A new study suggests that a daily fruit-flavored medicine can reduce a child’s risk of developing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) by over half. TB, preventable and curable, requires an extensive treatment course and can have severe side effects. Historically, children were last to receive therapies due to underfunding. The new medication provides hope for the almost two million children suffering from MDR-TB.
An international clinical trial demonstrated that semaglutide, a medication used for chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes, reduced cardiovascular events by 20%, in addition to standard care, in overweight or obese non-diabetic adults. The medication also triggered an average weight loss of 9.4%. These heart health improvements weren’t solely due to weight loss, suggesting semaglutide has additional, direct beneficial effects.
Research suggests that people with blood type O are less likely to contract Covid-19 compared to those with type A. This is due to the virus’s spike protein binding more effectively to A cells than O cells. However, blood type does not appear to significantly impact the severity or mortality rate. Experts still recommend vaccination for all blood types.
A review by Chinese researchers finds a direct connection between omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) dosage and its effect on depression treatment, with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) showing greater effect than docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The study suggests omega-3 PUFAs supplementation as a potential therapeutic approach for alleviating depression symptoms, noting a significant improvement in most included studies.
Recent studies in the US and Sweden show a link between lower biological age and better cardiovascular and neurological health. Improvements in cardiovascular health, achieved through lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and weight management, can lead to younger biological age. Biological aging also has impacts on dementia and stroke risks, emphasizing the need to address it. Experts assert biological age can be lowered through improvements in lifestyle behaviors.
Research from Northwestern University suggests that staying awake all night can have similar effects to taking the anesthetic, ketamine, on the brain. This is not suggesting sleep deprivation as a health measure, but rather to inform the understanding and approach to developing antidepressant medications. The team traced the behavior back to dopamine release in the prefrontal cortex exclusively, hinting at the importance of this region in mood regulation.
Neurocrine Biosciences is discontinuing two mid-stage developmental programs after their partnered drug candidates for major depressive disorder (MDD) and focal onset seizures (FOS) failed in trials. The partnered drug NBI-1065846 with Takeda did not reduce MDD in patients, while NBI-921352 with Xenon Pharmaceuticals did not demonstrate a significant decrease in seizures. However, Neurocrine is redirecting its focus on market opportunities for NBI-921352 in treating SCN8A developmental and epileptic encephalopathy syndrome.
Psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA have shown significant antidepressant effects, according to recent studies. A new generation of nonhallucinogenic psychedelics aims to offer the mental health benefits of traditional psychedelics minus the trip. These substances, currently under testing, have the potential to treat mental illnesses without inducing hallucinatory experiences, and likely will be easier to regulate and more accessible for patients. Psychedelics induce neuroplasticity, which could be central to their therapeutic effects.
Sage Therapeutics, in partnership with Biogen, has priced the Postpartum Depression (PPD) pill, Zurzuvae, at $15,900 for a 14-day treatment course. The new pill signifies an advancement in psychiatry where depression is theorized as an array of chemical and electrical impulses in the brain. Further, virtual reality can be used to visualize these conceptual impulse arrays to better understand depression and potential therapies.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition causing rapid skin cell growth, leading to itchy, scaly patches. Its pain can vary greatly, and in around 30 percent of cases, it extends to psoriatic arthritis. The cause of psoriasis and its discomfort is not well-understood but is presumed to result from inflammation that irritates skin nerves. Various strategies can help manage the pain, including moisturizing skin, applying cold compresses, stress management, and using OTC pain relievers. Topical creams, oral medications, and injections are also available for pain management.
Due to improved immunity and the availability of vaccines and treatments, Covid restrictions are less stringent. While infection rates in NYC have decreased, epidemiologists recommend considering personal risk factors and comfort levels with Covid before resuming activities like indoor dining. Additionally, observing lower-traffic times at restaurants and scrutinizing ventilation could make dining safer. Nevertheless, a “zero risk” scenario remains unfeasible.
Having a dog promotes health benefits including fewer doctor visits, better sleep, and less reliance on heart medications, according to several studies. The presence of a dog alters the home’s bacteria composition, possibly supporting the human immune system, reducing risk for allergies and asthma. Dogs also provide a source of companionship and support, aiding chronic pain management and boosting mood. Pet ownership is associated with lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress levels, ultimately contributing to decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and better survival rates post heart attacks.
Weight bias among healthcare providers can discourage patients from seeking medical assistance and impact their mental wellbeing. Clinicians’ tone and attitude while discussing weight significantly affect patient outcomes. Studies show that doctors who approach weight issues optimistically inspire more success in weight loss programs. Therefore, physicians should share decision-making regarding weight with patients, showing empathy and taking into account a patient’s willingness to lose weight.
Scientists like Japanese biologist Katsuhiko Hayashi and CEO of Conception Biosciences Matt Krisiloff are investigating the possibility of creating human eggs from skin cells in the next decade. This could allow older women to have biological children, and male couples to have biological children without any other genetic contributors. The technology, known as in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), could fundamentally redefine the concept of parenthood. However, it faces severe scientific, ethical, and cultural challenges.
