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Search Results (995)

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Keywords = adverse event profile

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23 pages, 406 KiB  
Systematic Review
Advances in Bidirectional Therapy for Peritoneal Metastases: A Systematic Review of Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) Combined with Systemic Chemotherapy
by Manuela Robella, Marco Vitturini, Andrea Di Giorgio, Matteo Aulicino, Martin Hubner, Emanuele Koumantakis, Felice Borghi, Paolo Catania, Armando Cinquegrana and Paola Berchialla
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2580; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152580 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Peritoneal metastases (PM) represent a common and challenging manifestation of several gastrointestinal and gynecologic malignancies. Bidirectional treatment—combining Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) with systemic chemotherapy—has emerged as a strategy to enhance locoregional control while maintaining systemic coverage. Objective: This systematic [...] Read more.
Background: Peritoneal metastases (PM) represent a common and challenging manifestation of several gastrointestinal and gynecologic malignancies. Bidirectional treatment—combining Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) with systemic chemotherapy—has emerged as a strategy to enhance locoregional control while maintaining systemic coverage. Objective: This systematic review aimed to analyze the study design, characteristics, and timing of the treatments administered—including the type of systemic chemotherapy, intraperitoneal agents used in PIPAC, and interval between administrations—as well as the clinical outcomes, safety profile, and overall methodological quality of the available literature on bidirectional treatment for peritoneal metastases. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to April 2025. Studies were included if they reported clinical outcomes of patients undergoing bidirectional treatment. Data extraction focused on survival, response assessment (PRGS, PCI), adverse events, systemic and intraperitoneal regimens, treatment interval, and study methodology. Results: A total of 22 studies involving 1015 patients (742 treated with bidirectional therapy) were included. Median overall survival ranged from 2.8 to 19.6 months, with the most favorable outcomes observed in gastric and colorectal cancer cohorts. PRGS improvement after multiple PIPAC cycles was reported in >80% of evaluable cases. High-grade adverse events (CTCAE ≥ 3) occurred in up to 17% of patients in most studies, with only one study reporting treatment-related mortality. However, methodological quality was generally moderate, with considerable heterogeneity in treatment protocols, response criteria, systemic regimens, and toxicity attribution. Conclusions: Bidirectional therapy with PIPAC and systemic chemotherapy appears to be a feasible and potentially effective strategy for selected patients with peritoneal metastases. Despite encouraging outcomes, definitive conclusions are limited by the retrospective nature and heterogeneity of available studies. Prospective standardized trials are needed to confirm efficacy, clarify patient selection, and optimize treatment protocols. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Therapy)
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21 pages, 328 KiB  
Review
Adjuvant Immunotherapy in Stage IIB/IIC Melanoma: Current Evidence and Future Directions
by Ivana Prkačin, Ana Brkić, Nives Pondeljak, Mislav Mokos, Klara Gaćina and Mirna Šitum
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1894; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081894 - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 51
Abstract
Background: Patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma are at high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis, despite surgical treatment. The recent emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to their evaluation in the adjuvant setting for early-stage disease. This [...] Read more.
Background: Patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma are at high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis, despite surgical treatment. The recent emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to their evaluation in the adjuvant setting for early-stage disease. This review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding adjuvant immunotherapy for stage IIB/IIC melanoma, explore emerging strategies, and highlight key challenges and future directions. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of randomized clinical trials, observational studies, and relevant mechanistic and biomarker research on adjuvant therapy in stage IIB/IIC melanoma. Particular focus was placed on pivotal trials evaluating PD-1 inhibitors (KEYNOTE-716 and CheckMate 76K), novel vaccine and targeted therapy trials, mechanisms of resistance, immune-related toxicity, and biomarker development. Results: KEYNOTE-716 and CheckMate 76K demonstrated significant improvements in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) with pembrolizumab and nivolumab, respectively, compared to placebo. However, no definitive overall survival benefit has yet been shown. Adjuvant immunotherapy is linked to immune-related adverse events, including permanent endocrinopathies. Emerging personalized approaches, such as circulating tumor DNA monitoring and gene expression profiling, may enhance patient selection, but remain investigational. Conclusions: Adjuvant PD-1 blockade offers clear RFS benefits in high-risk stage II melanoma, but optimal patient selection remains challenging, due to uncertain overall survival benefit and toxicity concerns. Future trials should integrate biomarker-driven approaches to refine therapeutic decisions and minimize overtreatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gene and Cell Therapy)
16 pages, 1414 KiB  
Article
Integrated Analysis of the Safety Experience in Adults with the Bivalent Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prefusion F Vaccine
by Kumar Ilangovan, David Radley, Michael Patton, Emma Shittu, Maria Maddalena Lino, Christos Goulas, Kena A. Swanson, Annaliesa S. Anderson, Alejandra Gurtman and Iona Munjal
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080827 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
Background/objectives: This was a post hoc analysis of safety data across the bivalent respiratory syncytial virus prefusion F (RSVpreF) vaccine clinical trial development program. Methods: Data from eight clinical trials in 46,913 immunocompetent adults who received RSVpreF or placebo were analyzed. Local reactions [...] Read more.
Background/objectives: This was a post hoc analysis of safety data across the bivalent respiratory syncytial virus prefusion F (RSVpreF) vaccine clinical trial development program. Methods: Data from eight clinical trials in 46,913 immunocompetent adults who received RSVpreF or placebo were analyzed. Local reactions and systemic events were assessed among non-pregnant ≥18-year-olds (n = 9517); adverse events (AEs) among pregnant and non-pregnant 18–59-year-olds (n = 9238); and vaccine-related AEs among non-pregnant ≥18-year-olds (n = 39,314). Post-marketing data in non-pregnant adults were considered. Results: Local reactions and systemic events were reported more frequently in RSVpreF versus placebo recipients; injection site pain was the most common local reaction (RSVpreF, 18.9%; placebo, 7.4%), and fatigue (23.5%; 18.4%) and headache (19.5%; 15.0%) were the most common systemic events. Percentages of AEs within 1 month after vaccination were similar across groups (RSVpreF, 12.8%; placebo, 13.1%); severe AEs were reported in ≤1.5% of participants. Differences in percentages of individuals reporting vaccine-related AEs between the RSVpreF and placebo groups were <0.2% for all related AEs. Serious AEs throughout the study were reported in ≤14.0% (RSVpreF, 12.6%; placebo, 14.0%). No atrial fibrillation, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or acute polyneuropathy cases were reported. The AE data from post-marketing data sources were consistent with the safety profile from the clinical trial program, with no new safety concerns. Conclusions: Integrated data demonstrated that RSVpreF was well tolerated with a favorable safety profile in non-pregnant and pregnant adults. Ongoing surveillance through real-world use and clinical trial experience continue to support the safety profile of RSVpreF. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03529773/NCT04071158/NCT04785612/NCT05035212/NCT05096208/NCT05842967/NCT04032093/NCT04424316. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host Immunity and Vaccines for Respiratory Pathogens)
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18 pages, 1404 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of the Long-Term Real-World Efficacy of Interleukin-17 Inhibitors in a Cohort of Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis Treated in Poland
by Wiktor Kruczek, Aleksandra Frątczak, Iga Litwińska-Inglot, Karina Polak, Zuzanna Pawlus, Paulina Rutecka, Beata Bergler-Czop and Bartosz Miziołek
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5421; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155421 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 142
Abstract
Background: Bimekizumab, secukinumab, and ixekizumab are IL-17-targeting biologics approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. While secukinumab and ixekizumab selectively inhibit IL-17A, bimekizumab targets both IL-17A and IL-17F, potentially providing greater anti-inflammatory efficacy. This study aimed to compare the real-world effectiveness, [...] Read more.
Background: Bimekizumab, secukinumab, and ixekizumab are IL-17-targeting biologics approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. While secukinumab and ixekizumab selectively inhibit IL-17A, bimekizumab targets both IL-17A and IL-17F, potentially providing greater anti-inflammatory efficacy. This study aimed to compare the real-world effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of these agents in a Polish dermatology center between 2019 and 2024. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 98 patients meeting at least one of the following criteria: PASI ≥ 10, BSA ≥ 10, DLQI ≥ 10, or involvement of special areas with inadequate response or contraindications to ≥2 systemic therapies. Patients with prior exposure only to IL-17 inhibitors were excluded. PASI, BSA, and DLQI scores were recorded at baseline, week 4, and week 12. Due to differences in dosing schedules, outcomes were aligned using standardized timepoints and exponential modeling of continuous response trajectories. Mixed-effects ANOVA was used to assess the influence of baseline factors (age, BMI, PsA status) on treatment outcomes. Adverse events were documented at each monthly follow-up visit. Results: Bimekizumab showed the greatest effect size for PASI reduction (Hedges’ g = 3.662), followed by secukinumab (2.813) and ixekizumab (1.986). Exponential modeling revealed a steeper response trajectory with bimekizumab (intercept = 0.289), suggesting a more rapid PASI improvement. The efficacy of bimekizumab was particularly notable in patients who were previously treated with IL-23 inhibitors. All three agents demonstrated favorable safety profiles, with no serious adverse events or discontinuations. The most frequent adverse events were mild and included upper respiratory tract infections and oral candidiasis. Conclusions: This real-world analysis confirmed that IL-17 inhibitors effectively improved PASI, BSA, and DLQI scores in moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Bimekizumab demonstrated the most rapid early improvements and a higher modeled likelihood of complete clearance, without significant differences at week 12. All agents were well tolerated, underscoring the need for further individualized, large-scale studies. Full article
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17 pages, 1474 KiB  
Review
Treatment Strategies for First-Line PD-L1-Unselected Advanced NSCLC: A Comparative Review of Immunotherapy-Based Regimens by PD-L1 Expression and Clinical Indication
by Blerina Resuli, Diego Kauffmann-Guerrero, Maria Nieves Arredondo Lasso, Jürgen Behr and Amanda Tufman
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1937; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151937 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 406
Abstract
Background: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Advances in screening, diagnosis, and management have transformed clinical practice, particularly with the integration of immunotherapy and target therapies. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out for the period between October [...] Read more.
Background: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Advances in screening, diagnosis, and management have transformed clinical practice, particularly with the integration of immunotherapy and target therapies. Methods: A systematic literature search was carried out for the period between October 2016 to September 2024. Phase II and III randomized trials evaluating ICI monotherapy, ICI–chemotherapy combinations, and dual ICI regimens in patients with advanced NSCLC were included. Outcomes of interest included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and treatment-related adverse events (AEs). Results: PD-1-targeted therapies demonstrated superior OS compared to PD-L1-based regimens, with cemiplimab monotherapyranking highest for OS benefit (posterior probability: 90%), followed by sintilimab plus platinum-based chemotherapy (PBC) and pemetrexed—PBC. PFS atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and PBC, and camrelizumab plus PBC were the most effective regimens. ICI–chemotherapy combinations achieved higher ORRs but were associated with greater toxicity. The most favorable safety profiles were observed with cemiplimab, nivolumab, and avelumab monotherapy, while atezolizumab plus PBC and sugemalimab plus PBC carried the highest toxicity burdens. Conclusions: In PD-L1-unselected advanced NSCLC, PD-1 blockade—particularly cemiplimab monotherapy—and rationally designed ICI–chemotherapy combinations represent the most efficacious treatment strategies. Balancing efficacy with safety remains critical, especially in the absence of predictive biomarkers. These findings support a patient-tailored approach to immunotherapy and highlight the need for further biomarker-driven and real-world investigations to optimize treatment selection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lung Cancer: Screening, Diagnosis and Management: 2nd Edition)
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24 pages, 946 KiB  
Review
Long-Term Adverse Events Following Early Breast Cancer Treatment with a Focus on the BRCA-Mutated Population
by Berta Obispo, Caroline Bailleux, Blanca Cantos, Pilar Zamora, Sachin R. Jhawar, Jajini Varghese, Lucia Cabal-Hierro, Paulo Luz, Luis Berrocal-Almanza and Xiaoqing Xu
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2506; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152506 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy in women worldwide. Despite most cases being diagnosed in the early stages, patients typically require a multimodal treatment approach. This typically involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, systemic treatments (including chemotherapy or immunotherapy), targeted therapy, [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy in women worldwide. Despite most cases being diagnosed in the early stages, patients typically require a multimodal treatment approach. This typically involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, systemic treatments (including chemotherapy or immunotherapy), targeted therapy, and endocrine therapy, depending on the disease subtype and the risk of recurrence. Moreover, patients with BC and germline mutations in the breast cancer genes 1 or 2 (BRCA1/BRCA2), (gBRCAm), who are typically young women, often require more aggressive therapeutic interventions. These mutations present unique characteristics that necessitate a distinct treatment approach, potentially influencing the side effect profiles of patients with BC. Regardless of the clear benefit observed with these treatments in terms of reduced recurrence and mortality rates, long-term, treatment-related adverse events occur that negatively affect the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of BC survivors. Thus, long-term adverse events need to be factored into the treatment decision algorithm of patients with early BC (eBC). Physical, functional, emotional, and psychosocial adverse events can occur and represent a significant concern and a challenge for clinicians, patients, and their families. This review article provides an overview of the various long-term adverse events that patients with eBC may experience, including their associated risk factors, as well as management and prevention strategies. We also explore the evidence of the long-term impact of treatment on the HRQoL of patients with gBRCAm. By providing a comprehensive overview of current evidence and recommendations regarding patients’ HRQoL, we aim to equip clinicians with scientific and clinical knowledge and provide guidance to optimize care and improve long-term outcomes. Full article
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15 pages, 483 KiB  
Article
Comparing Inflammatory Biomarkers in Cardiovascular Disease: Insights from the LURIC Study
by Angela P. Moissl, Graciela E. Delgado, Hubert Scharnagl, Rüdiger Siekmeier, Bernhard K. Krämer, Daniel Duerschmied, Winfried März and Marcus E. Kleber
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7335; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157335 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 250
Abstract
Inflammatory biomarkers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), have been associated with an increased risk of future cardiovascular events. While they provide valuable prognostic information, these associations do not necessarily imply a direct causal role. The combined [...] Read more.
Inflammatory biomarkers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), have been associated with an increased risk of future cardiovascular events. While they provide valuable prognostic information, these associations do not necessarily imply a direct causal role. The combined prognostic utility of these markers, however, remains insufficiently studied. We analysed 3300 well-characterised participants of the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study, all of whom underwent coronary angiography. Participants were stratified based on their serum concentrations of hsCRP, SAA, and IL-6. Associations between biomarker combinations and mortality were assessed using multivariate Cox regression and ROC analysis. Individuals with elevated hsCRP and SAA or IL-6 showed higher prevalence rates of coronary artery disease, heart failure, and adverse metabolic traits. These “both high” groups had lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, higher NT-proBNP, and increased HbA1c. Combined elevations of hsCRP and SAA were significantly associated with higher all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in partially adjusted models. However, these associations weakened after adjusting for IL-6. IL-6 alone demonstrated the highest predictive power (AUC: 0.638) and improved risk discrimination when included in multi-marker models. The co-elevation of hsCRP, SAA, and IL-6 identifies a high-risk phenotype characterised by greater cardiometabolic burden and increased mortality. IL-6 may reflect upstream inflammatory activity and could serve as a therapeutic target. Multi-marker inflammatory profiling holds promise for refining cardiovascular risk prediction and advancing personalised prevention strategies. Full article
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9 pages, 420 KiB  
Article
Comparative Effectiveness of Dalerpen vs. Branded and Other Generic Tadalafil: The “Shift Study”
by Davide Arcaniolo, Carlos Miacola, Marco Bitelli, Luca Boeri, Tommaso Cai, Carlo Ceruti, Celeste Manfredi, Ilaria Ortensi, Fabrizio Palumbo, Giorgio Piubello, Chiara Polito, Nicolò Schifano and Alessandro Palmieri
Uro 2025, 5(3), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro5030014 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 460
Abstract
Background: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), particularly tadalafil and sildenafil, are the first-line therapies for erectile dysfunction (ED). After the patent expiration of branded tadalafil in 2017, generic formulations became available. Despite equivalent efficacy, skepticism persists regarding the effectiveness and safety of generics. [...] Read more.
Background: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), particularly tadalafil and sildenafil, are the first-line therapies for erectile dysfunction (ED). After the patent expiration of branded tadalafil in 2017, generic formulations became available. Despite equivalent efficacy, skepticism persists regarding the effectiveness and safety of generics. The SHIFT study aimed to evaluate the non-inferiority of a generic tadalafil (Dalerpen) compared with branded and other generic tadalafil in terms of clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction. Methods: A prospective, multicenter study was conducted involving 247 patients treated with tadalafil (either 5 mg or 20 mg) for ED. Patients switched from branded or other generic tadalafil to Dalerpen. Baseline and follow-up assessments included the International Index of Erectile Function—Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EF) (primary endpoint), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP-2 and SEP-3), and International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS). A one-month follow-up was performed. Results: A total of 247 patients were included in the final analysis. After switching to Dalerpen, significant improvements were observed in both IIEF-EF (18.8 ± 5.6 vs. 16.7 ± 5.4, p < 0.001) and IPSS scores (10.4 ± 6.7 vs. 11.2 ± 6.3, p < 0.001), though the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was not reached. SEP-3 scores also significantly increased (3 ± 1.2 vs. 2 ± 1.1, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified baseline IIEF, IPSS scores, and post-treatment IPSS as predictors of IIEF-EF improvement (p < 0.001). Switching to Dalerpen was an independent predictor of both IIEF-EF and IPSS improvement. No new adverse events were reported. Conclusions: The SHIFT study demonstrates that Dalerpen is non-inferior to branded tadalafil in terms of clinical efficacy, offering a reliable and cost-effective therapeutic option. Educating patients on bioequivalence and addressing concerns regarding generic drugs are essential to facilitate therapeutic switches. Full article
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15 pages, 664 KiB  
Article
Real-World Safety of Vedolizumab in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study Supported by FAERS Signal Analysis
by Bojana Milašinović, Sandra Vezmar Kovačević, Srđan Marković, Marija Jovanović, Tamara Knežević Ivanovski, Đorđe Kralj, Petar Svorcan, Branislava Miljković and Katarina Vučićević
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1127; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081127 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 394
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Vedolizumab is a gut-selective anti-integrin monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While clinical trials have demonstrated a favorable safety profile, real-world studies are essential for identifying rare adverse events (AEs) and evaluating post-marketing safety. This study [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Vedolizumab is a gut-selective anti-integrin monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While clinical trials have demonstrated a favorable safety profile, real-world studies are essential for identifying rare adverse events (AEs) and evaluating post-marketing safety. This study assessed vedolizumab’s safety in a real-world cohort and supported the detection of potential safety signals. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted on adult IBD patients treated with vedolizumab at a tertiary center in the Republic of Serbia between October 2021 and August 2022. Data included demographics, AEs, and newly reported extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs). Exposure-adjusted incidence rates were calculated per 100 patient-years (PYs). Disproportionality analysis using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) was performed to identify safety signals, employing reporting odds ratios (RORs) and proportional reporting ratios (PRRs) for AEs also observed in the cohort. Prior IBD therapies and reasons for discontinuation were evaluated. Results: A total of 107 patients (42.1% Crohn’s disease, 57.9% ulcerative colitis) were included, with a median vedolizumab exposure of 605 days. There were 92 AEs (56.51/100 PYs), most frequently infections (23.95/100 PYs), gastrointestinal disorders (4.30/100 PYs), and skin disorders (4.30/100 PYs). The most frequently reported preferred terms (PTs) included COVID-19, COVID-19 pneumonia, nephrolithiasis, and nasopharyngitis. Arthralgia (12.90/100 PYs) was the most frequent newly reported EIM. No discontinuations due to vedolizumab AEs occurred. FAERS analysis revealed potential signals for events not listed in prescribing information but observed in the cohort: nephrolithiasis, abdominal pain, diarrhea, malaise, cholangitis, gastrointestinal infection, blood pressure decreased, weight decreased, female genital tract fistula, respiratory symptom, and appendicectomy. Most patients had received three prior therapies, often stopping one due to AEs. Conclusions: Vedolizumab demonstrated a favorable safety profile in the IBD cohort. However, FAERS-identified signals, such as nephrolithiasis, gastrointestinal infections, and decreased blood pressure, warrant further investigation in larger, more diverse populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Adverse Drug Reactions: 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 546 KiB  
Review
Belzutifan-Associated Hypoxia: A Review of the Novel Therapeutic, Proposed Mechanisms of Hypoxia, and Management Recommendations
by John Kucharczyk, Anshini Bhatt, Laura Bauer and Minas Economides
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157094 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 518
Abstract
Belzutifan is a hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α) inhibitor that received FDA approval in 2021 for treating cancers resulting from von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), followed by approval in 2023 for sporadic ccRCC that has progressed through multiple lines [...] Read more.
Belzutifan is a hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α) inhibitor that received FDA approval in 2021 for treating cancers resulting from von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), followed by approval in 2023 for sporadic ccRCC that has progressed through multiple lines of therapy. HIF-2α is a promising drug target, as VHL is commonly inactivated in ccRCC, which results in HIF-2α-mediated signaling that is considered central to tumorigenesis. Belzutifan has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials in the first-line and subsequent line settings, and in combination with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Despite being overall well tolerated, belzutifan has a distinct safety profile because of its unique mechanism of action. Anemia was the most common adverse event observed in clinical trials and is considered an on-target effect. Hypoxia is also frequently observed and commonly results in dose reductions, treatment discontinuation, and supplemental oxygen use. This review summarizes the rates of hypoxia seen in clinical trials of belzutifan in ccRCC. As the cause of hypoxia is not well understood, this review also discusses possible mechanisms of hypoxia based on preclinical studies of the HIF pathway and HIF-2α inhibitors. Finally, this review proposes monitoring and management recommendations for clinicians prescribing belzutifan to ccRCC patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Urological Cancer)
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18 pages, 1154 KiB  
Article
Predicting Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events After Cardiac Surgery Using Combined Clinical, Laboratory, and Echocardiographic Parameters: A Machine Learning Approach
by Mladjan Golubovic, Velimir Peric, Marija Stosic, Vladimir Stojiljkovic, Sasa Zivic, Aleksandar Kamenov, Dragan Milic, Vesna Dinic, Dalibor Stojanovic and Milan Lazarevic
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081323 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 292
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Despite significant advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) remain a leading cause of postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and/or aortic valve replacement. Accurate preoperative risk stratification is essential [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Despite significant advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) remain a leading cause of postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and/or aortic valve replacement. Accurate preoperative risk stratification is essential yet often limited by models that overlook atrial mechanics and underutilized biomarkers. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to develop an interpretable machine learning model for predicting perioperative MACE by integrating clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic features, with a particular focus on novel physiological markers. A retrospective cohort of 131 patients was analyzed. An Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) classifier was trained on a comprehensive feature set, and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAPs) were used to quantify each variable’s contribution to model predictions. Results: In a stratified 80:20 train–test split, the model initially achieved an AUC of 1.00. Acknowledging the potential for overfitting in small datasets, additional validation was performed using 10 independent random splits and 5-fold cross-validation. These analyses yielded an average AUC of 0.846 ± 0.092 and an F1-score of 0.807 ± 0.096, supporting the model’s stability and generalizability. The most influential predictors included total atrial conduction time, mitral and tricuspid annular orifice areas, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. These variables, spanning electrophysiological, structural, and metabolic domains, significantly enhanced discriminative performance, even in patients with preserved left ventricular function. The model’s transparency provides clinically intuitive insights into individual risk profiles, emphasizing the significance of non-traditional parameters in perioperative assessments. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility and potential clinical value of combining advanced echocardiographic, biochemical, and machine learning tools for individualized cardiovascular risk prediction. While promising, these findings require prospective validation in larger, multicenter cohorts before being integrated into routine clinical decision-making. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care/ Anesthesiology)
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22 pages, 1241 KiB  
Systematic Review
Safety and Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Cancer: A Systematic Scoping Review
by Ahmed D. Alatawi, Amirah B. Alaqyl, Reema J. Alalawi, Rahaf S. Alqarni, Razan A. Sufyani, Ghadi S. Alqarni, Raghad S. Alqarni, Jumana H. Albalawi, Raghad A. Alsharif, Ghada I. Alatawi, Elaf N. Albalawi, Danah A. Alanazi, Sultanah A. Naitah, Reem Sayad and Helal F. Hetta
Diseases 2025, 13(8), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13080230 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Background/Objective: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PHIV) are at increased risk for malignancies, yet their access to immunotherapy remains limited due to concerns about safety and efficacy. This systematic scoping review evaluates the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in HIV-associated cancers, [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PHIV) are at increased risk for malignancies, yet their access to immunotherapy remains limited due to concerns about safety and efficacy. This systematic scoping review evaluates the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in HIV-associated cancers, analyzing patient outcomes, safety profiles, and the impact on HIV status. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Medline, up to January 2025. Studies included assessing the efficacy of ICIs in cancer patients with HIV. The primary outcomes were (a) the efficacy of immune ICIs on prognosis, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes were the immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and the survival rate of cancer patients receiving ICIs. Results: A total of 107 cases from 19 studies published between 2011 and 2024 were reviewed. Responses to programmed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors varied, with 27.1% achieving partial response, 23.36% experiencing stable disease, and 6.54% achieving complete response, while 34.57% had disease progression. Adverse events, including hematologic and endocrine toxicities, were common but mostly manageable. HIV viral loads remained stable in most cases. Conclusions: PD-1 inhibitors demonstrated potential efficacy in HIV-associated malignancies with a safety profile comparable to the general population. However, disease progression remained a concern, highlighting the need for optimized patient selection. Further well-controlled trials are essential to establish treatment guidelines and ensure equitable access to immunotherapy for PHIV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Inhibitory Receptors and Related Cancer Immunotherapy)
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24 pages, 725 KiB  
Review
Targeting Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Narrative Review of Five Novel Antiseizure Medications
by Guillermo de Jesús Aguirre-Vera, Luisa Montufar, María Fernanda Tejada-Pineda, María Paula Fernandez Gomez, Andres Alvarez-Pinzon, José E. Valerio and Eder Luna-Ceron
Int. J. Transl. Med. 2025, 5(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijtm5030031 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 517
Abstract
Epilepsy remains a major therapeutic challenge, with approximately one-third of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) despite the availability of multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs). This review aims to evaluate emerging ASMs—cenobamate, fenfluramine, ganaxolone, ezogabine (retigabine), and perampanel—with a focus on their mechanisms of action, [...] Read more.
Epilepsy remains a major therapeutic challenge, with approximately one-third of patients experiencing drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) despite the availability of multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs). This review aims to evaluate emerging ASMs—cenobamate, fenfluramine, ganaxolone, ezogabine (retigabine), and perampanel—with a focus on their mechanisms of action, pharmacological profiles, and potential role in precision medicine. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of the selected ASMs. Relevant trials, reviews, and mechanistic studies were reviewed to synthesize the current understanding of their application in DRE and specific epilepsy syndromes. Each ASM demonstrated unique mechanisms targeting hyperexcitability, including the modulation of γ-aminobutyric acid receptor A (GABA-A) receptors, sodium and potassium channels, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPA receptors), and serotonin systems. These mechanisms correspond with specific pathophysiological features in syndromes such as Dravet and Lennox–Gastaut. Evidence from clinical trials supports their use as adjunctive therapies with generally favorable tolerability, though adverse events and variable efficacy profiles were noted. The mechanistic diversity of these emerging ASMs supports their value in personalized epilepsy management, particularly in treatment-resistant cases. While the promise of precision medicine is evident, further studies are required to address challenges related to long-term safety, cost, and equitable access. Full article
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17 pages, 1681 KiB  
Article
Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of (R)-Ketamine Hydrochloride Injection, a Novel Rapid-Acting Antidepressant, in Healthy Chinese Subjects
by Rui Wang, Yuqian Yang, Tong Zhou, Bingjie Zou and Li Ding
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(7), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18071079 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 420
Abstract
Objectives: (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection is a novel, rapid-acting antidepressant for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection in healthy Chinese subjects following ascending single intravenous doses ranging [...] Read more.
Objectives: (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection is a novel, rapid-acting antidepressant for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection in healthy Chinese subjects following ascending single intravenous doses ranging from 10.0 mg to 180 mg. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted in 50 healthy male and female Chinese subjects after single ascending doses of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection (10.0, 30.0, 60.0, 120, and 180 mg). Ten subjects (including two subjects treated with a placebo) were included in each dose cohort. Pharmacokinetic characteristics, safety, and tolerability profiles of the study drug were evaluated. Results: After the intravenous doses administered from 10.0 mg to 180 mg of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection to the subjects, the Cmax and AUC values for both (R)-ketamine and its metabolite (R)-norketamine in the subjects increased approximately proportionally to the doses. The average peak plasma concentration levels at the five dose cohorts ranged from 56.0 to 1424 ng/mL and 27.7 to 491 ng/mL for (R)-ketamine and (R)-norketamine, respectively. The adverse events of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection were temporary and recovered spontaneously without treatment. Conclusions: In summary, (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection was safe and well tolerated in healthy Chinese subjects. The clinical study results laid a foundation for the further clinical studies of (R)-ketamine hydrochloride injection in patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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17 pages, 1009 KiB  
Article
Sex-Specific Patterns and Predictors of Reverse Left Ventricular Remodeling and Outcomes in STEMI Patients with LVEF ≤ 50% After Successful Primary Angioplasty
by Bogdan-Flaviu Buz, Sergiu-Florin Arnautu, Mirela-Cleopatra Tomescu, Minodora Andor, Simina Crisan, Dan Gaita, Cristina Vacarescu, Constantin-Tudor Luca, Cristian Mornos, Dragos Cozma and Diana-Aurora Arnăutu
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1782; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071782 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 326
Abstract
Background: Sex-related differences in left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remain underexplored. We aimed to investigate predictors of reverse remodeling and its association with clinical outcomes, with a focus on sex-specific differences. Methods: We enrolled 253 [...] Read more.
Background: Sex-related differences in left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remain underexplored. We aimed to investigate predictors of reverse remodeling and its association with clinical outcomes, with a focus on sex-specific differences. Methods: We enrolled 253 STEMI patients (91 women, 28%) and assessed echocardiographic parameters at baseline and six months. LV reverse remodeling was defined as a ≥15% reduction in LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV). Multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of remodeling. Clinical outcomes were evaluated over a median follow-up of 17 months (IQR 14–22 months), including major adverse cardiac events (MACEs). Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed. Results: Reverse remodeling occurred in 43% of patients and was more frequent in men than women (47% vs. 37%, p = 0.04). Male sex (OR 0.30; 95% CI: 0.14–0.65; p < 0.0001) and baseline global work efficiency (GWE) (OR 1.64; 95% CI: 1.45–1.85; p < 0.0001) were independent predictors. Men exhibited greater reductions in LVEDV, greater improvements in LV ejection fraction, and superior myocardial work indices. Over the follow-up, patients with reverse remodeling had significantly lower MACE rates compared to those without (10% vs. 24%, p < 0.01). Cox regression demonstrated that reverse remodeling was associated with a reduced risk of MACEs (HR 0.318; 95% CI: 0.181–0.557; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: LV reverse remodeling after STEMI is associated with improved clinical outcomes and is influenced by sex-specific differences. Baseline myocardial work indices, particularly GWE, are strong predictors of reverse remodeling. Men demonstrated a more favorable remodeling profile and myocardial recovery compared to women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Biomedicines (2nd Edition))
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