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Nicorandil could improve outcome for angina patients

A randomized trial found that nicorandil reduced the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with stable angina, including deaths due to coronary heart disease and non-fatal heart attacks. The study showed a significant reduction in acute coronary syndromes and all cardiovascular events compared to the placebo group.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 11, 2002

St. John's wort ineffective for depression

A large clinical trial found St. John's wort to be no more effective than placebo in treating moderately severe major depression. Researchers tested the supplement against the antidepressant sertraline and concluded that patients with moderate to severe depression should not self-medicate with St. John's wort.

SourceDuke University·JournalJAMA·DateApr 9, 2002

Study finds that steroids soothe sore throat pain

Researchers found that steroid treatment reduced sore throat pain by four hours and increased relief to twice that of placebo patients. The study also showed significant cost savings due to the pill form, which eliminates the need for a physician or nurse to administer the shot.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateJan 2, 2002

New UCLA imaging study first to show placebo alters brain function in individuals with major depression

A new UCLA imaging study has found that placebo alters brain function in individuals with major depression, showing increased activity in the prefrontal cortex for those who responded to treatment. This discovery challenges traditional views on treatment effectiveness and may lead to the development of new medications.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 1, 2002

Immunotherapy treatment shows dramatic results for rare neurological disorder

Researchers have found that immunoglobulin therapy significantly reduces symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), including stiffness and spasm, and improves mobility. The study showed a statistically significant decrease in symptoms for patients treated with IVIg, with 11 out of 14 patients becoming less stiff and more mobile.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 26, 2001

Study confirms secretin no more effective than placebo in treating autism symptoms

A study published in 2001 found that patients with autism who received secretin showed no statistically significant improvements in core symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. The researchers tested porcine secretin and found no improvement in secondary measures of autism either.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateNov 27, 2001

First-ever published study of moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease patients taking Aricept (r) shows significant treatment benefits in cognition, daily living activities and behavior

A 24-week study found consistent benefits of ARICEPT in patient function, cognition, behavior, and activities of daily living. The medication showed statistically significant overall improvement vs. placebo in behavioral disturbances associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourcePorter Novelli·JournalNeurology·DateAug 27, 2001

Difficult mood disorder successfully treated

A large-scale study has found lamotrigine to be safe and effective in preventing episodes of mood swings in patients with rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. The study, published in Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, showed that 41% of patients who received lamotrigine remained stable without relapse for six months, compared to 26% on placebo.

SourceUniversity Hospitals of Cleveland·JournalJournal of Clinical Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2000

Hormone-like gel causes speedier deliveries, study suggests

Researchers found that pregnant women who received a hormone-like gel called prostaglandin E2 gave birth faster than those who received a placebo, with an average labor time of 5.6 hours versus 8.6 hours. The study suggests that this gel may help prevent the need for induced labor and reduce Caesarean sections in women at risk

SourceOhio State University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 26, 1999

Fish-oil supplement slows progression of kidney disease

A daily dose of fish oil significantly improves kidney function and reduces the risk of advanced kidney failure in people with IgA nephropathy. Researchers followed 106 study participants for over six years, finding sustained benefits from fish oil supplementation.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateSep 3, 1999

Conscientious heart patients less likely to die

A new study found that patients with higher levels of conscientiousness are less likely to die suddenly from cardiovascular disease. Patients who faithfully take their prescribed medication, such as amiodarone, are also more likely to engage in healthy behaviors like eating a heart-healthy diet and socializing.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateAug 2, 1999

Fact Sheet -- Rectal Administration Of Diazepam For Acute Repetitive Seizures (RADARS) Study

The RADARS study found rectal diazepam gel to be effective in reducing seizure frequency and improving outcomes for patients with acute repetitive seizures (ARS). Administered by caregivers, the treatment demonstrated minimal potential for serious adverse events, making it a cost-effective option.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 24, 1998