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By many measures, policy leaders in Kentucky have taken important steps to combat opioid overdose deaths and related challenges. State leaders embraced Medicaid expansion, in a region of the country where several holdout states remain. Regulations that would have severely limited access to care during the COVID‐19 pandemic were lifted. A record number of syringe services programs statewide have made a difference in curbing infectious disease transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article focuses on comparing the efficacy and tolerability of isavuconazole and voriconazole as first-line therapies for solid organ transplant recipients with invasive aspergillosis (IA). It highlights outcomes such as clinical response rates at 12 weeks, all-cause mortality, and treatment emergent adverse effects (TEAEs). It study emphasizes the importance of selecting antifungal treatments that not only effectively manage IA but also minimize adverse effects.

Using a dataset of 591 capture events between 2001–2019 in California, USA, we examined the impact of capture methods and immobilization drugs on mountain lion (Puma concolor) welfare. The 3 methods used to capture mountain lions were cage traps, trained hounds, and cable restraints. The drugs used to immobilize mountain lions were either tiletamine/zolazepam (Telazol®), ketamine/medetomidine, or ketamine/xylazine. Mortality occurred in 1.4% of captures, with only one mortality out of 310 captures occurring since 2012. We used a logistic regression framework to compare morbidity and vital parameters of mountain lions among the different capture methods and immobilization drugs used. Vomiting (a risk factor for developing aspiration pneumonia) was the most common severe risk factor associated with cage trapping and was only seen with the use of ketamine/medetomidine or ketamine/xylazine. Morbidity scores were not well predicted by any of the variables we accounted for. Animals immobilized with Telazol® were more likely to experience abnormal heart and respiratory rates, as well as high body temperatures, than those immobilized with the other two combinations. Although there are risks associated with each of the capture methods and drug combinations commonly used in mountain lion captures in California, our analyses demonstrated they are all relatively safe when following appropriate animal welfare practices. Our analyses suggested that unaccounted for factors are equally or more important in explaining injury and physiological abnormality rates, and we urge that agencies train personnel in best practices and conservative decision‐making in order to assure that the welfare of the animal takes precedence over collaring. We suggest training on how to choose between several capture techniques, immobilization drugs and monitoring methods and how to reduce both detrimental effects to mountain lions and danger to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "central registry" is a state‐run system in every state with opioid treatment programs (OTPs) and is designed with one purpose: to keep patients from enrolling in more than one program. The model central registry is New York's, set up decades ago by John Phillips, long retired from the state but an active member and co‐president of Stop Stigma Now. Legally, a central registry preserves the confidentiality of patient information, and collects no information other than what is needed to prevent multiple enrollments. It collects nothing about dose, pregnancy status, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on risk of both recurrent stroke and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) being highest in the first few days after an ischemic stroke. Topics include some delay in the initiation of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for one to 12 days after an ischemic stroke; and weaknesses containing the exclusion of patients already on anticoagulants for AF for other reasons and patients with hemorrhagic transformation.

A viewpoint, "Addressing the Escalating Problems That Patients Encounter When Filling Buprenorphine Prescriptions," published last week underscores the problems patients have getting buprenorphine prescriptions filled. Clinicians report that they can't find pharmacies who are willing to fill buprenorphine prescriptions. And the authors note that patients need these prescriptions filled immediately, or they risk relapse to street drugs including illicit fentanyl which is deadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses Mayo Clinic's extensive use of automation in clinical laboratories, emphasizing its role in enhancing efficiency, reducing errors, and supporting patient care. Topics covered include the integration of automation across various laboratory areas, the importance of digital solutions and informatics in optimizing processes, and the significance of specimen collection and handling improvements.

The article focuses on the role of mass spectrometry in clinical laboratory testing, emphasizing its ability to measure the mass of molecules based on their mass-to-charge ratio. Topics include the technique's importance for characterizing and identifying molecules, its application in detecting substances at very low concentrations, and its use in distinguishing between beneficial and harmful compounds in patient specimens.

A study conducted at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, explored the use of crushed delayed-release tablets of posaconazole for antifungal prophylaxis and treatment in children. The research found that administering posaconazole via enteral feeding tubes helped children achieve target therapeutic concentrations without significant adverse effects. This method may be a viable option for managing invasive fungal infections in pediatric patients. The study was peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into optimizing antifungal therapy in children. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University Medical Center Groningen in the Netherlands conducted a study on valacyclovir-induced neurotoxicity, a rare side effect of antiviral therapy. The study identified four patients with high plasma concentrations of valacyclovir linked to neurotoxic symptoms such as balance problems, hallucinations, and coma. The researchers recommended monitoring valacyclovir plasma concentrations in hospital settings to prevent and manage this underreported adverse effect. The study also highlighted the importance of awareness among healthcare professionals regarding drug interactions and kidney function in elderly patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from University Hospital Basel conducted a study on the stability and target attainment of benzylpenicillin in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT). The study found that benzylpenicillin buffered with sodium citrate is a safe and convenient option for continuous infusions during OPAT, with therapeutic drug monitoring data indicating sufficient to high plasma levels. The research suggests that narrow-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics like benzylpenicillin should be favored over broad-spectrum antibiotics in OPAT programs. The study was supported by the Swiss Association of Public Health Administration And Hospital Pharmacists and published in the journal Antibiotics. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Hebei University in China have developed a method using LC-TOF/MS to quantify camrelizumab, a monoclonal antibody used in cancer treatment, in human serum. This method demonstrated accuracy, precision, and reliability in measuring camrelizumab concentrations, which is crucial for personalized dosage adjustments and treatment decisions. The study highlights the importance of precise analytical methods for quantifying monoclonal antibodies in complex biological matrices, offering valuable insights for personalized medicine and therapy. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Cairo University have developed a solid-state potentiometric sensor using carbon nanotubes for point-of-care diagnostics of Flucloxacillin in spiked human plasma samples. This innovative sensor allows for continuous monitoring of drug concentration, particularly important in the face of escalating antibiotic resistance. The study also evaluated the method's whiteness, highlighting its eco-friendliness and functionality. The research has been peer-reviewed and offers valuable insights into personalized therapeutic drug monitoring. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, focused on developing a UPLC-MS/MS method to simultaneously measure 13 antiepileptic drugs in whole blood samples. The research aimed to validate the method for accuracy, precision, and stability, with financial support from the Ministry of Education in the Republic of Korea. The study successfully developed a robust method for routine therapeutic drug monitoring of antiepileptic drugs, demonstrating acceptable assay parameters and comparability to results from other hospitals. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Diakonhjemmet Hospital in Oslo, Norway conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of proactive therapeutic drug monitoring of biologic drugs for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, inflammatory arthritis, and psoriasis. The study included 10 trials with 2383 patients, focusing on the effects of monitoring on disease control, remission, and adverse events. The research found that proactive therapeutic drug monitoring of infliximab during maintenance may help patients achieve sustained disease control or remission, but the effectiveness of monitoring during induction or for adalimumab maintenance remains uncertain. The study was funded by various organizations including the European Union and the Research Council of Norway. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Nanjing Medical University in Jiangsu, China, focused on developing a pharmaceutical health literacy intervention model within a psychiatric hospital setting. The model, which included inpatients, outpatients, Internet+, and community components, aimed to improve patients' medical decision-making regarding medication use. The research found that the model was effective in delivering various types of pharmaceutical health literacy interventions, such as adverse reactions, dosage and administration, and therapeutic drug monitoring. The study concluded that this model could serve as a reference framework for other hospitals looking to enhance health literacy interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Jiamusi University in the People's Republic of China focused on the development of (B, N)-codoped Carbon Dots for sensitive luteolin detection and HepG2 cell imaging. Luteolin, a hydrophobic flavonoid, has various pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antihepatic fibrosis effects. The research aimed to create a novel detection technology for luteolin, demonstrating promising results in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and fluorescence imaging capabilities. The study received financial support from the Basic scientific research business of Heilongjiang Province and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Mansoura University in Egypt have developed a novel HPLC method for monitoring phenytoin, trimethoprim, and sulphamethoxazole in plasma samples to optimize therapy and mitigate toxicity risks. Phenytoin, an anticonvulsant drug, has a narrow therapeutic index and is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. The study recommends monitoring plasma concentrations of phenytoin when co-administered with trimethoprim to minimize toxicity risks. The proposed method was validated and showed excellent linearity and applicability for bioanalysis, making it suitable for studying drug-drug interactions in therapeutic drug monitoring for in-patients. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, focused on the development of a solid contact microfabricated electrode for point-of-care electrochemical determination of a parasitic infection managing medication using a transducer layer of Prussian Blue decorated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The research aimed to provide a cost-effective, portable, and reliable methodology for determining Tinidazole (TD) concentrations, achieving Nernstian potentiometric results with lower detection limits. The study successfully assessed TD in pure and pharmaceutical forms, as well as in different biological fluids, demonstrating fast and stable response times. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Uppsala University conducted a study on therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of b-lactam/b-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) drug combinations in antimicrobial chemotherapy. The study found that while therapeutic drug monitoring of b-lactam antibiotics (BLs) can indicate acceptable exposures, the concentration of b-lactamase inhibitors (BLIs) may result in suboptimal bacterial killing. The researchers suggest that dose adjustments based on plasma concentration measurements of BLIs, particularly avibactam and tazobactam, could be valuable in clinical practice to ensure effective exposures at the target site. The study was published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy and was supported by various funding sources. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj Napoca, Romania, compared the pharmacokinetic parameters of linezolid in critically ill patients when administered via continuous infusion (CI) versus intermittent infusion (II). The research found that CI may offer potential benefits by avoiding periods of suboptimal concentrations, potentially enhancing safety profiles and clinical outcomes. The study highlighted the importance of considering different administration methods to optimize drug efficacy in critically ill patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia, have conducted studies on the therapeutic drug monitoring of peptide antibiotics. They emphasize the importance of rational use of antimicrobial peptides to combat diseases caused by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. The research highlights the need for optimized dosing strategies to minimize resistance and ensure the efficacy of antibiotics in clinical practice. This study provides an overview of approved antimicrobial peptides and current trends in their analysis for therapeutic drug monitoring purposes, with a focus on methods with potential clinical outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, conducted a comprehensive review on the dosing of antimicrobial agents in critically ill patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The study aimed to provide practical guidance to clinicians on empiric dosing strategies for commonly used antibacterials, antifungals, and antivirals in these patients. The research also highlighted the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring, discussed limitations of current literature, and suggested future research directions in this area. [Extracted from the article]

In late October, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalled more than 7,000 bottles of the popular antidepressant duloxetine, sold under the brand name Cymbalta, Consumer Affairs reported on Oct. 24. The agency found that the affected bottles of the drug, which is used to treat depression, anxiety and mood disorders, contained toxic levels of the chemical nitrosamine. While the FDA says that the chemical isn't likely to cause harm in low levels and that consumers can handle low levels of the chemical for 70 years without health risks, it can increase the risk of cancer and become toxic to humans when ingested at higher‐than‐acceptable levels over an extended period of time. "FDA, in collaboration with regulatory counterparts around the world, has set internationally recognized acceptable daily intake limits for nitrosamines," the agency said. "If drugs contain levels of nitrosamines above the acceptable daily intake limits, FDA recommends these drugs be recalled by the manufacturer as appropriate." Currently, this recall is classified as a Class II recall, which the FDA defines as "a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote." Towa Pharmaceutical Europe manufactured the contaminated pills, which were distributed across the United States. In total, there are 7,107 bottles of duloxetine that have higher‐than‐normal levels of nitrosamines. The affected medications are 20 mg pills that come in bottles of 500 pills and have an expiration date of December 2024 with a lot number of 220128. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focused on the pharmacokinetics of Afatinib, a kinase inhibitor used in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer and metastatic head and neck cancer. The research aimed to determine the drug's concentration levels in rats after intravenous and oral administrations. The study found that LC coupled to MS/MS can be used for therapeutic drug monitoring of Afatinib to optimize its use and minimize adverse reactions. The research concluded that after oral administration, Afatinib showed a short absorption phase with varying concentration levels over time. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zhejiang Police College in Hangzhou, China, have developed a method using pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry to analyze synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) in e-liquids. This method allows for the qualitative and quantitative identification of SCs without the need for reference materials. The study identified popular SCs like ADB-BUTINACA and 5F-MDMB-PICA in seized e-liquid samples, showcasing the method's effectiveness in detecting these substances. The research, which has been peer-reviewed, provides a valuable tool for accurately identifying and quantifying SCs in e-liquid samples, contributing to public safety efforts. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Linkoping University in Sweden have developed a sensitive method to quantify thiopurines incorporated into DNA, specifically deoxythioguanosine (dTG), which is a marker for optimizing thiopurine therapy. Thiopurines are used in treating diseases like acute childhood leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. The study aims to measure these drugs closer to their pharmacological endpoints, providing a better understanding of their mode of action and potential use in therapeutic drug monitoring. This research, funded by various organizations including Linkoping University and the Medical Research Council UK, has been peer-reviewed and published in Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Columbia University Irving Medical Center compared five different methods of measuring tacrolimus levels in transplant patients. The research found that liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was superior to immunoassay (IA) methods in terms of accuracy. The study highlighted the need for standardization in tacrolimus measurement to improve patient outcomes and minimize adverse effects. This research underscores the importance of selecting the most optimal method for therapeutic drug monitoring in transplant patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Zabol University of Medical Sciences in Iran conducted a study on tuberculosis patients receiving anti-TB treatment. They found that a high percentage of patients experienced adverse drug reactions, with hepatic-gastrointestinal reactions being the most common. The study also revealed that recommended monitoring laboratory tests were not routinely performed, highlighting the need for improved surveillance systems in TB management centers. This research emphasizes the importance of patient safety and effective treatment in tuberculosis care. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Ghent University Hospital in Belgium discusses a clinical trial on the impact of precision dosing of vancomycin in critically ill children. The trial aims to investigate the utility of model-informed dosing to improve target attainment rates and reduce nephrotoxicity. The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients reaching the target AUC24h/MIC of 400-600 between 24 and 48 hours after starting vancomycin treatment. This research provides insights into optimizing vancomycin treatment in critically ill children. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Michigan focused on the characterization of biologic discontinuation among pediatric patients with Crohn's Disease. The research highlighted the importance of strategies to preserve biologic efficacy and prevent discontinuation, as pediatric patients who discontinue multiple biologics risk exhausting treatment options. The study found that proactive therapeutic drug monitoring and concomitant immunomodulator use were associated with reduced biologic discontinuation rates. This research provides valuable insights into the challenges and patterns of biologic use in pediatric patients with Crohn's Disease. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Shanghai Jiao Tong University in China focused on vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy (VIPN) in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The research investigated factors influencing pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics related to VIPN, including genetic characteristics and drug-drug interactions. Findings suggested that co-administration of posaconazole (POS) increased the risk of VIPN by raising vincristine exposure levels, emphasizing the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring for appropriate dose adjustments in clinical practice. The study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and published in Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, focuses on developing a portable monitoring system for assessing the therapeutic efficacy in HER2-overexpressing breast cancer. The study introduces the EXO-MUSSID platform, which isolates different exosomes based on their magnetization properties to monitor drug efficacy. This technology allows for real-time monitoring of HER2 expression and could serve as a valuable tool for exosome-based liquid biopsy in disease monitoring. The research was funded by various organizations and has been peer-reviewed, offering potential advancements in cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina focused on substance use disorder and opioid use disorder in palliative care. The study highlighted the importance of risk mitigation strategies such as prescription drug monitoring, opioid agreements, risk assessment tools, urine drug screening, and the use of buprenorphine for pain management. The researchers emphasized the need for further research to incorporate harm-reducing strategies into clinical practice. This peer-reviewed study was published in the Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Technical University of Denmark conducted a study on immunosuppressive agents, focusing on mycophenolic acid (MPA) used in transplantations. The study aimed to develop affordable and rapid methods for therapeutic drug monitoring of MPA. Through density functional theory calculations and experimental data, the researchers identified the Raman fingerprint region and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) vibrations of MPA, leading to the development of an electrochemically assisted SERS assay for MPA detection in a clinically relevant concentration range. The research findings were published in Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical and have been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A case study from Rotterdam, Netherlands, discusses a severe multidrug intoxication involving lithium, nortriptyline, aripiprazole, lorazepam, and temazepam. The study highlights the importance of close monitoring and prompt clearance-inducing therapy in cases of secondary elevation in lithium levels exceeding toxic limits. Researchers emphasize the need for vigilance and timely intervention to improve clinical outcomes in such situations. The study was published in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and can be accessed for further information. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Himeji Dokkyo University in Japan provides updated information on the use of everolimus (EVR) in personalized medicine. The report, published by the International Association of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Clinical Toxicology, focuses on new developments in the field over the past seven years. It includes information on the pharmacology and therapeutic drug monitoring of EVR, as well as new evidence on its pharmacological effects and monitoring options. The report also updates recommendations for specific organ transplantations and oncology. Overall, the report aims to provide clinicians and researchers with valuable information for treating patients receiving EVR. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Mosul discusses research on central nervous system depressants, specifically focusing on the anesthetic procaine. The study highlights the importance of monitoring procaine and its metabolite to ensure safe and effective treatment. The researchers utilized electrochemical techniques, such as square wave voltammetry and differential pulse polarography, to accurately measure procaine concentrations in standard and pharmaceutical formulations. The methods demonstrated high accuracy, sensitivity, and precision, with linear concentration ranges for both techniques. The research also calculated the limit of detection and limit of quantification for each method. For more information, the full article can be accessed through the provided link. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Aviano, Italy, focused on the development and validation of a method for quantifying kinase inhibitors, abemaciclib metabolites, and letrozole in dried blood spots (DBS). The researchers used an optimized LC-MS/MS method and followed FDA, EMA, and IATDMCT guidelines for analytical validation. The study concluded that DBS-based therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is feasible and presented preliminary data for palbociclib and ribociclib. The research provides valuable insights into the quantification of these drugs and their metabolites, enhancing the feasibility of TDM. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Nanjing, China, examined the use of sirolimus therapy in children with vascular anomalies (VAs). The study aimed to analyze the routine blood sirolimus monitoring data for these children, identify factors contributing to variable blood sirolimus concentrations, and evaluate the efficacy and safety of sirolimus therapy. The study found that there was a high variability in sirolimus blood concentrations among Chinese children with VAs. The researchers suggested that further studies with a larger sample size are needed to redefine the target reference range for sirolimus therapy in children with VAs. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Venda in South Africa examined the virologic, immunologic, and drug resistance outcomes in a cohort of HIV-infected individuals receiving treatment. The study found that 75% of participants had late initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 71% had high baseline viral loads. The study also revealed that 45.6% of participants had drug resistance mutations detected at a threshold of >20%, and this number increased to 55% when minor variants were considered. The researchers concluded that adherence and drug resistance monitoring are important for individuals who may harbor resistant viruses early in treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted at Diakonhjemmet Hospital has investigated the genetic factors associated with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). TRS is defined as an inadequate response to treatment and is a significant burden for individuals with schizophrenia. The study compared patients treated with clozapine (TRS) and risperidone (non-TRS) and found a suggestive association between TRS and a common variant within the LINC00523 gene. Additionally, the study found that the polygenic risk score for schizophrenia was significantly associated with TRS. These findings provide insights into the genetic underpinnings of TRS and highlight the importance of genetic analyses in predicting TRS. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Fudan University in Shanghai, China, focused on the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in immunocompromised children using intravenous ganciclovir (GCV). The study aimed to validate existing GCV population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) models and develop a new model if necessary. The researchers collected ganciclovir drug monitoring data from two pediatric hospitals and analyzed 161 samples from 23 children. The study found that standard GCV dosing may result in inadequate drug exposure in more than half of the children, particularly those under the age of four. An optimized dosing regimen was proposed for further clinical validation. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCCS) in Genoa, Italy have developed a new method for quantifying the antiseizure medication cenobamate (CNB) in epilepsy patients. The method uses Volumetric Absorptive Microsampling (VAMS) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to accurately measure CNB levels in patient samples. The study found that the VAMS-based LC-MS/MS method is a robust alternative for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in CNB-treated patients, and may offer valuable support for personalized therapy in refractory epilepsy. Further research is needed to explore CNB concentrations in capillary blood and their correlation with plasma levels. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study analyzed the neural activity of 56 intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving continuous infusions of five different beta-lactam antibiotics. The researchers found that beta-lactam exposure correlated with increased neural activity in the beta to low gamma frequency range (20 to 40 Hz), independent of other clinical factors or medications. They also found that lower theta to alpha activity (3.5 to 5 Hz and 12 to 18 Hz) was associated with higher Sepsis related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores. These findings suggest that beta neural dynamics could serve as a potential biomarker for beta-lactam exposure in ICU patients. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center investigated the role of proactive therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of ustekinumab (UST) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study found that patients who underwent proactive TDM had higher drug persistence and fewer IBD-related hospitalizations compared to those who underwent reactive TDM only. The research concluded that proactive TDM is associated with increased drug persistence and decreased IBD-related hospitalization in IBD patients treated with ustekinumab. This information may be useful for individuals seeking treatment options for IBD. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Maastricht University Medical Center in the Netherlands compared the performance of chemiluminescent immunoassays from Theradiag and Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assays (ELISAs) from Sanquin Diagnostics in assessing the serum concentrations and anti-drug antibodies (ADA) of Infliximab and Adalimumab, which are biological Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors. The study found strong positive correlations between the concentration assessment of both drugs using the Theradiag and Sanquin Diagnostics assays. However, there was a significant bias in the Theradiag assay compared to Sanquin. The study concluded that the combined detection of free and bound ADAs better aligns with drug levels. [Extracted from the article]