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The hitch in the drug? The itch in the drug

Researchers identify two distinct neuronal signaling pathways activated by Imiquimod, a topical cream that treats skin diseases while inducing severe itching as a side effect. The study may lead to designing future drugs that effectively treat targeted conditions while blocking problematic itching and scratching.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2011

Study shows a serious risk of side effects when having latent tuberculosis therapy over age 65

A new study published in CMAJ found that people over 65 undergoing latent tuberculosis infection therapy are at a higher risk of severe adverse reactions requiring hospitalization. The study provides age-stratified estimates of the risk of these events, accounting for comorbidities and similar health events in the general population.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 10, 2011

Targeted radiation therapy minimizes GI side effects for prostate cancer patients, Penn study shows

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) minimizes gastrointestinal complications in prostate cancer patients. The study compared IMRT to three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy and found that men treated with IMRT had fewer serious bowel complications.

Increased radiation dose does not increase long-term side effects for prostate cancer patients

A study found that increasing the radiation dose for prostate cancer treatment did not lead to increased long-term side effects. Patients reported minimal distress from chronic symptoms, with many considering their quality of life 'normal' despite experiencing symptoms. The results suggest that patients may adapt to treatment and exper...

News brief: Long-term testicular cancer survivors at high risk for neurological side effects

A new study found that long-term testicular cancer survivors who received cisplatin-based chemotherapy experienced more severe neurological side effects compared to those not treated with chemotherapy. The study suggests that dose-intensive chemotherapy regimens can limit ototoxicity and hearing impairment in these patients.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 25, 2009

Solving the 50-year-old puzzle of thalidomide

Thalidomide's mechanism of causing limb defects has been linked to its impact on angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels. This understanding paves the way for developing safer treatments for diseases like Leprosy, Crohn's Disease, and AIDS.

SourceWiley·JournalBioEssays·DateNov 17, 2009

Hepatitis C: No overall difference in sustained viral response in most widely used treatments

A large study comparing widely used treatments for chronic hepatitis C infection found similar safety and efficacy in achieving long-term viral eradication. However, subgroup analysis revealed that certain approaches may be better suited for women and minorities, with some treatments showing higher success rates in these groups.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 22, 2009

New pill to treat MS

A new study shows that taking cladribine tablets just a few times a year can dramatically reduce the chances of a relapse or deterioration of multiple sclerosis. Patients who took part in the trial suffered very few side effects, making it an effective oral therapy without constant injections.

Ambati study published in PNAS

A new study by Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati and colleagues found that the siRNA treatment is toxic to both blood and lymphatic endothelial cells, with potential applications in cornea transplantation and treatment of lymphatic diseases.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 2009

Is it effective of low-dose furazolidone-based quadruple regimens for H pylori infection?

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that low-dose furazolidone-based quadruple regimens are effective for treating H pylori infection, with eradication rates ranging from 70-90%. The regimens have a low cost and relatively minor side effects, making them a useful option for rescue therapy, particularly in d...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateFeb 21, 2009

Study finds 'rescue course' of antenatal steroids improves outcome in premature babies

A new study shows that premature babies born before 34 weeks have a significant reduction in serious complications when given a 'rescue course' of Antenatal Corticosteroids. The study found a 31% decrease in respiratory problems, ventilator support, and surfactant use with no adverse side effects noted.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 29, 2009

Caution: Lose more than weight with imported diet pills

Researchers found that these diet pills contain a range of addictive substances, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, and diuretics. Physicians are advised to be aware of the dangers of these imported diet pills, which can cause serious side effects such as chest pains, palpitations, and insomnia.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 26, 2009

A new class of anti-inflammatory drugs

Researchers developed a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs with fewer side effects than aspirin, targeting the later stage of arachidonic acid biosynthesis. These dual mPGES-1/5-LO-Inhibitors effectively target both prostaglandins and leukotrienes, promising more effective results for inflammatory reactions.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateDec 10, 2008

Newer antipsychotics no better than older drug in treating child and adolescent schizophrenia

A new study found that newer atypical antipsychotic medications were not more effective than an older conventional antipsychotic in treating child and adolescent schizophrenia. The study also revealed potential metabolic side effects, particularly with olanzapine, which may lead to serious health issues.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2008