ABSTRACT
Background: Understanding the processes underlying cognitive functions is a prerequisite to develop strategies for the treatment of cognitive deficits. There is a great need for valid animal models for investigating the cognitive enhancing effects of potential therapeutics. Many studies have investigated animal models of cognitive deficits by using animals treated with compounds that compromise cognitive abilities. Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter and abundantly distributed in the central nervous system is involved in memory processes through N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. The behavioural consequences of blocking the NMDA receptor provide the rationale for cognitive impairment as an animal model for the cognitive deficits associated with dementia. Authors investigated the effect of dizocilpine (MK-801), an NMDA-receptor antagonist (non-competitive) on the working memory in rats using the three-panel runway apparatus.Methods: Total 24 trained male albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each. Varying doses of MK-801 were administered to the animals. Working memory errors and latency periods were evaluated on the three panel Runway apparatus.Results: Treatment with MK-801 at the dose of 0.03mg/ kg did not result in any significant change in working memory errors or latency period in comparison to saline control. MK-801 treatment at dose of 0.1mg/kg and 0.3mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in the number of working memory errors and latency period as compared to control.Conclusions: Authors conclude that MK-801 treatment in the dose of 0.1mg/ kg and 0.3mg/kg resulted in working memory deficits on the three-panel runway apparatus. Rats with cognitive deficits induced by the prototypical N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK-801 may provide a relevant animal model of dementia based on the mechanistic approach of blocking NMDA/glutamatergic signalling.
ABSTRACT
Background: Counterfeit drugs are a global problem and suffered almost all developing and developed countries worldwide. In India, it is a major problem which results life threatening issues as well as financial loss on health system. So, we conducted a cross sectional questionnaire-based study on knowledge and exposure to counterfeit drugs of doctors at SHKM Govt. Medical College, Nuh, Haryana, India.Methods: A structured questionnaire was distributed to 100 registered doctors. The questionnaire was based on knowledge, attitude and its consequence on the heath system by the practices of counterfeit medication.Results: There were Twenty questionnaires excluded from the study due to incomplete information. Only 57.77% (46/80) subjects having the knowledge of questionnaire correct meaning of counterfeit drug. However, almost 90% (72/80) subjects were aware about its dangerous effects. More than 50% of the subjects have suggested that modern technology is capable to control counterfeiting of the medicine.Conclusions: Counterfeit drugs create a people health hazard and waste to consumer income. The proper knowledge, awareness and modern technological approaches are the devices may helpful in diminution of counterfeit medication practices.
ABSTRACT
Background: The pediatric population comprises of 20-25% of the total world population, and numerous acute and chronic diseases can effect this sub population. Antibiotics are among the most frequently prescribed classes of medications for children. Methods: The study is prospective interventional study carried out in the pediatric outpatient of the MIMS for a period of 3 months (September-November 2013+1 month for analysis). Results: Most (84%) children were given single antimicrobial agent and 16% were given more than one antimicrobial or fi xed dose combination of the antimicrobial agent. Amoxicillin (48%), erythromycin (20%) and cefi xime (16%) were found to be the most frequently used antibiotics. Conclusions: The high percentage of prescriptions involving antimicrobials observed in MIMS requires rational use of antimicrobials and judicious prescribing. It should be followed by the appropriate use of the selected medicine from the NLEM with frequent update of information. The implementation of antibiotic policy and treatment guidelines with periodic assessment of the clinical pharmacologist in the study area is very important in order to monitor the clinical use of these medications.