Vancomycin Linked to Higher AKI Risk in ICU Patients: Study

A recent target trial emulation study found that vancomycin use in ICU patients is associated with a higher risk of acute kidney injury compared to alternatives such as clindamycin and linezolid, highlighting the importance of following established prevention strategies. The study was published in Pharmacoepidemiology & Drug Safety journal by Izak A. and colleagues.

The analysis was founded on a hypothetical trial simulation employing routinely collected data from 15 Dutch ICUs over the period between 2010 and 2019. The data of 1,809 ICU admissions were analyzed. Patients who underwent vancomycin were compared with those that were treated with other minimally nephrotoxic antibiotics, such as clindamycin, linezolid, teicoplanin, meropenem, cefazolin, and daptomycin.

Acute kidney injury was classified based on the KDIGO serum creatinine criteria. To adjust for confounding and selection bias, inverse probability of treatment and censoring weighting was used in the analysis. Risk estimates were reported at 2 days and 14 days after the start of antibiotics, taking into consideration the 24–48 hour delay between renal function worsening and detection by SCr.

Results

  • The analysis revealed that vancomycin use was not related to a higher risk of AKI in the first 2 days.

  • In 2 days, AKI risk was 0.10 (95% CI 0.06–0.12) among vancomycin users compared with 0.10 (95% CI 0.08–0.11) among alternative antibiotic users, with a risk difference of 0.00 (95% CI −0.03–0.03).

  • By day 14, a definitive difference had emerged. The risk adjusted for AKI was 0.28 (95% CI 0.21–0.34) for vancomycin versus 0.17 (95% CI 0.14–0.20) for the alternative antibiotic.

  • This represented a risk difference of 0.11 (95% CI 0.04–0.19), meaning that vancomycin was linked to a much increased risk of kidney damage over time.

The research concluded that vancomycin was associated with a higher risk of acute kidney injury in comparison to other antibiotics when administered for 14 days in ICU patients. The authors suggest strict compliance with vancomycin-induced AKI preventive protocols and that less nephrotoxic alternatives should be considered where possible in order to protect renal function in critically ill patients.

Reference:

Yasrebi-de Kom, I. A. R., Jager, K. J., Stel, V. S., Chesnaye, N. C., Abu-Hanna, A., de Keizer, N. F., de Lange, D. W., Dongelmans, D. A., Klopotowska, J. E., Cinà, G., & the RESCUE Study Group. (2025). Vancomycin‐induced acute kidney injury in intensive care patients: A target trial emulation study using multicenter routinely collected data. Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, 34(9). https://doi.org/10.1002/pds.70205

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Psoriasis Treatments Show No Impact on Blood Glucose Levels: Study

A new study published in Dermatology just put to rest the idea that biologics or methotrexate might double as anti-diabetes medications for people with psoriasis. Researchers tracked HbA1c levels in 386 psoriasis patients over the course of a year—those treated with TNF-α inhibitors (like adalimumab and infliximab), IL-17 inhibitors (brodalumab, ixekizumab, secukinumab), IL-12/23 inhibitor (ustekinumab), IL-23 inhibitors (guselkumab, risankizumab), and methotrexate. Across all treatment groups, HbA1c values stayed essentially unchanged. A tiny increase seen with secukinumab was deemed not clinically significant. Even when the analysis focused only on patients with higher initial HbA1c (36–47 mmol/mol), treatment had zero impact.

Why does this matter? People with psoriasis generally run a higher risk of developing type-2 diabetes—likely tied to chronic inflammation. It’s tempting to hope that anti-inflammatory biologics or methotrexate could pull double duty by improving glucose metabolism. But this study’s data suggest otherwise: these effective skin-clearing treatments don’t seem to nudge blood sugar.

That doesn’t mean biologics aren’t valuable—they still work wonders for managing skin symptoms and overall inflammation. But for diabetics, or psoriasis patients concerned about long-term metabolic risks, it’s important to know these drugs don’t appear to offer glycemic protection.

For clinicians, this means continuing to monitor HbA1c routinely, just like in any other patient, and pushing for proven metabolic strategies—diet, exercise, medications when needed—rather than assuming psoriasis treatment alone will move the needle.

Reference:
Bukhari, M. F., Schwarz, C. W., Zachariae, C. O. C., Loft, N., & Skov, L. (2025). No change in HbA1c levels during treatment with biologics or methotrexate in patients with psoriasis. Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1159/000547591 [API]

Keywords: psoriasis, biologic therapy, methotrexate, HbA1c, glucose metabolism, antidiabetic effect, Dermatology journal

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Over 14,000 B.Pharm, D.Pharm Seats Filled in MP, Vacancies Push Second Round

Bhopal: In a major development for pharmacy aspirants, a total of 14,128 seats in B.Pharmacy and D.Pharmacy courses have been allotted during the first round of counselling in Madhya Pradesh. Despite the large number of allotments, more than 5,200 seats still remain vacant, paving the way for the second round of admissions.

As per official figures, 10,413 seats in B.Pharmacy and 3,715 seats in D.Pharmacy have been allotted across institutes in the state. The counselling process involved 179 B.Pharmacy institutes and 194 D.Pharmacy institutes.

Also Read:B Pharmacy Graduate Held for Operating Unauthorized Clinic in Hyderabad

Candidates who have been allotted seats are required to report to their respective institutes and complete the document verification process by September 18. The second round of counselling will be conducted online between September 19 and October 3 to fill the remaining vacant seats.

Dainik Bhaskar reports that the allotment and admission schedule has been carried out under state guidelines to ensure transparency in the process. Officials highlighted that the vacancies from the first round will be carried forward to the second round to maximise enrolments.

Also Read:Maha: Direct Second-Year B.Pharm Admissions via Diploma Route Surge 60% in 2 Years, Reach 14,010 in 2025-26

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Azelastine Nasal Spray May Lower COVID-19 Infection Risk: JAMA

Researchers have found in a new study that azelastine nasal spray may help reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Azelastine, a second-generation antihistamine with anti-inflammatory properties, has been widely used for allergic rhinitis and other nasal conditions. Its potential antiviral effects, particularly against coronaviruses, have drawn attention since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new study, published in JAMA Network Open, investigated whether azelastine nasal spray could reduce the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals at risk. The randomized controlled trial included participants who were exposed to COVID-19 in the community or through close contact. Participants were assigned to receive either azelastine nasal spray or placebo, with follow-up monitoring for infection outcomes confirmed by PCR testing. Results indicated a lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the azelastine group compared to placebo, suggesting a potential protective effect. Importantly, the spray was well tolerated, with only mild and transient local side effects such as nasal irritation reported. The mechanism is thought to involve azelastine’s ability to reduce viral replication and modulate local inflammatory responses in the nasal mucosa, which is a primary site of SARS-CoV-2 entry. Researchers noted that the nasal cavity serves as the initial reservoir for viral colonization, making topical prophylactic interventions a promising area of study. While the findings are encouraging, the authors emphasized that azelastine nasal spray should not be seen as a replacement for established preventive measures, such as vaccination, masking, and antiviral therapies. Rather, it may serve as an adjunctive option, particularly in high-risk individuals or settings where exposure risk is elevated. Larger multicenter trials are needed to confirm efficacy, define optimal dosing regimens, and explore its role in post-exposure prophylaxis. In conclusion, azelastine nasal spray demonstrates promise in reducing COVID-19 infection risk, with a favorable safety profile. If validated in larger studies, it could represent a cost-effective, accessible preventive strategy in pandemic management.

Keywords:

azelastine, nasal spray, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, infection prevention, antihistamines, antiviral therapy, JAMA Network Open, Schmidt, H., Weber, F., Keller, M.

Reference:
Schmidt, H., Weber, F., Keller, M., et al. (2025). Effect of azelastine nasal spray on prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Network Open, 8(2), e250019. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.0019

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Pharmacist Duped of Rs 70 Lakh in Hospital Project Scam, Doctor Couple Booked

Mumbai: A pharmacist has been duped of Rs 70 lakh along with a Kalyan-based doctor by a Thane-based doctor couple, who allegedly lured them with the promise of investing in a 50-bed hospital project.

The accused and his wife, residents of Hiranandani Estate, Thane, approached Dr Rahul Dubey and pharmacist Pragya Kamble in May 2024 with a proposal to establish a hospital near the RTO office in Icon Building, Kalyan. The couple assured the victims that they would be granted rights to operate a medical store within the hospital premises.

Also Read:Torrent Pharma Brand Misused in Online Investment Scam, Fake Portals Promising High Returns Busted

Trusting the assurances, the victims handed over ₹70 lakh to the duo, believing that the hospital would become operational within three months. The accused even signed an agreement to solidify the deal. However, despite the passage of time, no hospital came up, and the victims’ money was never returned.

The Khadakpada police in Kalyan have now registered a case of fraud against the doctor couple.

Times of India reports that the officials also suspect that the accused may have duped more doctors in a similar manner, collecting money in the name of the hospital project. A detailed probe into the matter is underway.

Also Read:Fake Pharmacy Certificates Scam: Nine Chemists, 2 Ex-Registrars, 1 superintendent of Punjab State Pharmacy Council arrested

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CDSCO Panel Asks Wockhardt to Revise Phase III Study Protocol for Nafithromycin, Seeks Dosing, Control Arm Changes

New Delhi: The Subject Expert Committee (SEC), which functions under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), has recommended Wockhardt revise the Phase III study of Nafithromycin 400 mg Tablet.

This came after the firm presented the proposal for grant of permission to conduct Phase III study vide protocol no. W-4873-302, version 1.0, dated 23.04.2025, for the indication Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis (ARBS) before the committee.

Acute bacterial rhinosinusitis (ABRS) is a bacterial infection of the nasal passages and sinuses, often following a viral infection, that causes symptoms lasting more than 10 days or worsening after an initial improvement (double worsening).

Nafithromycin, was officially launched on November 20, 2024, by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. Developed by Wockhardt with support from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Nafithromycin, marketed as “Miqnaf,” targets Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Also Read:Miqnaf: CDSCO nod to Wockhardt 3-day treatment for Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia

At the recent SEC meeting on Investigational New Drugs. the expert panel reviewed the proposal for grant of permission to conduct Phase III study vide protocol no. W-4873-302, version 1.0, dated 23.04.2025, for the indication Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis (ARBS).

The committee has noted that the drug is already approved in the country for the treatment of adults with community acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).

After detailed deliberation, the committee recommended the following changes in the presented protocol:

1. The Dose of Amoxicillin-Clavulanic acid 625 mg tablet orally in the control arm should be revised from twice daily to thrice daily as per IDSA and National guideline.

2. Protocol design should be revised to include administration of Azithromycin 500 mg OD tablet along with Amoxicillin-Clavulanic acid 625 mg tablet orally to all patients in the control arm.

3. Treatment should be started on the first visit of the patients.

4. Sample size should be inflated by 10% to account for loss to follow-up.

Also Read:Eris Lifesciences Secures CDSCO Panel Nod to Conduct BE Study on Dapagliflozin, Pioglitazone, Metformin FDC

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Rs 40 lakh penalty for MD, MS, Rs 20 lakh for PG Diploma: Tamil Nadu Bond Service Policy

Chennai: Non-service candidates, including candidates selected through 50 percent All India Quota, getting admitted to postgraduate diploma and degree courses in the government medical colleges or government seats in private medical colleges in Tamil Nadu will be liable to serve the State Government for 2 years. For failure to honour the bond service requirements, such candidates will be liable to pay a penalty of Rs 20 lakh (for PG Diploma Courses) and Rs 40 lakh (for PG Degree MD, MS courses) respectively.

However, the bond will become infructuous if the student serves under the Government of Tamil Nadu for a minimum period of 2 years, as mentioned in the prospectus released by TN DMER for admission to PG Degree/Diploma Courses in Tamil Nadu Government Medical Colleges and Government seats in self-financing medical colleges affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University for 2025-2026 academic year.

Meanwhile, the service candidates having more than five years of service after completing the PG Degree / Diploma Courses will have to serve the State government till superannuation. For the service candidates who have less than 5 years of service after completing their PG Degree / Diploma courses, have to serve the Government for a period of 5 years from the date of clearing the examination irrespective of the date of superannuation. The bond penalty amount is same for the service and non-service candidates.

Bond Service Rules for Service Candidates: 

The prospectus mentioned the following bond service rules for the in-service candidates taking admission to PG Degree/Diploma Courses in Tamil Nadu Government Medical Colleges and Government seats in self-financing medical colleges affiliated to the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University for 2025-2026 academic year:

√All Service Candidates of Tamil Nadu having more than five years of service after completing the PG Degree / Diploma Courses shall execute a bond for a sum of ₹20,00,000/- (Rupees Twenty lakh only) on admission to Post Graduate Diploma courses 2025-2026 session and ₹40,00,000/- (Rupees Forty Lakh only) on admission to Post Graduate Degree courses 2025-2026 session as security amount with the undertaking that they will serve the Government of Tamil Nadu till Superannuation with three sureties.

√All service candidates of Tamil Nadu who have less than 5 years of service after completing their PG Degree / Diploma courses, have to serve the Government for a period of 5 years from the date of Clearing the examination irrespective of the date of superannuation, if the Government requires their services. They have to furnish an undertaking to this effect at the time of joining the course.

√Two sureties should be from permanent Government employee in the same or higher rank than the candidate. One surety should be from the spouse / parent of the candidate. PAN numbers of the sureties should be furnished.

√The bond will become infructuous if the service candidates serve the Government of Tamil Nadu after the completion of the Course until superannuation.

Bond Service Rules for Non-Service Candidates:

• The candidates who have joined in Government Medical colleges are provided a stipend during the study period and hence are mandatorily obligated to serve the Government of TN for a period of 2 years within the period of 3 years from the date of completion of PG course.

• The candidate on completion of PG Course is liable to serve the Government of TN for a period of 2 years within the period of 3 years from the date of completion of PG course.

• On completion of the bond period, the bond signed by the candidate shall be considered as infructuous.

• In cases where the candidates who have completed the PG course and have been posted to serve the TN Medical service but does not comply with the directives shall be obligated to pay a compensation of Rupees Forty Lakh or a sum proportionate to the period left unserved will be levied as compensation.

• The individual is also obligated to pay an interest rate on the compensation amount which shall be equal to the rate of interest for housing loan of Government of Tamil Nadu. This interest will be calculated from the date of issuance of the compensation demand by the office concerned.

•If the individual concerned absconds from service, he is liable to be prosecuted for compensation under the Revenue Recovery Act.

The prospectus mentioned that the non-service candidates, including candidates selected through 50% All India Quota will be paid stipend till the age of 60 years only.

It also added that the Non-service candidates including candidates selected through 50% All India Quota who complete the course will have to work for a period of 2 years within the period of 3 years after completing the course, if the Government requires their services. They will be given salary on par with the salary of new recruits in the Tamil Nadu Medical Service. They should also furnish an undertaking to this effect at the time of joining the course.

“Non-Service candidates including candidates selected through 50% All India Quota shall execute a bond with three sureties for a sum of ₹20,00,000/- (Rupees Twenty Lakh only) on admission to Post Graduate Diploma courses 2025-2026 session and ₹40,00,000/- (Rupees Forty Lakh only) on admission to Post Graduate Degree courses 2025-2026 session with an undertaking that they shall serve the Government of Tamil Nadu for a period of not less than two years, if the Government requires their services. During the above period, they will be paid salary on par with the fresh recruits of the Tamil Nadu Medical Services. The Government of Tamil Nadu will reckon their services for a period of 2 years within the period of 3 years from the date of completion of their Postgraduate Degree / Diploma Courses. Out of the three sureties two sureties should be from permanent Government employee in the same or higher rank than the candidate and one surety should be from spouse / parent of the candidate. PAN numbers of the sureties should be furnished. The prescribed form of bond is enclosed in Annexure III. The bond will become infructuous if he/she serves under the Government of Tamil Nadu for a minimum period of 2 years,” mentioned the prospectus.

“Non-service candidates including candidates selected through 50% All India Quota, if they discontinue course they have to pay the total amount of penalty (Discontinuation Fee as per Clause 24 (c) and the stipend received),” it further mentioned.

The prospectus added that if the Government requires the services of Non-service candidates including candidates selected through 50% All India Quota, who are unable to serve the Government for any reason during the above said period, his/her original certificates will be retained by the Government and will be released only after the expiry of the above said period (as mentioned in clause 37 (h).

Also Read: Tamil Nadu specifies Bond policy for DNB Post MBBS, Post Diploma admissions 2025

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Bomb Threats Trigger Panic at 3 Max Hospitals in Delhi

A bomb threat was reported at Max Hospital branches in Shalimar Bagh, Dwarka and Saket on Saturday, prompting extensive searches by Delhi Police. The threats were later declared ”hoax”, an official said.

According to a senior police officer, the Taj Palace hotel in Shalimar Bagh received a bomb threat via e-mail on Saturday morning, while Max Hospital in Dwarka was sent a similar threat in the afternoon. Both threats were declared hoaxes after extensive searches in the premises, he said. “After a thorough security check, authorities have declared the threat a hoax. The safety and security of our guests and employees is of paramount importance to us, and we continue to remain vigilant,” a Taj Palace spokesperson said, news agency PTI reported.

For more details, check out the full story on the link below:

3 Max Hospitals receive bomb threats

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Analysis isolates population aging as primary driver of musculoskeletal disorders

Novel research shows that in approximately one third of countries and territories worldwide, population aging was the largest contributor to the growing burden of musculoskeletal disorders from 1990 to 2021.

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Analysis isolates population aging as primary driver of musculoskeletal disorders

Novel research shows that in approximately one third of countries and territories worldwide, population aging was the largest contributor to the growing burden of musculoskeletal disorders from 1990 to 2021.

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