Investigating CHRNA5, CHRNA3, and CHRNB4 variants in the genetic landscape of substance use disorder in Jordan.

BACKGROUND: Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex illness that can be attributed to the interaction between environmental and genetic factors. The nicotinic receptor gene cluster on chromosome 15 has a plausible association with SUD, particularly with nicotine dependence. METHODS: This study investigated 15 SNPs within the CHRNA5, CHRNA3, and CHRNB4 genes. Sequencing was used for genotyping 495 Jordanian males with SUD and 497 controls matched for age, gender, and descent. RESULTS: Our findings revealed that none of the tested alleles or genotypes were correlated with SUD. However, our analysis suggests that the route of substance use was linked to rs1051730 (P value = 0.04), rs8040868 (P value = 0.01) of CHRNA3, and rs16969968 (P value = 0.03) of CHRNA5. Additionally, a correlation was identified between rs3813567 of the CHRNB4 gene and the age at substance use onset (P value = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Variants in CHRNA5, CHRNA3, and CHRNB4 may interact with SUD features that can influence the development and progression of the disorder among Jordanians.

Lactulose versus polyethylene glycol for disimpaction therapy in constipated children, a randomized controlled study.

Faecal disimpaction is very important for successful management of the constipation in children. Lactulose is cheap and widely available medicine compared to other polyethylene glycol (PEG) preparations. From our experience, lactulose is effective and safe medicine for both disimpaction and maintenance therapy in constipated children. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of lactulose in faecal impaction management in children with constipation. We conducted a prospective controlled trial in children with functional constipation, who presented with faecal impaction to Queen Rania Hospital for Children from April 15, 2018 until October 15, 2018. Two randomised matched groups; group A included 33 constipated children treated for disimpaction with higher dose lactulose (10 g/15 ml) 4-6 ml/kg/day (max. 120 ml/day) and group B included 32 children treated for disimpaction with macrogol (PEG 4000) 1-1.5 g/kg (max. 30 g/day). Both groups received treatment until resolution or up to 6 days. Patients were followed over 1 week and success of disimpaction was observed. Moreover, any adverse events were recorded. All the patients in both groups achieved successful disimpaction by seventh day of the therapy, group B showed significant faster response. Both therapies were tolerated and no significant adverse events were reported. Both agents were safe, effective and well tolerated. Lactulose may be a good alternative to PEG in the treatment of faecal impaction in constipated children.