Experts urge caution over drug company campaigns to destigmatize obesity
Experts warn that destigmatizing obesity campaigns by pharmaceutical companies, like Eli Lilly's
Medications
Articles tagged with Medications
Pausing blood pressure meds on day of surgery benefits older adults
A trial of older adults found pausing blood pressure medication on surgery day reduces the rate of very low blood pressure requiring treatment. The study provides high certainty evidence to inform future guidelines for patients aged 60 years or older with high blood pressure.
Study identifies antidepressants that get patients well and keep them well
A major comparative study found three antidepressants - escitalopram, agomelatine, and duloxetine - to be the most effective in helping patients get well and stay well in the long term. The study, which analyzed data from over 30,000 participants, suggests that these medications can provide sustained benefits over long-term use.
SourceRadboud University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 10, 2026
Effective obesity treatments reach few eligible teens, study finds
A recent study found that only 1% of eligible adolescents underwent bariatric surgery, while 4.6% received GLP-1 prescriptions. The study suggests that access to these treatments may be limited for teens who qualify.
Alzheimer’s discovery reveals brain cleaning gone wrong
A new study reveals that the CASS4 gene plays a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease by directing brain-cleaning immune cells, which can be disrupted leading to the buildup of toxic plaques. This discovery offers new hope for the development of treatments or prevention strategies by targeting the gene or microglia in the brain.
Could Ozempic and Wegovy affect unborn babies?
A new study by Adelaide University found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, significantly reduced blood flow to the uterus and oxygen levels in developing fetuses. The study, using pregnant sheep, raises concerns about the safety of weight-loss drugs during pregnancy.
Excessive polypharmacy and complex medication regimens are associated with greater physician burden in home healthcare
Patients with excessive polypharmacy (10+ medications) and complex medication regimens experience significantly greater physician burden. Multidisciplinary collaboration between physicians and pharmacists can optimize pharmacotherapy and reduce physician burden.
To quit smoking, what methods work best in the real world?
A new nationwide study will measure how well different products, including FDA-approved medicines and e-cigarettes, help people quit tobacco in real-world conditions. The study aims to determine which products are most effective for helping people quit smoking and increase the rate of smoking cessation in the US.
Experimental weight-loss drug eases painful knee osteoarthritis in two clinical trials
Phase 3 clinical trials involving over 1,000 participants found that those taking retatrutide, a new experimental weight-loss injectable drug, lost about a quarter of their body weight on average and experienced significant pain relief. The drug also showed benefits in reducing blood pressure, lipid levels, and systemic inflammation.
$6 million in gifts establishes UVA Biotech Innovation Fund to accelerate new medicines
The UVA Biotech Innovation Fund will support the SPARK Innovative Medicines program, helping to accelerate promising discoveries into new treatments and cures. The fund will provide long-term support for researchers to overcome the critical gap between discovery and clinical application.
Could a drug for leg cramps prevent a second, deadlier stroke?
Researchers hope to enroll over 2,000 stroke patients to test cilostazol's effectiveness in reducing stroke recurrence. The study aims to cut stroke recurrence by 50% and follows Japan's success with similar results.
AGS releases new framework for safe and patient-centered prescribing of obesity medications in older adults
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has released a new framework to assist clinicians in safely prescribing obesity medications in older adults. The framework considers age-related factors such as sarcopenia and frailty, risk of lean muscle loss, malnutrition, and dehydration.
SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·TypeCase study·DateOct 29, 2026
Early Paxlovid treatment was associated with modestly lower risks of Long COVID, post-acute hospitalization, and death among high-risk, nonhospitalized patients with COVID-19
Early Paxlovid treatment was associated with modestly lower risks of Long COVID, post-acute hospitalization, and death among high-risk, nonhospitalized patients with COVID-19. No clear reduction in Long COVID risk was observed among low-risk patients.
Aston University-led international study finds ADHD medication unlikely to raise risk of self-harm
A multinational study of over 460,000 people finds that ADHD medication use is not associated with an increased risk of self-harm. The study suggests that individuals with ADHD are already at their highest risk of self-harm before treatment begins, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Creating ‘satellite maps’ of proteins could transform drug therapies
A University at Buffalo breakthrough enables the creation of thousands of detailed protein maps, revealing how disease and treatment reshape tissue biology. This technology has the potential to transform drug therapies by uncovering new therapeutic targets and guiding the development of safer, more effective medicines.
Black children at risk for severe form of asthma, new research shows
A new UVA study finds that Black children are more likely to develop severe asthma due to harmful inflammation, regardless of environmental factors. The research suggests tailored treatments for Black children with severe symptoms, and testing for high levels of T2 inflammation in all children with difficult-to-treat asthma.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice·DateOct 16, 2026
The pain-sensing receptor behind chili-pepper burn may hold clues to pain treatments
A new study from UC Davis reveals that TRPV1 responds differently to various triggers, stabilizing distinct open states with unique functional properties. This finding could lead to more targeted pain treatments, as previous attempts have caused unwanted side effects.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2026
Asthma medication improved motor skills and strength in children with muscle disease
A study found that oral salbutamol improved motor function, muscle strength, and lung function in children with congenital myopathies. The treatment showed a significant reduction in time to stand up and improved grip strength.
SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 14, 2026
Opioid prescriptions during pregnancy linked to higher rates of childhood hospital admission
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that children whose mothers received opioid prescriptions during pregnancy have a higher rate of hospital admission in childhood. The study, which followed nearly 3 million South Korean children, found a 28% higher rate of hospital admission among those exposed prenatally to opioids.
Decades of work by husband-and-wife team yields new Parkinson's drug
Juvmo, a Parkinson's disease drug, has been approved by the FDA and offers a new treatment option for patients, potentially reducing side effects. The drug's unique mechanism of action provides relief from motor symptoms, and its approval marks a significant milestone in the research of UVA Health scientists.
Study questions benefit of folic acid (vitamin B9) supplementation in reducing suicides
A nationwide Swedish study suggests folic acid may not reduce suicide risk in all age groups and sexes, casting doubt on its benefits. The study found no significant associations among women, but annual folic acid dispensing rates in men aged 20–24 were associated with higher suicide-related deaths.
Blocking enzyme reduces heart failure risk after heart attack in mice
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered that blocking the enzyme BCAT1 reduces fibrosis and preserves heart function after a heart attack. The study found that BCAT1 activates a pathway that maintains proline supply, supporting collagen production.
SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2026
Ingenious ‘molecular movie’ finally reveals how penicillin is made
Researchers captured rapid chemical stages in penicillin formation, revealing the role of water molecules and enzyme movements in guiding the reaction. The study provides unprecedented insights into the mechanism of β-lactam antibiotic biosynthesis, shedding light on the complex chemistry involved in creating this crucial medicine.
Study links pharmaceutical industry payments to changes in physicians’ prescribing practices
A Cochrane review found that marketing strategies, including payments and gifts, can influence physicians' prescribing habits, leading to more expensive and less appropriate drug prescriptions. The review suggests that robust conflict-of-interest policies can mitigate these influences.
How a new long-acting HIV drug combo tackles resistance
A new long-acting HIV treatment combines lenacapavir and cabotegravir to expand options for people with resistance to commonly used HIV drugs. The study found all participants achieved and maintained control of the virus, paving the way for improved care before clinical trials are completed.
Pharmaceutical company marketing negatively influences prescribing
A new Cochrane review finds that pharmaceutical company marketing, including payments, gifts, and free meals, leads to less appropriate prescribing habits and higher medicine costs. The review analyzed millions of prescribers and found a clear dose-response relationship between paid-for meals and inappropriate prescriptions.
New study raises questions about antifungal treatments during pregnancy
A recent study has raised concerns about the safety of antifungal treatments during pregnancy, finding potential changes in fetal hormone production and its effects on children. Researchers analyzed data from 589 Danish mother-child pairs and found altered adrenal hormone levels in children after birth.
Digital alerts support timely treatment decisions of critically ill cardiac patients
Researchers found that well-designed digital alerts can assist clinicians in high-pressure situations, prompting them to make recommended treatment decisions and recognize when patients are deteriorating. The studies demonstrated the effectiveness of electronic health record alerts in the emergency department and cardiac intensive care...
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJACC Case Reports·TypeObservational study·DateOct 6, 2026
$4.9M RHTP award will expand pharmacy-based healthcare access across rural Colorado
CU Anschutz Pharmacy is launching Colorado STREAM, a five-year initiative with $25M in funding, to expand access to medications and whole-person health services in rural Colorado. The program connects community pharmacies with regional treatment centers, telehealth services, and other healthcare partners.
Candy-coated Lollylab checks saliva for medication
A candy-coated device called Lollylab can detect acetaminophen levels in saliva in under two minutes, making it a potential tool for monitoring medication levels. The device, which uses a graphene sensor, was tested on six adults and found to be reliable and comfortable to use.
US pharmacy closures are hitting racial minority communities the hardest
A new study reveals that pharmacy closures are occurring disproportionately among communities with a majority of racial and ethnic minority residents. Predominantly White communities have more pharmacies per 10,000 people than neighborhoods with predominantly minority populations, leading to unequal access to healthcare services.
GLP-1 prescriptions for new mothers have increased sharply
The study found a 24-fold increase in new GLP-1 prescriptions among new mothers, with women with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes showing the highest rates. Prescribing increased fastest among those diagnosed as obese or overweight before pregnancy.
Researchers find benzodiazepine prescriptions drop sharply in the U.S. over the past decade
Benzodiazepine prescriptions have decreased by 26.7% over the past decade, with the largest decline observed among young adults between ages 18 and 29. The average dose per prescription also decreased by 18.3%, suggesting more selective prescribing practices.
SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 30, 2026
How much do Americans spend on GLP-1 medications? VCU medical students measure drug affordability
A study by VCU medical students found that nearly 1 in 5 GLP-1 users spent at least 10% of their household income on the medications, while 7% of patients spent an average of 7% of their household income annually. The researchers emphasize the need for solutions to make GLP-1 medications more affordable, particularly among uninsured an...
Nasal spray brings pain relief for children treated in the emergency department
A nasal spray treatment has shown to provide rapid and effective pain relief for children in emergency departments, with 86.2% of children experiencing reduced pain 30 minutes after treatment. The treatment was well-tolerated with mild side effects, offering a simple and effective option for treating children in the emergency department.
Older Americans are taking more medications, with 1 in 5 at risk for a major drug interaction
A recent USC-led study reveals that over 1 in 5 older adults are at risk for major drug interactions, despite a decline in their prevalence. Polypharmacy and dietary supplement polypharmacy have increased, with antidepressants, statins, and antiplatelet therapies being the most commonly used medications involved in these regimens.
Tenecteplase before thrombectomy at 4.5 to 24 hours for basilar artery occlusion
A study found that adding intravenous tenecteplase before thrombectomy in patients with moderate to severe basilar artery occlusion did not improve functional outcomes. The addition of tenecteplase before thrombectomy did not result in improved functional outcomes compared to thrombectomy alone.
Can a pharmacist-led medication review improve medication use in older adults with cancer?
A pharmacist-led medication review improved medication quality in older adults with cancer, with 29.9% fewer patients on potentially inappropriate prescriptions and 34.2% less medication overuse. The review also recommended 337 missing vaccinations.
Experimental drug reverses paralysis, vision loss in multiple sclerosis model
A new drug, Kamuvudine K-9, has been shown to preserve nerve fibers and halt neurological damage in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. The drug, derived from HIV drugs, has been found to be more effective than existing treatments in restoring function and reducing inflammation.
Winners of this year’s Semmelweis–Richter International Journalism Award announced
The Semmelweis–Richter Journalism Award honored journalists for their work on abortion, climate change, and pharmaceutical innovation. Exporting Abortion, an international investigative journalism project, won first place in the
Microplastics may help antibiotic resistance travel farther through livestock waste
A new review suggests that microplastics can act as mobile carriers for antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes, creating hotspots where resistance can persist and spread. The review calls for integrated treatment methods to control microplastics, antibiotics, and resistance genes.
SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalAgricultural Ecology and Environment·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 17, 2026
Professors receive $3.7 million NIH grant to study effectiveness of higher-dosage buprenorphine among pregnant women with opioid use disorder
Researchers are evaluating the health and economic consequences of subpar buprenorphine dosing among Medicaid-covered pregnant women to improve maternal and infant outcomes. Data suggest that up to 90% of pregnant women require higher doses of buprenorphine.
Efficacy and safety of semaglutide according to frailty status
A recent study found semaglutide to be effective in improving various clinical outcomes in patients with frailty, with greater benefits observed in those with higher frailty indices. The medication demonstrated a positive impact on health-related quality of life, highlighting its potential as a treatment option for this population.
The Lancet: New US Medicare pricing policies could reshape global pharmaceutical markets, potentially driving up prices and delaying medicine launches worldwide, study suggests
A new US Medicare pricing policy could reshape global pharmaceutical markets, potentially driving up prices and delaying medicine launches worldwide. The study estimates that Medicare could save $5.2 billion under its initial phase, with savings rising to $21 billion if expanded to all Medicare beneficiaries.
Protein clues in the blood may help children avoid diseases later in life
Researchers have identified early signs of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic disease (CKMD) in children as young as 8 years old that can be reversed with a new class of weight loss drugs. The study found that levels of certain disease-associated proteins in children decline in response to therapy with semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonis...
Loberamisal for acute ischemic stroke
A study published in JAMA found that intravenous loberamisal increased the proportion of patients with acute ischemic stroke achieving full functional outcomes at 90 days. The treatment resulted in a higher proportion of patients regaining full functional abilities compared to placebo.
Eric Vejerano receives National Science Foundation award to investigate how sunscreens form persistent free radicals
Eric Vejerano's NSF-funded project will explain how sunscreens form persistent free radicals, how long they last, and how seawater affects their behavior. The goal is to develop safer sunscreen formulations that protect people and marine ecosystems.
Weight loss injections and pregnancy – new guidelines support safe decision making
Weight loss injections can impact reproductive health, and a new study provides evidence-based guidelines for families and health professionals. The guidelines recommend that incretin-based medication therapy should not be deliberately continued throughout pregnancy, but women who used the injections without realizing they were pregnan...
River drinking water sources may face greater antibiotic resistance risks than reservoirs, study finds
A study of 13 drinking water sources in China's Poyang Lake region reveals that river-type sources carry higher risks from antibiotics and resistant bacteria than reservoir-type sources. The findings highlight the importance of considering water source type when designing monitoring and pollution-control strategies.
SourceShenyang Agricultural University Collaborative Journals·JournalBiocontaminant·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2026
Research explores why strep throat can linger, even after treatment with antibiotics
A study by Binghamton University found that 8-10% of children can carry strep bacteria even after antibiotic treatment, despite no symptoms. Researchers hope to understand this phenomenon through genome analysis and throat microbiota studies.
Paracetamol use during pregnancy is linked to changed reproductive development in daughters
Researchers found that girls whose mothers took paracetamol during pregnancy had smaller ovaries, fewer ovarian follicles, and lower levels of reproductive hormones at three months old. The study, published in Human Reproduction Open, suggests that foetal exposure to paracetamol may affect reproductive development, but the findings do ...
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction Open·TypeObservational study·DateSep 8, 2026
Human blood marker points to a compound that slows ALS in mice
Researchers identified a compound, PF-04457845, that slows ALS progression in mice, with potential as a therapeutic option. The compound targets N-acyl taurines, which correlate with ALS progression, and has been proven safe in humans.
Researchers to lead $3.3 million project to study opioid treatment during breastfeeding
A $3.3 million NIH grant will support a five-year study on opioid treatment during breastfeeding, aiming to improve drug safety for lactating mothers. The researchers will develop a cell-based assay and use physiologically based pharmacokinetic models to predict drug levels in mothers and infants.
Women with type 2 diabetes are more likely than men to develop mental health conditions
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that women with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop mental health conditions, while men experience more cardiovascular and renal complications. The researchers analyzed data from 28,720 men and women in the UK, revealing significant sex differences in disease trajectories.
Illicit fentanyl use is more than double medical use in US
A study published in eClinicalMedicine found that illicit fentanyl use is more than twice as common as medically based use in the US. Illicit users have a significantly higher risk of opioid-related harmful outcomes, with a 3-fold higher risk of nonfatal overdose.
Updated VA/DoD obesity guideline supports personalized care and continued use of effective weight loss medications
The updated guideline recommends routine obesity screening, comprehensive lifestyle intervention, and individualized use of medications and endoscopic and surgical procedures. Obesity should be treated as a chronic disease requiring longitudinal, flexible care pathways.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 24, 2026
Company mergers can cut costs without cutting prices for consumers, study finds
Researchers studied the impact of a pharmaceutical merger on prices of over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in the Philippines. The study found that while some efficiencies were real, they did not lead to lower prices for all products, and in some cases, prices even increased.
Medicine safety ‘lost in translation’ for many Australians
A new report from Adelaide University highlights significant medicine safety challenges among culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Nearly half of PBS medicine recipients with limited English proficiency were dispensed six or more medicines, increasing the risk of medicine-related harm.
New startup Surzen Biotherapeutics aims to innovate pain management
Surzen Biotherapeutics aims to develop effective pain relief without severe side effects by targeting opioid receptor pathways differently. The company plans to use peptides to block dimerization, reducing tolerance and improving efficacy.
A call for benzodiazepines in airline emergency medical kits
The inclusion of benzodiazepines in airline emergency medical kits is crucial for treating seizures that may occur during flights. Benzodiazepines can effectively manage seizure symptoms and prevent complications.