A population-based study in Germany reveals almost 2 in 1,000 girls and women of childbearing age are prescribed isotretinoin, a medication linked to fetal defects. The study found a significant increase in isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies, highlighting the need for better monitoring and guidance.
A special Journal of Intensive Medicine issue explores the latest research findings on ICU infections, prevention strategies, and innovative approaches to sepsis management. The studies shed light on key challenges and advancements in critical care, highlighting the need for personalized treatment methods.
A meta-analysis of 90 studies found that adolescents use nonprescription weight-loss products excessively, with girls being more affected. The study highlights the need for interventions to reduce this behavior and mitigate potential long-term health consequences.
A nationwide case-time-control study found an association between benzodiazepine use during pregnancy and an increased risk of miscarriage. The results suggest that healthcare professionals should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using benzodiazepines to treat psychiatric and sleep disorders in pregnant women.
A recent study found that doxycycline prophylaxis did not prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among cisgender women, despite being prescribed to 18% of participants. The study also revealed high rates of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea, which may be due to low adherence and limited treatment options.
A recent review of opioid medicines for cancer pain found surprisingly large gaps in evidence regarding their true benefits. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be at least as effective as some opioids for background cancer pain, offering potential alternatives to reduce dependence and waning analgesia over time.
Klick Applied Sciences unveils LOVENet, an AI framework that rapidly identifies new therapeutic indications for existing drugs. The algorithm integrates large language model and structured knowledge graph technology to offer a fresh perspective on new potential applications.
Patients with lower socioeconomic status in their neighborhoods have a higher risk of nonadherence to guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure. Neighborhood-level socioeconomic factors play a significant role in shaping healthcare outcomes.
A new study by NYU Langone Health found that patients from lower socioeconomic areas were less likely to fill their heart-failure medications, highlighting the importance of neighborhood-level interventions to improve access to lifesaving drugs. The research team plans to explore additional barriers, such as cost and language barriers,...
A study by UNICAMP researchers found high concentrations of contaminants in the Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí River Basin, including PFAS compounds, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. The study highlights the severity of pollution in the region, which supplies water for drinking, irrigation, and industry.
A study of 278,000 individuals in Sweden found that longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use was associated with an increased risk of hypertension and arterial disease. Clinicians should regularly monitor cardiovascular signs and symptoms during long-term treatment.
A randomized clinical trial of 2,858 patients with new-onset and worsening chronic heart failure shows that torsemide and furosemide have no significant difference in clinical or patient-reported outcomes at 12 months. Torsemide is associated with better outcomes for patients with de novo heart failure.
A new Cochrane review has found that human insulin can be stored at room temperature for up to six months without losing potency. This breakthrough research offers hope to millions of people living with diabetes in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those with limited access to refrigeration or healthcare.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 2, 2023
Researchers have identified polyalthic acid, a compound in copaiba oil, with potent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. The study's findings pave the way for developing alternative medications to combat antimicrobial resistance.
A randomized clinical trial found that cefepime increased neurological dysfunction in adults hospitalized with acute infection, while piperacillin-tazobactam did not. The study involved 2,511 participants and suggested that cefepime may be associated with adverse outcomes.
A study by researchers from National Institutes of Health and Glasgow University found that amlodipine does not activate calcium channels, contradicting earlier concerns. The medication remains a recommended first-line treatment for high blood pressure, reducing deaths from hypertension.
A new study reveals that esketamine nasal spray is effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, with 27.1% of patients achieving remission after 8 weeks compared to 17.6% on quetiapine XR. Long-term data shows sustained remission rates at 21.7% for esketamine NS and 14.1% for quetiapine XR.
A University of Melbourne research team is developing an oral therapeutic to restore the activity of common antibiotics used to treat community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. The project aims to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and reduce healthcare costs, with potential applications in low- and middle-income countries.
Armida Labs, a UCR-founded pharmaceutical company, has received a $400,000 NIH Small Business Innovation Research grant to develop its breakthrough pancreatic cancer therapy Targefrin. The grant will enable the company to gather industry-standard data for human clinical trials.
A study of 68,000 patients with COVID-19 found that using Paxlovid or Lagevrio significantly reduced mortality and hospitalization rates in those at high risk of progressing to severe COVID-19, regardless of age, race, or virus strain. These medications can be used to treat non-hospitalized patients at high risk of severe disease.
The study found that tenofovir alafenamide fumarate use is associated with a higher incidence of hypertension and statin initiation, particularly among those over 40. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure and lipids for TAF users is recommended.
A team of Chinese and UK researchers has identified superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a potential target for reversing drug resistance in ovarian cancer. By using nanoparticles to deliver siRNA that reduces SOD1 levels, the study showed reduced growth and decreased resistance to cisplatin in female mice.
A randomized clinical trial of psilocybin treatment found a clinically significant sustained reduction in depressive symptoms and functional disability. The study's findings support the potential of psilocybin as a novel intervention for major depressive disorder when administered with psychological support.
Researchers at TUM develop an RNA agent for a lung spray that slows macrophage activity, reducing lung inflammation and fibrosis. The active substance RCS-21 is delivered via an inhaler through a special sugar molecule, showing promise in treating acute inflammatory lung damage.
The study provides a comprehensive framework for diagnosing and treating acetaminophen poisoning, emphasizing the importance of early detection and aggressive management. Key findings include the need for prompt assessment and treatment with activated charcoal and N-acetylcysteine, as well as the role of monitoring liver function tests.
Approximately 1 in 5 adults with past-year opioid use disorder received medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), highlighting disparities in uptake. MOUD disparities affect Black adults, women, unemployed individuals, and those in nonmetropolitan areas.
Researchers at NYU College of Dentistry developed a gene therapy that regulates sodium ion channel activity to alleviate chronic pain. By targeting the specific region where CRMP2 binds to NaV1.7, they were able to reduce sodium influx and quiet down neurons, providing relief from pain in cell and animal studies.
Researchers at California Polytechnic State University have developed a novel method for storing biological materials such as RNA and proteins in a solid-state, resembling a pill or tablet that dissolves in water for on-demand use. This innovation overcomes current limitations in storage and handling, making it easier to access these m...
The study explores resonance between narrative medicine and traditional Chinese medicine, highlighting similarities in case histories. By integrating ancient wisdom with modern approaches, a more compassionate healthcare system can be developed.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science successfully synthesized tanzawaic acid B in large amounts, paving the way for new antibiotic development. The breakthrough method could lead to creation of various compounds for pharmaceuticals, including new antibiotic candidates.
A randomized clinical trial found that treatment with these biologics showed no significant difference in time to recovery compared to placebo for patients hospitalized with COVID-19 pneumonia. The study's results suggest that alternative treatments may be needed for this patient population.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found no evidence that prescription stimulant treatment in childhood increases the risk of substance use disorder (SUD) later in life. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggests that stimulants are an effective treatment for ADHD with few side effects.
A new proof-of-concept Randomized Controlled Trial found tofacitinib effective and safe for Polymyalgia Rheumatica treatment, potentially avoiding steroid use. The study's results suggest a promising alternative treatment option for patients with this condition.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 29, 2023
A randomized trial will be conducted to test whether sticking with the initial medication or switching to a different one increases quitting success. The study aims to provide guidance for clinicians on handling relapses and may explore the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as an alternative to traditional cigarettes.
Recent studies in the New Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis feature novel diagnostic tools, RNA sequencing-based workflows, and mechanical property evaluations to enhance cancer and cardiovascular disease treatment outcomes. These innovations aim to improve the therapeutic effect of drugs and promote personalized medicine.
The use of psychedelics in mental health treatment is gaining traction, but concerns about patient safety and regulation need to be addressed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise in treating conditions like depression and PTSD, but more research is needed on dosages, settings, and guidelines.
A decision analytical model study found that sustained public health interventions can reduce opioid-related overdose deaths. Implementing medications for opioid use disorder and increasing naloxone supply were key factors in reducing death rates.
A national panel survey of 2,000 older adults found that 1 in 5 experienced cost-related medication nonadherence due to incorrect pricing. Real-time benefit tools can support medication cost conversations and cost-conscious prescribing, but accurate pricing is crucial to build trust with patients.
The study found that medication for chronic conditions was relatively stable during the first 2 years of COVID-19, with no significant disparities by race or ethnicity. This stability holds lessons for outpatient services during future pandemics.
A Cochrane review found that most antidepressants used to manage chronic pain lack sufficient evidence of their effectiveness, with only duloxetine showing reliable pain relief. The review also revealed that harms from many commonly recommended drugs have not been well studied, posing a global public health concern.
Patients using medical cannabis reported sustained improvements in health-related quality of life in the study. Adverse events were common but rarely serious, highlighting the need for caution when prescribing medical cannabis.
A new study found that inhaling low concentrations of ethanol vapor can inactivate the influenza A virus in mice without harmful side effects. The researchers believe this method could also treat similar viruses like Covid-19 and potentially stop pandemics. However, further evaluation is needed to ensure its efficacy and safety on humans.
A new study finds that buprenorphine initiation rates and six-month retention rates remain flat despite policy changes aimed at increasing access to the medication. Only 22% of patients who started treatment kept refilling their prescriptions for at least six months, highlighting barriers to prescribing enough of the life-saving drug.
A majority of people over 50 are open to stopping one or more prescription medicines, but many don't discuss it with their health provider first. The poll shows that comprehensive medication reviews and cost considerations play a crucial role in deprescribing conversations.
Researchers found that bad medical news can make patients more likely to choose brand name drugs over generics, resulting in increased healthcare expenditures. The study suggests that simply reminding patients of the equivalency of generic drugs via text message could improve their decision-making.
Researchers found that receipt of opioid use disorder-related telehealth services was associated with reduced risk for fatal drug overdoses. Additionally, medication from opioid treatment programs and buprenorphine in office-based settings also showed a protective effect.
Researchers found significant decreases in the levels of KRAS, RHOA, RAC1, and CDC42 after PCAI treatment, implicating their role in cancer progression and metastasis. These findings support the potential of PCAIs as potent agents for developing new anticancer therapeutics.
A new study reveals that the SPUR tool, developed by Kingston University and Observia, can accurately predict hospital admissions and early readmissions in people with Type 2 Diabetes. The tool has been found to be effective in reducing hospital admissions and improving patient outcomes.
Researchers found that doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis did not prevent chlamydia or gonorrhea among cisgender women in a clinical trial. The lack of efficacy was attributed to differences in anatomy and antibiotic resistance.
Researchers have found that brexanolone works by inhibiting systemic inflammatory pathways associated with depression. The study suggests that inflammation may contribute to the development of post-partum depression.
The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine serologic screening for genital herpes simplex virus infection, even in symptomatic individuals. The lifelong nature of HSV infection means there is no cure, but antiviral medications can provide clinical benefits to those experiencing symptoms.
Research reveals that opioid tapering can lead to more hospitalizations and emergency department visits, while also reducing primary care visit rates. The study's findings suggest potential unintended consequences of opioid tapering for policymakers and clinicians.
An updated Cochrane review found no effect of vitamin D supplements on reducing the risk of asthma attacks or improving control of asthma symptoms in children and adults. The review analyzed data from 20 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,200 people with mild to moderate asthma.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 5, 2023
Researchers found that some antidepressant classes were effective in treating specific pain conditions, while others showed no benefits or unknown effects. The review of 26 systematic reviews involving over 25,000 participants suggests a more nuanced approach to prescribing antidepressants for chronic pain management is needed.
A recent study published in Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy found that about one-third of caregivers self-medicate. Carriers who reported unfavorable healthcare experiences were more likely to take personal care into their own hands. The research team recommends that healthcare professionals should interact with caregive...
A study shows that pharmacies can offer a safe starting point for patients with opioid use disorder, leading to higher rates of retention in treatment. The pharmacy-based model increases access to buprenorphine, a lifesaving medication, for diverse patient populations and promotes racial and economic equity.
A study from Japan found that variations in psychiatric diagnoses across different cultures can affect the efficacy of antipsychotics in clinical trials. Researchers analyzed data from 28 double-blind randomized trials and found that psychotic features were associated with varying therapeutic responses to antipsychotic medications.
Researchers at UBC identified three compounds derived from natural sources that prevent COVID-19 infection in human cells. The discovery paves the way for developing new medicines using natural sources.
A survey study found that 3 in 10 adults with chronic pain in states with medical cannabis laws used cannabis to manage their pain, often substituting it for other pain medications. The study highlights the importance of researching the effectiveness and potential adverse consequences of cannabis for chronic pain management.
A study found that children born in November-December had an 80% higher risk of being prescribed ADHD medication compared to those born in January-February. The researcher suggests that the youngest children are being overmedicated due to their age, rather than any inherent difference in maturity.