Evaluating LDL-C control in Indian acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients- A retrospective real-world study LDL-C control in ACS.

Background: Low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) progression. Although lipid lowering therapies remain the cornerstone of secondary ACSVD prevention, there exists residual dyslipidemia. The current study aimed to evaluate the real-world experience related to the treatment patterns and LDL-C control in Indian Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) patients. Methods: This was a real-world, descriptive, retrospective, observational, and multicentric study conducted across India. The data was collected for 1 year following the ACS event. The change in the levels of LDL-C from the baseline to the follow-up visits and the control of LDL-C, the change in lipid profile, lipoprotein levels, treatment patterns for lipid-lowering, and tolerability of existing treatments were evaluated. Results: Overall, 575 patients were included from 11 centers across India. The mean age of the patients was 52.92 years, with male predominance (76.35%). Although there was a significant reduction in the mean levels of LDL-C from the baseline [(122.64 ± 42.01 mg/dl to 74.41 ± 26.45 mg/dl (p < 0.001)], it was observed that despite high-intensity statin therapy, only 20.87% patients managed to achieve target LDL-C of <55 mg/dL and 55.65% were unable to reach LDL-C levels of <70 mg/dl one year after the event. Six patients reported adverse events without treatment discontinuation. Conclusion: The majority of the patients received high-intensity statins and did not attain target LDL-C levels, suggesting LDL-C control after an ACS event requires management with novel therapies having better efficacy as recommended by international and national guidelines.

Therapeutic Inertia in the Management of Psoriasis: A Quantitative Survey Among Indian Dermatologists and Patients.

Purpose: The primary objective of the study was to understand the therapeutic inertia in treatment and management of plaque psoriasis among dermatologists, along with determining the preferred treatment choices for management of plaque psoriasis; it also included the resulting treatment satisfaction among patients. The secondary objective was to identify the gaps in terms of knowledge and attitude among dermatologists and the expectations of patients. Patients and Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted among dermatologists and patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis across India. The interviews were conducted either face to face or via telephone between September and November 2020, using structured and validated questionnaires based on specific themes. The data obtained were statistically analysed, wherever applicable. Results: Overall, 207 adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and 303 dermatologists were interviewed. Post experiencing symptoms, 44% of the patients visited general physicians for treatment and there was an average 7.8-month delay by the patients to consult a dermatologist. Approximately one-fourth of patients used home remedies before seeking medical help. One-third of dermatologists used the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) for assessing the disease severity. Majority of dermatologists preferred combination therapy for their patients. The lack of quick resolution and side effects were the major reasons for changing the treatment. Overall, only 35% of the patients complied to current treatment. Satisfaction with existing forms of therapies was highest for mild plaque psoriasis (62%) as confirmed by dermatologists, while 52% of the overall patients were satisfied with their therapy. Majority of the patients (64%) affirmed living with plaque psoriasis impacted their lives. Conclusion: This first-of-its-kind survey in India highlighted the gaps in terms of the disease journey between dermatologists and patients. The survey emphasises the need for shared decision-making and may benefit dermatologists in suggestive modifications of the treatment algorithm and disease management in clinical settings.

Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor Use: A Pharmaco-ergonomic Qualification Tool.

Pharmaco-ergonomics implies tailoring the drug therapy to an individual patient's requirement(s). The development of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2-i) agents has impelled multiple clinical considerations, in the management of type-2 diabetes. This paper attempts to summarize the pharmaco-ergonomic considerations for these agents, in the form of an SGLT2-i qualification tool, based on a clinical score. This tool may serve as a simple and inexpensive practical guide, to optimize the risk-benefit considerations for SGLT2-i agents.

Cinnamon: Mystic powers of a minute ingredient.

Cinnamon, due to its exotic flavor and aroma, is a key ingredient in the kitchen of every household. From the beginning of its use in 2800 BC by our ancestors for various purposes such as anointment, embalming and various ailments, it has instigated the interest of many researchers. Recently many trials have explored the beneficial effects of cinnamon in Parkinsons, diabetes, blood, and brain. After extensive research on PubMed and Google scholar, data were collected regarding its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antilipemic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anticancer effect. This systematic review underlines the surplus health benefits of this clandestine ingredient and the scope of further research in these clinical scenarios.