Cancer Research: Antibody-drug compounds and immunotherapy to treat breast cancer ♦ Drug may prevent life-threatening muscle loss in advanced cancers

Investigational drug may prevent life-threatening muscle loss in advanced cancers New data describes how an experimental drug can stop life-threatening muscle wasting (cachexia) associated with advanced cancers and restore muscle health. The experimental agent, known as AR-42 while in testing, was tested in preclinical studies

Detecting cancer cells before they form metastases A new method to detect cancer cells in the blood before they settle in the tissue and form a new tumor has been developed by a team of researchers. To date, it has been difficult to detect cancer cells in the blood at an early stage: about one malignant cell is encountered per billion of healthy cells.

Anticancer agent FL118 more potent than its analogs, not prone to typical channels of resistance A new synthetic form of camptothecin appears to have greater potency, longer efficacy and fewer adverse side effects than irinotecan and topotecan.

Antibody-drug compounds and immunotherapy to treat breast cancer To more efficiently treat breast cancer, scientists have been researching molecules that selectively bind to cancer cells and deliver a substance that can kill the tumor cells, for several years. Researchers have now, for the first time, successfully combined such an antibody-drug conjugate with a therapy that stimulates the immune system to attack tumor cells. This opens the door to new therapeutic options in the treatment of breast cancer

1/27/15 Health News: Drugs from dirt ♦ Higher dementia risk linked to common drugs ♦ Safety of Imported Seafood ♦ Methadone to treat pain increases risk of death

Higher dementia risk linked to more use of common drugs

A large study links a significantly increased risk for developing dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, to taking commonly used medications with anticholinergic effects. Many older people take these medications, which include nonprescription Benadryl.Continue Reading

LOUISIANA SENATOR SEEKS TO ENHANCE THE SAFETY OF IMPORTED SEAFOOD

Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) introduced a bill this past week that would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to ensure the safety of imported seafood. According to the American Shrimp Processors Association, which supports the bill, S. 190 increases inspection standards on foreign imported seafood, requires foreign exporters to meet U.S.... Continue Reading

Poor social integration = poor health

There are many benefits to being supported by a strong social network. But can a bigger friend base actually make you healthier? New research shows that social relationships do have a positive influence our physical well-being. Continue Reading

Drugs from dirt: Scientists develop first global roadmap for drug discovery

Scientists have analyzed soils from beaches, forests, and deserts on five continents and found the best places in the world to mine untapped antibiotic and anticancer drugs. The findings provide a road map for future drug discovery. Continue Reading

Use of methadone to treat pain increases risk of death, study shows

Outside the hospital, use of methadone to treat pain carries a 46 percent increased risk of death when compared to the equally effective but more costly alternative, morphine SR (sustained release), according to a recent study Continue Reading