Double-blind

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences

Kinds of Double-blind

  • prospective double-blind
  • randomized double-blind
  • week double-blind

  • Terms modified by Double-blind

  • double-blind clinical study
  • double-blind clinical trial
  • double-blind comparison
  • double-blind condition
  • double-blind crossover design
  • double-blind crossover study
  • double-blind design
  • double-blind fashion
  • double-blind manner
  • double-blind phase
  • double-blind pilot study
  • double-blind placebo
  • double-blind studies
  • double-blind study
  • double-blind treatment
  • double-blind trial
  • double-blind trials

  • Selected Abstracts


    A CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE, CHOTO-SAN, IMPROVES COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA: A DOUBLE-BLIND, RANDOMIZED, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED STUDY

    JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 12 2005
    Tatsuya Suzuki MD
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    INVESTIGATION OF A COMPLEX PLANT EXTRACT FOR MILD TO MODERATE ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IN A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED, PARALLEL-ARM STUDY

    BJU INTERNATIONAL, Issue 11 2010
    Elie Ghannam Nemr
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Patient-Reported Outcomes with Botulinum Toxin Type A Treatment of Glabellar Rhytids: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2007
    FACS, STEVEN FAGIEN MD
    BACKGROUND Global patient-reported outcomes do not evaluate specific aspects of treatment that are important to patients. OBJECTIVE The objective was to evaluate self-perception of age and specific outcomes that are important to patients receiving botulinum toxin type A or placebo for moderate to severe glabellar lines (using the Facial Line Outcomes Questionnaire to assess how much facial lines bother them, make them look older, detract from their facial appearance, prevent a smooth facial appearance, and make them look tired, stressed, or angry). METHODS AND MATERIALS In the double-blind phase of this 12-week study, 70 patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 20 U botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX Cosmetic) or placebo. At Week 4, those still with moderate or severe glabellar lines were offered open-label 20 U botulinum toxin type A. RESULTS Median glabellar line severity was significantly lower after botulinum toxin treatment than after placebo. Compared with placebo, botulinum toxin also resulted in significantly superior patient assessments and a greater proportion of patients considering they looked younger than their current age. CONCLUSIONS Botulinum toxin type A can achieve specific goals of treatment that are important to patients and help them feel that they look younger than their current age. [source]


    A Comparison of Two Botulinum Type A Toxin Preparations for the Treatment of Glabellar Lines: Double-Blind, Randomized, Pilot Study

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 12 2005
    Philippa L. Lowe MB ChB
    Background. Botulinum toxins have been proven effective for reducing facial lines. There are two commercial types of botulinum toxin type A available in many countries but no published comparison studies. Objective. To compare the efficacy and tolerability of Botox Cosmetic and Dysport 50 U in the treatment of glabellar lines (using 20 U of Botox Cosmetic, which is the dose approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of glabellar lines, and 50 U of Dysport, which has been reported to be the optimal dose for this formulation). Study Design. Parallel-group double-blind pilot study. Evaluation by observing physician, photographic, and patient evaluations. Conclusion. Botox 20 U provided better and more prolonged efficacy than Dysport 50 U in the treatment of glabellar lines. NICHOLAS LOWE, MD, FRCP, AND RICKIE PATNAIK, MD, HAVE RECEIVED RESEARCH GRANTS FROM ALLERGAN INC. NICHOLAS LOWE OWNS STOCK IN ALLERGAN INC AND HAS RECEIVED CONSULTING PAYMENTS AND EDUCATIONAL GRANTS FROM ALLERGAN INC. THIS STUDY WAS FUNDED BY A GRANT FROM ALLERGAN INC. [source]


    Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Dose-Response Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Subjects with Crow's Feet

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2005
    Nicholas J. Lowe MD
    Background Published evidence suggests that botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is an effective treatment for crow's feet. However, few dose-ranging studies have been performed. Objectives To assess the safety and efficacy of a single treatment with one of four doses of BTX-A (Botox/Vistabel, Allergan Inc) compared with placebo for the improvement of crow's feet. Methods Subjects received a single bilateral treatment of 18, 12, 6, or 3 U of BTX-A or placebo injected into the lateral aspect of the orbicularis oculi muscle (parallel-group, double,blind design). Investigators and subjects rated crow's feet severity at maximum smile on day 7 and at 30-day intervals from days 30 to 180. Results As observed by both investigators and subjects, all doses of BTX-A resulted in improvements in crow's feet severity when compared with placebo. A dose-dependent treatment effect for efficacy was observed, with higher doses having an increased magnitude and duration of effect. However, a clear differentiation between the 18 U and 12 U doses was not apparent. Few adverse events were reported, with no statistically significant differences between BTX-A and placebo in the incidence of subjects experiencing adverse events. Conclusion BTX-A is safe and effective in decreasing the severity of crow's feet, with 12 U per side suggested as the most appropriate dose. THIS STUDY WAS FUNDED BY ALLERGAN, WHICH WAS ALSO INVOLVED IN THE DESIGN AND CONDUCT OF THE STUDY; COLLECTION, MANAGEMENT, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF THE DATA; AND PREPARATION, REVIEW, AND APPROVAL OF THE MANUSCRIPT. DRS. LOWE AND FRACZEK ARE PAID CONSULTANTS FOR ALLERGAN, DRS. KUMAR AND EADIE ARE EMPLOYEES OF ALLERGAN, AND DRS. LOWE AND KUMAR HOLD STOCK OPTIONS. [source]


    Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Myobloc (Botulinum Toxin Type B) for the Treatment of Palmar Hyperhidrosis

    DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2005
    Leslie Baumann MD
    Background Palmar hyperhidrosis is a problem of unknown etiology that affects patients both socially and professionally. Botulinum toxin type B (Myobloc), approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in the treatment of cervical dystonia in the United States in December 2000, has subsequently been used effectively in an off-label indication to treat hyperhidrosis. There are sparse data, however, in the literature evaluating the safety and efficacy of BTX-B for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis. Objective We evaluated the safety and efficacy of Myobloc in the treatment of bilateral palmar hyperhidrosis. This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study to report on the safety and efficacy of Myobloc. Methods Twenty participants (10 men, 10 women) diagnosed with palmar hyperhidrosis were injected with either Myobloc (5,000 U per palm) or a 1.0 mL vehicle (100 mM NaCl, 10 mM succinate, and 0.5 mg/mL human albumin) into bilateral palms (15 Myobloc, 5 placebo). The participants were followed until sweating returned to baseline levels. The main outcome measures were safety, efficacy versus placebo, and duration of effect. Results A significant difference was found in treatment response at day 30, as determined by participant assessments, between 15 participants injected with Myobloc and 3 participants injected with placebo. The duration of action, calculated in the 17 participants who received Myobloc injections and completed the study, ranged from 2.3 to 4.9 months, with a mean duration of 3.8 months. The single most reported adverse event was dry mouth or throat, which was reported by 18 of 20 participants. The adverse event profile also included indigestion or heartburn (60%), excessively dry hands (60%), muscle weakness (60%), and decreased grip strength (50%). Conclusion Myobloc proved to be efficacious for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis. Myobloc had a rapid onset, with most participants responding within 1 week. The duration of action ranged from 2.3 to 4.9 months, with a mean of 3.8 months. The adverse event profile included dry mouth, indigestion or heartburn, excessively dry hands, muscle weakness, and decreased grip strength. MYOBLOC WAS PROVIDED FOR THIS STUDY BY ELAN PHARMACEUTICALS. [source]


    Electrical Stimulation of the Hippocampal Epileptic Foci for Seizure Control: A Double-Blind, Long-Term Follow-Up Study

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 10 2007
    Ana Luisa Velasco
    Summary:,Purpose: Our aim was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of electrical stimulation of the hippocampus in a long-term follow-up study, as well as its impact on memory performance in the treatment of patients with refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. Methods: Nine patients were included. All had refractory partial complex seizures, some with secondary generalizations. All patients had a 3-month-baseline-seizure count, after which they underwent bilateral hippocampal diagnostic electrode implantation to establish focus laterality and location. Three patients had bilateral, and six, unilateral foci. Diagnostic electrodes were explanted and definitive Medtronic electrodes were implanted directed into the hippocampal foci. Position was confirmed with MRI and afterwards, the deep brain stimulation system internalized. Patients signed the informed consent approved by the Hospital's Ethics Committee and began a double-blind stimulation protocol. Patients attended a medical appointment every 3 months for seizure diary collection, deep brain stimulation system checkup, and neuropsychological testing. Results: Follow-up ranged from 18 months to 7 years. Patients were divided in two groups: five had normal MRIs and seizure reduction of >95%, while four had hippocampal sclerosis and seizure reduction of 50,70%. No patient had neuropsychological deterioration, nor did any patient show side effects. Three patients were explanted after 2 years due to skin erosion in the trajectory of the system. Conclusions: Electrical stimulation of the hippocampus provides a nonlesional method that improves seizure outcome without memory deterioration in patients with hippocampal epileptic foci. [source]


    Eletriptan for the Acute Treatment of Migraine in Adolescents: Results of a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

    HEADACHE, Issue 4 2007
    Paul Winner DO
    Background.,Eletriptan is a potent 5-HT1B/1D agonist with proven efficacy in the acute treatment of migraine in adults. Objective.,To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of eletriptan 40 mg versus placebo in adolescent patients (aged 12-17). Methods.,A multicenter, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial was conducted comparing 40 mg of oral eletriptan with placebo for the treatment of migraine in adolescent patients. The primary efficacy endpoint was 2-hour headache response, and a number of secondary endpoints were also evaluated. An exploratory analysis evaluated which clinical and demographic characteristics might be correlated with high placebo response. Results.,Of 274 patients who treated a migraine attack, 267 were evaluated for efficacy (n = 138 eletriptan; n = 129 placebo) at 2 hours post-dose. There was no significant difference in 2-hour headache response for eletriptan 40 mg versus placebo (57% vs 57%), and no significant improvements were observed for any of the outcomes at 1 or 2 hours post-dose. By contrast, there was a significant advantage for eletriptan 40 mg in reducing headache recurrence within 24 hours post-dose (11% vs 25%, P= .028), and post hoc analyses showed statistically significant differences for sustained headache response rates (52% vs 39%; P= .04) and sustained pain-free response rates (22% vs 10%; P= .013). The strongest clinical predictor of placebo response was triptan-naďve status (ie, no previous use of any triptan). Eletriptan 40 mg was well tolerated in this population, and the profile of adverse events was similar to that observed in Phase III trials in adult patients. Conclusions.,The high placebo response rates reported here for 1- and 2-hour outcomes are in accordance with other studies of triptans in adolescent patients. The evaluation of treatment effect in adolescent migraine might benefit from use of more stringent outcome measures, such as headache recurrence, sustained headache response, and sustained pain-free response at 24 hours post-dose. [source]


    Sumatriptan Nasal Spray in Adolescent Migraineurs: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Acute Study

    HEADACHE, Issue 2 2006
    Paul Winner DO
    Objective.,To compare the efficacy and tolerability of sumatriptan nasal spray (NS) (5, 20 mg) versus placebo in the acute treatment of migraine in adolescent subjects. Background.,Currently, no triptan is approved in the United States for the treatment of migraine in adolescent subjects (12 to 17 years). In a previous randomized, placebo-controlled study of 510 adolescent subjects, sumatriptan NS at 5, 10, and 20 mg doses was well tolerated. However, the primary efficacy analysis for headache relief with 20 mg at 2 hours did not demonstrate statistical significance (P= .059). A second study was initiated to evaluate the efficacy of sumatriptan NS in this population. Methods.,This was a randomized (1:1:1), placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study. Overall, 738 adolescent subjects (mean age: 14 years) with ,6-month history of migraine (with or without aura) self-treated a single attack of moderate or severe migraine. The primary endpoints were headache relief at 1 hour and sustained relief from 1 to 24 hours. Pain-free rates, presence/absence of associated symptoms, headache recurrence, and use of rescue medications were also assessed. Tolerability was based on adverse events (AEs) and vital signs. Results.,Sumatriptan NS 20 mg provided greater headache relief than placebo at 30 minutes (42% vs. 33%, respectively; P= .046) and 2 hours (68% vs. 58%; P= .025) postdose, but did not reach statistical significance at 1 hour (61% vs. 52%; P= .087) or for sustained headache relief from 1 to 24 hours (P= .061). Significant differences (P < .05) in favor of sumatriptan NS 20 mg over placebo were observed for several secondary efficacy endpoints including sustained relief from 2 to 24 hours. In general, sumatriptan NS 5 mg percentages were slightly higher than placebo but the differences did not reach statistical significance. Both doses of sumatriptan NS were well tolerated. No AEs were serious or led to study withdrawal. The most common event was taste disturbance (2%, placebo; 19%, sumatriptan NS 5 mg; 25%, sumatriptan NS 20 mg). Conclusions.,This study suggests that sumatriptan may be beneficial to some adolescents and is generally well tolerated in the acute treatment of migraine in this population. [source]


    Eradication of Helicobacter pylori Does Not Reduce the Incidence of Gastroduodenal Ulcers in Patients on Long-term NSAID Treatment: Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

    HELICOBACTER, Issue 5 2007
    Helena T.J.I. De Leest
    Abstract Background:,,Helicobacter pylori and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the major causes of gastroduodenal ulcers. Studies on the benefit of eradication of H. pylori in NSAID users yielded conflicting results. Objective:, To investigate whether H. pylori eradication in patients on long-term NSAIDs reduces the incidence of gastroduodenal ulcers. Methods:, Patients on long-term NSAID treatment and who are H. pylori positive on serologic testing, were randomly assigned to either H. pylori eradication (omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin) or placebo. Primary endpoint was the presence of endoscopic gastric or duodenal ulcers 3 months after randomization. Results:, One hundred sixty-five (48%) of a total of 347 patients were on gastroprotective medication. At endoscopy, gastroduodenal ulcers were diagnosed in 6 (4%) and 8 (5%) patients in the eradication and placebo group, respectively (p = .65). During follow-up of 12 months, no symptomatic ulcers or ulcer complications developed. No significant differences were found in the development of gastroduodenal erosions, dyspepsia, or in quality of life. Conclusion:,H. pylori eradication therapy in patients on long-term NSAID treatment had no beneficial effect on the occurrence of ulcers, erosions, or dyspepsia. Ulcer rates in both study arms are remarkably low, in both patients with and without gastroprotective therapy. [source]


    Effect of Fish Oil Supplementation on Quality of Life in a General Population of Older Dutch Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

    JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 8 2009
    Ondine Van De Rest MSc
    OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) plus docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation on quality of life (QOL). DESIGN: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. SETTING: Independently living individuals from the general older Dutch population. PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred two individuals aged 65 and older without depression or dementia. INTERVENTION: 1,800 mg/d EPA-DHA (n=96), 400 mg/d EPA-DHA (n=100), or placebo capsules (n=106) for 26 weeks. MEASUREMENTS: QOL was assessed using the short version of the World Health Organization QOL questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). The WHOQOL-BREF covers four domains: physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and satisfaction with environment. The total score range is 26 to 130, with higher scores indicating a more favorable condition. RESULTS: Mean age of the participants was 70, and 55% were male. Plasma concentrations of EPA-DHA increased 238% in the high-dose and 51% in the low-dose EPA-DHA group, reflecting excellent adherence. Median baseline total WHOQOL scores ranged from 107 to 110 in the three groups and were not significantly different from each other. After 26 weeks, the mean difference from placebo was ,1.42 (95% confidence interval (CI)=,3.40,0.57) for the high-dose and 0.02 (95% CI=,1.95,1.99) for the low-dose fish oil group. Treatment with 1,800 mg or 400 mg EPA-DHA did not affect total QOL or any of the separate domains after 13 or 26 weeks of intervention. CONCLUSION: Supplementation with high or low doses of fish oil for 26 weeks did not influence the QOL of healthy older individuals. [source]


    A Short-Term, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Dronedarone versus Amiodarone in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: The DIONYSOS Study

    JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 6 2010
    JEAN-YVES LE HEUZEY M.D.
    Dronedarone versus Amiodarone in Patients with AF.,,Introduction: We compared the efficacy and safety of amiodarone and dronedarone in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: Five hundred and four amiodarone-naďve patients were randomized to receive dronedarone 400 mg bid (n = 249) or amiodarone 600 mg qd for 28 days then 200 mg qd (n = 255) for at least 6 months. Primary composite endpoint was recurrence of AF (including unsuccessful electrical cardioversion, no spontaneous conversion and no electrical cardioversion) or premature study discontinuation. Main safety endpoint (MSE) was occurrence of thyroid-, hepatic-, pulmonary-, neurologic-, skin-, eye-, or gastrointestinal-specific events, or premature study drug discontinuation following an adverse event. Results: Median treatment duration was 7 months. The primary composite endpoint was 75.1 and 58.8% with dronedarone and amiodarone, respectively, at 12 months (hazard ratio [HR] 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.28,1.98; P < 0.0001), mainly driven by AF recurrence with dronedarone compared with amiodarone (63.5 vs 42.0%). AF recurrence after successful cardioversion was 36.5 and 24.3% with dronedarone and amiodarone, respectively. Premature drug discontinuation tended to be less frequent with dronedarone (10.4 vs 13.3%). MSE was 39.3 and 44.5% with dronedarone and amiodarone, respectively, at 12 months (HR = 0.80; 95% CI 0.60,1.07; P = 0.129), and mainly driven by fewer thyroid, neurologic, skin, and ocular events in the dronedarone group. Conclusion: In this short-term study, dronedarone was less effective than amiodarone in decreasing AF recurrence, but had a better safety profile, specifically with regard to thyroid and neurologic events and a lack of interaction with oral anticoagulants. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 597-605, June 2010) [source]


    Rationale and Design of ATHENA: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Parallel Arm Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Dronedarone 400 mg Bid for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Hospitalization or Death from Any Cause in PatiENts with Atrial Fibrillation/Atrial Flutter

    JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 1 2008
    STEFAN H. HOHNLOSER M.D.
    Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered clinical arrhythmia, predominantly affecting elderly patients. There is a continued need for new antiarrhythmic drugs to treat the ever-increasing number of patients with this arrhythmia. Dronedarone is a new antiarrhythmic compound currently being developed for treatment of AF. Methods: The ATHENA trial (A placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel arm Trial to assess the efficacy of dronedarone 400 mg bid for the prevention of cardiovascular Hospitalization or death from any cause in patiENts with Atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter) is the largest single antiarrhythmic drug trial ever conducted. More than 4,600 patients with a history of AF or atrial flutter (AFL) have been randomized to receive dronedarone 400 mg bid or matching placebo. The primary study endpoint is time to first cardiovascular hospitalization or death from any cause. The study has completed patient enrollment in December 2006 and is expected to end follow-up 1 year later. Conclusion: ATHENA will be the largest efficacy and safety trial of dronedarone, a multichannel blocker compound with properties from class I, II, III, and IV antiarrhythmic drugs developed to treat patients with AF. [source]


    A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study With Quetiapine as Adjunct Therapy With Lithium or Divalproex in Bipolar I Patients With Coexisting Alcohol Dependence

    ALCOHOLISM, Issue 10 2010
    Mary Stedman
    Background:, This study evaluated the efficacy of quetiapine versus placebo as an adjunct to lithium or divalproex in reducing alcohol consumption in patients with bipolar I disorder and coexisting alcohol dependence. Methods:, Male and female outpatients (21 to 60 years) with a history of bipolar I disorder and alcohol dependence were included in this 12-week, placebo-controlled study. Patients treated with lithium or divalproex (ongoing or assigned at screening) were randomized to receive quetiapine (dosed up to 400 mg/d over 7 days, followed by 300 to 800 mg/d flexible dosing until study end) or placebo. The primary outcome measure was the change in the proportion of heavy drinking days from baseline to Week 12 (as derived from the Timeline Followback method). Secondary outcome measures included time to the first consecutive 2 weeks of abstinence, changes from baseline to Week 12 in the proportion of nondrinking days, mean number of standardized drinks per day, and Clinical Global Impressions-Severity of Illness score. Results:, Of 362 enrolled patients (mean 38.6 years), 176 were randomized to receive quetiapine and 186 to placebo. The mean proportion of heavy drinking days at baseline was 0.66 in the quetiapine group and 0.67 in the placebo group. At Week 12, the mean change in the proportion of heavy drinking days was ,0.36 with quetiapine and ,0.36 with placebo (p = 0.93). No statistically significant differences in any of the secondary outcome measures were noted between the quetiapine and placebo groups. The incidence of adverse events was consistent with the previously known tolerability profile of quetiapine. Conclusions:, The efficacy of quetiapine in the treatment of bipolar disorder is already well established. In this study, however, quetiapine added to lithium or divalproex did not result in significantly greater improvement compared with placebo in measures of alcohol use and dependence in patients with bipolar I disorder and alcohol dependence. [source]


    A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Naltrexone in Outpatients With Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Dependence

    ALCOHOLISM, Issue 11 2009
    E. Sherwood Brown
    Background:, Alcohol dependence is extremely common in patients with bipolar disorder and is associated with unfavorable outcomes including treatment nonadherence, violence, increased hospitalization, and decreased quality of life. While naltrexone is a standard treatment for alcohol dependence, no controlled trials have examined its use in patients with co-morbid bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. In this pilot study, the efficacy of naltrexone in reducing alcohol use and on mood symptoms was assessed in bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. Methods:, Fifty adult outpatients with bipolar I or II disorders and current alcohol dependence with active alcohol use were randomized to 12 weeks of naltrexone (50 mg/d) add-on therapy or placebo. Both groups received manual-driven cognitive behavioral therapy designed for patients with bipolar disorder and substance-use disorders. Drinking days and heavy drinking days, alcohol craving, liver enzymes, and manic and depressed mood symptoms were assessed. Results:, The 2 groups were similar in baseline and demographic characteristics. Naltrexone showed trends (p < 0.10) toward a greater decrease in drinking days (binary outcome), alcohol craving, and some liver enzyme levels than placebo. Side effects were similar in the 2 groups. Response to naltrexone was significantly related to medication adherence. Conclusions:, Results suggest the potential value and acceptable tolerability of naltrexone for alcohol dependence in bipolar disorder patients. A larger trial is needed to establish efficacy. [source]


    Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Pilot Study Evaluating Efficacy and Reactogenicity of an Oral ETEC B-Subunit-Inactivated Whole Cell Vaccine against Travelers' Diarrhea (Preliminary Report)

    JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2000
    Gerhard Wiedermann
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of the Use of Topical 10% Potassium Hydroxide Solution in the Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum

    PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2006
    Katherine A. Short M.R.C.P.
    Lesions take between 6 and 18 months to resolve spontaneously and are a source of great embarrassment to both caretakers and children, often affecting attendance at school and limiting social activity. Treatment options to date have been poorly tolerated by children but recent studies have suggested that potassium hydroxide may be beneficial. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study compared 10% potassium hydroxide with placebo (normal saline). Twenty patients, aged 2 to 12 years, were recruited. Parents applied a solution twice daily to lesional skin until signs of inflammation appeared. Children were examined by the same observer on days 0, 15, 30, 60, and 90. Seventy percent of children receiving topical potassium hydroxide cleared, compared with 20% in the placebo group. Further dosing studies are required to identify whether weaker concentrations of potassium hydroxide are as efficacious, with less irritancy. [source]


    ORIGINAL RESEARCH,ED PHARMACOTHERAPY: Sildenafil Citrate 100 mg Starting Dose in Men with Erectile Dysfunction in an International, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study: Effect on the Sexual Experience and Reducing Feelings of Anxiety About the Next Intercourse Attempt

    THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 10 2009
    Oleg B. Loran MD
    ABSTRACT Introduction., Sildenafil citrate 50 mg is the recommended starting dose for men with erectile dysfunction (ED); however, most men are later titrated to sildenafil 100 mg for improved efficacy. Aim., Assess the tolerability and efficacy of sildenafil initiated at the 100-mg dose in men with ED. Methods., Men with ED (score ,25 on the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function) who had received ,6 total doses of a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor and none within 4 weeks were randomized to 8 weeks of double-blind, placebo-controlled (DBPC), fixed-dose treatment (50 or 100 mg sildenafil or placebo) followed by 4 weeks of open-label flexible-dose sildenafil (50 or 100 mg). Main Outcome Measures., Efficacy, tolerability, treatment satisfaction, and other end points were measured at baseline and/or the end of the double-blind and open-label phases and compared between placebo and sildenafil initiated at doses of 50 and 100 mg. Results., Improvements in DBPC patient-reported outcomes from baseline were statistically significant for both sildenafil 50 and 100 mg compared with placebo. At the end of DBPC treatment, 56% of men on the 100-mg dose felt no anxiety about the next intercourse attempt compared with 39% in the 50-mg group (odds ratio 2.03; P = 0.0197). Changes in functional scores from baseline were not statistically significant with the 100-mg dose compared with the 50-mg dose in the DBPC. Measures of treatment satisfaction and sexual experience significantly favored the 100-mg dose compared with the 50-mg dose in the DBPC. There was no increase in adverse events with the higher dose. Conclusions., Sildenafil at 50 mg or 100 mg significantly improved erection quality, treatment satisfaction, anxiety levels, and the sexual experience compared with placebo during DBPC. Sildenafil 100 mg improved the sexual experience and treatment satisfaction, and reduced feelings of anxiety compared with the 50-mg dose. Loran OB, Ströberg P, Lee SW, Park NC, Kim SW, Tseng LJ, Collins S, and Stecher VJ. Sildenafil citrate 100 mg starting dose in men with erectile dysfunction in an international, double-blind, placebo-controlled study: Effect on the sexual experience and reducing feelings of anxiety about the next intercourse attempt. J Sex Med 2009;6:2826,2835. [source]


    The Inhibitory Effects of Nicotine on Physiological Sexual Arousal in Nonsmoking Women: Results from a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Trial

    THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2008
    Christopher B. Harte BA
    ABSTRACT Introduction., Extensive research suggests that long-term cigarette smoking is an independent risk factor for the introduction of sexual dysfunction in men. However, results of limited data investigating this relationship in women are mixed. No studies have examined the acute effects of tobacco or nicotine on physiological sexual response in women. Controlled experimental studies examining acute effects of isolated nicotine intake on female physiological sexual responses are necessary in order to help elucidate tobacco's potential role in the development and/or maintenance of sexual impairment in women. Aim., To examine whether isolated nicotine intake acutely affects sexual arousal responses in nonsmoking women. Methods., Twenty-five sexually functional women (mean age = 20 years) each with less than 100 direct exposures to nicotine completed two counterbalanced conditions in which they were randomized to received either nicotine gum (6 mg) or placebo gum, both administered double-blind and matched for appearance, taste, and consistency, approximately 40 minutes prior to viewing an erotic film. Main Outcome Measures., Physiological (changes in vaginal pulse amplitude via vaginal photoplethysmography) and subjective (continuous self-report) sexual responses to erotic stimuli were examined, as well as changes in mood. Results., Nicotine significantly reduced genital responses to the erotic films (P = 0.05), corresponding to a 30% attenuation in physiological sexual arousal. This occurred in 11 of 18 women with valid physiological assessments. Nicotine had no significant effect on continuous self-report ratings of sexual arousal (P = 0.45), or on mood (all Ps > 0.05). Conclusions., Acute nicotine intake significantly attenuates physiological sexual arousal in healthy nonsmoking women. Our findings provide support to the hypothesis that nicotine may be the primary pharmacological agent responsible for genital hemodynamic disruption, thereby facilitating a cascade of biochemical and vascular events which may impair normal sexual arousal responses. Harte CB, and Meston CM. The inhibitory effects of nicotine on physiological sexual arousal in nonsmoking women: Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. J Sex Med 2008;5:1184,1197. [source]


    Efficacy and Safety of Oral Tadalafil in the Treatment of Men in Canada with Erectile Dysfunction: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

    THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2005
    FRCSC, Serge Carrier MD
    ABSTRACT Introduction., Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a highly prevalent, often undertreated condition. Aim., This 12-week, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study was conducted at 25 sites in Canada to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, for the treatment of ED. Methods., Men with ED of organic, psychogenic, or mixed etiology were stratified by baseline ED severity then randomly assigned to placebo (N = 50), tadalafil 10 mg (N = 103), or tadalafil 20 mg (N = 100), taken as needed (maximum, once daily). Main Outcome Measures., Efficacy was assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a Sexual Encounter Profile diary, and a global assessment question (GAQ). Results., Tadalafil 10 mg and tadalafil 20 mg significantly improved erectile function compared with placebo (P < 0.001, all measures). At end point, the mean IIEF erectile function (EF) domain scores were 14.5, 21.2, and 23.3 of a possible score of 30 for placebo, tadalafil 10 mg, and tadalafil 20 mg, respectively. Patients treated with tadalafil reported greater change from baseline on the IIEF EF domain score compared with placebo, regardless of baseline ED severity. During treatment, the mean per-patient proportion of successful intercourse attempts was higher for tadalafil 10 mg and 20 mg than for placebo (placebo, 31.9%; tadalafil 10 mg, 56.7%; and tadalafil 20 mg, 61.5%), and a greater proportion of patients reported improved erections with tadalafil (GAQ; placebo, 22.0%; tadalafil 10 mg, 67.0%; tadalafil 20 mg, 79.0%). Fifty percent and 62% of patients treated with tadalafil 10 mg and 20 mg, respectively, achieved successful sexual intercourse after their first dose, compared with 31% with placebo. Treatment-emergent adverse events were generally mild or moderate. Conclusion., Tadalafil was an effective, well-tolerated therapy for ED of broad-spectrum etiology and severity. Carrier S, Brock GB, Pommerville PJ, Shin J, Anglin G, Whitaker S, and Beasley CM Jr. Efficacy and safety of oral tadalafil in the treatment of men in Canada with erectile dysfunction: A randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Sex Med 2005;2:685,698. [source]


    Improving the Sexual Quality of Life of Couples Affected by Erectile Dysfunction: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Vardenafil

    THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2005
    William A. Fisher PhD
    ABSTRACT Introduction., Erectile dysfunction (ED) has a dual negative impact on men and their female partners; both are likely to face a drop in sexual quality of life and challenges to their intimate relationship as couples' sexual activities are curtailed by the loss of erectile function. Aim., The primary objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of vardenafil vs. placebo in terms of success of maintenance of erection in men with ED and improvement of their female partner's sexual quality of life. Methods., This was a randomized, double-blind, multicenter, flexible-dose, parallel-group comparison of vardenafil vs. placebo for 12 weeks in men (,18 years) with ED of ,,6 months duration, and their female partners. Main Outcome Measures., Changes in patient's overall response rate to Sexual Encounter Profile question 3 (SEP3) "Did your erection last long enough for you to have sexual intercourse?" and female partner's response to the quality of life domain of the modified Sexual Life Quality Questionnaire (mSLQQ-QOL) at last observation carried forward (LOCF) were considered the primary efficacy measures. In addition, patient's response to SEP2 "Were you able to insert your penis into your partner's vagina?," the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) and patient's mSLQQ-QOL score were also assessed. Results., Compared with placebo, vardenafil significantly improved overall least square (LS) mean per-patient SEP3 success rate (28% vs. 68%; P < 0.0001) and partner's LS mean (standard error [SE]) mSLQQ-QOL score at LOCF (32.14 [3.24] vs. 65.80 [3.10]; P < 0.0001). In addition, compared with placebo, vardenafil also improved overall LS mean per-patient SEP2 success rate (47% vs. 80%; P < 0.0001), LS mean (SE) IIEF-EF scores at LOCF (12.7 [0.8] vs. 22.8 [0.8]; P < 0.0001) and patient's LS mean (SE) mSLQQ-QOL (28.37 [3.46] vs. 63.85 [3.28]; P < 0.0001) at LOCF. Conclusions., Vardenafil improved erectile function in men with ED and improved the sexual quality of life of the couple. Fisher WA, Rosen RC, Mollen M, Brock G, Karlin G, Pommerville P, Goldstein I, Bangerter K, Bandel T-J, Derogatis LR, and Sand M for the Vardenafil Study Group. Improving the sexual quality of life of couples affected by erectile dysfunction: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of vardenafil. J Sex Med 2005;2:699,708. [source]


    Efficacy and Safety of On-Demand Oral Tadalafil in the Treatment of Men with Erectile Dysfunction in Taiwan: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

    THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2004
    Kuang-Kuo Chen MD
    Conflict of Interest. Timothy M. Costigan and Jeffrey T. Emmick are employees of Eli Lilly, Indianapolis. ABSTRACT Introduction., Tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Past clinical trials have assessed its efficacy and safety in western populations. Tadalafil has not been investigated in a large clinical trial with a South-east Asian population. Aim., To assess the efficacy and safety of on-demand tadalafil for the treatment of ED in a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in Taiwan. Methods., Men with mild to severe ED of various etiologies were randomized to receive placebo, tadalafil 10 mg, or tadalafil 20 mg, taken as needed (maximum once daily). Efficacy assessments included the International Index of Erectile Function, the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) diary, and a Global Assessment Question (GAQ). Results., Tadalafil significantly improved erectile function compared with placebo (P < 0.005, all measures). At endpoint, the patients receiving tadalafil reported a greater mean per-patient percentage of successful intercourse attempts (SEP question 3: 70.0%, 10 mg; 78.0%, 20 mg) than placebo-treated patients (42.8%) and a greater proportion of improved erections (GAQ: 92.3% and 84.6% vs. 54.5%). Most treatment-emergent adverse events were mild or moderate. The most common adverse events were back pain, dyspepsia, and myalgia. Conclusions., Tadalafil was an effective, well-tolerated therapy for men in Taiwan with ED of broad-spectrum severity and etiology. [source]


    A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial of Steroid Withdrawal after Pediatric Renal Transplantation

    AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 1 2010
    M. R. Benfield
    In an effort to reduce rejection, extend allograft survival and minimize complications, we hypothesized that robust immunosuppression during the first 6 months after transplantation would allow for the safe withdrawal of steroids. A total of 274 pediatric subjects were enrolled and received an anti-CD25 antibody, sirolimus, calcineurin inhibitor and steroids. At 6 months after transplantation, subjects were randomized to steroid withdrawal (n = 73) versus continued low-dose steroids (n = 59). This study was stopped prior to target enrollment because of the incidence of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder. At the time of study termination, 132 subjects had been randomized and were available for analysis. At 18 months after transplantation, there was no difference in the standardized height z score; however, the standardized height velocity was greater in the steroid withdrawal group compared to the control group (p = 0.033). There were no differences in acute rejection episodes between treatment groups. The 3-year allograft survival rate was 84.5% in the control group and 98.6% in the steroid withdrawal group (p = 0.002). The immunosuppressive protocol utilized in this study allowed for the withdrawal of steroids without an increased risk of rejection or allograft loss. However, the complications associated with the use of this immunosuppressive protocol were too high to recommend its routine use in pediatric patients. [source]


    A Randomized, Double-Blind, Pharmacokinetic Study of Oral Maribavir with Tacrolimus in Stable Renal Transplant Recipients

    AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 10 2009
    M. D. Pescovitz
    Maribavir is being developed as a novel agent for the prevention or treatment of cytomegalovirus infections after stem cell and organ transplantation. This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to evaluate the potential pharmacokinetic interaction of concomitant administration of maribavir and tacrolimus. Twenty-five adult renal transplant recipients with stable renal function and stable dosing regimens of tacrolimus were randomized (20 maribavir 400 mg p.o. q12 h: 5 placebo). Tacrolimus whole blood concentration profiles were determined before and after 7 days of co-administration with maribavir. When co-administered with maribavir, tacrolimus mean Cmax increased 38%, tacrolimus trough concentrations (12 h post-dose) increased 57% and tacrolimus AUC(0-,) increased 51%. Apparent oral clearance of tacrolimus decreased 34% and Tmax was delayed by 0.5 h. There were no serious adverse events and no subject prematurely discontinued treatment. Because of the limited 7-day dosing course, the adverse event profile could not be adequately assessed. However, as seen with other maribavir studies, dysgeusia was common (90% of maribavir subjects and 20% of placebo subjects). In conclusion, co-administration of maribavir 400 mg twice daily increases exposure to tacrolimus. Routine therapeutic drug monitoring of tacrolimus blood concentrations should be included both at initiation and completion of maribavir treatment. [source]


    A Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Randomized Study of Efficacy and Safety of Ocinaplon (DOV 273,547) in Generalized Anxiety Disorder

    CNS: NEUROSCIENCE AND THERAPEUTICS, Issue 2 2010
    Pál Czobor
    Preclinical studies demonstrated that ocinaplon, a positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors, possesses anxiolytic-like actions at doses devoid of the side effects typically associated with benzodiazepines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ocinaplon in a multicenter, double-blind proof-of-concept trial of male and female outpatients who met DSM-IV criteria for GAD with no coexisting depression, and had a baseline score of ,20 on the Hamilton Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A). Patients with <20% reduction in HAM-A to placebo in a single-blind 7-day run-in period were randomly assigned to treatment with ocinaplon 90 mg t.i.d. (n = 31) or placebo for 28 days (n = 29). Ocinaplon was more effective than placebo in reducing HAM-A scores (P= 0.009). Patients assigned to ocinaplon exhibited a mean improvement of 14.2 points (SE = 2.6) on the total score of the HAM-A scale at the conclusion of the trial, while patients assigned to placebo obtained a mean improvement of 6.3 points (SE = 2.0). A significant (P= 0.023) difference in improvement between ocinaplon and placebo was observed beginning at and continuing from 1-week after the initiation of dosing. The proportion of patients with treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAE) was not statistically significant between ocinaplon and placebo. One serious adverse event (SAE) occurred in the ocinaplon group that was considered possibly related to study medication (icterus following transaminase elevations). The patient had preexisting medical conditions that may have contributed to this SAE. A full recovery was observed with no residual effects. The overall safety profile revealed no patterns of TEAEs, including those effects typically associated with other anxiolytic and/or benzodiazepine compounds, such as sedation. Ocinaplon appears to be a well-tolerated and effective treatment for GAD. It produces a rapid onset of anxiolytic action absent the side effects (e.g., dizziness, sedation) typically reported following anxiolytic doses of benzodiazepines. [source]


    Eslicarbazepine Acetate: A Double-blind, Add-on, Placebo-controlled Exploratory Trial in Adult Patients with Partial-onset Seizures

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 3 2007
    Christian Elger
    Summary:,Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of eslicarbazepine acetate (BIA 2-093), a new antiepileptic drug, as adjunctive therapy in adult patients with partial epilepsy. Methods: A multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was conducted in 143 refractory patients aged 18,65 years with ,4 partial-onset seizures/month. The study consisted of a 12-week treatment period followed by a 1-week tapering off. Patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: treatment with eslicarbazepine acetate once daily (QD, n = 50), twice daily (BID, n = 46), or placebo (PL, n = 47). The daily dose was titrated from 400 mg to 800 mg and to 1,200 mg at 4-week intervals. The proportion of responders (patients with a ,50% seizure reduction) was the primary end point. Results: The percentage of responders versus baseline showed a statistically significant difference between QD and PL groups (54% vs. 28%; 90% CI =,,, ,14; p = 0.008). The difference between the BID (41%) and PL did not reach statistical significance (90% CI =,,, ,1; p = 0.12). A significantly higher proportion of responders in weeks 5,8 was found in the QD group than in the BID group (58% vs. 33%, respectively, p = 0.022). At the end of the 12-week treatment, the number of seizure-free patients in the QD and BID groups was 24%, which was significantly different from the PL group. The incidence of adverse events was similar between the treatment groups and no drug-related serious adverse events occurred. Conclusion: Eslicarbazepine acetate was efficacious and well tolerated as an adjunctive therapy of refractory epileptic patients. [source]


    Pregabalin Exerts Oppositional Effects on Different Inhibitory Circuits in Human Motor Cortex: A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Study

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 5 2006
    Nicolas Lang
    Summary:,Purpose: To explore acute effects of pregabalin (PGB) on human motor cortex excitability with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Methods: PGB, 600 mg/day, was orally administered in 19 healthy subjects twice daily in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design. Several measures of motor cortex excitability were tested with single- and paired-pulse TMS. Results: Mean short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) was reduced after PGB (74 ± 7% of unconditioned response) compared with placebo (60 ± 6% of unconditioned response). In contrast, mean long-interval intracortical inhibition (LICI) was increased by PGB (26 ± 4% of unconditioned response) compared with placebo (45 ± 8% of unconditioned response), and mean cortical silent period (CSP) showed an increase from 139 ± 8 ms or 145 ± 8 ms after placebo to 162 ± 7 ms or 161 ± 10 ms after PGB. Motor thresholds, intracortical facilitation, and corticospinal excitability were unaffected. Conclusions: The observed excitability changes with oppositional effects on SICI and LICI or CSP suggest ,-aminobutyric acid (GABA)B -receptor activation. They are markedly distinct from those induced by gabapentin, although both PGB and gabapentin are thought to mediate their function by binding to the ,(2)-, subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. Conversely, the TMS profile of PGB shows striking similarities with the pattern evoked by the GABA-reuptake inhibitor tiagabine. [source]


    Efficacy of four insect repellents against mosquito bites: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled field study in Senegal

    FUNDAMENTAL & CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Issue 5 2009
    Bernard Uzzan
    Abstract Insect-borne diseases represent a worldwide threat. In addition to fight against vectors (insecticides) and disease prevention (vaccination against yellow fever, chemoprophylaxis against malaria), insect repellents applied on the skin could help reduce the heavy burden related to these diseases. In a field study performed in Senegal, we compared the efficacy of one skin application between 3 and 4 p.m. of four spray repellents [icaridine 20%, para-menthane-diol (PMD) 20% and 50% and DEET 50%] against placebo, among 100 healthy male and female volunteers experienced with mosquito capture. Double-blind randomized cross-over placebo-controlled study (Latin-square design) during five consecutive nights (7 p.m. to midnight) in two villages was conducted. To avoid residual effect, right or left leg was alternately exposed during consecutive nights and the exposed leg was washed before next night. The statistical model was random and mixed effects anova. All four active repellents provided a significant and similar protection compared with placebo, lasting 8 h. However, there was a non-significant trend for a higher protection by DEET 50% than by PMD 20% (P = 0.07). Duration of protection was similar for all repellents. Their effects were similar among men and women, and against Anopheles or other species. No serious adverse drug reaction was noticed. Using a rigorous methodology and a large number of volunteers, our well-controlled study demonstrated an important and similar protective effect of all four repellents compared with placebo. Such field studies should be required before approval of any newly developed repellent. [source]


    Dehydroepiandrosterone Combined with Exercise Improves Muscle Strength and Physical Function in Frail Older Women

    JOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 9 2010
    Anne M. Kenny MD
    OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) combined with exercise on bone mass, strength, and physical function in older, frail women. DESIGN: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. SETTING: A major medical institution. PARTICIPANTS: Ninety-nine women (mean age 76.6 ± 6.0) with low sulfated DHEA (DHEAS) levels, low bone mass, and frailty. INTERVENTION: Participants received 50 mg/d DHEA or placebo for 6 months; all received calcium and cholecalciferol. Women participated in 90-minute twice-weekly exercise regimens. MEASUREMENTS: Hormone levels, bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers, body composition, upper and lower extremity strength, physical performance. RESULTS: Eighty-seven women (88%) completed 6 months. There were no significant changes in BMD or bone turnover markers. DHEA supplementation resulted in gains in lower extremity strength (from 459 ± 121 N to 484 ± 147 N; P=.01). There was also improvement in Short Physical Performance Battery score, a composite score that focuses on lower extremity function, in those taking DHEA (from 10.1 ± 1.8 to 10.7 ± 1.9; P=.02). There were significant changes in all hormone levels, including DHEAS, estradiol, estrone, and testosterone, and a decline in sex hormone-binding globulin levels in those taking DHEA. CONCLUSION: DHEA supplementation improved lower extremity strength and function in older, frail women involved in a gentle exercise program of chair aerobics or yoga. No changes were found in BMD either due to small sample size, short duration of study or no effect. The physical function findings are promising and require further evaluation as frail women are at high risk for falls and fracture. [source]


    Evaluation and standardisation of different matrices used for double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges to fish

    JOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 5 2010
    E. Vassilopoulou
    Abstract Background:, Fish allergens represent one of the most common causes of adverse reactions to food worldwide. Double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges (DBPCFC) are the gold standard for food allergy diagnosis. However, no standardised recipes are available for common food allergens such as fish, and a well trained dietitian is essential for creating and standardising them. The present study aimed to create and standardise recipes for use in DBPCFCs to fish. Methods:, Three recipes were prepared. Employing a standardised procedure, a total of 35 panelists evaluated the different matrices using an evaluation form. A paired comparison test was used to estimate total evaluation's outcome. Fish allergic patients were challenged with different fish species blinded with the selected matrix and evaluated the recipe using the same form. Results:, From a base recipe and step-by-step modifications, a low fat recipe was selected among other recipes tested, which proved to be appropriate for fish blinding, in terms of taste, odour, appearance and blinding. Patients challenged with the final matrix found it acceptable, no matter which fish type was used. Conclusions:, In this pilot study, a recipe with satisfactory organoleptic characteristics was developed and validated for DBPCFC to fish. [source]