Targeting Cancer Hallmarks with Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): Mechanistic Basis and Therapeutic Targets.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a catechin, which is a type of flavonoid found in high concentrations in green tea. EGCG has been studied extensively for its potential health benefits, particularly in cancer. EGCG has been found to exhibit anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, and pro-apoptotic effects in numerous cancer cell lines and animal models. EGCG has demonstrated the ability to interrupt various signaling pathways associated with cellular proliferation and division in different cancer types. EGCG anticancer activity is mediated by interfering with various cancer hallmarks. This article summarize and highlight the effects of EGCG on cancer hallmarks and focused on the impacts of EGCG on these cancer-related hallmarks. The studies discussed in this review enrich the understanding of EGCG's potential as a therapeutic tool against cancer, offering a substantial foundation for scientists and medical experts to advance scientific and clinical investigations regarding EGCG's possibility as a potential anticancer treatment.

Perspectives of and Experience toward the Abuse of Antidiarrheal Drug (Loperamide) among Community Pharmacists: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This study aimed to assess the ability of community pharmacists to recognize cases of loperamide abuse at the point of sale, their perspective of and experience toward potential abuse cases. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jordan, using a self-administered online questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of three main parts: demographics, the experience of pharmacists with abusers' behavior, as well as their perspectives toward loperamide abuse. RESULTS: A total of 250 community pharmacists completed the survey, 54% (135) of which were female. Almost one-third (33.2%; 83) of the participants reported exposure to suspected cases of loperamide abuse during the last six months. Pharmacists declared that most of the suspected loperamide abusers were male (60.2%), of middle-low socioeconomic status (69.9%), and between 20 and 30 years of age (57.8%). The largest quantity (packs) of loperamide requested by a single patient was around 33.2 ± 14.9 at once. As reported by pharmacists, the suspected reasons behind loperamide abuse included 50% seeking euphoria, 17% relieving anxiety, and 33% controlling addiction (weaning off other opioids). The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between the male sex (OR = 1.2, 95% CI 0.12-1.59), pharmacy location in the center of Jordan (OR = 21.2, 95% CI 2.45-183.59), late-night working shift (Shift C, OR = 1.29, 95% CI 0.12-2.08), and abuse to loperamide during the last six months. CONCLUSIONS: This study sheds light on loperamide abuse potentials, which could be influenced by different sociodemographic characteristics. Accordingly, close monitoring and thorough tackling of the abuse practices are mandated through an increase in educational and awareness campaigns about proper medication use.