Time of day medicine dose is taken may boost its efficacy, cut toxicity

Article Abstract:

The time of day at which medications are taken may significantly influence their effectiveness and side effects because of how drugs interact with rhythms in the body. For example, a study showed that mercaptopurine was more effective in treating childhood leukemia when taken in the morning rather than the evening. Similarly, anti-hypertension drugs may be most beneficial just after waking when blood pressure rises most abruptly. Researchers are developing drugs that are timed to be released long after being taken. A survey showed that many physicians are unfamiliar with chronobiology, the study of the body's rhythms, and most do not consider such rhythms in treating patients. Thus physician education is necessary. The timing of drug treatment for various disorders is discussed.

Drugs, Physiological aspects, Circadian rhythms, Dosage and administration, Drug administration and dosage

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Baffling skin ailments may originate in psyche

Article Abstract:

Treating patients with psychosomatic skin disorders can be challenging. Some patients believe they are infected with invisible parasites and others can mutilate themselves. Many of these patients may be suffering from depression or other mood disorders and may benefit from a psychiatric referral. Some may have obsessive-compulsive behavior or suffer from delusions. Anxiety can also complicate existing skin diseases such as psoriasis. These patients should be taken seriously but the physician should not provide inappropriate treatment.

Psychological aspects, Care and treatment, Skin diseases, Psychophysiologic disorders, Psychosomatic disorders

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Familial link seen in obstructive sleep apnea

Article Abstract:

People whose family members have obstructive sleep apnea have an increased risk of developing this condition themselves. Obstructive sleep apnea means the person stops breathing temporarily during the night because of an obstruction in the airway. This could be caused by bigger than normal tongue, tonsils, adenoids, and throat. Obesity is also a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea.

Genetic aspects, Sleep apnea syndromes, Sleep apnea

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