Articles tagged with Steroids
A new study found that social media use, particularly exposure to muscularity-focused content and body comparisons, is strongly associated with increased intentions to use anabolic-androgenic steroids. Young men who frequently view muscular bodies or advertisements promoting muscle-building supplements also report stronger intentions.
A study reports on the underdiagnosis of 'topical steroid withdrawal syndrome' (TSW), a condition triggered by sudden or tapered use of steroid creams for inflammatory skin conditions. TSW can lead to severe symptoms, including skin reddening, burning, itching, and systemic problems like insomnia and depression.
A Nigerian survey found that 80% of children exposed to skin bleaching products were under 2 years old, with mothers citing aesthetic preferences and social benefits as primary reasons for use. The study highlights the need for policy interventions to safeguard children's health from the risks associated with skin lightening products.
A study found that combining PCSK9 inhibitor alirocumab with statin rosuvastatin reduced LDL cholesterol levels by more than 50% among patients after a heart transplant. The treatment was safe and showed significant cholesterol-lowering impact, but further studies are needed for confirmation.
A deep learning model developed by researchers identified subgroups of ICU patients with sepsis who could benefit from corticosteroid therapy. Patients with severe metabolic acidosis and circulatory dysfunction benefited the most from treatment.
Researchers at Keck Medicine of USC found that high doses of corticosteroids can limit the effectiveness of immunotherapies in treating non-small cell lung cancer. Corticosteroids, commonly prescribed for symptom management, were shown to stop T-cells from maturing, reducing their ability to attack cancer cells.
A new University of Toronto study reveals that over one-third of boys and men know someone who uses steroids, increasing their own intention to use them. The research highlights the importance of targeted prevention efforts considering social environments and identity factors.
Scientists at The University of Texas at Arlington identified a new enzyme, IDO1, that plays a crucial role in inflammation and cholesterol regulation. By blocking this enzyme, macrophages regain their ability to absorb cholesterol, offering a potential new way to prevent heart disease.
Researchers found corticosteroid injections accelerated structural knee degeneration, while hyaluronic acid injections slowed down damage. The study challenges common clinical practice and suggests alternative pain management strategies for patients with osteoarthritis.
Research reveals individuals taking oral steroids for over 3 months are 6 times more likely to be diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency than those treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Long-term users of inhaled steroids also face increased risk without hospitalisations.
A new approach, GlycoCaging, delivers medicine directly to the lower gut at significantly lower doses than current treatments, potentially helping people with inflammatory bowel disease. The technique has been shown to be effective in mice and has potential for treatment in humans, as most people have the ability to activate the drugs.
Researchers at NIH identified characteristic symptoms of topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), including elevated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels, which can be diagnosed using provisional criteria. TSW treatment may involve mitochondrial complex I-blocking drugs, such as metformin or berberine.
Researchers at Doshisha University reveal that 25-hydroxycholesterol causes a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis, which could contribute to various diseases. The study identifies two key mechanisms by which 25-OHC induces ferroptosis, including inhibition of cellular pathways and disruption of antioxidant systems.
A West Virginia University legal scholar argues that current laws favor biologic drugs with longer exclusivity periods, affecting their pricing. The scholar suggests reducing exclusivity for biologics to bring them in line with small-molecule drugs, which could lower drug costs.
A Swedish study found that topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is characterized by symptoms such as redness, pain, and itching, often accompanied by sleep problems. The study aimed to understand the phenomenon of TSW, which many patients consider a cortisone dependence.
Researchers analyzed steroids from animal dung in lake sediments to determine the dominant large herbivores that lived in northern Yellowstone National Park. The study found bison and elk as primary species for the last 2,300 years, with impacts on local ecosystems.
A systematic review found that exposure to social media posts depicting ideal muscular male bodies is directly linked to a negative body image and greater odds of resorting to anabolic-androgenic steroid use. Men are also under pressure to be physically strong, which is intrinsically linked to masculinity.
A new UK study found that patients receiving systemic glucocorticoids are more than twice as likely to develop diabetes. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, involved over 451,000 adults and revealed a significant link between steroid treatment and new-onset diabetes.
Researchers have developed a cost-effective and easily reproducible point-of-care testing device that can accurately measure cortisol levels in the blood. The device uses iridium oxide nanoparticles to improve stability, sensitivity, and selectivity, allowing for commercial use.
A new study reveals critical insights into the challenges faced by women who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) in Australia, highlighting a significant knowledge gap in sports medicine. The research emphasizes the need for tailored harm-reduction interventions and education on AAS use to mitigate risks associated with counterfeit ...
A survey study estimates that 15.6 million US adults consume at least one potentially hepatotoxic botanical product within the past 30 days. Turmeric is the most commonly reported botanical, followed by green tea, ashwagandha, Garcinia cambogia, red yeast rice, and black cohosh products.
The University of Toronto has introduced comprehensive guidelines for healthcare professionals to address muscle-building supplement use among adolescents and young adults. These guidelines focus on assessment and harm reduction strategies to better support young individuals engaged in the use of these supplements. Healthcare professio...
A case report describes the successful use of thoracic paravertebral blocking to manage severe chronic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia. The procedure, involving repeated injections of levobupivacaine and dexamethasone, resulted in significant pain subsidence and reduced medication needs.
A Charité study found that taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) simultaneously with cortisone preparations is associated with a higher risk of osteoporosis in patients with inflammatory rheumatic conditions. The study analyzed the bone health of over 1,500 patients and found that PPI use led to significantly lower bone density.
The Joint Guideline provides guidance on diagnosing and treating GC-AI, a condition affecting at least 1% of the global population. The guideline aims to improve patient care and outcomes worldwide.
A new study reveals a significant positive association between conformity to masculine gender norms and symptoms of muscle dysmorphia, including clinical risk for the condition and lifetime anabolic-androgenic steroid use. The research found that specific masculine gender norms like self-reliance and emotional control were most strongl...
Researchers at Kyushu University identified a new type of tumor cell population, steroids-producing nodules (SPNs), which lead to cortisol-producing adenomas. The study provides clues into the formation and maintenance of the human adrenal cortex.
Males with anorexia nervosa have a sixfold higher mortality rate than the general population. Early identification and prompt treatment are essential for effective management of the condition.
A landmark study found that 92% of patients with severe asthma can safely reduce inhaled steroid dose and more than 60% can stop all use, minimizing side effects like osteoporosis, diabetes, and cataracts. The SHAMAL study used biologic therapy benralizumab to control severe asthma without steroids.
A year-long clinical trial found sustained remission of polymyalgia rheumatica in 28% of patients taking sarilumab, compared to 10% of those on placebo. The treatment showed promise in reducing relapse and improving outcomes for patients tapering their steroid medication.
A recent policy analysis highlights gaps in Canadian regulation of muscle-building dietary supplements, including whey protein and creatine monohydrate. The lack of consistent manufacturing site and product safety testing poses significant health risks to young people.
A large US study found that social determinants of health are a major factor contributing to higher cardiovascular disease mortality rates in Black individuals compared to Whites. The study analyzed data from over 50,000 adults and found significant associations between social factors such as unemployment and food insecurity with CVD m...
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University have successfully grown retinal pigment epithelial cells on a nanofibre scaffold treated with fluocinolone acetonide, showing increased resilience and growth. This breakthrough technology has great potential for developing ocular tissue transplantation to treat age-related macular degeneration.
A new study found that 21.3% of respondents used skin lightening agents, often for conditions like acne or hyperpigmentation, but most users were unaware of potential toxic ingredients and risks. The study highlights the need for cultural mindfulness in dermatology care to ensure safe and effective treatment across all communities.
A new proof-of-concept Randomized Controlled Trial found tofacitinib effective and safe for Polymyalgia Rheumatica treatment, potentially avoiding steroid use. The study's results suggest a promising alternative treatment option for patients with this condition.
Researchers found that patients producing high levels of Cystatin C, a protein linked to immune system suppression, had worse survival rates and were less likely to benefit from immunotherapy. This suggests that Cystatin C may play a role in the failure of cancer immunotherapy.
Researchers found that dexamethasone prevents cytokine storms in severe COVID-19 patients by inhibiting ion channels and reducing immune cell inflammation. This led to improved lung function and reduced mortality rates. The study's findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of steroid treatment in severe COVID-19.
A new study published in Radiology found that a minimally invasive procedure combining pulsed radiofrequency and epidural steroid injection treatment leads to better pain reduction and disability improvement. The results showed significant benefits at four, 12, and 52 weeks compared to steroid injections alone.
A new study published in Critical Care found that repeated high doses of steroids improve patient outcomes under specific circumstances. The researchers analyzed a large dataset to iron out the specifics of this treatment and identified optimal conditions for pulse methylprednisolone therapy.
Researchers developed a quick clinical test predicting which people with neck pain benefit from epidural steroid injections, a common but costly and risky treatment option. The new variation on physical exam identified patients with nonorganic signs who are more likely to respond to the injections, guiding best use of treatment.
Studies elucidate key aspects of traditional Chinese compounds and modern cancer therapeutics, highlighting the efficacy of R. serra in treating colitis and identifying active components of Gan Cao in treating pneumonia. A new radiolabeled antibody-based probe for detecting PD-L1 expression in cancers also provides a novel approach to ...
A study in mice found that chronic stress impairs allopregnanolone production, a key neurosteroid involved in regulating emotions. This finding suggests that synthetic neurosteroid analogs might exert a beneficial effect in individuals with depression.
Preterm birth increases the risk of cardiovascular problems; combining steroids with statins could eliminate negative effects while retaining respiratory benefits. Researchers found that combined therapy improved lung function and reduced cardiovascular issues in rat pups.
A recent study found that adolescent boys and young adult men in Canada experience high levels of muscle dysmorphia symptoms, with one in four at clinical risk. The study highlights disparities among sexual identities and racial/ethnic groups, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and knowledge among healthcare professionals.
A large-scale study found anabolic-androgenic steroid use is relatively common among Canadian adolescents and young adults, associated with dependence and serious side effects. Nearly 1 in 4 steroid users experienced moderate or severe dependence and adverse health issues.
Eczema affects 10-20% of Canadian infants, making it a common condition to manage. Optimally managing atopic dermatitis in infants is crucial, as it impacts the whole family.
A large clinical trial found that administering steroids during infant heart surgery did not improve post-operative outcomes compared to placebo. However, secondary analysis revealed a small net benefit for some infants, with lower odds of bleeding requiring another operation.
A study of 43,000 veterans hospitalized with COVID-19 found that Black patients were less likely to receive systemic steroids, remdesivir, and immunomodulatory drugs. This racial disparity in care was attributed to within- and between-hospital differences.
A new paper published in Social Science & Medicine proposes that synthetic steroids were administered to female captives in Nazi concentration camps to prevent menstruation and fertility. The study, led by Dr. Peggy J. Kleinplatz, is based on historical evidence and testimony from Holocaust survivors, who reported suspicious food ratio...
A new poll reveals that nearly half of people over 50 experience joint pain, and many turn to prescription-based treatments despite potential health risks. The poll's authors stress the need for healthcare providers to discuss medication interactions and non-drug options with patients.
A recent study finds that fungal infections during the pandemic are a significant public health problem with limited treatment options. The interaction between pathogen and host may be different in people with compromised immunity, leading to increased mortality rates among severe COVID-19 patients.
A new study published in Neurology found that most children with Bell's palsy recover within six months without medication. The research showed no significant impact of steroid prednisolone on child recovery from the condition.
A large study found associations between steroid use and structural changes in brain white and grey matter, which may explain neuropsychiatric side effects. Steroid use was associated with reduced white matter structure and altered brain structures involved in cognitive and emotional processing.
Researchers at Aston University have developed a new approach to tackle one of the underlying causes of asthma, not just its symptoms. The treatment, which targets the structural changes made by asthmatic airways, shows promising results in mice, reducing symptoms within two weeks and returning airways to near normal.
Patients who experienced severe systemic inflammation during hospitalization for Covid-19 have a higher risk of dying within one year after seemingly recovering. Prescription of steroids upon discharge from hospital significantly reduces this risk, with effects seen even in the most severe cases.
Researchers from McGill University and Italy found that blocking neutrophils can prolong pain, even with anti-inflammatory drugs. The study suggests reconsidering acute pain treatment, and findings are supported by a large UK analysis.
A recent study suggests that many older adults with rheumatoid arthritis are not prescribed disease-modifying medications, despite guidelines calling for early and aggressive treatment. Only 45% of patients over 65 were prescribed these medications, highlighting the need to improve prescribing practices among primary care physicians.
A new study from Northwestern University found that once-weekly prednisone treatment improved exercise endurance, increased lean body mass, and reduced weight in obese mice. The treatment also promoted nutrient uptake into muscles and increased adiponectin levels, a hormone that helps protect against diabetes and insulin resistance.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and Helmholtz Center Munich found that macrophages show altered inflammatory and metabolic expression several months after mild COVID-19. Even though most individuals were symptom-free, their immune systems were more sensitive than those of healthy counterparts.
The use of dexamethasone has been confirmed as an effective treatment for COVID-19, reducing ICU admissions and deaths by 56%. However, the treatment can increase blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes, highlighting the need for monitoring and potential co-treatments.