Despite national guidelines, many patients who benefit from statins do not take them due to a lack of physician guidance and fear of side effects. Research found that 59.2% of eligible patients never received an offer of statins, with women, black patients, and those without insurance being more likely to report this.
A study published in The BMJ suggests that non-surgical brain stimulation techniques, such as ECT and rTMS, may be effective as alternative or add-on treatments for adults with severe depression. However, more research is needed to fully understand their benefits and potential side effects.
Researchers have developed 3D organ-on-a-chip models to test the effects of different levels and types of radiation on human tissues. This technology could lead to more effective therapies with fewer side effects for cancer patients.
A new study published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine found that a lower dose of acetazolamide (62.5 mg twice daily) was as effective in preventing acute mountain sickness symptoms as the standard prophylactic dose (125 mg twice daily). However, this reduced dose showed similar side effects with both doses.
Qi Wang, a neural engineer at Columbia University, has won a $500,000 NSF CAREER Award to develop closed-loop peripheral neural stimulation technology for enhancing perception and cognition. His project aims to use vagus nerve stimulation to control arousal levels and minimize side effects.
A study of 204 older adults found that medical marijuana reduced symptoms of chronic disease, including pain, sleep disorders, and anxiety, in 69% of participants. Additionally, one-third of participants reduced their use of opioids, making it a potential alternative treatment option.
Researchers at the University of New Mexico found that THC content is more important for symptom relief than previously thought. The study analyzed real-time measurements of cannabis effects using a mobile app and found that patients experienced an average symptom improvement of 3.5 points on a 0-10 scale.
Researchers developed a cell model to investigate anti-inflammatory drug efficacy in both acute and resolving phases of chronic inflammation. The model reveals that conventional drugs can impair the resolution phase, leading to prolonged inflammation.
A new computational tool has identified 12 variables that can predict which severe asthma patients are likely to benefit from treatment with systemic corticosteroids. This tool will help physicians alleviate suffering for patients who do not respond well to mainline therapy.
Researchers have developed a new compound that shows promise in treating multiple sclerosis by reducing inflammation and promoting neuroprotection and remyelination. The compound, based on chloroindazole, has been found to be effective in improving primary symptoms in a mouse model of the disease.
A new study from the University of Warwick shows that medical and surgical treatment options for miscarriage are similarly effective, but with different side effects. Conservative treatment resolves about 70% of cases, while surgery and medication have comparable success rates.
A systematic prospective study investigated the safety of MRI scans for individuals with tattoos. Researchers found that the risk of side effects is very small and that most participants did not experience any adverse reactions. The study's results provide valuable information on safety guidelines for research and clinical environments.
Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a gene therapy that could reduce and possibly eliminate dyskinesia, a frustrating side effect of levodopa treatment in Parkinson's patients. The study focuses on brain cells and has shown promising results in preventing the development of dyskinesia over extended periods.
Researchers create new protein Neo-2/15 that stimulates cancer-fighting T-cells without triggering harmful side effects. The protein has therapeutic properties similar to naturally occurring IL-2 but is computationally designed to be less toxic.
A team of neuroscientists and engineers has developed a tiny, implantable device that can detect overactivity in the bladder and use light to tamp down the urge to urinate. The device works in laboratory rats and may one day help people with incontinence or frequent urination needs.
A comprehensive statistical modeling study found that statins are recommended far too often, with the benefits outweighing the harms only in people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers recommend discussing individual risk and side effects with doctors before taking statins as a preventive measure.
A study found that men with prostate cancer value quality of life and will trade off survival odds for fewer side effects, including urinary incontinence and impotence. The research suggests that patients may prefer less invasive treatments like focal therapy or active surveillance to reduce harm.
A new study found that people tend to overestimate the benefits and underestimate the risks of various medical procedures. In a hypothetical scenario, participants were asked to rate their likelihood of experiencing benefits or side effects of different treatments, revealing an average perception of benefit higher than the midpoint, wh...
Researchers developed a nanofluidic seed that can deliver sustained-release doses of immunotherapy directly to tumors, reducing the need for multiple IV treatments and eliminating side effects. The device has shown promising results in mice models, with equal effectiveness compared to systemic immunotherapy while minimizing toxicities.
SLU scientist Daniela Salvemini is studying chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment and opioid addiction to develop new treatments. Her research aims to identify novel therapeutic approaches to mitigate chemo-brain and improve quality of life for cancer patients.
A new investigational steroid called vamorolone has been found to replicate the benefits of prednisone while reducing its side effects, offering hope for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The study identifies nine potential biomarkers for inflammatory diseases that could serve as a fingerprint for chronic inflammation.
Researchers found that medical cannabis provides immediate symptom relief across various health conditions, including chronic pain and insomnia. Patients reported an average symptom reduction of nearly 4 points on a 1-10 scale following cannabis consumption.
A recent study published in Health & Social Care in the Community found that over a quarter of patients want more information about their medicines, while nearly half are concerned about long-term adverse effects. The research also revealed that older patients feel using regular medicines is less burdensome than younger patients.
Researchers have developed a new drug, GC4419, that appears to prevent severe oral mucositis (SOM), a painful side effect of radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. The drug has already been designated as a breakthrough therapy by the FDA and shows safety and efficacy in clinical trials.
A new international collaborative research study has found that a four-month daily regimen of antibiotic rifampicin is as effective as a nine-month daily regimen of another antibiotic, isoniazid, in preventing people with latent tuberculosis infection from developing the full-blown disease. The study, published in the New England Journ...
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in treating hereditary angioedema with the new drug BCX7353. The medication has been shown to significantly reduce attack frequency and improve quality of life by up to 75% compared to placebo, offering a convenient oral administration without severe side effects.
A team of researchers developed an AI system called Decagon to predict potential side effects from drug combinations. By analyzing cellular machinery interactions and known associations between drugs and side effects, the system identified patterns and predicted previously unseen consequences.
Researchers at UVA School of Medicine have developed a technique to manipulate molecules within cells, enabling precise targeting and minimizing side effects. This breakthrough has significant potential for treating diseases such as cancer, autism, and Alzheimer's.
Researchers developed a DNA sequencing kit that identifies variations in the NUDT15 gene, allowing for accurate predictions of adverse reactions. The test has been approved for clinical use in Japan and holds promise for reducing severe side effects in East Asian patients.
Researchers have developed a tool that analyzes protein phosphorylation patterns in the brain, revealing changes associated with desired and undesired opioid effects. This study aims to identify potential non-addictive opioids and reduce side effects by interfering with signal cascades.
A population-based survey study found that nearly 37% of adults used prescription medications associated with depression as a potential side effect. The study also revealed that patients taking multiple such medications were more likely to experience depressive symptoms.
A new report calls for better evaluation of side effects from modern blood cancer treatments, which have dramatically improved survival rates. The Commission proposes new approaches to reporting adverse events, including capturing chronic and cumulative effects.
A new study found that men with prostate cancer who experience urinary, bowel, or sexual dysfunction after treatment are more likely to experience emotional distress, which can lead to worsening function. The researchers emphasize the need for greater investment in psychosocial care to mitigate treatment side effects and improve qualit...
Researchers found that Galectin-1 can lower blood pressure by reducing activity of L-type calcium channels in arteries. This discovery offers a novel approach to treating hypertension, potentially with minimal side effects.
Researchers found that nitric oxide deficiencies can underlie heart failure, while low levels may cause GPCRs to activate harmful pathways. Managing nitric oxide could help improve heart function and reduce side effects of existing medications.
Researchers have developed a refined CAR-T therapy called SUPRA-CART that addresses the three major flaws of traditional CAR-T: target specificity, response strength, and adaptive capability. This new system allows for continuous alteration to target different types of cancer cells and can be deactivated in case of severe side effects.
Two randomized controlled studies show a 65% improvement in treatment group and a 27% improvement in patient-rated measures compared to sham stimulation. The therapy has few side effects, with most participants reporting improvement after receiving treatment.
Medical marijuana shows promise in managing pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in older adults. However, its use requires a thorough assessment of side effects to ensure lower doses have a greater impact.
The study reveals that the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) can directly bind to DNA at NF-kappaB sites, one at a time, turning down inflammation genes. This finding could lead to reinterpretation of previous studies and potential development of targeted drugs.
A recent NRG Oncology study found that high-dose radiotherapy improves biochemical control and reduces distant metastases in men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer, but does not enhance overall survival. The treatment also resulted in more side effects compared to standard radiotherapy.
A new study casts doubt on the use of ketamine nasal sprays for treating severe depression. The pilot trial found that the dosage of ketamine through an intranasal device can vary greatly between individuals and within a day, leading to unpredictable side effects such as high blood pressure and psychotic-like symptoms.
A new study by Boston Medical Center found chemical peels to be a relatively safe treatment option for people with darker skin. The research revealed that less than four percent of participants experienced unwanted side effects.
A new study by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found no evidence of a link between hormonal birth control and depression. Dr. Brett Worly notes that while some groups may be at higher risk of depression, including adolescents and postpartum women, this is not due to the birth control itself.
Researchers discovered that inhibiting HDAC6 improves the structural stability of cells, protecting against neuronal damage. This finding has therapeutic potential for treating peripheral neuropathies caused by Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and chemotherapy side effects.
A new study reveals that fentanyl can increase pain sensitivity in animals by lowering their pain threshold. The researchers found that blocking calcium signaling inside sensory neurons prevents this effect, suggesting a possible mechanism for hyperalgesia.
Researchers have deciphered the molecular structure of an antipsychotic docked in its key receptor, revealing a deep pocket that could be targeted to design more selective drugs with fewer side effects. This discovery may hold secrets to designing better treatments for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
A study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology analyzed herbal product interactions with prescription medications. The analysis revealed significant adverse drug reactions, particularly among patients taking warfarin and statins for cardiovascular complications.
A national survey of over 700 adults who helped manage common chronic illnesses found that many wish they could understand their loved one's condition better or get more involved in their care. However, health providers often fail to inform them or involve them in decisions, despite the potential benefits for patient success.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a mathematical model for computing radiation therapy treatments that could substantially reduce patient side effects while delivering the same results as conventional radiation therapy. The new approach, known as spatiotemporal fractionation, delivers different doses to part...
A phase II trial shows that combining olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, with durvalumab, an immunotherapy drug, achieves 80% disease control at 12 weeks. The treatment is well-tolerated and produces fewer serious side effects compared to chemotherapy.
Researchers found that combining targeted drugs with hormone therapy results in a significant increase in the risk of severe or life-threatening adverse events. Most of these side effects are treatable and potentially preventable.
A Cochrane review found that mefloquine is at least as effective as other options for preventing malaria, but its psychological side effects outpace those of alternatives. Common symptoms include sleeplessness, abnormal dreams, anxiety, and depression.
Scientists used fMRI to study the neurological causes of the nocebo effect, finding that brain regions can influence primal pain sensing. People who believed they were receiving an expensive cream reported greater sensitivity on a heat-tolerance test and experienced more pronounced nocebo effects over time.
Mayo Clinic researchers found that reducing radiation therapy intensity by 50% resulted in fewer side effects without compromising survival or cure rates. The study followed 80 patients with HPV-related throat cancer and reported a 95% tumor control rate at two years, with only one regional recurrence.
A study presented at ESMO 2017 found that socio-psychological factors, such as anxiety and family concerns, are now more significant for cancer patients than previously thought. The study suggests that doctors should consider improving supportive therapies and providing stronger psychological support to address these issues.
A recent study found that almost all antidepressants present significant side effects, but some individuals may better tolerate certain side effects. Personalized medicine is recommended to match chronic pain patients with suitable antidepressant medication, taking into account their individual health profiles and existing health issues.
Researchers from Kumamoto University found that different anticoagulants can form thrombi at varying rates, with some having faster clotting times than others. This study used a Total Thrombus-Formation Analysis System to analyze blood samples from patients taking warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants.
A research team led by Professor Hyoungsoo Kim quantified the Marangoni effect in miscible liquids, revealing a new mechanism for driving transport without surface contamination. The findings have potential applications in removing impurities from surfaces and developing alternative materials to surfactants.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that genetic abnormalities contribute to thiazide-induced hyponatremia, a condition causing low sodium levels. Researchers identified patients with this side effect who exhibited persistent subtle differences in blood and urine tests even after medication was stopped.
A systematic review of ketamine treatment for depression found few studies reporting on the safety of repeated doses or sustained use. The review highlights the need for more research into the long-term effects of ketamine treatment to ensure its safe adoption as a clinical treatment.