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Managing lupus with prasterone

A year-long clinical trial found that prasterone improved disease activity, reduced organ damage, and boosted health-related quality of life for women with active lupus. The treatment, which is safe and effective, could offer an alternative to immunosuppressive agents or large doses of glucocorticoids.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 9, 2004

Study highlights long-term efficacy of angina drug

A new study highlights the long-term efficacy and safety of the angina drug nifedipine GITS, showing it can be used safely for the treatment of patients with coronary disease. The trial found similar mortality rates among those receiving the medication and a placebo, but lower incidence of heart failure and coronary interventions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 30, 2004

Pollen-blocking cream may help reduce allergy symptoms

Researchers found that a new ointment, applied inside the nose, significantly reduced symptom scores in patients with allergic rhinitis. The treatment improved airflow by nearly 20 percent and reduced symptoms by about 60 percent compared to a placebo.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateAug 16, 2004

Clonidine reduces post-surgical risk of cardiovascular death in non-cardiac surgery

A study found that clonidine significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular death in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery, particularly those with coronary artery disease or high-risk factors. The medication was shown to prevent myocardial ischemia events before and after surgery, leading to a lower mortality rate compared to plac...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnesthesiology·DateJul 27, 2004

Beta-blocker drugs well tolerated for heart failure patients

A meta-analysis of randomized trials found that beta-blockers significantly reduce all-cause mortality in heart failure patients by 27% and absolute annual increases in risks of hypotension, dizziness, and bradycardia. Fewer patients were withdrawn from beta-blocker therapy than from placebo due to adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJul 12, 2004

World first: computer games that can boost self esteem

Researchers at McGill University have developed three computer games that can help people feel more positive about themselves and build their self-esteem. The games, Wham!, EyeSpy: The Matrix, and Grow Your Chi, work by training players to focus on positive feedback and develop automatic thought patterns that boost confidence.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Social and Clinical Psychology·DateMay 6, 2004

Researchers compare drugs used to prevent osteoporosis

A randomized trial compared the effects of raloxifene and CEE on bone mineral density in postmenopausal women with prior hysterectomy. The study found that CEE increased bone density by 4.6%, while raloxifene stabilized bone density, and both treatments had varying impacts on cholesterol levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 26, 2004

Topiramate reduces frequency of migraines

A 26-week study found that topiramate significantly reduced the frequency of migraines in patients taking 100 or 200 milligrams per day. Improvements were observed within the first month of treatment, with 35.9% to 54.0% of patients experiencing a 50% or more reduction in migraine frequency.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateApr 19, 2004

Study shows positive results for novel, patient-controlled transdermal system (PCTS)...

A study published in Anesthesia & Analgesia found that patients who used E-TRANS Fentanyl HCI PCTS experienced better pain control and fewer withdrawals compared to those who received a placebo. The novel transdermal system, approximately the size of a credit card, allows patients to control their pain management without needles or pumps.

SourceOrtho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc.·JournalAnesthesia & Analgesia·DateFeb 24, 2004

Feeling good about placebos

A new perspective on placebos suggests that they can be effective in healthcare settings without relying on 'dummy' medication. According to Professor Howard Brody, features of a positive healing environment, including care and compassion from healthcare providers, play a crucial role in treating patients.

Combined drug therapy prevents progression of prostate enlargement

Researchers found that a combined drug therapy of finasteride and doxazosin significantly reduced the risk of BPH progression by 66 percent, compared to placebo. The treatment also provided greater symptom relief and improved urinary flow rate. Men at highest risk for BPH progression, such as those with larger prostates or elevated ser...