Herbs for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

2002 ◽  
Vol 36 (9) ◽  
pp. 1443-1452 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lana Dvorkin ◽  
Kathy Y Song
Keyword(s):  
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Signs And Symptoms ◽  
Prostatic Hyperplasia ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Herbal Therapies

OBJECTIVE: To review and evaluate the literature relative to the use of herbal therapies in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. DATA SOURCES: Literature was identified by MEDLINE, Embase, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and the International Bibliographic Information on Dietary Supplements searches and through cross-referencing of selected articles. STUDY SELECTION/DATA EXTRACTION: All articles identified from the data sources were evaluated and all information deemed relevant was included in this review. DATA SYNTHESIS: A large percentage of men >50 years old begin to experience signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Herbs hold promise in the treatment of BPH. Serenoa repens, Pygeum africanum, Urtica dioica radix, and Cucurbita peponis semen are some of the botanical therapies used in the treatment of BPH. CONCLUSIONS: There are many European studies examining efficacy, dose, and adverse effects of these plants in the treatment of BPH. However, numerous questions remain. These include issues concerning long-term beneficial and adverse effects of herbal therapy, prevention of complications, standardization of extracts, and concomitant use with “mainstream” medications. Based on the information available today, these botanical therapies can be used for treatment of a number of objective and subjective symptoms in patients with BPH, stages I and II.

scholarly journals Prioritising recommendations following analyses of adverse events in healthcare: a systematic review

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. e000843
Author(s):  
Kelly Bos ◽  
Maarten J van der Laan ◽  
Dave A Dongelmans
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Adverse Events ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
High Quality ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Personal Opinion ◽  
User Friendly

PurposeThe purpose of this systematic review was to identify an appropriate method—a user-friendly and validated method—that prioritises recommendations following analyses of adverse events (AEs) based on objective features.Data sourcesThe electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase (Ovid), Cochrane Library, PsycINFO (Ovid) and ERIC (Ovid) were searched.Study selectionStudies were considered eligible when reporting on methods to prioritise recommendations.Data extractionTwo teams of reviewers performed the data extraction which was defined prior to this phase.Results of data synthesisEleven methods were identified that are designed to prioritise recommendations. After completing the data extraction, none of the methods met all the predefined criteria. Nine methods were considered user-friendly. One study validated the developed method. Five methods prioritised recommendations based on objective features, not affected by personal opinion or knowledge and expected to be reproducible by different users.ConclusionThere are several methods available to prioritise recommendations following analyses of AEs. All these methods can be used to discuss and select recommendations for implementation. None of the methods is a user-friendly and validated method that prioritises recommendations based on objective features. Although there are possibilities to further improve their features, the ‘Typology of safety functions’ by de Dianous and Fiévez, and the ‘Hierarchy of hazard controls’ by McCaughan have the most potential to select high-quality recommendations as they have only a few clearly defined categories in a well-arranged ordinal sequence.

Recovery and Return to Activity Following Exertional Heat Stroke: Considerations for the Sports Medicine Staff

2007 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 163-181 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brendon P. McDermott ◽  
Douglas J. Casa ◽  
Susan W. Yeargin ◽  
Matthew S. Ganio ◽  
Lawrence E. Armstrong ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Extraction ◽  
Heat Stroke ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Exertional Heat Stroke ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Residual Symptoms ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Initial Care ◽  
Type Data ◽  
Return To Activity

Objective:To describe the current scientific evidence of recovery and return to activity following exertional heat stroke (EHS).Data Sources:Information was collected using MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus databases in English using combinations of key words, exertional heat stroke, recovery, rehabilitation, residual symptoms, heat tolerance, return to activity, and heat illness.Study Selection:Relevant peer-reviewed, military, and published text materials were reviewed.Data Extraction:Inclusion criteria were based on the article’s coverage of return to activity, residual symptoms, or testing for long-term treatment. Fifty-two out of the original 554 sources met these criteria and were included in data synthesis.Data Synthesis:The recovery time following EHS is dependent on numerous factors, and recovery length is individually based and largely dependent on the initial care provided.Conclusion:Future research should focus on developing a structured return-to-activity strategy following EHS.

Lactulose in the Management of Constipation: A Current Review

1992 ◽  
Vol 26 (10) ◽  
pp. 1277-1282 ◽  
Author(s):  
Theresa V. Kot ◽  
Ngaire A. Pettit-Young
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Clinical Studies ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Beneficial Response ◽  
A Current

OBJECTIVE: To review the current published clinical studies evaluating the clinical efficacy and safety of lactulose compared with other laxatives or placebo. Adverse effects associated with lactulose are also reported. DATA SOURCES: Information was retrieved by searching the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for clinical trials, abstracts, conference proceedings, and review articles dealing with lactulose. STUDY SELECTION: Emphasis was placed on clinical trials where lactulose was compared with other laxatives or placebo in patient populations where the diagnosis of constipation was reasonably established. DATA EXTRACTION: The methodology and results from clinical studies were evaluated. Assessment of the studies was made based on diagnosis of constipation, prior management of patients, follow-up of patients, dosage, and adverse effects. DATA SYNTHESIS: Clinical trials in geriatric patients, terminally ill patients, children, and normal and constipated subjects were reviewed. In most instances, lactulose was compared with a placebo, without incorporating the current education on dietary techniques for improving defecation. CONCLUSIONS: Generally, clinical trials have demonstrated a beneficial response compared with placebo, although sometimes that response has been only marginally better, from a clinical point of view.

Isoniazid-Associated Psychosis: Case Report and Review of the Literature

1993 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 167-170 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen A. Pallone ◽  
Morton P. Goldman ◽  
Matthew A. Fuller
Keyword(s):  
Case Report ◽  
English Language ◽  
Case Reports ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Language Literature

Objective To describe a case of isoniazid-associated psychosis and review the incidence of this adverse effect. Data Sources Information about the patient was obtained from the medical chart. A MEDLINE search of the English-language literature published from 1950 to 1992 was conducted and Index Medicus was manually searched for current information. Study Selection All case reports describing isoniazid-associated psychosis were reviewed. Data Extraction Studies were evaluated for the use of isoniazid, symptoms of psychosis, onset of symptoms, and dosage of isoniazid. Data Synthesis The case report is compared with others reported in the literature. The incidence of isoniazid-associated psychosis is rare. Conclusions The mechanism of isoniazid-associated psychosis is uncertain. It appears that isoniazid was associated with the psychosis evident in our patient and in the cases reviewed.

Mental Tools for Thinking About DNA Technologies in New Ways

2002 ◽  
Vol 126 (3) ◽  
pp. 263-265
Author(s):  
Robert Root-Bernstein ◽  
Michele Root-Bernstein
Keyword(s):  
Creative Thinking ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Biomedical Science ◽  
Biomedical Sciences ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Recognition Pattern ◽  
The Arts ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Pattern Forming

Abstract Objective.—To investigate the nature of creative thinking in biomedical science with specific applications to molecular pathologies and DNA technologies. Data Sources.—Accounts of breakthroughs and inventions contained in autobiographies, biographies, interviews, and archival sources. Study Selection.—Discoveries that have altered, or may yet alter, basic textbook accounts of biomedical sciences for which appropriate data sources exist. Data Extraction.—Approximately 1000 data sources were analyzed, both within appropriate sciences and in other creative fields, such as the arts. Data Synthesis.—The current analysis is based on a framework described in our previous book, Sparks of Genius, which outlines a general approach to understanding creative thinking. Conclusions.—Creative thinking in all disciplines depends on a common mental “toolkit” that consists of 13 fundamental tools: observing, imaging, abstracting, pattern recognition, pattern forming, analogizing, body thinking, empathizing, dimensional thinking, modeling, playing, transforming, and synthesizing. Scientists recognize and solve problems by observing data that break the patterns established by theories; exploring a system by creating an abstract model with which they can play; and transforming data into feelings, sounds, and other forms that create surprising analogies to already-understood principles. The result of such personal thinking is knowledge combined with sensation and emotion—feeling and understanding synthesized into complete awareness. We illustrate some of these modes of thinking with reference to recent breakthroughs in DNA-related areas and suggest ways in which the use of “tools for thinking” can increase the probability of making further discoveries in the biomedical sciences.

Efficacy of Electronic Cigarettes for Smoking Cessation

2014 ◽  
Vol 48 (11) ◽  
pp. 1502-1506 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katherine Kelly Orr ◽  
Nicole J. Asal
Keyword(s):  
Smoking Cessation ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Clinical Studies ◽  
English Language ◽  
Electronic Cigarettes ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Withdrawal Symptoms ◽  
Smoking Reduction ◽  
Study Selection

Objective: To review data demonstrating effective smoking cessation with electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Data Sources: A literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed (1946-March 2014) was performed using the search terms e-cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and smoking cessation. Additional references were identified from a review of literature citations. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language clinical studies assessing efficacy of e-cigarettes compared with baseline, placebo, or other pharmacological methods to aid in withdrawal symptoms, smoking reduction, or cessation were evaluated. Data Synthesis: A total of 6 clinical studies were included in the review. In small studies, e-cigarettes significantly decreased desire to smoke, number of cigarettes smoked per day, and exhaled carbon monoxide levels. Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and adverse effects were variable. The most common adverse effects were nausea, headache, cough, and mouth/throat irritation. Compared with nicotine patches, e-cigarettes were associated with fewer adverse effects and higher adherence. Most studies showed a significant decrease in cigarette use acutely; however, long-term cessation was not sustained at 6 months. Conclusions: There is limited evidence for the effectiveness of e-cigarettes in smoking cessation; however, there may be a place in therapy to help modify smoking habits or reduce the number of cigarettes smoked. Studies available provided different administration patterns such as use while smoking, instead of smoking, or as needed. Short-term studies reviewed were small and did not necessarily evaluate cessation with a focus on parameters associated with cessation withdrawal symptoms. Though long-term safety is unknown, concerns regarding increased poisoning exposures among adults in comparison with cigarettes are alarming.

Topical Aminophylline: Is it Safe and Effective in Causing Regional Fat Loss?

1997 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 80-83
Author(s):  
Lisa M Tong ◽  
Kristin R Gericke
Keyword(s):  
Adverse Effects ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Local Concentration ◽  
Drug Induced ◽  
Fat Loss ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Data Source

Objective: To provide a better understanding of the efficacy and possible adverse effects of topical aminophylline in causing regional fat loss. Data Source: Pertinent English-language literature (1958–1995). Study Selection: Representative articles documenting mechanisms of action and types of drug-induced reactions, as well as treatment options. Data Extraction: Data were extracted only from articles that documented relevant and substantive information backed by clinical studies. Data Synthesis: Topical aminophylline 2% thigh cream has been introduced as a method of treating cellulite, or dimpled thighs and buttocks. The proposed method of action is by increasing local concentration, thereby stimulating lipolysis. Data from two small clinical trials showed that the cream reduced thigh girth and had no known adverse effects. However, adverse dermatologic effects caused by aminophylline have been reported in the past. Conclusions: Topical aminophylline cream appears to be a reasonable option for regional reduction of thigh girth for some people and has not shown any adverse effects. Nevertheless, larger, long-term studies need to be done.

Pharmacotherapeutic Options for Overweight Adolescents

2007 ◽  
Vol 41 (9) ◽  
pp. 1445-1455 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kaelen C Dunican ◽  
Alicia R Desilets ◽  
Julie K Montalbano
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Weight Reduction ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
Overweight Adolescents ◽  
Fat Soluble Vitamins

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of current pharmacotherapeutic options for weight loss in overweight adolescents. Data Sources: Literature was obtained through MEDLINE Ovid (1996–April 2007) and EMBASE Drugs and Pharmacology (1991–2nd quarter 2007) searches and a bibliographic review of published articles. Key words included adolescents, overweight, obesity, anti-obesity agents, drug therapy, orlistat, sibutramine, and metformin. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All studies published in the English language that evaluated the use of pharmacotherapy for the treatment of overweight adolescents were critically analyzed; pertinent articles were selected for this review. Data Synthesis: Orlistat has been approved for use in adolescents between the ages of 12 and 16 years. The most frequently reported adverse effects of orlistat were gastrointestinal; reduced concentrations of fat-soluble vitamins were also observed. Of the 6 clinical trials published, 5 have shown statistically significant reductions in body mass index {BMI) from baseline, ranging from 0.55 to 4.09 kg/m2; one small trial failed to demonstrate significant weight reduction compared with placebo. Sibutramine has also been evaluated for use in overweight adolescents in 6 trials. Trials demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in BMI up to 5.6 kg/m2 (from baseline). Of concern is evidence indicating that sibutramine therapy may be associated with elevated blood pressure, increased pulse rate, depression, and suicidal ideations. Lastly, metformin has recently been evaluated for weight loss in overweight adolescents; small, short-term trials demonstrate modest reductions in weight and BMI. Conclusions: Orlistat has been proven both safe and effective for weight reduction in overweight adolescents. Sibutramine has also been proven effective in reducing weight in this population; however, the potential for severe adverse effects requires further investigation. Metformin has demonstrated promising results in small trials; its role in the treatment of overweight adolescents will remain investigational until further research is conducted.

Rifaximin: A New Treatment for Travelers' Diarrhea

2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (2) ◽  
pp. 284-289 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amy L Pakyz
Keyword(s):  
Adverse Effects ◽  
Drug Interactions ◽  
English Language ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Cross Resistance ◽  
Double Blind ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Medline Search ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
New Treatment

OBJECTIVE: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, drug interactions and precautions, and dosing recommendations of rifaximin, a new nonabsorbed antimicrobial agent for travelers' diarrhea. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1966–July 2004) was conducted to extract human and animal research data in the English language on rifaximin. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were reviewed and included to evaluate the efficacy of rifaximin in the treatment of travelers' diarrhea. DATA SYNTHESIS: Rifaximin is approved for the treatment of travelers' diarrhea in patients ≥12 years of age with diarrhea caused by noninvasive strains of Escherichia coli. Rifaximin was superior to placebo and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and equivalent to ciprofloxacin in the primary clinical endpoint of the time to the last unformed stool passed. CONCLUSIONS: Rifaximin is a viable alternative to ciprofloxacin for the treatment of travelers' diarrhea. As rifaximin is not systemically absorbed, it offers the advantage of leading to the development of less resistance compared with systemically absorbed antibiotics, in addition to fewer systemic adverse effects and drug interactions. However, the potential for cross-resistance between rifaximin and rifampin, as well as with other classes of antibiotics, is of concern and needs to be elucidated.

FDA Policy on Unapproved Drug Products: Past, Present, and Future

2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (7-8) ◽  
pp. 1260-1264 ◽  
Author(s):  
Renu Chhabra ◽  
Mary E Kremzner ◽  
Brenda J Kiliany
Keyword(s):  
Data Extraction ◽  
Drug Regulation ◽  
Data Sources ◽  
Federal Regulations ◽  
Data Synthesis ◽  
Safety And Efficacy ◽  
Drug Products ◽  
The Past ◽  
Study Selection ◽  
History Of

OBJECTIVE To review the history of drug regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as it relates to unapproved drugs and FDA policy, along with the FDA's efforts to avoid future incidents by amending and enforcing those policies that are already in place. DATA SOURCES Data from FDA history documents, FDA guidances, Code of Federal Regulations Title 21, and presentations by the FDA's Office of Compliance were gathered. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION All information identified from the data sources was evaluated, and all information deemed relevant was included for this review. DATA SYNTHESIS Contrary to popular belief, there are drugs on the market that have not been evaluated for safety or efficacy by the FDA. For almost a century, the FDA has taken action against public health threats posed by unapproved drug products, and today's drugs and vaccines are required to demonstrate both safety and efficacy prior to marketing. The FDA has taken great strides to ensure the welfare of Americans by reacting to disasters that have occurred in the past and being proactive by setting regulations that will prevent such catastrophes from occurring in the future. CONCLUSIONS The FDA recognizes that drug regulation is an ongoing process and that, although we have come a long way, there is still much to be done.

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