Articles tagged with Drug Delivery
A French registry study found that antianginal medications had no significant association with improved or worsened long-term survival in patients who suffered a heart attack. Molsidomine was associated with an increased risk of death, while nitrates showed a trend towards increased mortality.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have designed a unique gel capsule structure that can co-deliver distinct drugs. The microcapsule's spatially-segregated compartments make it suitable for multi-drug encapsulation and release strategies, offering potential advantages such as synergistic effects and suppressed drug resistance.
Researchers have successfully used living human cells to produce natural capsules with channels for releasing drugs and diagnostic agents. This breakthrough enables longer retention of these substances in the body, overcoming previous artificial coating limitations.
Researchers have characterized a series of bismuth citrate complexes and modeled the structure of ranitidine bismuth citrate, a medicine used to treat peptic ulcers and gastric reflux disease. The polymeric framework may serve as a 'drug carrier' for delivering other drugs in the human body.
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) and the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) presented the following researchers with prestigious awards for their contributions to pharmaceutical sciences: Ho-Leung Fung, Dale E. Wurster, Michael G. Bartlett, Peter A. Crooks, Abu T.M. Serajuddin, Meindert Danhof, Sa...
A new theoretical model accurately predicts the hydration free energy of a wide variety of organic compounds, enabling accurate prediction of compound movement in complex environments. The model has been developed using computational hydration thermodynamics and chemo-informatic techniques, requiring only 10-20 seconds on a PC.
The Lancet series on HIV in people who use drugs highlights the need to shift focus from individual patient adherence to health delivery conditions that create treatment interruptions. The series reports that increased ART provision to IDUs reduces infectivity and transmission, and is cost-effective.
Injecting drug users can achieve excellent virological outcomes with ART, reducing infectivity and HIV transmission. Decriminalization and law reform are crucial to overcome systemic barriers and promote equitable access to treatment.
Researchers developed two new approaches to incorporate antimicrobial properties into microneedles, improving their safety and effectiveness in portable medical devices. The techniques prevent microbial growth without affecting skin cell growth, paving the way for widespread adoption of microneedles in outpatient treatments.
A clinical trial is underway to test the effectiveness of a miniature ultrasound device in reducing joint pain in osteoarthritis patients. The device, created by Cornell University graduate student George K. Lewis, sends ultrasound waves deep into muscles via a coin-sized pad and has shown promise in improving mobility and reducing pain.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a gadolinium-nanodiamond complex that dramatically enhances image contrast in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The complex shows a significant increase in relaxivity, resulting in vivid image contrast.
A new computer model explains why certain drugs released from stents can cause blood clots and heart attacks, by predicting drug distribution in branched arteries. The findings could aid the FDA in its approval process for stents and lead to safer stent designs.
A new study has found that pregnant women with a history of depression who use psychiatric medication are at increased risk of delivering prematurely. The research analyzed data from nearly 3,000 women and showed that medication use and depression were strongly linked to preterm delivery before 35 weeks' gestation.
Scientists have developed micrometer-sized capsules that can safely deliver drugs inside living cells. These 'micro shuttles' can be loaded with specific doses and released by biological triggers or light activation, offering a promising solution for managing chronic conditions.
A new global subsidy, Affordable Medicines Facility–malaria (AMFm), will be rolled out in 2009 to address poor access to artemisinin combination therapies for malaria. The authors argue that the AMFm should focus on quality patient care by funding fixed dose combinations and rapid diagnostic tests.
A study found that babies born from frozen embryos fertilized via ICSI or standard IVF treatment have similar outcomes, including Apgar scores and birth weights. However, there was a slightly higher rate of malformations in medicated cycles.
The new clinical performance measures provide up-to-date tools for gauging how closely doctors are sticking to guideline recommendations. Key areas include statin prescription, PCI timeliness, referral to cardiac rehabilitation programs, and elimination of beta blocker treatment within 24 hours.
Scientists have identified marine species that produce compounds interfering with NF-kB, a protein linked to cancer and other diseases. These compounds may allow normal cell death in cancerous cells, while also improving drug delivery to tumors and other targeted areas.
Researchers at MIT have developed synthetic nanoparticles that can quickly pass into cells without harming them. The key to their approach is a striped structure on the nanoparticles' surface, which allows them to directly penetrate the cell membrane and deliver drugs or imaging agents to the cytosol.
Researchers at USC Information Sciences Institute have developed a method to manufacture miniscule closed containers for precise drug delivery. The new technique uses micro-origami to fold up small shapes, which can be used to create 'voxels' - tiny volume-enclosing structures.
Researchers have developed a unique nanoparticle that can safely deliver a compound to the eye, blocking an enzyme that contributes to glaucoma. This non-toxic tool offers high penetration rates and little patient discomfort, making it a promising treatment option.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new method to create polymer rings that can encapsulate and release specific molecules at specific times. The technique has the potential to be used in medicine, particularly in drug delivery and antibiotic development.
A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that women were less likely to benefit from hospitals' quality-improvement measures and received fewer drugs and lifestyle counseling after a heart attack. This disparity led to a higher risk of death within a year, despite overall improved care for both men and women.
Researchers have discovered that certain proteins in the amniotic membranes can fuel an inflammatory response, leading to preterm labor. The study aims to develop a chemical test to identify effective drugs and block the TLRs to stop early labor.
A pharmacist has been awarded a $500,000 MacArthur grant to develop and implement safe medication practices, potentially saving up to 98,000 lives per year. The project aims to educate the healthcare community on medication safety, following a range of successful initiatives.
Scientists have developed a novel structure made from cell components that can assemble into nanotubes with controllable open or closed states. This innovation has the potential to deliver drugs or genes where they would be most effective, using the natural properties of cells similar to skin and bone.
The new process, developed by Michael Wong and his team, involves mixing polymer, salt, and tiny silica particles to create hollow spheres that can encapsulate drugs, flavor compounds, and other molecular cargo. The microcapsules have potential applications in drug delivery, medical imaging, and enzyme protection.
The report has had a positive impact on improving patient safety by changing healthcare views, enlisting support from stakeholders, and altering practices. Clinical effectiveness of safe practices implemented in hospitals show promising results, including reduced medical errors, adverse drug events, and cardiac arrests.
A randomized controlled trial found that combining cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with medication significantly improved treatment outcomes for patients with panic disorder. Patients receiving CBT and medication had higher remission rates and greater improvements in mental health functioning compared to those receiving usual care.
Chemists in Australia have created a molecule called the 'superbowl' that can carry large molecules of medicinal value, including painkillers and chemotherapy drugs, to specific areas of the body. The molecule shows promise for precision drug delivery and may one day improve medical treatments and save lives.
Researchers found that heat can alter drug dosage and appearance, putting patients with respiratory conditions at risk. The study advises patients to inspect mail-order medications before consumption and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.
The SonoPrep device uses ultrasonic energy to make skin more permeable, allowing for painless treatment with lidocaine cream, reducing wait time from one hour to five minutes. The technology has potential applications in various medical procedures and may lead to further innovations like glucose-sensing devices.
University of Houston College of Pharmacy students took first through fourth place in the Texas Pharmacy Association competition with projects on asthma management, community wellness, and medication labeling. The UH College of Pharmacy won for having the highest percentage of student body members in the TPA-ASP.
Engineers at Ohio State University used compressed carbon dioxide to embed protein molecules in plastic, creating a process for developing implantable drugs. The technology could be used to release medicines into the body, improving medical treatment and reducing environmental impact.
Researchers at NIST have developed a new method for producing uniform, self-assembled nanocells using micrometer-size channels. These nanocells can be controlled to specific sizes and are ideal for encapsulating medicine, leading to more accurate drug delivery.
Researchers at UCSD have developed a way to transfer the optical properties of silicon sensors to plastic, creating flexible and biocompatible devices that can monitor drug delivery, joint strain, or healing. This technology could lead to non-invasive monitoring of implantable devices.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new cryptand compound that forms stronger non-covalent bonds than traditional host crown ethers. The improved association constants enhance the recognition and attraction between host and guest molecules, paving the way for potential applications in medicine.
Researchers have developed contact lenses that can dispense prescription drugs directly to the eye, reducing the risk of side effects associated with traditional eye drops. The new technology uses nanoparticles to encapsulate drugs in a matrix, allowing for controlled release over an extended period.
A study of Medicare prescription benefit plans found that higher copayments reduce the use of brand-name drugs and lower overall plan costs, but also increase enrollee out-of-pocket expenses. The research suggests that combining cost-sharing strategies with other cost-containment mechanisms can help balance these competing effects.
Researchers are developing non-invasive methods for delivering therapies, such as patches, inhalers, and ultrasound, to overcome limitations of traditional drug delivery. Tissue engineering also holds promise for growing new organs and tissues using cells and polymers, offering potential solutions for diseases like diabetes and paralysis.
A new Medicines Information Helpline has been launched in the UK to provide independent expert advice on medicines for patients with Parkinson's disease. The helpline, staffed by experienced pharmacists, aims to address the need for reliable information on medication management for this growing population.
A new implantable device has been designed to deliver anti-psychotic medication for up to a year, potentially relieving patients of psychosis and social instability. The device, made of biodegradable polymers, is surgically implanted under the skin and releases medication into the bloodstream at a specific rate.
Pregnant women infected with HIV can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their infants by about 50 percent if they deliver by elective cesarean section before labor and membranes rupture. The study found that c-sections cut mother-to-child HIV transmission by at least 50 percent.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that walking during the first stage of labor had no impact on labor duration, pain management, or infant outcomes. Women who walked showed similar results to those who rested in bed, with most indicating they would walk again in future labors.