Current medical research and opinion
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To provide an understanding of the detrimental impact of cirrhosis and its complications, strengths and weaknesses of current treatment options for the management of these complications, and new developments in this rapidly changing field. ⋯ Although substantial progress has been made to prevent the complications and mortality associated with cirrhosis, liver transplantation in combination with resolution of the etiology of cirrhosis remains the only curative option for most patients. Emerging therapies such as anti-fibrotic agents hold promise in potentially halting or reversing the progression of cirrhosis, even in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study
A randomized, double-blind, phase 2 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of AMG 416 for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in hemodialysis patients.
Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is a frequent complication of chronic kidney disease. We evaluated AMG 416, a long-acting peptide agonist of the calcium-sensing receptor, to assess its safety, tolerability, and efficacy and to determine a safe and effective starting dose for subsequent phase 2 studies. The study was not designed to titrate AMG 416 dosing to achieve a specific PTH treatment goal. ⋯ The present clinical findings support the continued development of AMG 416 as a treatment for SHPT in hemodialysis patients.
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Despite the near concurrent publication by influential scientific organizations, there are important differences in interpretation of the evidence base and the conclusions derived from the recent Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) guidelines (concerning also hip and hand osteoarthritis) and the algorithm recommendations by the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis (ESCEO). This is particularly evident for the drug class of symptomatic slow-acting drugs in osteoarthritis. In this paper, we highlight these differences and try to understand where they derive from, proposing an evidence-based interpretation.
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Estimate the incidence and prevalence rates and assess overall trends among patients with diabetes using insulin vial/syringe and pens over time. ⋯ The incidence and prevalence of patients using the traditional vial/syringe decreased over time, while the use of pens increased. Some patient populations may be under-represented, limiting generalizability of results.