Articles: human.
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Pidotimod (3-L-pyroglutamyl-L-thiaziolidine-4-carboxylic acid) is a synthetic dipeptide with immunomodulatory properties that is indicated for use in adults and children over 3 years of age with documented cell-mediated immunodepression during respiratory and urinary tract infections. Infections are associated with an immune response that helps fight pathogens. In this scenario, inflammatory events occur to improve the antimicrobial reaction. ⋯ Recent studies provide interesting information on how Pidotimod affects the metabolomic profiles of patients with bronchiectasis, clinical and immunological outcomes of elderly patients with pneumonia, clinical and cellular changes in patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma, and beneficial effects on cytokines and humoral immunity in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients. Preliminary experience suggests that Pidotimod can shorten the duration of COVID-19 infection and reduce clinical severity by modulating the immune response, as well as prevent vaccination-related adverse events. In conclusion, the immunomodulatory properties of Pidotimod indicate that it may be a valuable option in managing patients with respiratory infections and other immune-mediated disorders, including allergy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma.
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Chile is contending with the highest rates of new human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cases in both Latin America and globally, despite substantial ongoing investments in treatment. This comprehensive study, derived from PUBMED and Google searches, ANID data, and various organizational reports, highlights key areas for improvement. Over the past decade, Chile's annual infection rate has risen, signaling an urgent need for detailed analysis and effective solutions. ⋯ Chile faces significant challenges in meeting the 90/90/90 targets, yet there is optimism in aiming for the 95/95/95 strategy by 2030. Achieving success requires a global commitment, an emphasis on prevention, and collaborative efforts among authorities, healthcare providers, and patients. Overcoming these identified barriers is essential for Chile to reach its ambitious goal and ultimately end the HIV epidemic.
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Cannabinoids are increasingly used in the management of chronic pain. Although analgesic potential has been demonstrated, cannabinoids interact with a range of bodily functions that are also influenced by chronic pain medications, including opioids. ⋯ The available evidence directly investigating the pharmacodynamic effects following co-administration of cannabinoids and opioids for non-analgesic outcomes is scarce and suffers from a lack of methodological reporting. As such, further research in this area with comprehensive methodologic reporting is warranted.
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Review Case Reports
Neuro-Behçet's presentation as cerebral venous thrombosis - A report of two cases and review of the literature.
Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare stroke with multiple risk factors. One rare risk factor is Behçet's disease (BD). Out of around 3000 cases at our center in the past 10 years, two cases of BD with CVT were seen. ⋯ Both had CVT on neuroimaging and had positivity for human leukocyte antigen-B51. Case 2 responded to the anticoagulation and immunomodulation. Risk factor identification is essential in managing CVT, and planned evaluation (clinical or investigations) plays an important role in identifying rare causes that need specific treatment.
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Used as a veterinary sedative and not approved for human use, xylazine has been increasingly linked with opioid overdose deaths in the United States. A growing number of people have been exposed to xylazine in the illicit opioid supply (especially fentanyl) or in other drugs, particularly in some areas of the Northeast. Xylazine is an α-2 adrenergic agonist that decreases sympathetic nervous system activity. ⋯ The significance and clinical effects of xylazine as an adulterant is focused on 4 domains that merit further evaluation: fentanyl-xylazine overdose, xylazine dependence and withdrawal, xylazine-associated dermal manifestations, and xylazine surveillance and detection in clinical and nonclinical settings. This report reflects the Proceedings of the National Institute on Drug Abuse Center for the Clinical Trials Network convening of clinical and scientific experts, federal staff, and other stakeholders to describe emerging best practices for treating people exposed to xylazine-adulterated opioids. Participants identified scientific gaps and opportunities for research to inform clinical practice in emergency departments, hospitals, and addiction medicine settings.