Biomedical subjects

T Wegener

Publications and source records attributed to T Wegener.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

The active components and the pharmacological multi-target principle of STW 5 (Iberogast).

The therapeutic equivalence of the multi-herbal drug combination STW 5 (Iberogast) with two synthetic standard drugs can be explained by an additive or overadditive pharmacological synergism. A review of the different chemical constituents contained in this fixed combination of nine herbal drug extracts and their dominant mechanisms of action shows that they correlate very well with the clinically relevant overall pharmacological profile of the multi-herbal drug combination. This comprises modulatory effects on gastro-intestinal motility, anti-inflammatory action, inhibitory effects on gastric acid production and anti-oxidative and radical-inhibiting properties. As a multi-drug preparation with a multitude of therapeutic targets relevant in functional gastrointestinal diseases, its pharmacological profile of action in accordance with the multi-target principle.

Anti-Inflammatory Agents↗

PubMed2004

Topical tea tree oil effective in canine localised pruritic dermatitis--a multi-centre randomised double-blind controlled clinical trial in the veterinary practice.

Tea tree oil, a volatile oil, is well known for its broad antibacterial and antifungal activity. A standardised and stabilised 10% tea tree oil cream was tested against a commercial skin care cream (control cream) in the management of canine localised acute and chronic dermatitis. Fifty-seven dogs with clinical manifestations of mostly pruritic skin lesions or alterations, skin fold pyodermas and other forms of dermatitis, corroborated by predominantly positive fungal and bacterial skin isolates, were enrolled by seven practising veterinarians and randomly allocated to two study groups (28:29) and were treated twice daily with a blinded topical preparation. After 10 days of treatment, success rates of 71% for the tea tree oil cream and 41% for the control cream (over-all efficacy documented by the veterinary investigator) differed significantly (p = 0.04), favouring tea tree oil cream treatment. Accordingly on day 10, the tea tree oil cream caused significantly faster relief than the control cream (p = 0.04) for two common clinical dermatitis signs, pruritus (occurring in 84 % of dogs) and alopecia. Only one adverse event was reported in the tea tree oil group (suspected not to be causally related to the study drug) and none in the control cream group. The tested herbal cream appears to be a fast-acting safe alternative to conventional therapy for symptomatic treatment of canine localised dermatitis with pruritus.

Administration, Topical↗

PubMed2003

Proposals to enhance the quality of observational cohort studies.

For herbal medicinal products the methodology of observational cohort studies (observational studies, drug monitoring studies, Anwendungsbeobachtung) represents a useful addition to clinical trials. The key objectives are the documentation of efficacy in particular under conditions of everyday medical practice in authentic patients and the documentation of the safety profile. Supplementary to earlier activities, members of the "Clinical Trials of Herbal Medicinal Products" Working Party of the German Society for Phytotherapy have therefore again addressed the issue of observational cohort studies for to enhance the informative value and importance of this clinical research methodology. Recommendations were developed on quality aspects, methodological approaches of observation parameters, and for the reporting of the study's results. Properly planned and conducted observational cohort studies may contribute to the documentation and proof of well-established medicinal use according the EU Directive 2001/83/EC.

Clinical Trials as Topic↗

PubMed2002

Phytotherapy of chronic dermatitis and pruritus of dogs with a topical preparation containing tea tree oil (Bogaskin).

Localised dermatitis, for example unspecific eczema or skinfold pyoderma, is a very common diagnosis in dogs. Typical and impressive complaints are pruritus, erythema, erosion and oozing surface. With respect to the underlying disease dermatological treatment is indicated, usually based on antimicrobial and antipruriginous active substances, it can include transient glucocorticoids. An effective and safe alternative might be a phytotherapeutic topical preparation containing tea tree oil. Tea tree oil exerts both antimicrobial and antipruriginous effects. In an open multicenter study efficacy and safety of a standardized 10% tea tree oil cream applied thinly and twice daily for 4 weeks was tested in 53 dogs with chronic dermatitis, particularly non-specific eczema, allergic dermatitis, interdigital pyoderma, acral lick dermatitis and skinfold pyoderma. Analysis of efficacy assessed by investigating veterinarians showed a good or very good response to treatment for 82% of the dogs, significant at a 5% level (p = 0.05). At the end of the study a strong and significant reduction (p = 0.001) as well as disappearance of major symptoms were observed. Only two adverse events (local reactions) possibly related to tea tree oil occurred during therapy. Consequently the tested study medication (Bogaskin) can be considered an alternative for uncomplicated and localised dermatitis in dogs. Bogaskin might allow reduction of other pharmaceutical products, perhaps even replace standard therapy.

Administration, Topical↗

PubMed2002

[Degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system--overview of current clinical studies of Devil's Claw (Harpagophyti radix)].

Herbal medicinal products with secondary tubers of Devil's Claw (Harpagophyti radix) are successfully used in degenerative rheumatism. The interest in this herbal drug is documented by many controlled and uncontrolled clinical studies in the last few years. Efficacy was tested in patients with degenerative rheumatism or low back pain. There was shown an improvement of motility and a reduction of pain sensation and a good tolerability following an administration even for only few weeks.

Clinical Trials as Topic↗

PubMed2002

[The status of herbal antilipemic agents].

A favourable effect on serum lipids may be achieved with herbal medicinal products, if they are administered at sufficient high dosages and sufficient long term use. Their efficacy is not so strong than that documented for chemically defined products, however their tolerability is superior. Maximal effects are more than that of a strong lipid lowering diet, however, lipid lowering herbal drugs are Allium sativum L., Cynara scolymus L., Curcumae longa L. All of them exert some more beneficial effects, which suggest to be an advantageous alternative for patients. This contribution gives a brief review and an assessment of the suitability of herbal medicinal preparations for the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis.

Asteraceae↗

PubMed2002

Extended NO analysis applied to patients with COPD, allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis.

The recommended method to measure exhaled nitric oxide (NO) cannot reveal the source of NO production. We applied a model based on the classical Fick's first law of diffusion to partition NO in the lungs. The aim was to develop a simple and robust solution algorithm with a data quality control feature, and apply it to patients with known alterations in exhaled NO. Subjects with allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) smokers and controls were investigated. NO was measured at three expiratory flow rates. An iteration method was developed to partition NO. The airway tissue content of NO was increased in asthma, 144 +/- 80 ppb (P = 0.04) and decreased in smokers, 56 +/- 36 ppb (P = 0.02). There was no difference between subjects with rhinitis, 98 +/- 40 ppb and controls, 98 +/- 44 ppb. The airway transfer rate was increased in allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis, 12 +/- 4 vs. 12 +/- 5 ml sec(-1), compared to controls, 8 +/- 2 ml sec(-1) (P < 0.001). The alveolar levels were no different from controls, 2 +/- 1 ppb. In COPD the alveolar levels were increased, 4 +/- 2 ppb (P < 0.001). Extended NO analysis reveals from where in the respiratory system NO is generated. Hence, this new test can be added to the tools the physician has for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with respiratory disorders.

Administration, Inhalation↗

PubMed2001

Dose-ranging study of mometasone furoate dry powder inhaler in the treatment of moderate persistent asthma using fluticasone propionate as an active comparator.

BACKGROUND: Mometasone furoate (MF; Schering-Plough, Madison, NJ), is a glucocorticoid with high local potency and low potential systemic availability. OBJECTIVES: To compare the relative efficacy and safety of a new formulation of MF, coupled with a recently designed dry powder inhaler (DPI), in the treatment of patients with moderate persistent asthma. Fluticasone propionate administered by Diskhaler (FP Diskhaler, 250 microg twice a day; Glaxo Wellcome, Research Triangle Park, NC) was used as an active control. DESIGN: A randomized, parallel group, double-blind (for MF-DPI dosage), evaluator-blind (for MF-DPI vs FP) trial. SETTING: Sixty centers in 20 countries. PATIENTS: Seven hundred thirty-three patients with moderate persistent asthma on inhaled corticosteroid treatment. INTERVENTIONS: Discontinuation of previous inhaled corticosteroid and initiation of one of four study treatments: three doses of MF-DPI (100, 200, and 400 microg twice daily) and one of FP (250 microg twice daily >12 weeks). RESULTS: FEV1 (primary efficacy variable) was evaluated as the mean change from baseline to endpoint (last evaluable visit). All dosage groups showed improvement at endpoint. Only 400 microg twice daily of MF-DPI (+0.19 L) was statistically different from 100 microg twice daily of MF-DPI (+0.07 L; P = 0.02). MF-DPI (200 microg twice daily) and FP Diskhaler groups showed similar improvement (+0.16 L). Greater improvement in most secondary variables (forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity, and morning and evening peak expiratory flows) also resulted from treatment with 200 or 400 microg twice daily of MF-DPI or with FP Diskhaler, compared with 100 microg twice daily of MF-DPI. Overall, a total daily 800-microg dose of MF-DPI conferred no significant additional benefit >400 microg of MF-DPI. The incidence of oral candidiasis was 1%, 7%, 10%, and 10% in the 100, 200, and 400 microg twice daily of MF-DPI and FP groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A total daily dose of 400 microg of MF-DPI provides clinical benefit comparable to that observed with a total daily dose of 500 microg of FP Diskhaler.

Administration, Inhalation↗

PubMed1999

[Serious effects of chloroquine overdose. Prescribe the smallest possible dosage-packages and inform about the risks].

An increasing number of acute overdoses with chloroquine has been reported in Sweden--some with fatal outcome. This substance is clearly one of the most toxic pharmaceuticals on the Swedish market. Four cases are described. Travelling to the tropics has become very popular, and chloroquine is often given as a prophylactic antimalarial. This inexpensive drug is often prescribed in 100-tablet packages, and any surplus is often stored in the home. Awareness of toxicity is low among users and doctors in this country. Preventive measures are suggested.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1999

[Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.): anti-inflammatory action in upper respiratory tract infections].

Plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) is used for the therapy of infections of the upper respiratory airways. While only few clinical data are available, results of experimental research confirm e.g. antiinflammatory, spasmolytic and immunostimulatory actions. A positive benefit-risk-ratio allows the recommendation of plantain in moderate chronic irritative cough, also especially for children.

Adult↗

PubMed1999

[Pharmacological properties and therapeutic profile of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)].

The results of several clinical investigations showed the efficacy and safety of artichoke extracts (Cynara scolymus L.) in the treatment of hepato-biliary dysfunction and digestive complaints, such as sensation of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal pain. Moreover earlier findings on a lipidlowering and hepatoprotective effect may be confirmed. In-vitro and in-vivo it has been possible to evaluate the underlying pharmacological mechanisms. Flavonoids and caffeoylquinic acids are mainly responsible for the observed actions.

Asteraceae↗

PubMed1999

[Therapy of degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system with South African devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens DC)].

Extracts of the secondary tubers of Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) are recommended for the supportive treatment of degenerative painful rheumatism. There was observed an improvement of motility and a reduction of pain sensation in several clinical studies. Pharmacological experiments have shown analgesic, antiphlogistic and antiinflammatory actions. Most important constituents are iridoid glycosides, which are supposed to contribute mainly to the observed effects. However, the entire extract has to be considered as active ingredient.

Analgesics↗

PubMed1995

The kinetic of the oxidation of InSn48.

The oxidation of InSn48 has been investigated at partial pressures between 10(-8) Pa and 10(+4) Pa over a temperature range from 22 ( degrees )C to 250 ( degrees )C with different analytical methods. The oxide film contains a mixture of several oxides, although indium oxide forms preferentially. Below the melting point a logarithmic growth, and above this, a parabolic growth of the oxide film has been observed. The oxide film formed in air at 250 ( degrees )C does not become thicker than 50 nm in the first 5 min of oxidation.

Journal Article↗

PubMed1995

Inhaled formoterol dry powder in the treatment of patients with reversible obstructive airway disease. A 3-month, placebo-controlled comparison of the efficacy and safety of formoterol and salbutamol, followed by a 12-month trial with formoterol.

Inhaled formoterol is a potent selective beta 2-agonist with rapid onset and at least 12-h duration of bronchodilation. The aim of the study was to compare the bronchodilating effect of inhaled formoterol dry powder (dp) 12 micrograms b.i.d. with salbutamol dp 400 micrograms q.i.d. and placebo in patients with reversible obstructive airway disease (ROAD). The study design consisted of a closed 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial followed by an open noncomparative, multicenter, 12-month follow-up trial, in which the tolerability of formoterol dp was assessed. A total of 304 patients (146 men, 158 women) aged 18-79 years, ill during 0.1-64 years, were randomized. No demographic or baseline differences were found among the different treatment groups. The bronchodilating effect of formoterol, assessed by morning premedication PEFR, was significantly superior to placebo (P < 0.0001) and salbutamol (P < 0.0001). Efficacy was maintained during the open follow-up study with 12 micrograms b.i.d. in most of the patients. A few patients, however, needed 24 micrograms b.i.d. to control their ROAD. Formoterol 12 micrograms b.i.d. significantly reduced morning and evening asthma symptoms and sleep disturbances, and reduced significantly the need for rescue medication. The tolerability of the three treatment groups was comparable. In conclusion, formoterol 12 micrograms dp b.i.d. was significantly superior to both salbutamol 400 micrograms dp q.i.d. and placebo, and reduced asthma symptoms significantly. Overall, formoterol showed a tolerability profile comparable to that of salbutamol, and no tachyphylaxis was observed during 1 year of treatment.

Administration, Inhalation↗

PubMed1995

Effect of indomethacin on thrombin-induced pulmonary edema in the rat.

The preventive effect of indomethacin on thrombin-induced pulmonary edema was studied in rats. Administration of thrombin caused a significant increase in lung weight, wet weight to dry weight ratio (WW/DW), and relative lung water content. During infusion of thrombin, mean pulmonary artery pressure rose and mean systemic artery pressure fell, PaO2 decreased progressively and there was a continuous rise in pH and PaCO2. An inhibitor of cyclooxygenase, indomethacin, at a dose of 1 mg/kg body weight, induced a significant further increase in lung weight (p < 0.05), and a tendency towards an increase in WW/DW and water content compared with animals given thrombin alone. Treatment with indomethacin, however, counteracted the elevated pulmonary artery pressure occurring in the early phase after thrombin infusion, but not that in the late phase. Systemic artery pressure was not affected by indomethacin. The increases in pH and PaCO2 after thrombin infusion were attenuated and remained stable almost at baseline level after indomethacin administration. Indomethacin did not prevent the hypoxemia induced by thrombin infusion. In conclusion, although indomethacin prevented the early increase in pulmonary artery pressure due to thrombin and the decrease in pH and the increase in PaCO2, it caused lung vascular permeability to protein to increase more than with thrombin alone.

Animals↗

PubMed1994

Effect of ibuprofen on thrombin-induced pulmonary edema in the rat.

The effect of ibuprofen on thrombin-induced pulmonary edema was studied in rats. Thrombin infusion produced a significant increase in lung weight, wet weight/dry weight ratio and relative lung water content, a rise in mean pulmonary arterial pressure and a fall in mean systemic arterial pressure. It also caused a progressive decrease in PaO2 and a continuous increase in pH and PaCO2. Administration of either the S-isomer or R-isomer of ibuprofen at doses of 5 mg/kg body weight prior to thrombin infusion resulted in significant reduction in lung weight, wet weight/dry weight ratio and water content. The wet weight/dry weight ratio and the water content were somewhat lower after infusion of the S-isomer than of the R-isomer. Ibuprofen diminished the thrombin-induced increase in mean pulmonary arterial pressure and attenuated the early and late decrease in mean systemic arterial pressure caused by thrombin. Ibuprofen also stabilized thrombin-induced impairments in PaO2, PaCO2 and pH. The results thus indicate that ibuprofen effectively counteracts hemodynamic changes, stabilizes impairments in arterial blood gas variables and attenuates the increase in lung vascular permeability to protein with pulmonary edema caused by thrombin. The results also indicate a substantial R to S chiral inversion of ibuprofen in vivo in the rat.

Animals↗

PubMed1994

Efficacy and tolerance of a 12-week treatment with inhaled formoterol in patients with reversible obstructive lung disease.

Formoterol, a new beta 2-agonist, and salbutamol were given as aerosols twice and four times daily, respectively, to patients with reversible obstructive lung disease. The study was controlled and double blind, and continued for 12 weeks. Ninety-nine patients from five study centers were included and 89 patients could be properly evaluated. The formoterol-treated patients used significantly less rescue medicine (salbutamol aerosol) and had higher morning PEF values. For the other efficacy variables (daytime FEV1.0, evening PEF, patient and investigator global evaluations, night sleeping time) and tolerance (side effects noted by patients, blood and urine laboratory values, ECG, patient and investigator global evaluation), there were no significant differences between the formoterol- and the salbutamol-treated groups.

Administration, Inhalation↗

PubMed1992

Effect of inhaled formoterol versus terbutaline on respiratory function in moderate bronchial asthma.

In a double-blind cross-over study comparing the duration of action of 12 micrograms and 24 micrograms formoterol, 500 micrograms terbutaline and placebo, lung function tests were performed in 12 never-smokers with non-allergic bronchial asthma. All the patients were hyperreactive to methacholine, had normal serum IgE level, and negative skin or RAST results. The lung function tests were carried out over an 11-h period and included measurements of lung volumes, airway resistance, dynamic spirometry, nitrogen single breath wash-out test and single breath diffusion capacity for CO. The airway resistance and maximal forced expiratory flow tests indicated a pronounced bronchodilator effect without adverse effects of 12 micrograms and 24 micrograms formoterol on both large and peripheral airways. Improved intrapulmonary gas distribution measured by the nitrogen wash-out test and more even distribution of the lung volumes indicating more homogeneous ventilation was seen for approx. 3 h after terbutaline and approx. 11 h after 24 micrograms formoterol. Measurement of the CO diffusion capacity indicates more effective gas diffusion and a better ventilation-perfusion ratio for at least 11 h, especially after inhalation of 24 micrograms formoterol.

Administration, Inhalation↗