Treatment of Female Sexual Dysfunction

2003 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. 546-555 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kelly R Ragucci ◽  
Nicole S Culhane

OBJECTIVE: To review the pathophysiology and psychology of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and describe potential prevention and treatment strategies for the disorder. DATA SOURCES: Articles identified from a MEDLINE search (1966–June 2002) using the term female sexual dysfunction. Additional references were obtained from cross referencing retrieved articles. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: After evaluating various review articles, clinical trials, and investigational studies, all information that was deemed relevant by the reviewers was included. DATA SYNTHESIS: FSD is a multicausal and multidimensional problem combining biological, psychological, and interpersonal factors. The American Foundation for Urological Disease classifies FSD into 4 broad categories: sexual desire disorders, arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, and sexual pain disorders. Depending on specific individual characteristics and category of disorder, a variety of potential treatments are available. Pharmacists can play a role in identifying and managing medication-related adverse effects that may be exacerbating FSD and educating women on treatment modalities. CONCLUSIONS: FSD is a complicated disorder that is often difficult to identify, classify, and treat appropriately. Pharmacists should have an understanding of the potential causes of FSD and the treatment options available so that they may make appropriate recommendations and counsel women effectively.

2002 ◽  
Vol 36 (4) ◽  
pp. 679-686 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jesse H Hogue ◽  
Tracey L Mersfelder

OBJECTIVE: To review the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis (OA) and the various treatment modalities, focusing specifically on acetaminophen (APAP), nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors as the primary treatment options. DATA SOURCES: Primary literature and tertiary references were identified by a MEDLINE search (1966–March 2001) and through other secondary sources. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: After evaluating the articles and references identified from the data sources, all the information that was judged relevant by the reviewers was included in the review article. DATA SYNTHESIS: OA is the most common joint disorder worldwide. Current research suggests that factors such as inflammation and changes in subchondral bone may play a larger role in the pathophysiology than previously thought. With this research and the development of COX-2 inhibitors, selecting the medication of choice for OA has become difficult. CONCLUSIONS: More research needs to be done before the pathophysiology of OA can be clearly determined. In the meantime, treatment should be based on clinical data and patient response. Studies have shown that APAP and NSAIDs have comparable efficacy, as do traditional NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors. APAP is associated with fewer toxicities than are the traditional NSAIDs. Due to their mechanism of action, the new COX-2 inhibitors should result in fewer adverse effects compared with traditional NSAIDs, but evidence from clinical trials has not been conclusive. Therefore, APAP should still be considered the drug of choice for OA.


2005 ◽  
Vol 39 (9) ◽  
pp. 1511-1516 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah P Shrader ◽  
Kelly R Ragucci

OBJECTIVE: To present the chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of parathyroid hormone (PTH) (1-84%) and review the available clinical trials that evaluate its efficacy and safety; clinical applicability of this agent and its relationship to other Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved medications for treatment of osteoporosis are also discussed. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1996–December 2004%) was completed, along with a review of information obtained from the manufacturer, NPS Pharmaceuticals. Key search terms included parathyroid hormone, PTH (1–84%), and ALX 111. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Studies were selected based on their relevance and availability. Pertinent information, including objectives, design, demographics, outcomes, adverse events, dosing strategies, and therapeutic controversies, was extracted. DATA SYNTHESIS: PTH (1-84%) is being developed for treatment of osteoporosis. Recent studies have shown that, when administered intermittently as a subcutaneous injection, PTH (1-84%) produces an increase in bone mineral density and prevents vertebral fractures. The fact that this agent contains the C-terminal region of PTH may differentiate it from PTH (1-34%), teriparatide, which is approved by the FDA for treatment of osteoporosis. Further trials are necessary to determine the role of PTH (1-84%) in combination with other treatments for osteoporosis and/or the order in which PTH (1-84%) is given with these other agents. There are currently no comparative trials with other osteoporosis treatment modalities. CONCLUSIONS: PTH (1-84%), when given intermittently as a subcutaneous injection, appears to be a safe and efficacious treatment option for osteoporosis. Further trials are needed to determine its specific place in therapy compared with other treatment options.


2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (13) ◽  
pp. 2803
Author(s):  
Carolin Czauderna ◽  
Martha M. Kirstein ◽  
Hauke C. Tews ◽  
Arndt Vogel ◽  
Jens U. Marquardt

Cholangiocarcinomas (CCAs) are the second-most common primary liver cancers. CCAs represent a group of highly heterogeneous tumors classified based on anatomical localization into intra- (iCCA) and extrahepatic CCA (eCCA). In contrast to eCCA, the incidence of iCCA is increasing worldwide. Curative treatment strategies for all CCAs involve oncological resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy in early stages, whereas chemotherapy is administered at advanced stages of disease. Due to late diagnosis, high recurrence rates, and limited treatment options, the prognosis of patients remains poor. Comprehensive molecular characterization has further revealed considerable heterogeneity and distinct prognostic and therapeutic traits for iCCA and eCCA, indicating that specific treatment modalities are required for different subclasses. Several druggable alterations and oncogenic drivers such as fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 gene fusions and hotspot mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 mutations have been identified. Specific inhibitors have demonstrated striking antitumor activity in affected subgroups of patients in phase II and III clinical trials. Thus, improved understanding of the molecular complexity has paved the way for precision oncological approaches. Here, we outline current advances in targeted treatments and immunotherapeutic approaches. In addition, we delineate future perspectives for different molecular subclasses that will improve the clinical care of iCCA patients.


2000 ◽  
Vol 34 (6) ◽  
pp. 743-760 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brigitte T Luong ◽  
Barbara S Chong ◽  
Dionne M Lowder

OBJECTIVE: To review new pharmacologic agents approved for use in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search (1966–January 2000) was conducted to identify English-language literature available on the pharmacotherapy of RA, focusing on celecoxib, leflunomide, etanercept, and infliximab. These articles, relevant abstracts, and data provided by the manufacturers were used to collect pertinent data. STUDY SELECTION: All controlled and uncontrolled trials were reviewed. DATA EXTRACTION: Agents were reviewed with regard to mechanism of action, efficacy, drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, dosing, precautions/contraindications, adverse effects, and cost. DATA SYNTHESIS: Traditional pharmacologic treatments for RA have been limited by toxicity, loss of efficacy, or both. Increasing discoveries into the mechanisms of inflammation in RA have led to the development of new agents in hopes of addressing these limitations. With the development of celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, the potential exists to minimize the gastrotoxicity associated with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Leflunomide has been shown to be equal to or less efficacious than methotrexate, and may be beneficial as a second-line disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD). The biologic response modifiers, etanercept and infliximab, are alternatives that have shown benefit alone or in combination with methotrexate. However, they should be reserved for patients who fail to respond to DMARD therapy. Further studies should be conducted to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of these agents as well as their role in combination therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Celecoxib, leflunomide, etanercept, and infliximab are the newest agents approved for RA. Clinical trials have shown that these agents are beneficial in the treatment of RA; however, long-term safety and efficacy data are lacking.


2007 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
pp. 274-282 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann M. Lynch ◽  
Courtney I. Jarvis ◽  
Ronald J. DeBellis ◽  
Anna K. Morin

Insomnia is a common condition resulting in significant clinical and economic consequences. This review discusses the efficacy of nonpharmacologic treatment options commonly recommended for sleep onset and sleep maintenance insomnia. In addition, the efficacy of these approaches as part of a multifaceted intervention and in comparison to that of pharmacologic options is reviewed. The primary literature and review articles on the nonpharmacologic treatment of insomnia were identified through a MEDLINE search between 1966 and August 2006. Articles on the nonpharmacologic treatment of primary insomnia, including clinical trials on the efficacy of individual and combination treatment options, were reviewed. The nonpharmacologic treatment options for insomnia include stimulus control, sleep hygiene educations, sleep restriction, paradoxical intention, relaxation therapy, biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. These treatment strategies produce significant changes in several sleep parameters of chronic insomniacs, including sleep-onset latency, wake time after sleep onset, sleep duration, and sleep quality. Many therapeutic options are available to treat insomnia, including nonpharmacologic strategies. Treatment recommendations, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic, should be made based on patient-specific insomnia symptoms, treatment history, and medical history.


2021 ◽  
Vol 27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Konstantinos P. Imprialos ◽  
Konstantinos Koutsampasopoulos ◽  
Aleksandra Katsimardou ◽  
Sofia Bouloukou ◽  
Iakovos Theodoulidis ◽  
...  

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has mainly been underdiagnosed and undertreated due to the lack of concrete definitions, validated assessment methods, and efficient treatments. However, during the last few decades, there has been significant progress in the clinical management and research of FSD. Objective: The purpose of this review is to describe the pathophysiology of FSD, report the prevalence of the disease in the setting of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and disease, and review current and under investigation treatment options. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify studies examining the association of FSD with CV risk factors and/or disease and studies reporting appropriate management options. Results: The prevalence of FSD is increased in the general population (approximately 40%) and is significantly higher in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. In patients with overt CV disease, FSD is even more prevalent (up to 90%). The cause of FSD is multifactorial and includes various vascular, hormonal, interpersonal, and psychological factors, which are all intertwined. Several treatment options exist that are efficient in improving female sexual function, while a cluster of other alternatives has been shown to offer benefits. Conclusion: FSD is a significant public health problem with a great impact on the patients’ quality of life. In the setting of increased CV burden, FSD is even more prevalent. Increased awareness is needed for the physician to establish a trustful environment with the patient, discuss such issues, and offer suitable management options.


1992 ◽  
Vol 26 (11) ◽  
pp. 1452-1455 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeffrey T. Moss ◽  
James P. Wilson

OBJECTIVE: To review the epidemiology, clinical presentation, risk factors for transmission, and pathogenesis of leishmaniasis, as well as current treatment options for this disease. DATA SOURCES/DATA SELECTION: We reviewed unclassified medical-threat briefing material, subject-matter reviews, and case reports from the world's infectious disease literature. We concentrated on literature pertaining to the pathogenesis and management of leishmaniasis indigenous to Southwest Asia. DATA EXTRACTION: Data from subject reviews published in the English language were evaluated. Case reports and clinical trials provided supplemental data on evolving theories and management options. DATA SYNTHESIS: The clinical presentation of leishmaniasis is highly variable. Management relies heavily upon the use of parenteral antimonial drugs. Although these agents are effective in most cases, toxicity and the emergence of resistance limit the usefulness of standard therapies. Alternative treatment modalities include heat, surgical curettage, ketoconazole, metronidazole, pentamidine, rifampin, amphotericin B, aminoglycosides, allopurinol, and immunotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: Although the number of reported cases of leishmaniasis in the US has generally been low, there is a possibility that more cases may be reported in the future because of the large number of military personnel returning to this country from endemic areas. Medical personnel, particularly those working in governmental institutions, should be familiar with the pathogenesis of this unusual infection as well as potential treatment options.


2003 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 253-257 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ch Chung

Objective To review the treatment modalities available for paraphimosis, with special emphasis on those applicable to the emergency department. Data source Relevant medical literature was searched through MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database. Manual search was performed in books on Urology, General Surgery and Emergency Medicine available in the Hospital Library. Further information was obtained through the Internet at < www.infoseek.com >. References cited in articles were also retrieved. Study selection Key words for the literature, Internet and textbook search were ‘paraphimosis’ and ‘treatment’. All available years of study were reviewed. Data extraction Relevant full text articles were obtained through the hospital library network. Original articles, review papers, medical practice, case reports, and relevant book chapters were reviewed. Data synthesis There were no prospective, randomised, controlled studies available. The majority were case series and expert experience or opinions only. Currently, a multitude of non-invasive and invasive treatment options are available, including manual reduction, help of non-crushing tissue forceps, puncture technique and dorsal slit. Conclusion All treatment methods are within the capability of the emergency physician. Hospitalization should rarely be required, unless there are serious complications.


2011 ◽  
Vol 26 (S2) ◽  
pp. 698-698
Author(s):  
L. Timmerman

IntroductionNonrespons in first -line drug treatment of patients suffering from depression in psychiatric outpatient populations is a severe problem.The non respons rate is up tot 30% and the non remission rate more than 50% in the first line of treatment with antidepressants in this population.ObjectiveTo devellop more rapid and efficious drug treatment strategies in depression.AimsDuring the last few years several strategies to improve outcome in depression have been under investigation. A few have proven to be valuable.MethodsMedline search 2005–2010 into treatment resistent depression, combination therapy, augmentation therapy, drug therapy.ResultThere is growing evidence for the value of the combination of antidepressants and of combining antidepressants with antipsychotics.Treatment options as pindolol addition to antidepressants, substance P or folic acid addition do not seem of clinical significance yet.The same is true for treatment methods who directly influence the glucocorticoid system such as glucocorticoid receptor antagonists.NMDA antagonists look promising but more research into this option is needed.ConclusionsThere are two outstanding and much promising relatively new treatment options with: Combinations of antidepressants and with combinations of an antidepressant with an antipsychotic.


Author(s):  
Andrew Weil

Integrative Sexual Health explores beyond the standard topics in men’s and women’s health, drawing on a very rich and diverse research literature. Books on sexuality typically are for the clinical specialist and cite only focally relevant research, or are geared to lay knowledge and cite almost no research. Integrative Sexual Health provides an overview of sexual biology and sexual dysfunction, diverse lifespan, lifestyle, and environmental impacts on sexual function, applies complementary and integrative medicine solutions to sexual problems, and offers traditional Eastern and Western treatment approaches to resolving sexual difficulties. Written by diverse integratively trained experts in sexuality, psychology, psychiatry, and other medical specialties. Integrative Sexual Health includes clinical vignettes, detailed treatment strategies for mitigating the side effects of medications, and sexual dysfunction associated with medical illness and poor lifestyle habits, as well as citing extensive research and further resources. Integrative treatment modalities not typically consulted in mainstream sexual medicine, such as traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, aromatherapy, and botanical medicine are presented with the best available evidence, in a clinically relevant manner. This volume in the Weil Integrative Medicine Library will be valuable to the specialist and non-specialist alike, who seek to understand and treat sexual problems using an integrative medicine approach, and acquire tools to help patients maintain lifetime optimal general health and vitality that supports healthy sexuality.


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