more likely to be successful than higher doses.
Anti-malarials most effective in lupus patients genetically at risk of high levels of TNF-alpha
A study by Lopez et al. found that anti-malarial drugs significantly lower TNF-alpha levels in lupus patients with specific polymorphisms, improving treatment outcomes. Patients taking anti-malarials had better responses to therapy compared to those not on the medication.
$5.4 million grant to Yale EPH to study parasitic disease spread by female sand flies
A $5.4 million grant will fund research on the epidemiological and immunological aspects of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Colombia. The study aims to develop effective treatments for children, who comprise a high percentage of cases and have a poor response to current therapies.
Emergency angioplasty patients do best at hospitals where it's the 'default' treatment
Patients receiving emergency angioplasty at highly specialized hospitals have lower risk of death and faster treatment compared to those at less specialized institutions. This study found that hospitals with higher rates of emergency angioplasties perform better, despite the number of procedures not being a key factor in patient survival.
One third of patients who stop treatment for schizophrenia early do so due to poor response
A study of 1627 patients found that 53% stopped treatment early, with 36% citing ineffective treatment or worsening symptoms. Patients who experienced an early response to medication were 80% more likely to complete treatment, highlighting the importance of early symptom control and discussing treatment expectations.
Chronic heart failure patients who stick to their medication more likely to adhere to healthy behaviours
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.
Cord blood cells may widen treatment window for stroke
Researchers at USF Health found that cord blood cells administered two days post-stroke reduced brain inflammation and improved recovery in rats. The study challenges the notion of immediate cell death in the brain's core region, suggesting a delayed process of apoptosis may occur instead.
Genetic analysis of glioblastoma brain tumors can aid in treatment decisions, study shows
Researchers identified EGFRvIII and PTEN proteins as key factors in determining tumor response to EGFR inhibitors. These findings suggest that adjusting treatment based on genetic activity could significantly prolong life for glioblastoma patients and prevent unnecessary treatments.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 9, 2005
Lancet study: Pfizer's Vfend equals two-drug candidemia regimen, with fewer serious side effects
A Lancet study found that Pfizer's Vfend is an effective alternative to a two-drug candidemia regimen, with comparable efficacy but fewer serious side effects. The treatment was found to be more tolerable, particularly in reducing renal toxicity and visual disturbances.
Successful tests of new treatments in mice for eye disease causing irreversible blindness in humans
New treatments for Leber congenital amaurosis have been developed in mice, providing effective means of restoring retinal function. The treatments combine gene therapy and oral administration of vitamin A-like compounds, showing promise for treating this blindness-causing eye disease.
Combination therapy for mouse model of human inherited blindness
Researchers have successfully tested combining two treatments to restore retinal function in a mouse model of human inherited blindness. The combination of oral retinoids and gene therapy offers effective means for treating this devastating disease, with potential applications for wider age ranges of patients.
Non-drug hypertension treatment device effectively reduces blood pressure in hypertensive diabetics
A randomized controlled study showed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 7.4 mmHg in the treatment group, compared to a rise of 3.1 mmHg in the control group. The device also demonstrated a dose-response relationship, with increased breathing exercise sessions resulting in greater SBP reduction.
UCLA study identifies $7 in societal savings for every $1 spent on drug abuse treatment
The study analyzed data from 2,567 clients and estimated cost of treatment for an individual, finding reductions in hospital inpatient, emergency room, and mental health services costs. The research team also discovered a significant reduction in the cost of victimization and other criminal activities, averaging $5,676.
Middle-age people more likely to use alternative medicine
Researchers found that middle-age adults are more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for prevention rather than treatment, with biologically-based therapies used equally for both purposes. The study analyzed data from the 2002 National Health Interview Survey, covering 31,044 participants.
Growth hormone illegal for off-label anti-aging use, study warns
A recent study reveals that human growth hormone (HGH) is illegal for off-label anti-aging use and can accelerate aging. The researchers warn that many people are unknowingly receiving the drug, which has high rates of serious adverse effects and may increase cancer risk.
Benefits of longer-term tamoxifen use may take years to appear
A study of 1901 women with early-stage breast cancer found that longer tamoxifen treatment periods resulted in improved overall survival, particularly in younger patients. Women aged 50-55 showed significant overall survival improvement after five years of treatment.
UK College of Pharmacy to develop treatments for people exposed to dirty bomb
Researchers at UK and ChemPharma aim to develop an effective treatment for inclusion in the Strategic National Stockpile by creating orally administered dosage formulations. The project, funded by $1,204,374 over 21 months, seeks to improve distribution and administration of radioprotective drugs during mass exposure situations.
Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Oct. 18, 2005
The Oct. 18 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine describes two new diabetes treatments: exenatide, an injected drug; and inhaled insulin. Exenatide improved overall sugar control, but patients experienced weight loss and more side effects compared to insulin glargine.
Beta blockers should not remain the first choice treatment for high blood pressure
A study combining data from 13 randomized trials found that beta blockers increase the risk of stroke by 16% compared to other antihypertensive drugs. The researchers suggest switching to alternative low-cost treatments for patients without heart disease, while cautioning against abrupt changes under doctor supervision.
Alcoholics Anonymous and treatment seem to work best together
Research indicates that involvement in both AA and treatment leads to improved psychosocial outcomes, including higher rates of abstinence and remission. Long-term participation in AA is also associated with better social functioning and self-efficacy.
Older patients with acute coronary syndromes not getting recommended treatment
A recent study analyzed data from over 56,000 patients treated for acute coronary syndromes and found that adherence to treatment guidelines decreases with age. The researchers discovered that older patients were less likely to receive clot-reducing drugs and undergo diagnostic procedures.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 11, 2005
Hepatitis C drug proves cost-effective in helping patients with treatment-induced anemia
A new study finds that co-therapy with erythropoietin is more cost-effective than standard treatment for patients with Hepatitis C and treatment-induced anemia. The research suggests that this treatment approach can improve rates of complete cure from the disease, making it a viable option for this patient population.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateOct 3, 2005
Greasing interferon's gears may pave way to greater therapeutic benefits, fewer side effects
Researchers have developed a method to enhance the responsiveness of Stat1 protein, allowing for more efficient interferon signaling. This could lead to improved therapeutic benefits and reduced side effects for patients with hepatitis C, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions.
Chronic heart failure guidelines
The updated guidelines focus on prolonging life, reducing morbidity, and improving quality of life for patients with chronic heart failure. New neurohormonal antagonists, ACE-inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics are key components of therapy.
Benefits of starting CHF treatment with beta-blocker
The Cardiac Insufficiency BIsoprolol Study III suggests starting patients on bisoprolol may reduce the risk of death, especially in the first year of treatment. The study found no significant differences in efficacy or tolerability between bisoprolol and ACE inhibitor initiation strategies.
Major advance in the treatment of severe malaria in our region
A new trial has found that artesunate is more effective and has fewer side effects than the standard treatment of quinine in treating severe malaria. The study involved over 1,400 patients from four countries and showed a significant reduction in mortality rates with artesunate treatment.
Artesunate should become the treatment of choice for severe malaria
A randomized controlled trial found that parenteral artesunate reduced mortality from severe malaria by 15% compared to quinine, while also being safer and simpler to administer. The study calls for quality-assured, affordable artesunate to be made widely available in malaria-endemic areas.
New hope for patients with rare genetic diseases
ERDITI, a collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and academic researchers, aims to repurpose 'abandoned' compounds for rare diseases. The initiative, launched by Alain Fischer, could lead to discoveries of effective treatments and profitable new drugs.
Slower care for heart attack patients treated off hours and weekends
A study by Yale University researchers found that delayed treatment for heart attacks treated outside regular hours leads to increased mortality rates. PCI therapy, which opens narrowed coronary arteries, is more effective when administered promptly, but delays result in reduced survival benefits.
Harry: The wizard of DVT
A new study involving 30,000 people worldwide will investigate travel-related DVT and its prevention. Professor Harry Büller's research has made significant advances in diagnosing and treating blood clots, with 90% of patients now able to be treated outside hospital
Standardized guidelines improve outcomes in stroke care
Researchers found improved rates of optimal treatment after implementing standardized stroke care guidelines, including administration of tPA within three hours and cholesterol-lowering medications at discharge. The study showed a significant increase in the percentage of patients receiving optimal treatment from 44% to 63%.
Using simple forms can improve stroke care
The study found that standardized forms increased optimal treatment rates from 44% to 63% among stroke patients. The improved rates were particularly notable for preventive treatment for blood clots in the leg veins and cholesterol-lowering drugs at discharge.
Study identifies which patients will not respond to treatment with targeted cancer drug
A study published by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has identified the EMP-1 protein as a biomarker for resistance to gefitinib, a targeted cancer drug used to treat non-small-cell lung cancer. The research found that EMP-1 is present in tumors of patients who fail to respond to treatment with gefitinib.
SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2005
Study confirms treatment switch is beneficial for women with early breast cancer
A combined analysis of two trials found a 40% decrease in risk of events such as recurrences or new cancers when switching from tamoxifen to anastrozole after 2 years. However, more patients experienced bone fractures on anastrozole.
Distant prayer does not improve clinical outcome for patients undergoing coronary procedures
A study of over 700 patients undergoing coronary procedures found that distant prayer did not improve clinical outcomes, but patients receiving music therapy had less emotional distress and slightly lower mortality rates.
Urine test may help monitor disfiguring birthmarks
Researchers discovered elevated levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in patients with vascular anomalies, correlating with disease progression. Urine testing may help predict aggressive lesions and inform treatment decisions.
New drug is effective in reducing rejection in heart transplantation
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that daclizumab can reduce organ rejection in heart transplant patients by 25%. The treatment also showed a lower rate of bacterial infections compared to placebo. Researchers believe this incremental step will help improve outcomes for heart transplant patients.
Dartmouth study reveals flaws in screening for TB; Cases in 3rd world HIV patients may go undetected
A Dartmouth study found that traditional TB screening methods can miss active tuberculosis cases in HIV-positive individuals in developing countries. The study recommends using more sensitive and accurate TB culture tests, such as the one used in Tanzania.
SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJun 15, 2005