#407 DIGEST: Bempedoic acid and cardiac risk, Alpha-Gal Syndrome, Orforglipron, Zuranolone, DOACs for VTE of Malignancy, mAbs for Dementia, New Med for Smoking Cessation, Kiwis and Constipation
An oral GLP-1 agent could be a game-changer for weight loss if dosing and GI side effects are managed.
Green kiwi fruit could be a feasible option for treating constipation.
DOACs may provide a more convenient and favorable treatment option for VTE in cancer patients.
Deep dives
Gop One Non Peptide Gop One Peptide in treating obesity
A study looked at the non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist Ofor Glibron in adults with obesity and comorbidities related to weight. The study showed significant weight loss ranging from 8% to 13%, with dose dependence and continuous weight loss throughout the 36-week trial. Cardiometabolic profiles also improved, with lower systolic blood pressure. Adverse events, mostly GI-related, occurred in 10-20% of participants, with symptoms diminishing over time. The study suggests that an oral GLP-1 agent could be a game-changer for weight loss if dosing and GI side effects are managed.
Kiwi as a treatment for constipation
A recent trial investigated the effects of green kiwi fruit consumption on constipation-related symptoms. The study demonstrated an improvement in constipation symptoms and an increase in complete spontaneous bowel movements (CSBM) when compared to a psyllium fiber intervention. This positive trial suggests that green kiwi fruit could be a feasible option for treating constipation.
Comparing DOACs to heparin for VTE in cancer patients
The CANVAS trial compared direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) to low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in cancer patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE). The trial showed that DOACs were non-inferior to LMWH in preventing recurrent VTE and demonstrated similar safety profiles. DOACs may provide a more convenient and favorable treatment option for VTE in cancer patients.
Zeranalone: FDA Approved for Postpartum Depression
Zeranalone, an oral medication, has received FDA approval for the treatment of postpartum depression. This is a significant milestone as no other oral medications have been approved for this specific indication. Studies, including Skylark and Robin, showed a statistically significant reduction in depression scores in women receiving Zeranalone compared to placebo. The trials demonstrated a response rate of around 30% in the placebo groups, while the Zeranalone groups showed an absolute reduction of 15.6 points on the Hamilton Depression Scale by day 45. It is worth noting that patients experienced side effects such as somnolence, dizziness, and sedation, but with no major adverse events reported.
Donanumab: Promising Results for Alzheimer's Treatment
Donanumab, a monoclonal antibody drug, has shown promising results for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Trials demonstrated a reduction in the depression rating score, with a 15.6 point drop in the treatment group and an 11.6 point drop in the placebo group. Remission rates were also increased, with 27% of patients achieving remission by day 15 and 44% by day 45. The drug was generally well-tolerated, with somnolence, dizziness, and sedation as the most reported side effects. However, more research is needed to fully evaluate the safety and long-term efficacy of this medication.
Join us as we review recent articles and news featured in The DIGEST #43 and #44, including bempedoic acid to lower cardiovascular risk, Alpha-Gal Syndrome, tick bites and meat allergy, orforglipron an oral GLP1 agonist for weight loss, zuranolone for postpartum depression, DOACs for VTE of malignancy, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for Dementia, cytisinicline for smoking cessation, and two kiwis a day for constipation. Fill your brain hole with a delicious stack of hotcakes! Featuring Drs. Paul Williams (@PaulNWilliamz), Nora Taranto (@norataranto), and Matt Watto (@doctorwatto).