Advances in therapy
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Advances in therapy · Oct 2018
Does 'Strong Analgesic' Equal 'Strong Opioid'? Tapentadol and the Concept of 'µ-Load'.
The distinct properties of the centrally-acting analgesic tapentadol derive from the combined contributions of an opioid component and a nonopioid component. However, the opioid component's relative contribution to analgesic and adverse effects has not previously been elucidated. Tapentadol's analgesic effect derives from the combined contribution of an opioid mechanism and a nonopioid mechanism, the extent of which can vary for different pains. Likewise, the interaction can vary for various adverse effects. Hence, the contribution of each mechanism to adverse effects can be different from the contribution to analgesia. We here estimate the percent contribution of each component of the mechanism of action to analgesia and to adverse effects. ⋯ Grünenthal GmbH.
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Advances in therapy · Jul 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialRapid and Consistent Improvements in Morning PEF in Patients with Severe Eosinophilic Asthma Treated with Mepolizumab.
Previous studies showed that mepolizumab significantly reduces exacerbations and oral corticosteroid use in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. However, early studies reported inconsistent effects on lung function. This study specifically assessed the onset of clinical effect and the relationship of baseline blood eosinophil count of mepolizumab 100 mg subcutaneous (SC) administration on morning peak expiratory flow (AM PEF). ⋯ GlaxoSmithKline (study ID 208091).
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Advances in therapy · Jul 2018
The Impact of Adding a Training Device to Familiar Counselling on Inhalation Technique and Pulmonary Function of Asthmatics.
We have investigated the effect of adding a pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) training device to verbal counselling on pulmonary function and inhalation technique. ⋯ Use of a training device combined with verbal counselling improved inhalation technique. An earlier, significant improvement was also noted in pulmonary function.
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Advances in therapy · May 2018
Randomized Controlled TrialLiberty Asthma QUEST: Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study to Evaluate Dupilumab Efficacy/Safety in Patients with Uncontrolled, Moderate-to-Severe Asthma.
Dupilumab, a fully human anti-IL-4Rα monoclonal antibody, inhibits signaling of both interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13, which are key drivers of type 2-mediated inflammation. Dupilumab is approved in the EU, USA, and other countries for the treatment of adults with inadequately controlled moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Following positive phase 2 results in asthma, the phase 3 Liberty Asthma QUEST trial was initiated to provide further evidence for dupilumab efficacy and safety in patients with uncontrolled, moderate-to-severe asthma. ⋯ NCT02414854.
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Advances in therapy · Apr 2018
Decline in Buprenorphine/Naloxone Prescriptions in a State Medicaid Population Following Formulary Conversion from Suboxone to Bunavail.
A large, statewide, fee-for-service Medicaid plan recently (October 2015) executed a complete switch from sublingual buprenorphine-naloxone [(SLBN), Suboxone®] to buccal buprenorphine-naloxone [(BBN), Bunavail®] on its preferred drug formulary. This complete formulary switch provided an opportunity to assess dynamic changes in prescribing patterns, patient/physician acceptance, and indices of potential misuse/diversion. ⋯ BioDelivery Sciences International, Inc.