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Common drug, given promptly, reduces incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder, small study finds

A new study suggests that propranolol can reduce the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma victims if administered promptly. The medication, commonly used to treat anxiety and high blood pressure, was found to decrease PTSD symptoms by half compared to those who did not receive it.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 22, 2003

Substantial improvements in cancer trials not likely caused by placebo effects

Researchers analyzed 37 randomized controlled trials and found that most showed no significant improvement in pain, appetite, weight gain, quality of life, or performance status for patients receiving a placebo. Individual patient responses to placebos were also variable, with some improvements observed in certain symptoms.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 31, 2002

For the first time, drug shows promise to help spit tobacco users quit

A new study found that bupropion significantly improved abstinence rates among participants who used spit tobacco, with 44% quitting after 12 weeks compared to 26% in the placebo group. Additionally, participants taking bupropion gained less weight than those on the placebo, averaging only 1.54 pounds versus 9.7 pounds over the 12-week...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateSep 3, 2002

Study finds common knee surgery no better than placebo

A recent study found that patients undergoing arthroscopic lavage or debridement for osteoarthritis of the knee did not experience greater pain relief or improved function compared to those receiving placebo surgery. The researchers suggest that the same therapeutic benefits may be achieved through non-invasive treatment methods.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 10, 2002