International Journal of Pharmacy & Integrated Health Sciences
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EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS AND CERVICAL CANCER: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Full text linkBackground: Worldwide, cancer is the second most significant cause of mortality after cardiovascular disease. Cervical cancer, a women\u27s disease resulting from infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), is a significant public health condition in adult women, particularly in low-income and developing countries. Objectives: This study is designed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge regarding cervical cancer and HPV among the study population. Methodology: This study used a mixed-methods approach combining a questionnaire-based survey and laboratory-based blood sampling to evaluate awareness, knowledge, and prevalence of HPV and cervical cancer in District Haripur, Pakistan. The data was collected from 499 college students to assess their awareness and understanding of HPV and cervical cancer, and the blood samples of 300 female participants between the ages of 10-35 were collected from District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Haripur. All the data collected from colleges and hospitals were manually entered into an Excel spreadsheet and then imported to SPSS Version 22 for analysis. The questionnaire was adapted from previously validated instruments used in earlier studies. Results: The questionnaire survey and blood reports showed that out of the total cases, 50 (16.7 %) were positive for HPV infection, either IgM, IgG, or both. And 250 (83.3 %) were negative patients. Among 500 university students, only 102 (20.4%) knew that cervical cancer is a gynecologic cancer, and most of them did not know either cervical cancer or its leading cause is human papillomavirus (HPV). Conclusion: This study shows a substantial lack of awareness and knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer among young females. These outcomes highlight the critical need for public health measures, including educational campaigns, accessible screening programs, and HPV vaccination initiatives, especially for young women
IRISIN, OBESITY AND TYPE II DIABETES MELLITUS
No full textBackground: Irisin is an exercise-induced cytokine that is expressed as a biologically active peptide in many organs and tissues. Physical exercise and coldness are the main triggers for irisin release. Many studies have found that the levels of irisin are strongly correlated with health condition. Interestingly, irisin levels are higher in cancer patients but lower in patients with cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer\u27s disease, muscular atrophy, osteoporosis, and obesity. Irisin mediates glucose uptake in muscle cells, decreases insulin resistance, causes the \u27browning\u27 of the white adipocytes, enhances neural differentiation, and promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation through binding to the integrin αV/β5 receptor. Nevertheless, it is not completely known if it maintains glucose homeostasis, promotes neurogenesis, prevents cancer development, and regulates muscle regeneration by directly binding to its receptors. Objectives: Several studies aiming at the correlation between irisin levels and metabolic diseases have gained interest as a potential novel target to combat insulin resistance and type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, this review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of irisin and its impacts on obesity, glucose homeostasis, insulin resistance, and T2DM. Methodology: The data was collected through the electronic search of many scientific articles including, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google scholar. Results: Irisin has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and type II diabetes mellitus by enhancing insulin receptor sensitivity in the heart and skeletal muscle by improving lipid and glucose metabolism in the liver, enhancing pancreatic β-cell actions, and converting white to brown adipose tissue. Conclusion: Irisin has raised great hopes as a possible target in the conservative treatment of type II diabetes and obesity
ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES TOWARDS MEDICATION AND ITS IMPACT ON MEDICATION ADHERENCE AMONG CHRONIC DISEASE PATIENTS OF PUNJAB, PAKISTAN: A HOSPITAL-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
No full textBackground: During the last decade, a gradual switch from infectious diseases to chronic diseases has been observed, which is globally responsible for increased numbers of morbidity and mortality. Medication is a core element in the management of chronic diseases. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the attitudes and practices towards medication and its impact on medication adherence in chronic disease patients. The main aim of this study is to find loopholes in medication adherence for better management and improvement of the health of chronic disease patients. Methodology: 425 participants were recruited from public sector hospitals of Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Sahiwal, Multan, and Bahawalpur. Respondents were assessed using a validated questionnaire, and medication adherence was measured using the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) to measure general adherence. Descriptive statistics were used (frequency, percentages, frequency, means (±SD), median (IQR)) to summarize data. Inferential statistics, including Chi-square, Mann–Whitney U test, and Kruskal Wallis and Spearman\u27s correlation, were applied. Results: Participants included a more significant proportion of women (65.5%), and the mean age of the respondents was 52.88±11.13. In this study, 78.2% of respondents indicated a positive attitude, and 61.0% showed good practices towards medication. Almost 50.5% (Mean sore ± SD: 16.5 ± 3.76) of respondents recorded good adherence. The patient\u27s attitude towards medication adherence was positively associated (rs= 0.375, p = <0.001), while the practices of the patients towards medication were not correlated with medication adherence. Conclusion: The study results concluded that respondents indicated positive attitudes and practices towards medication. Attitudes were found to be positively associated with medication adherence
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC ANTI-DIABETIC COMPOUNDS: EVALUATING BOTH TYPES OF COMPOUNDS IN TERMS OF EFFECTIVENESS, SAFETY PROFILES, AND POTENTIAL FOR INTEGRATIVE THERAPY
No full textBackground: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing global health burden. Conventional treatments have notable drawbacks, prompting interest in natural compounds due to their multi-targeted actions, safer profiles, lower costs, and traditional use, which supports their efficacy. Objective: The efficacy, safety, and potential for integrated therapy of both synthetic and natural anti-diabetic substances are critically assessed in this review. Methodology: Important natural ingredients, including extracts from Rosmarinus officinalis, Zingiber officinale, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Coptis chinensis, Nigella sativa, Elettaria cardamomum, Cinnamomum verum, and Bellis perennis, are evaluated for their capacity to reduce HbA1c levels, along with their active constituents and mechanisms of action. The effectiveness, mechanisms, and safety profiles of synthetic therapies, including insulin, biguanides, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT-2 inhibitors, are also evaluated in this review. Results: This comparative study highlights the strengths and limitations of natural and synthetic therapies for lowering HbA1c, focusing on safety and cost-effectiveness. It explores the potential of integrative approaches that combine both therapy types to enhance outcomes and minimize side effects through synergistic effects. Personalized treatment strategies are also discussed, emphasizing the importance of tailoring interventions to individual genetic and cultural contexts—for instance, the proven benefits of the Mediterranean diet in managing type 2 diabetes. Conclusion: This comprehensive review highlights the need for further research to enhance anti-diabetic treatments and integrate both synthetic and natural approaches into personalized, long-term treatment plans
EDITORIAL: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT ON SCIENTIFIC PUBLISHING
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized several industries, and scientific publishing is no exception. From peer review automation to the detection of plagiarism and manuscript proofing, AI is revolutionizing research production, dissemination, and evaluation. Although AI brings tremendous potential to automate publishing, it raises significant questions regarding ethics and integrity that must be addressed correctly (1).
The most significant impact that AI has made on publishing is speeding up the peer review process. Traditional peer review is laborious and time-consuming, and it tends to result in very lengthy publication cycles. AI tools can assist in pre-screening submissions, finding possible reviewers according to expertise, and even identifying ethics concerns like duplicate publication or image tampering. Some AI tools, like ScholarOne and Editorial Manager, have already started using machine learning algorithms to recommend reviewers and detect probable conflicts of interest, making an efficient and unbiased review process possible (2).
Besides peer review, AI has also improved the editorial process by employing language processing models that assist authors in manuscript editing. These include products like Grammarly, Writefull, and Paperpal, which use AI-driven natural language processing (NLP) to correct grammar, simplify the language, and improve readability. This proves helpful in non-native English-speaking academics, who may be unable to present research findings effectively. Also, AI-driven translation software is breaking language barriers, allowing for research dissemination across linguistic groups (3).
The detection of plagiarism has also shifted fundamentally with the advent of AI. Conventional software such as Turnitin and iThenticate have come a long way, using deep learning algorithms to identify more evolved instances of academic fraud, including paraphrasing plagiarism and AI-generated content. After the proliferation of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, the difference between human-written and machine-written content has become more difficult to distinguish, calling for increasingly sophisticated AI-driven authenticity checks (4).
But publishing with AI is not without issues. The ethical aspects of AI-generated research content are becoming a problem more and more. The greater the dependence on AI writing aids, the greater the problems concerning authorship, novelty, and intellectual property. The majority of journals now have strict policies for using AI-generated content and being open and accountable in scientific publishing. Second, the risk of bias in AI algorithms is still an issue because AI algorithms learn from what is already in print form, thus potentially continuing existing biases in publishing materials (5).
Besides that, AI is transforming the availability of scientific literature. AI-based recommendation platforms such as Semantic Scholar and Scite simplify scientists\u27 ability to locate pertinent literature by analyzing citation patterns and trend research. Open-access journals also leverage AI to increase content published therein and make it more accessible and readable to audiences, thereby democratizing knowledge dissemination.
Despite all these advancements, human judgment remains unavoidable in publishing. No matter how much help AI will extend, ethical decisions and contextual appreciation are still impossible without human ability. Symbiosis with AI as a helper, but not a replacement for writers, editors, and referees, is the best means to achieve this (6).
Last but not least, AI is undoubtedly revolutionizing the terrain of scientific publishing. Its capacity to simplify workflows, enhance quality, and enable accessibility is charting the future of academic communication. With these opportunities, however, come the ethics and integrity issues that need to be resolved in order to achieve responsible AI deployment. As the world of publishing advances, a delicate balance that harnesses the power of AI while maintaining the integrity of academics will be critical in sustaining trust and credibility within the science literature
IN VIVO AND NETWORK PHARMACOLOGY BASED MOLECULAR SCREENING OF POTENTIAL COMPOUNDS FROM CASSIA ABSUS SEEDS AGAINST HYPERLIPIDEMIA
No full textBackground: Medicinal plants are valuable sources of bioactive chemicals with multi-target effects. Cassia absus, traditionally used to treat various ailments such as conjunctivitis, tumours, and hepatic disorders, was investigated for its anti-hyperlipidemic potential—a major risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Objectives: To prepare C. absus seeds extract in methanol and measure their efficacy against hyperlipidemia in selected rat groups. To identify the bioactive, drug-like compounds using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methodology: Rats were divided into four groups: control on a normal diet (T0), hyperlipidemic group on a fat-rich diet (T1), atorvastatin-treated group (T2), and seeds extract-treated group (T3). Lipid levels were measured on days 0, 7 and 14. Active compounds in C. absus seeds were identified using databases and screened for drug-likeness by Lipinski\u27s Rule and Swiss ADME. Swiss TargetPrediction, GeneCards and NCBI identified compounds and disease-targeted genes. Compounds-target interacting genes were identified via Venn diagram. Protein-protein interaction created by STRING, DAVID provided functional gene annotations and KEGG Pathways. Compound-target-pathway networks visualized using Cytoscape, with molecular docking predicted binding affinity. Results: The T3 group showed a significant improvement in lipid profile, with a reduction in TC (47.2%), triglycerides (53.4%), LDL (61.7%), and an elevated HDL (51.5%). A study identified six anti-hyperlipidemic compounds, including 4,6-dimethyl mannose, methyl gallate, and syringic acid. Strong binding affinity observed between ALB1, PPARG, and ESR1 proteins. Most interacting disease-targeted pathways were also identified. Conclusion: The study supported the anti-hyperlipidemic potential of C. absus seeds and their drug-like compounds through network pharmacology, thus paving the way for the development of herbal medicine
PERSONALIZED ANTICOAGULANTS: TAILORING THERAPY TO INDIVIDUAL PATIENT\u27S NEED
No full textBackground: Thromboembolic diseases lead to deep vein thrombosis, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, atrial fibrillation and stroke. To avoid these complications, Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and parenteral anticoagulants have been options since the discovery of the first oral anticoagulant, i.e., warfarin. Objective: This review explores the role of personalized anticoagulant therapy in optimizing treatment efficacy and safety, with a focus on minimizing bleeding complications through individualized drug selection. Methods: A narrative review of anticoagulant therapies and their effects on patients\u27 safety profiles was conducted on literature published from January 2010 to December 2024. Verified databases were used for the literature collection, followed by the PRISMA method. Quality of literature was evaluated by GRADE (Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation) criteria. Findings: Findings demonstrated that direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are more effective than warfarin in mitigating the risk of stroke associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and atrial fibrillation (AF) with less risk of bleeding. However, despite the warfarin risk of bleeding and nephropathy, it remains the standard oral anticoagulant in prosthetic valves or severe mitral stenosis patients. In a patient with renal failure, the choice of drug is heparin. Enoxaparin is recommended in severe renal impairment with dose adjustment. Genomics, age, gender, comorbidities, bleeding risk, and hepatic and renal function should also be considered while choosing DOACs or heparin. Conclusion: Incorporating patient-specific variables into anticoagulant selection is essential for maximizing benefit and minimizing harm, underscoring the shift toward precision medicine in thromboembolic care
PHARMACOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MANGIFERA INDICA IN OVERCOMING PAIN AND IMPROVING LIFE
No full textBackground: No matter how advanced the world is today, working for this advancement and high standards of life always comes with pain. Since the evolution of humankind, people have been using different products of natural origin for pain management because of their effectiveness and fewer side effects. Objective: The main objective of the current study was to extract the fruit pulp of Mangifera indica and investigate its pharmacological impact. Methodology: Different dosages were evaluated, including 250 and 500 mg/kg of the plant extract. The hot plate method, tail flick, and writhing tests were used to estimate analgesic activity. Carrageenan-induced paw edema was performed to determine the anti-inflammatory response. Results: The obtained data revealed significant activity at 250 mg/kg and highly significant activity at 500 mg/kg via the hot plate method for evaluation. In the tail-flick test, extract at both doses exhibited highly considerable activity. In the writhing test, the maximum inhibition of writhes was observed at a dose of 500 mg/kg, with the number of writhes decreasing from 22 to 11 within 20 minutes, resulting in an inhibition rate of 49.36%. For the carrageenan test, both doses exhibited substantial inhibition outcomes on the mean increase in paw volume for the different periods. Maximum inhibition was observed during the 5 hours of time intervals with 35.74% and 37.85% of doses. Conclusion: The results suggest that Mangifera indica possesses significant medical importance and could be used for therapeutic purposes
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ORODISPERSIBLE TABLETS OF PYRIMETHAMINE
No full textBackground: Toxoplasmosis is an opportunistic infection. It is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, which affects the eye, central nervous system and other body systems. It is common in paediatric, geriatric, and patients who are immune-compromised. It results from poor hygiene and improper handling of cats\u27 faeces. Objectives: The treatment of toxoplasmosis typically involves pyrimethamine with folinic acid and other supportive agents. In the current research project, ODT formulations of pyrimethamine have been formulated in three types, namely C1, C2, and C3. These three formulations differ from one another based on the kind of disintegrants used. Methodology: The direct compression method was used for formulating the ODT. Different parameters of the formulated product were studied in its three formulations, C1, C2, and C3. Pre-compression evaluation, including FTIR spectroscopy and other methods, was conducted. Post-compression evaluation, including content assay, dissolution, and stability profile under ambient conditions, was monitored. Results: All official tests complied with the orodispersible tablet specifications outlined by the British Pharmacopoeia (B.P.) and the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP). However, notable differences were observed among the three formulations—C1, C2, and C3 in specific evaluated parameters, indicating variability in performance depending on the formulation components. Conclusion: The use of different disintegration agents resulted in slight variations in tablet behavior. Nevertheless, all formulations met key orodispersible criteria and demonstrated favorable characteristics for patient compliance, particularly for individuals with swallowing difficulties
PRESCRIBING PATTERNS OF ANALGESICS FOR DENTAL PAIN IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA (KP)
No full textBackground: Analgesics are prescribed for dental pains and inflammation. Dentists need to analyze the prescribing patterns of analgesics in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Objectives: The study aims to assess the rational use and patterns of prescribing analgesics for dental pain and inflammation management based on information obtained from dentists in KPK. Methodology: The current investigation utilized prescriptions to study dentists’ prescribing patterns of analgesics. The data was collected during October 2022 and August 2023. The prescriptions were collected from tertiary care hospitals in KP province. Results: A total of 400 patients’ prescriptions were analyzed, comprising males (55%) and females (45%). The most frequently prescribed generic analgesics were flurbiprofen (n= 174), ibuprofen (n= 49), paracetamol (n= 19), naproxen sodium (n= 18), lornoxicam (n= 18), and nimesulide (n= 17). The most common brand prescriptions included Tornil (n= 97), Brufen (n= 48), Inflamatix (n= 44), Synflex (n= 3), and Ansaid (n= 8), and Panadol (n= 10), among others. The prescribed dosage forms for male patients were primarily tablets (92.73%), followed by syrup (0.91%) and suspension (0.45%), and for female patients were primarily tablets (98%), followed by syrup (2%), capsules (1%), and gel (1%). Among the patients, 91 drugs were prescribed from the Essential Drug List (EDL), while 304 drugs were not from the list. Conclusion: The current study’s findings showed that flurbiprofen and ibuprofen were the medications that dentists prescribed most frequently as analgesics for dental pain therapy. Many of the drugs chosen were not from the EDL.