pneumonia Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Drug Saves 47 of 50 Severe Covid Patients in Trial

AHA Publisher — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:23:27 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – Israel’s Bonus BioGroup reports a survival rate of 94 percent (47 of 50) of the severe Covid-19 patients treated with its drug product MesenCure in a Phase II, multicenter clinical trial. Study results, soon to be published, show MesenCure treatment reduced study participants’ hospitalization period by about half compared to a control group. All these patients had life-threatening pneumonia and respiratory distress caused by Covid-19. The data shows that MesenCure treatment reduced mortality by about 70% compared with the control group. Only two of the first 30 severe Covid-19 patients treated with MesenCure died due to Covid-19 or its complications, while 14 of 60 similar patients in the control group died. MesenCure treatment shortened the hospitalization period of severe Covid-19 patients by eight days on average, a reduction of 45% relative to the control group. The experimental group included women and men aged 41.4 to 77.4. About 77% of the severe Covid-19 patients treated in three hospitals with MesenCure had one or more risk factors for poor prognosis: hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Most were treated during the fourth Covid-19 wave in Israel, dominated by the Delta strain. The control group received the current standard of care — anti-inflammatory drugs in combination with steroids. This regimen, according to Bonus BioGroup, reduces mortality in hospitalized Covid-19 patients only slightly, from 25.8% to 21.8%, indicating that MesenCure is four times more effective. “We are proud of our success in leading the world to be a safer place by developing a medication for severe Covid-19 patients, thereby dramatically reducing the threat to their lives,” said Dr. Shai Meretzki, CEO of Bonus BioGroup. “In less than two years from the epidemic outbreak, we are the first in the world to report an effective and significant treatment for severely ill patients.” According to a statement from Bonus BioGroup, an independent expert committee confirmed the findings of the Phase II clinical trial of MesenCure and recommended continuing toward Phase III. Meretzki told the Jerusalem Post that the company will apply for emergency use approval from European and US regulatory agencies. To read the original article click here.

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Israeli Trials with Already-Approved Drug Give ‘Astounding Results’ in Severe COVID Cases

AHA Publisher — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 07:00:32 +0000

Julie Stahl via CBN News – JERUSALEM, Israel – Could a simple drug that’s been on the market for decades successfully treat COVID-19? A year ago, CBN News shared with you that an Israeli research team believed that a drug on the market since 1975 could reduce the threat of the virus to that of the common cold. And now, the Israeli scientists have the results of two clinical trials to back up their claims. Prof. Yaakov Nahmias, director of Alexander Grass Center for Bioengineering at Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and his research made a significant breakthrough in understanding how the coronavirus reproduces in the lungs. “Viruses are parasites. They can’t replicate on their own. They’re essentially a box of protein with a single strand of genetic material inside,” Nahmias told CBN News at the time. “In order to make more viruses you have to get inside human cells.” Nahmias, who worked together with Dr. Benjamin TenOever at New York’s Mount Sinai Medical Center, saw how the virus prevents the routine burning of carbohydrates in the lungs causing fat to accumulate. That led them to screen drugs that could potentially block the virus, “not by targeting the virus itself but by going after fat accumulation,” Nahmias said. That search led them to the lipid-lowering drug TriCor (fenofibrate) as an effective anti-viral, showing it both reduced lung cell damage by helping the cells burn fat and suddenly the virus production stopped. During the first trial, patients who were taking the drugs to speed up the breakdown of fats were recovering from the Covid-caused lung infections in a matter of days. The evidence even showed that there was zero mortality among these patients. Now the Hebrew University team is reporting promising results of “an investigator-initiated interventional open-label clinical study” led by Nahmias and coordinated by Prof. Shlomo Maayan, Head of the Infections Disease Unite at Israel’s Barzilai Medical Center with support from Abbott Laboratories. Fifteen COVID-19 patients, hospitalized in severe condition with pneumonia and requiring oxygen, were treated with TriCor for 10 days. “The results were astounding”, said Nahmias in a press release. “Progressive inflammation markers, that are the hallmark of deteriorative COVID-19, dropped within 48 hours of treatment.” “Moreover, 14 of the 15 severe patients didn’t require oxygen support within a week of treatment, while historical records show that the vast majority severe patients treated with the standard of care require lengthy respiratory support,” he added. Nahmias stressed that “there are no silver bullets.” But he said fenofibrate is much safer than other proposed drugs and “its mechanism of action makes is less likely to be variant-specific.” According to Maayan, all the patients were discharged in less than a week after the treatment began and continued the 10-day treatment at home without any drug-related adverse events. “Further, fewer patients reported COVID-19 side effects during their 4-week follow-up appointment,” Maayan said. The investigators stressed that more studies needed to be conducted and they are actively recruiting patients for two Phase 3 studies already being conducted in South America and the USA. To read the original article click here.

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Flu Season Protection: Discover How Ginseng Supports a Strong Immune System

AHA Publisher — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 08:00:34 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – Don’t become a medical statistic – this coming flu season. Today, we’ll talk about how ginseng can help to support a strong immune system response. As you probably know: seasonal influenza can be a rapidly-spreading and highly contagious health issue that leads to 291,000 and 645,000 fatalities worldwide every year. Although most healthy adults recover from bouts of the flu with nothing more serious than unpleasant memories of fever, aches and pains, the fact is that a flu can and does increase the risk of premature death – in people with a compromised immune system. Making the situation even more dire is the fact that unexpected new pandemics, like COVID-19 – for which Western medicine has no “cure” – can emerge without warning. In truth, too many conventionally-trained physicians simply lack the fundamental level of education to handle immune deficient, health-related conditions. Scientific research reveals the lifesaving power of ginseng In a study published in the April 2014 edition of Nutrients, red Korean ginseng improved the survival rate of human lung epithelial cells that had been infected with influenza A, along with reducing the expression of inflammation-causing genes. In addition, researchers found that Korean ginseng helped to treat influenza by modifying the immune systems of mice with clinically-induced influenza A, causing them to develop increased levels of antiviral proteins. This is exciting information, especially when you consider the danger of flu vaccines. And the news on ginseng gets even better – another new study, published in International Journal of Molecular Medicine, supports ginseng’s ability to prevent and treat respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a disease for which there is currently no conventional remedy. RSV, the single most common cause of pneumonia and small-airway lung inflammations in babies under a year old, can also be extremely dangerous in older adults. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), RSV causes 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths in adults over 65 every year. Bottom line – you can eliminate the threat of pneumonia safely and effectively – without the need for toxic medications. Reduce your risk of chronic inflammation and viral activity Researchers found that Korean red ginseng attacked RSV in a style very similar to the way it combated influenza A: reducing damage to lung cells, suppressing the expression of inflammatory genes and inhibiting the virus’ ability to spread in the body. Animals given red ginseng orally had lower viral levels than those that had not been given this herb, along with increased production of dendritic cells – which create virus-fighting interferons. Red ginseng also fights viruses by stimulating production of natural killer cells and T-cells and boosting the power of the body’s own antioxidant defense systems. True ginseng exists in two different forms: American, or Panax quinquefolius, and Asian or Korean, scientifically known as Panax ginseng. Although they have similar active ingredients – a group of compounds called ginsenosides – their effects can differ. The most recent studies were performed with red Panax ginseng, but American ginseng has also shown immune-boosting properties. A third type, known as Siberian ginseng, is unrelated and does not have the same constituents. A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, this herb can help to reduce the risk of serious chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. It is also used to promote energy, reduce fatigue, improve cognitive function and memory, and elevate mood and quality of life. Famous for boosting immunity and preventing disease In a well-known study published in 1996 in Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research, researchers found that ginseng potentiated the flu vaccine, making it more effective. A group of 227 volunteers were split into two roughly equal groups and given either placebo or 400 milligrams of ginseng daily for 12 weeks; both groups received an anti-influenza vaccination at week four. While 42 people in the placebo group eventually developed influenza or colds between weeks four and 12, only 15 people in the “herb enhanced” group fell ill – a dramatic difference! The ginseng group also experienced decreased intensity of symptoms and a shorter duration of the illness. Which type of ginseng is best for flu prevention? Most studies on ginseng’s beneficial effects – as well as the two latest studies – have been done with red Korean ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng. Ginseng is available both as “white,” which has been peeled and dried, and “red,” which is steamed before drying and unpeeled. You can get the Korean form as a liquid extracts, powder and capsules; it is also available as a root, which can be boiled to make a decoction. Just be careful to buy the Korean variety only from trusted, reputable companies; cases of substitutions and adulterations have been reported. Ginseng can interact with medications and other herbs and supplements; consult with an integrative physician beforetaking it, especially if you have high blood pressure or autoimmune disease. Most experts advise taking ginseng in cycles, with a two-week period of ginseng supplementation followed by three weeks without the herb. One final note: Due to its stimulating effect, ginseng can theoretically cause nervousness and sleeplessness; this is more likely with very high amounts. Other side effects are uncommon, but could include headache and digestive disturbances. And, because this herb can lower blood sugar levels, it should be taken with food. No doubt, the current COVID-19 pandemic and past issues like the H1N1 virus highlight the need for better research on protecting us against unexpected and new viral strains. But, the research featured (today) about the value of herbal medicine should give us hope. There is a natural (safe) way to support our immune system and stay healthy – even in these troubling times of uncertainty. Never forget the value of good (organic) food and herbal medicine to protect your life. Sources for this article include: Medicinenet.com, Sciencedaily.com, NIH.gov, NIH.gov, NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Covid-19 Pneumonia Drug Candidate Being Prepared Rapidly

AHA Publisher — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 07:00:47 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – RedHill Biopharma of Tel Aviv is collaborating with two pharmaceutical manufacturers in Europe and Canada to ramp up manufacturing of its drug candidate opaganib (Yeliva) or severe Covid-19 pneumonia. The orally administered drug, which has anti-inflammatory and antiviral capabilities, could then meet potential demand for emergency use as the pandemic continues worldwide. Under a compassionate use program, Covid-19 patients treated with opaganib in an Israeli hospital were discharged without requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation, whereas one-third of the matched case-control group required intubation and mechanical ventilation. “Opaganib demonstrated potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, completely inhibiting viral replication in an in vitro model of human lung bronchial tissue,” RedHill reports. Opaganib is currently in global randomized, double-blind, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled Phase 2/3 and US Phase 2 studies in hospitalized patients with severe Covid-19 pneumonia requiring supplemental oxygen. The US Phase 2 study is approaching completion of enrollment in eight sites, with initial results expected before the end of this year. The Phase 2/3 study is enrolling up to 270 patients across 15 study sites in six countries by year’s end. RedHill is in discussions with US government agencies regarding rapid advancement of opaganib manufacturing toward potential emergency use applications. Opaganib also has the potential to target multiple oncology, viral, inflammatory and gastrointestinal indications. It has FDA orphan drug status for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma and is being evaluated in a Phase 2a study in advanced cholangiocarcinoma and in a Phase 2 study in prostate cancer. For the ongoing studies with opaganib, click here

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Zinc Deficiency May Be Considered as a Risk Factor for Infectious Diseases

AHA Publisher — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 07:00:43 +0000

Sechenov University via EurekAlert – Researchers from Sechenov University in collaboration with colleagues from Germany, Greece and Russia reviewed scientific articles on the role of zinc in the prevention and treatment of viral infections and pneumonia, with projections on those caused by SARS-CoV-2. The results were published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine. Zinc is necessary for normal metabolism and functioning of the reproductive, cardiovascular and nervous systems, but it is also important for the immune system, in particular for the proliferation and maturation of white blood cells (some of them are able to capture and digest microorganisms, and others – to produce antibodies). In addition, zinc is involved in the regulation of inflammation. Thus, normal levels of zinc support human resistance to inflammatory and infectious diseases. ‘According to the current estimates, the risk of zinc deficiency is observed in more than 1.5 billion people in the world. In Russia, deficiency of this element occurs in 20-40% of the population; in some regions it reaches 60%. Given the crucial role of zinc in regulation of immunity, one can propose that its insufficiency may be considered as a risk factor for infectious diseases,’ said the research leader, head of the Laboratory of Molecular Dietetics at Sechenov University, Professor Anatoly Skalny. The scientists reviewed the results of studies on the use of zinc-containing drugs for increasing immunity and preventing viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2 that caused COVID-19 outbreak this year. Previous studies showed that zinc and its binding substances can slow down the work of RNA polymerase (an enzyme that synthesises viral RNA molecules) of coronaviruses and suppress their spread in the body. One of the substances that stimulate the cellular zinc uptake, chloroquine, has already been tested on patients with SARS-CoV-2, but its strong side effects make it necessary to look for other compounds with a similar effect or use zinc separately. However, both options have not been sufficiently studied or tested yet. Observations of the development of other viruses, such as rhinoviruses (this family includes pathogens of acute respiratory diseases), show that an increase in the level of zinc in cells suppresses replication (reproduction) of the virus and stimulates production of interferon alpha, which has an antiviral activity. In addition, zinc deficiency is considered as one of the risk factors for the development of pneumonia: it increases the susceptibility to infectious agents and the disease duration. Several studies show the effectiveness of zinc-containing drugs in decreasing severity and duration of symptoms and reducing the prevalence of pneumonia. However, in general, data on the use of zinc as a therapy, rather than prevention, are contradictory. Another possible application of zinc is modulation of inflammation. Existing data show that zinc ions have an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing damage to lung tissue in pneumonia. Zinc also helps the body resist bacteria, and bacterial pneumonia frequently occurs in patients with secondary viral infections. ‘A recent study conducted by scientists from the USA confirmed our assumptions, demonstrating the effect of zinc intake on the risk of a severe course and the need for artificial ventilation in patients with COVID-19,’ said Alexey Tinkov, coauthor of the article, a leading researcher at the Laboratory of Molecular Dietetics at Sechenov University. Therefore, according to current research, adequate zinc status can bring down the likelihood of infectious respiratory diseases, pneumonia and its complications. There are also indirect indications that zinc intake may be effective in the fight against coronavirus disease (COVID-19), but there is still insufficient data for recommendations. To read the original article click here.

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Coronavirus Prevention and Symptoms: 10 Tips and When to Seek Medical Attention

AHA Publisher — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 07:00:25 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – While the Coronavirus is spreading across the globe and causing fear, remember that there are many preventative measures you can take. Coronavirus prevention starts with each of us. In addition to the obvious tips of avoiding public events, travel, and those with suspected Coronavirus, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk. First, know the symptoms and when they are cause for concern. Next, practice these Vital Tips for Coronavirus Prevention. Coronavirus Symptoms 1. First, it causes a sore throat that generally lasts 3-4 days. 2. Next, Coronavirus mixes with nasal fluid and mucus. It can enter the trachea and make its way to the lungs. This usually causes pneumonia. This period lasts another 5-6 days. 3. During the pneumonia infection, patients also experience a high fever and more difficulty breathing. 4. Of note, as it progresses, the nasal and lung congestion does not feel like a normal cold. It’s more like not being able to breathe and drowning. It’s absolutely imperative to seek immediate medical attention if you have these symptoms. 10 Vital Tips for Coronavirus Prevention 1. Runny nose and sputum mean you likely have a common cold, and not the Coronavirus. If you have a runny nose, it’s still best to stay home and not spread the cold, but this is different than Coronavirus. 2. If you have a dry cough and no runny nose, the is more inline with Coronavirus pneumonia symptoms. By the time you develop noticeable symptoms, the disease may have progressed. A great way to self-check your lungs each day before symptoms appear is to take a deep breath and hold it for more than 10 seconds while in an environment of clean air. If you can hold it without coughing, tightness, discomfort, or stiffness, your lungs are without the fibrosis caused by the virus. If coronavirus is active, you will likely not be able to hold your breath for long without coughing and discomfort. 3. The Coronavirus is killed by heat. Use hot water, get as much sunlight as possible, and boil or steam anything you believe could be contaminated. 4. Maintain distance between yourself and others, at least 5 feet and preferably 10 feet. A sneeze that contains the Coronavirus will have droplets that travel up to 10 feet before they are no longer airborne and contagious. Avoiding close contact with others is a vital Coronavirus prevention measure. 5. The Coronavirus can live on different surfaces, for different amounts of time. It can live on metals surfaces for 12 or more hours. Disinfect the surfaces if possible and wash your hands after any contact. 6. The Coronavirus can live on fabric for 6-12 hours. If you come in contact with suspicious fabric, wash your hands. Normal laundry soap will suffice to disinfect the fabric. 7. Choose warm drinking water over cold, and avoid ice water. All viruses hate warm water. 8. Washing your hands is likely the most important defense you have. The virus can live on your skin for 5-10 minutes. Think of all the times you touch your face, others, and surfaces in just that time! Make sure to keep your hands away from your face, and wash your hands frequently. You can also use sanitizer when unable to wash with soap and water. 9. Gargling with salt water is a great precaution as well. Try 1/8-1/4 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces warm water. 10. The Coronavirus is most harmful if it can get from your mouth down your airways and to your lungs. Drinking water frequently can help. Drink at least every 10-15 minutes. Water forces anything your mouth and esophagus down to your stomach, where you have powerful acid to kill viruses. Do not let your mouths become dry! Bottom Line While the Coronavirus is spreading across the globe and causing fear, remember that there are many preventative measures you can take. First, know the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if possible. In the meantime, practice these preventative measures and share with others as we all depend on each other to stay healthy. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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