Tanya Dutt

New Advances In Rectal Cancer Treatment May Help More Patients Avoid Surgery, Study Reveals

Rectal Cancer treatment

According to a recent research done at the Uppsala University, confirms that a new <span>rectal cancer treatment</span> doubles surgery-free cases and maintains a low recurrence rate. The thorough study has introduced promising advancements in treating rectal cancer, providing new hope for patients who might otherwise face invasive surgery. 

A groundbreaking approach, highlighted in this study further demonstrates that a significant number of rectal cancer patients can now avoid surgery altogether. This shift is driven by innovative treatment strategies that offer effective alternatives to traditional surgical methods.

The new treatment protocols are centered on enhancing patient outcomes by reducing the need for surgery. This development is significant as rectal cancer treatments traditionally involved surgical intervention, often resulting in prolonged recovery and substantial impacts on quality of life. The recent studies reveal that tailored therapies and advanced treatment plans can now manage rectal cancer more effectively while preserving patient well-being.

According to recent findings published in the eClinicalMedicine, a novel approach combining targeted therapies and immunotherapy has shown success in treating rectal cancer. This method allows many patients to forgo surgery, which has been the conventional route for rectal cancer treatment. The approach involves personalized treatment plans based on genetic and molecular profiling, leading to better management of the disease and reduced reliance on invasive procedures.

 "The tumour disappears completely more often, thereby increasing the chance of avoiding surgery and retaining normal rectum and rectal function. Moreover, there are fewer metastases," said Bengt Glimelius, Professor of Oncology at Uppsala University and Senior Consultantat Uppsala University Hospital, about the new method.

Additionally, research from Uppsala University highlights another promising treatment involving a combination of radiation and chemotherapy. This method has been refined to minimize side effects while effectively targeting cancer cells. Studies suggest that this approach not only improves treatment efficacy but also enhances patient quality of life by reducing the need for surgical intervention.

The research underscore a significant shift in how rectal cancer is approached, moving from predominantly surgical solutions to a more nuanced treatment strategy. Ongoing research continues to refine these methods, exploring how they can be adapted to different patient profiles and cancer stages. As these treatments advance, they promise to further improve outcomes and patient experiences.

While these advancements represent exciting progress in rectal cancer treatment, it’s essential for patients to consult healthcare professionals before making treatment decisions. Personalized medical advice ensures that the chosen approach aligns with individual health needs and circumstances, optimizing outcomes and supporting overall well-being.

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colon cancer stages

chemotherapy and radiation

rectal cancer sugery

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According to a recent research done at the Uppsala University, confirms that a new rectal cancer treatment doubles surgery-free cases and maintains a low recurrence rate. The thorough study has introduced promising advancements in treating rectal cancer, providing new hope for patients who might otherwise face invasive surgery. A groundbreaking approach, highlighted in this study further demonstrates that a significant number of rectal cancer patients can now avoid surgery altogether. This shift is driven by innovative treatment strategies that offer effective alternatives to traditional surgical methods.The new treatment protocols are centered on enhancing patient outcomes by reducing the need for surgery. This development is significant as rectal cancer treatments traditionally involved surgical intervention, often resulting in prolonged recovery and substantial impacts on quality of life. The recent studies reveal that tailored therapies and advanced treatment plans can now manage rectal cancer more effectively while preserving patient well-being.According to recent findings published in the eClinicalMedicine, a novel approach combining targeted therapies and immunotherapy has shown success in treating rectal cancer. This method allows many patients to forgo surgery, which has been the conventional route for rectal cancer treatment. The approach involves personalized treatment plans based on genetic and molecular profiling, leading to better management of the disease and reduced reliance on invasive procedures. "The tumour disappears completely more often, thereby increasing the chance of avoiding surgery and retaining normal rectum and rectal function. Moreover, there are fewer metastases," said Bengt Glimelius, Professor of Oncology at Uppsala University and Senior Consultantat Uppsala University Hospital, about the new method.Additionally, research from Uppsala University highlights another promising treatment involving a combination of radiation and chemotherapy. This method has been refined to minimize side effects while effectively targeting cancer cells. Studies suggest that this approach not only improves treatment efficacy but also enhances patient quality of life by reducing the need for surgical intervention.The research underscore a significant shift in how rectal cancer is approached, moving from predominantly surgical solutions to a more nuanced treatment strategy. Ongoing research continues to refine these methods, exploring how they can be adapted to different patient profiles and cancer stages. As these treatments advance, they promise to further improve outcomes and patient experiences.While these advancements represent exciting progress in rectal cancer treatment, it’s essential for patients to consult healthcare professionals before making treatment decisions. Personalized medical advice ensures that the chosen approach aligns with individual health needs and circumstances, optimizing outcomes and supporting overall well-being.

new advances in rectal cancer treatment may help more patients avoid surgery, study reveals

Health and Me

Ishita Roy

RFK Hires Autism Skeptic To Look Into CDC Autism Data

RFK Hires Autism Skeptic

Kennedy Names New Vaccine Advisers Among Whom Are Anti-Vaxxers And Those Who Spread Misinformation

kennedy names new vaccine advisers among whom are anti-vaxxers and those who spread misinformation. after ousting the entire panel

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Dr. David Geier, a controversial orthopedic surgeon and known vaccine skeptic, is attempting to revisit long-debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Recently hired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Geier is now reviewing historical safety data to investigate whether government agencies concealed crucial information.

<h4>Accessing <span rel="noindex">CDC</span>'s Vaccine Safety Database</h4>

Geier is reportedly seeking access to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a repository of vaccine safety records from millions of patients. The VSD is maintained by a dozen major healthcare systems, each controlling its own data. Full access has always been tightly controlled due to privacy and misuse concerns.

Geier previously accessed the database in 2004 and 2006. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, CDC officials revoked his access both times, alleging he had misrepresented his research intentions.

Despite this, Geier is once again pushing to analyze the data. It remains unclear if access has been granted. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that the department intends to take a “fresh look at all data including old data,” and emphasized that they would “follow the science—wherever it leads.”

<h4>Scientific Community Raises Concerns</h4>

The scientific and public health communities have expressed concern over Geier's involvement. “He has no record in the scientific community of doing valid work,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, former director of the CDC’s immunization program.

Geier and his late father, geneticist Mark Geier, have long promoted the theory that vaccines cause autism—an idea widely discredited by the medical community. The pair also introduced a controversial treatment using hormone-blocking drugs, which resulted in the revocation of Mark Geier’s medical license and disciplinary actions against David Geier for practicing medicine without a license.

At a 2015 conference, Geier defended his position, claiming the scientific community dismisses their findings without proper consideration. “They think that [the vaccine's link to autism has] been completely debunked,” he said at the time.

<h4>Kennedy's Role and the Larger Context</h4>

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccine mandates, has clarified that Geier will not lead autism research. Instead, his focus will be on identifying any possibly overlooked or hidden data within the CDC’s database.

“There has been a lot of monkey business with the VSD,” Kennedy stated in a previous congressional appearance.

Kennedy, who once authored a now-retracted Rolling Stone article alleging a vaccine-autism cover-up, cited a 2000 CDC conference that explored preliminary data on thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once used in vaccines. Though early findings prompted questions, later analysis confirmed no link between thimerosal and autism. Thimerosal was removed from most vaccines in 2001, and final results were published in 2003.

<h4>Exploring Autism Causes and Rising Rates</h4>

While Geier conducts his review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is separately examining rising autism rates. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 31 eight-year-olds in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism in 2022. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of better diagnostic methods, genetic factors, and increased awareness.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also plans to fund research into other possible causes, such as environmental toxins and diet. Meanwhile, Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit formerly led by Kennedy, is hosting an online event this week centered on what it calls the “autism cover-up.”

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vaccines and autism

rfk hires autism critic

Dr. David Geier, a controversial orthopedic surgeon and known vaccine skeptic, is attempting to revisit long-debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Recently hired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Geier is now reviewing historical safety data to investigate whether government agencies concealed crucial information.Accessing CDC's Vaccine Safety DatabaseGeier is reportedly seeking access to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a repository of vaccine safety records from millions of patients. The VSD is maintained by a dozen major healthcare systems, each controlling its own data. Full access has always been tightly controlled due to privacy and misuse concerns.Geier previously accessed the database in 2004 and 2006. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, CDC officials revoked his access both times, alleging he had misrepresented his research intentions.Despite this, Geier is once again pushing to analyze the data. It remains unclear if access has been granted. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that the department intends to take a “fresh look at all data including old data,” and emphasized that they would “follow the science—wherever it leads.”Scientific Community Raises ConcernsThe scientific and public health communities have expressed concern over Geier's involvement. “He has no record in the scientific community of doing valid work,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, former director of the CDC’s immunization program.Geier and his late father, geneticist Mark Geier, have long promoted the theory that vaccines cause autism—an idea widely discredited by the medical community. The pair also introduced a controversial treatment using hormone-blocking drugs, which resulted in the revocation of Mark Geier’s medical license and disciplinary actions against David Geier for practicing medicine without a license.At a 2015 conference, Geier defended his position, claiming the scientific community dismisses their findings without proper consideration. “They think that [the vaccine's link to autism has] been completely debunked,” he said at the time.Kennedy's Role and the Larger ContextRobert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccine mandates, has clarified that Geier will not lead autism research. Instead, his focus will be on identifying any possibly overlooked or hidden data within the CDC’s database.“There has been a lot of monkey business with the VSD,” Kennedy stated in a previous congressional appearance.Kennedy, who once authored a now-retracted Rolling Stone article alleging a vaccine-autism cover-up, cited a 2000 CDC conference that explored preliminary data on thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once used in vaccines. Though early findings prompted questions, later analysis confirmed no link between thimerosal and autism. Thimerosal was removed from most vaccines in 2001, and final results were published in 2003.Exploring Autism Causes and Rising RatesWhile Geier conducts his review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is separately examining rising autism rates. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 31 eight-year-olds in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism in 2022. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of better diagnostic methods, genetic factors, and increased awareness.The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also plans to fund research into other possible causes, such as environmental toxins and diet. Meanwhile, Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit formerly led by Kennedy, is hosting an online event this week centered on what it calls the “autism cover-up.”

rfk hires autism skeptic to look into cdc autism data

Covid-19 Active Cases Cross 7,100 In India But Signs Point To A Slowdown—How To Stay Protected Now?

India's COVID Tally Soars To Nearly 7000 Active Cases With 3 Deaths In 24 Hours; Is A New Wave Here?

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India is again facing a concerning but seemingly controlled increase in <span>Covid-19</span> cases. As of June 13, 2025, the active case count of the country is 7,131, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Although new daily cases increased by 33 and three more deaths were added—two in Maharashtra and one in Madhya Pradesh—the overall trend indicates a potential plateau and even a slight dip, which gives optimistic hopes.

The most recent state-by-state Covid-19 dashboard published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare indicates remarkable regional variations in infection incidence in India. Kerala remains to have the highest burden, with 2,055 active cases, out of which 110 were new cases in one day. Gujarat is the second worst-affected state with 1,358 active cases, which saw a steep daily jump of 77 cases. Other majorly affected states are West Bengal, with 747 active cases; Delhi, with 714 cases; and Maharashtra, with 629 active infections. The Karnataka region showed a significant increase with 72 new cases, taking its active caseload to 395. On the other hand, there are no active Covid-19 cases in certain states like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Manipur, hinting at effective containment measures. In spite of these diverse regional numbers, the overall national trend seems positively tentative. There were 1,420 new recoveries logged, elevating the total number of recovered or migrated persons to 10,976 for the year, which highlights India's resilience in its continuous Covid-19 response.

The increase is credited mainly to new Omicron sub-variants, such as JN.1, LF.7, NB.1.8.1, and XFG, which are highly contagious but produce milder symptoms than previous strains. These variants are now listed as "Variants Under Monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). While not yet classified as variants of concern, they necessitate heightened vigilance, particularly among high-risk groups.

Experts advise against attributing these numbers to the onset of a full-blown wave. Rather, they refer to a seasonal surge, similar to the flu, which is consonant with the virus's post-pandemic shift towards an endemic pattern.

<h2>Why Are Booster Shots Not Recommended?</h2>

In light of India's high hybrid immunity from both vaccinations and past infections, health authorities as of now not recommending mass booster drives. Rather, targeted vaccination is being encouraged for:

<ul><li>The elderly</li><li>Immunocompromised hosts</li><li>People with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease</li></ul>

The Indian Medical Association and health professionals emphasize that this risk-based, strategic strategy is more effective protection than mass immunization campaigns.

Even with the recent upsurge, health workers urge not panicking but remaining proactive. Distinguishing between Covid-19 and other common seasonal viral infections—often producing the same symptoms as fever, fatigue, and cough—is now of paramount importance.

Physicians and public health specialist, point out that exhaustion from sustained lookout can precipitate complacency. We can't ignore Covid-19 as a historical moment. It's very much still around—but controlled with the appropriate preventive measures.

<h2>Actionable Tips To Prevent COVID Infection</h2>

Nowadays, personal responsibility and daily routine are still your best protection. Here's how to protect yourself:

<h4>1. Wear a Mask in Crowded Indoor Spaces</h4>

Though mandates may have disappeared, masks are effective, especially in poorly ventilated spaces indoors, on public transportation, and in medical offices.

<h4>2. Get Current with Targeted Vaccines</h4>

If you are in a high-risk group, speak with your health care provider about boosters that are available or trials soon to be under way for new variant-specific vaccines.

Prioritize a balanced diet, proper sleep, and regular physical activity in order to maintain your immune system strong against not only Covid-19 but also other flu and seasonal diseases.

Good hygiene habits such as regular handwashing, the use of sanitizers, and not touching your face while in public can significantly minimize the risk of transmission.

If you are symptomatic—or have someone living with you who is—skip gatherings and go remote work whenever possible.

Notice signs such as fever, chronic cough, body pain, fatigue, and taste/smell loss. Test early and self-isolate to avoid transmission.

Particularly if above 60 years or with underlying conditions, don't wait even for minor symptoms. Early treatment can be life-saving.

The India Covid-19 situation is serious but under control. Yes, the active cases are more than 7,100, but the recovery rates are robust, and the fatalities are few and limited to the vulnerable groups.

Instead of fear, this time it requires a recommitment to public health practices—from mask-wearing when necessary to symptom-watching and protecting the vulnerable.

<h2>Key Figures at a Glance (as of June 13, 2025)</h2>

<strong>Total Active Cases: 7,131</strong>

Top States by Active Cases: Kerala (2055), Gujarat (1358), West Bengal (747), Delhi (714), Maharashtra (629)

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india covid cases 2025

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new covid variants

India is again facing a concerning but seemingly controlled increase in Covid-19 cases. As of June 13, 2025, the active case count of the country is 7,131, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Although new daily cases increased by 33 and three more deaths were added—two in Maharashtra and one in Madhya Pradesh—the overall trend indicates a potential plateau and even a slight dip, which gives optimistic hopes.The most recent state-by-state Covid-19 dashboard published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare indicates remarkable regional variations in infection incidence in India. Kerala remains to have the highest burden, with 2,055 active cases, out of which 110 were new cases in one day. Gujarat is the second worst-affected state with 1,358 active cases, which saw a steep daily jump of 77 cases. Other majorly affected states are West Bengal, with 747 active cases; Delhi, with 714 cases; and Maharashtra, with 629 active infections. The Karnataka region showed a significant increase with 72 new cases, taking its active caseload to 395. On the other hand, there are no active Covid-19 cases in certain states like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Manipur, hinting at effective containment measures. In spite of these diverse regional numbers, the overall national trend seems positively tentative. There were 1,420 new recoveries logged, elevating the total number of recovered or migrated persons to 10,976 for the year, which highlights India's resilience in its continuous Covid-19 response.The increase is credited mainly to new Omicron sub-variants, such as JN.1, LF.7, NB.1.8.1, and XFG, which are highly contagious but produce milder symptoms than previous strains. These variants are now listed as "Variants Under Monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). While not yet classified as variants of concern, they necessitate heightened vigilance, particularly among high-risk groups.Experts advise against attributing these numbers to the onset of a full-blown wave. Rather, they refer to a seasonal surge, similar to the flu, which is consonant with the virus's post-pandemic shift towards an endemic pattern.Why Are Booster Shots Not Recommended?In light of India's high hybrid immunity from both vaccinations and past infections, health authorities as of now not recommending mass booster drives. Rather, targeted vaccination is being encouraged for:The elderlyImmunocompromised hostsPeople with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseaseThe Indian Medical Association and health professionals emphasize that this risk-based, strategic strategy is more effective protection than mass immunization campaigns.Even with the recent upsurge, health workers urge not panicking but remaining proactive. Distinguishing between Covid-19 and other common seasonal viral infections—often producing the same symptoms as fever, fatigue, and cough—is now of paramount importance.Physicians and public health specialist, point out that exhaustion from sustained lookout can precipitate complacency. We can't ignore Covid-19 as a historical moment. It's very much still around—but controlled with the appropriate preventive measures.Actionable Tips To Prevent COVID InfectionNowadays, personal responsibility and daily routine are still your best protection. Here's how to protect yourself:1. Wear a Mask in Crowded Indoor SpacesThough mandates may have disappeared, masks are effective, especially in poorly ventilated spaces indoors, on public transportation, and in medical offices.2. Get Current with Targeted VaccinesIf you are in a high-risk group, speak with your health care provider about boosters that are available or trials soon to be under way for new variant-specific vaccines.3. Boost Your Immune SystemPrioritize a balanced diet, proper sleep, and regular physical activity in order to maintain your immune system strong against not only Covid-19 but also other flu and seasonal diseases.4. Practice HygieneGood hygiene habits such as regular handwashing, the use of sanitizers, and not touching your face while in public can significantly minimize the risk of transmission.5. Stay Away from CrowdsIf you are symptomatic—or have someone living with you who is—skip gatherings and go remote work whenever possible.6. Identify Symptoms EarlyNotice signs such as fever, chronic cough, body pain, fatigue, and taste/smell loss. Test early and self-isolate to avoid transmission.7. Seek Medical HelpParticularly if above 60 years or with underlying conditions, don't wait even for minor symptoms. Early treatment can be life-saving.The India Covid-19 situation is serious but under control. Yes, the active cases are more than 7,100, but the recovery rates are robust, and the fatalities are few and limited to the vulnerable groups.Instead of fear, this time it requires a recommitment to public health practices—from mask-wearing when necessary to symptom-watching and protecting the vulnerable.Key Figures at a Glance (as of June 13, 2025)Total Active Cases: 7,131New Cases in 24 Hours: 33Total Deaths (2025): 78Top States by Active Cases: Kerala (2055), Gujarat (1358), West Bengal (747), Delhi (714), Maharashtra (629)Recovered in 2025: 10,976 and risingDeath IN Last 24 Hours: 1 (Kerala)

covid-19 active cases cross 7,100 in india but signs point to a slowdown—how to stay protected now?

New Once-a-Week Pill May Transform Schizophrenia Treatment, Lancet Study Finds

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A team of researchers from MIT, New York Medical College, and Lyndra Therapeutics have introduced a once-a-week oral pill for <span>schizophrenia</span>. Published in The Lancet Psychiatry, this new treatment model could transform how antipsychotic medications are administered—enhancing patient compliance, improving long-term outcomes, and reducing relapse risk.

One of the most formidable challenges in treating schizophrenia is ensuring patients consistently take their medication. Daily dosing can be a significant hurdle, particularly in psychiatric conditions where cognitive and emotional symptoms hinder memory and motivation.

Enter the newly designed pill: a once-a-week oral capsule featuring a star-shaped drug delivery system that slowly releases risperidone over seven days. The innovation, led by Giovanni Traverso of MIT and Leslie Citrome of New York Medical College, aims to simplify schizophrenia treatment and drastically improve medication adherence.

"We’ve converted something that had to be taken once a day into a weekly oral solution using a novel delayed-release technology," said Traverso, also a gastroenterologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “This innovation can be adapted for a variety of medications."

<h2>How Does The Star-Shaped Drug Delivery Device Work?</h2>

Roughly the size of a multivitamin, the capsule houses a six-armed, foldable device that expands once it reaches the stomach. This unique shape keeps the device in the stomach for about a week, allowing the steady release of medication.

Over time, each arm breaks off and safely passes through the digestive tract. This ensures the body gradually absorbs the medication while preventing gastrointestinal blockages. “It’s a breakthrough that allows drug delivery in a controlled and sustained manner,” said Dr. Citrome.

In the Phase III trial, 83 participants with schizophrenia were enrolled across five clinical sites in the US. Of these, 45 patients completed the full five-week regimen, taking one risperidone-loaded capsule per week.

The results were compelling. Drug levels peaked immediately post-dose and tapered slowly over the week. The consistency was superior to daily oral dosing, where patient-administered pills often result in fluctuating drug concentrations.

Symptom control, measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), remained stable across the board. Patients did not experience the spikes and troughs commonly observed with daily oral intake, a factor often linked to symptom relapses and hospitalizations.

<h2>Does This This Offer Minimal Side Effects With Major Potential?</h2>

The trial noted only mild side effects such as acid reflux and constipation, which were temporary and manageable. Importantly, the pill demonstrated an impressive safety profile over the trial duration.

“This really validates our hypothesis from over a decade ago—that a once-weekly oral drug delivery capsule could function as a depot system in the gastrointestinal tract,” Traverso remarked.

Beyond schizophrenia, the research team is already eyeing broader applications for this delivery system. Phase I trials are being planned for drugs used in managing conditions like hypertension, asthma, and even for oral contraceptives.

The capsule’s ease of use, combined with its potential to deliver various drugs, makes it an attractive option for chronic conditions where daily adherence is challenging. Patients often prefer oral medications over injections, and this technology could serve as a bridge between convenience and efficacy.

Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide, according to the WHO. Medication adherence remains one of the key challenges in managing the condition. The consequences of missed doses can be severe—leading to relapse, hospitalization, or deterioration in quality of life.

The once-a-week oral capsule has the potential to fill this long-standing gap, offering hope for better disease control and reduced burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.

Dr. Richard Scranton, chief medical officer of Lyndra Therapeutics and senior author of the study, emphasized that the results support moving forward toward FDA approvals. “We’re incredibly optimistic about what this means for the future of psychiatric and chronic disease management.”

Lyndra Therapeutics and MIT are currently preparing for larger Phase III studies to confirm safety and efficacy on a broader scale. If successful, the capsule could be submitted for FDA approval within the next few years.

“This marks a paradigm shift in how we think about oral drug delivery,” added Robert Langer, MIT’s renowned bioengineer and co-founder of Lyndra. “And we’re just getting started.”

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schizophrenia

once-a-week schizophrenia pill

schizophrenia treatment 2025

oral risperidone capsule

lancet schizophrenia study

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mental health breakthrough

weekly psychiatric medication

A team of researchers from MIT, New York Medical College, and Lyndra Therapeutics have introduced a once-a-week oral pill for schizophrenia. Published in The Lancet Psychiatry, this new treatment model could transform how antipsychotic medications are administered—enhancing patient compliance, improving long-term outcomes, and reducing relapse risk.One of the most formidable challenges in treating schizophrenia is ensuring patients consistently take their medication. Daily dosing can be a significant hurdle, particularly in psychiatric conditions where cognitive and emotional symptoms hinder memory and motivation.Enter the newly designed pill: a once-a-week oral capsule featuring a star-shaped drug delivery system that slowly releases risperidone over seven days. The innovation, led by Giovanni Traverso of MIT and Leslie Citrome of New York Medical College, aims to simplify schizophrenia treatment and drastically improve medication adherence."We’ve converted something that had to be taken once a day into a weekly oral solution using a novel delayed-release technology," said Traverso, also a gastroenterologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “This innovation can be adapted for a variety of medications."How Does The Star-Shaped Drug Delivery Device Work?Roughly the size of a multivitamin, the capsule houses a six-armed, foldable device that expands once it reaches the stomach. This unique shape keeps the device in the stomach for about a week, allowing the steady release of medication.Over time, each arm breaks off and safely passes through the digestive tract. This ensures the body gradually absorbs the medication while preventing gastrointestinal blockages. “It’s a breakthrough that allows drug delivery in a controlled and sustained manner,” said Dr. Citrome.Promising Phase III ResultsIn the Phase III trial, 83 participants with schizophrenia were enrolled across five clinical sites in the US. Of these, 45 patients completed the full five-week regimen, taking one risperidone-loaded capsule per week.The results were compelling. Drug levels peaked immediately post-dose and tapered slowly over the week. The consistency was superior to daily oral dosing, where patient-administered pills often result in fluctuating drug concentrations.Symptom control, measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), remained stable across the board. Patients did not experience the spikes and troughs commonly observed with daily oral intake, a factor often linked to symptom relapses and hospitalizations.Does This This Offer Minimal Side Effects With Major Potential?The trial noted only mild side effects such as acid reflux and constipation, which were temporary and manageable. Importantly, the pill demonstrated an impressive safety profile over the trial duration.“This really validates our hypothesis from over a decade ago—that a once-weekly oral drug delivery capsule could function as a depot system in the gastrointestinal tract,” Traverso remarked.What are the Other Application?Beyond schizophrenia, the research team is already eyeing broader applications for this delivery system. Phase I trials are being planned for drugs used in managing conditions like hypertension, asthma, and even for oral contraceptives.The capsule’s ease of use, combined with its potential to deliver various drugs, makes it an attractive option for chronic conditions where daily adherence is challenging. Patients often prefer oral medications over injections, and this technology could serve as a bridge between convenience and efficacy.Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide, according to the WHO. Medication adherence remains one of the key challenges in managing the condition. The consequences of missed doses can be severe—leading to relapse, hospitalization, or deterioration in quality of life.The once-a-week oral capsule has the potential to fill this long-standing gap, offering hope for better disease control and reduced burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.Dr. Richard Scranton, chief medical officer of Lyndra Therapeutics and senior author of the study, emphasized that the results support moving forward toward FDA approvals. “We’re incredibly optimistic about what this means for the future of psychiatric and chronic disease management.”Lyndra Therapeutics and MIT are currently preparing for larger Phase III studies to confirm safety and efficacy on a broader scale. If successful, the capsule could be submitted for FDA approval within the next few years.“This marks a paradigm shift in how we think about oral drug delivery,” added Robert Langer, MIT’s renowned bioengineer and co-founder of Lyndra. “And we’re just getting started.”

new once-a-week pill may transform schizophrenia treatment, lancet study finds

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