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Elahee M, Domsic RT. Managing Symptoms of Systemic Sclerosis for the Allergist-Immunologist. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2024; 24:433-441. [PMID: 38904933 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-024-01155-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic, multisystem, autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis, vasculopathy and immune system dysregulation. We provide a comprehensive review of features of systemic sclerosis that can potentially present to the allergist. RECENT FINDINGS A thorough understanding of the management options is crucial for clinicians involved in the care of patients with SSc to optimize clinical outcomes. Management of systemic sclerosis has drastically changed in the last decade and continues to evolve. This review provides an overview of management strategies for the various symptoms including skin, upper and lower airway, gastrointestinal and vascular manifestations. Institution of treatment early in the disease, including referral to rheumatology or specialized scleroderma centers, can help to both prevent and manage disease complications, and improve patient quality-of-life. While the landscape of systemic sclerosis management has evolved, we continue to recognize that there is still a need for better biomarkers and targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehreen Elahee
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Robyn T Domsic
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.
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2
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Brooks SG, Yosipovitch G. Unmet needs in treating itch: reaching beyond eczema. J DERMATOL TREAT 2024; 35:2351487. [PMID: 38945542 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2024.2351487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pruritus is an unpleasant sensation that creates the urge to scratch. In many chronic conditions, relentless pruritus and scratching perpetuates a vicious itch-scratch cycle. Uncontrolled itch can detrimentally affect quality of life and may lead to sleep disturbance, impaired concentration, financial burden, and psychological suffering. Recent strides have been made to develop guidelines and investigate new therapies to treat some of the most common severely pruritic conditions, however, a large group of diseases remains underrecognized and undertreated. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the challenges hindering the treatment of pruritus. METHODS An online search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov from 1994 to 2024. Included studies were summarized and assessed for quality and relevance in treating pruritus. RESULTS Several barriers to treating pruritus emerged, including variable presentation, objective measurement of itch, and identifying therapeutic targets. Itch associated with autoimmune conditions, connective tissue diseases, genodermatoses, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and pruritus of unknown origin were among the etiologies with the greatest unmet needs. CONCLUSION Treating pruritus poses many challenges and there are many itchy conditions that have no yet been addressed. There is an urgent need for large-scale controlled studies to investigate potential targets for these conditions and novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G Brooks
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Gil Yosipovitch
- Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, Miami Itch Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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3
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Marcus NJ, Robbins L, Araki A, Gracely EJ, Theoharides TC. Effective Doses of Low-Dose Naltrexone for Chronic Pain - An Observational Study. J Pain Res 2024; 17:1273-1284. [PMID: 38532991 PMCID: PMC10964028 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s451183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Despite the availability of a wide variety of analgesics, many patients with chronic pain often experience suboptimal pain relief in part related to the absence of any medication to address the nociplastic component of common pain syndromes. Low-dose naltrexone has been used for the treatment of chronic pain, typically at 4.5 mg per day, even though it is also noted that effective doses of naltrexone for chronic pain presentations range from 0.1 to 4.5 mg per day. We performed an observational analysis to determine the range of effective naltrexone daily dosing in 41 patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Methods Charts of 385 patients, 115 males, 270 females, ages 18-92, were reviewed. Two hundred and sixty patients with chronic diffuse, symmetrical pain were prescribed a titrating dose of naltrexone to determine a maximally effective dose established by self-report of 1) reduction of diffuse/generalized and/or severity level of pain and/or 2) positive effects on mood, energy, and mental clarity. Brief Pain Inventory and PROMIS scales were given pre- and post-determining a maximally effective naltrexone dose. Results Forty-one patients met all criteria for inclusion, successfully attained a maximally effective dose, and completed a pre- and post-outcome questionnaire. Hormesis was demonstrated during the determination of the maximally effective dosing, which varied over a wide range, with statistically significant improvement in BPI. Conclusion The maximally effective dose of low-dose naltrexone for the treatment of chronic pain is idiosyncratic, suggesting the need for 1) dosage titration to establish a maximally effective dose and 2) the possibility of re-introduction of low-dose naltrexone to patients who had failed initial trials on a fixed dose of naltrexone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman J Marcus
- Norman Marcus Pain Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Neurological Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Aya Araki
- Norman Marcus Pain Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Edward J Gracely
- Family, Community & Preventative Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- School of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova, Southeaster University, Clearwater, FL, USA
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Hariri Z, Yari Z, Hoseini S, Abhari K, Sohrab G. Synbiotic as an ameliorating factor in the health-related quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:19. [PMID: 38172876 PMCID: PMC10765720 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02868-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are complicated mechanisms that link the disruption of the gut microbiome to the symptoms and complications of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this study, an attempt was made to assess the effects of synbiotics on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with PCOS . METHODS Fifty-six women with PCOS were enrolled in a triple-blind controlled trial for 12 weeks. They were randomly assigned to receive a daily 2-gram synbiotic sachets (containing Bacillus coagulans (GBI-30), Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus helveticus, and fructooligosaccharide) (n = 28) or placebo (n = 28). To evaluate the impact on the HRQoL, participants were required to fill 26-Item Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (PCOSQ-26), 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) pre and post the intervention. RESULTS Finally, statistical analyses were performed on 52 participants who finished the trial. Synbiotic supplementation improved the scores of emotional (P = 0.044), body hair (P = 0.016), weight (P = 0.033) and infertility domains (P = 0.027) of PCOSQ-26 compared to placebo group. The physical score within SF-12 also had a significant enhancement (P = 0.035). No significant improvement was seen in the PSS-10 score at the end of the trial. CONCLUSION This study illustrated the advantageous effects of synbiotics on the health-related quality of life in women with PCOS. Further studies are required to confirm our findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION http://www.irct.ir : IRCT20211108053007N1; date of registration: 14/02/2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Hariri
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition and dietetics, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Yari
- Department of Nutrition Research, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedighe Hoseini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Abhari
- Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golbon Sohrab
- Clinical Nutrition and dietetics Department, Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Goldman N, Han J, LaChance A. Diagnosis and Management of Cutaneous Manifestations of Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2022; 15:2285-2312. [PMID: 36320926 PMCID: PMC9618245 DOI: 10.2147/ccid.s360801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The cutaneous features of autoimmune connective tissue disease pose a unique challenge to patients and clinicians managing these conditions. In this review, we outline the key elements of diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, and morphea. This article also aims to present an update on gold standard as well as new and emerging therapies for these conditions. Overall, dermatologists can play a key role in diagnosing and treating autoimmune connective tissue diseases and this review intends to provide an up-to-date toolkit to guide clinical dermatologists in this endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel Goldman
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- New York Medical College, School of Medicine, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Joseph Han
- Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Avery LaChance
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Wong LS, Yen YT. Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases-Related Pruritus: Proper Diagnosis and Possible Mechanisms. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071772. [PMID: 35885674 PMCID: PMC9317505 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pruritus is a well-known bothersome symptom among skin disorders, especially inflammatory skin disorders. Lately, a high prevalence of pruritus in patients with autoimmune connective tissue diseases (ACTDs) has been revealed. Patients with ACTDs may suffer from varying degrees of pruritus, which affect their quality of life. However, it is rarely recognized both by patients and physicians. Meanwhile, pruritus is not only a symptom but is also related to the disease severity of some ACTDs. The pathophysiology of ACTD related pruritus is ambiguous. This review summarizes the features and possible mechanisms of ACTD-related pruritus, which might lead to proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lai-San Wong
- Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Ta Yen
- Department of Dermatology, Fooying University Hospital, Pentong 928, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80420, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-8-8323146
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Zhu X, Jiang L, Zhong Q, Kong X, Zhang R, Zhu L, Liu Q, Wu W, Tan Y, Wang J, Xia J. Abnormal expression of interleukin-6 is associated with epidermal alternations in localized scleroderma. Clin Rheumatol 2022; 41:2179-2187. [DOI: 10.1007/s10067-022-06127-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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8
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Meridor K, Berookhim J, Levy Y. Low dose naloxone for pruritus in systemic sclerosis: Case series and literature review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e28653. [PMID: 35089206 PMCID: PMC8797570 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000028653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Pruritus is a common symptom in patients with systemic sclerosis and has a tremendous effect on the quality of life. Nevertheless, current therapeutic options are limited. The pathogenesis of pruritus in systemic sclerosis is not completely understood; however, opiate-mediated neurotransmission has been postulated to be involved. PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSIS We describe 4 female patients with systemic sclerosis suffering from severe pruritus, with an average 5D-itch score of 22.75. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOMES Low-dose oral naloxone was initiated, followed by a significant improvement in the level of pruritus, reaching an average 5D-itch score of 7.5, after 6 and 12 months of treatment. None of the patients experienced side effects. LESSONS Low-dose naloxone plays an important role in the management of pruritus in systemic sclerosis.
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Sutaria N, Adawi W, Goldberg R, Roh YS, Choi J, Kwatra SG. Itch: Pathogenesis and treatment. J Am Acad Dermatol 2021; 86:17-34. [PMID: 34648873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.07.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Itch pathogenesis is broadly characterized into histaminergic and nonhistaminergic pathways and transmitted via 2 main receptor families: G protein-coupled receptors and transient receptor potential channels. In the skin, itch is primarily transmitted by unmyelinated type C and thinly myelinated type Aδ nerve fibers. Crosstalk between the immune and neural systems modulates itch transmission at the skin, spinal cord, and brain. Among the many known pruritogens, Th2 cytokines, such as interleukin-4, interleukin-13, interleukin-31, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin, are particularly important mediators that signal through shared Janus kinase pathways, representing novel targets for novel itch therapeutics. Emerging evidence has also revealed that the opioidergic system is a potent modulator of itch transmission, with increased μ-opioid activity and decreased κ-opioid activity contributing to itch pathogenesis. Optimal management of itch requires that treatment approaches be tailored to specific etiologic itch subtypes. When the etiology is unknown and patients are given a diagnosis of chronic pruritus of unknown origin, treatment should be guided by the presence of Th2 polarization, often reflected by increased blood eosinophils. In the second article of this 2-part series, we outline our current understanding of itch pathogenesis and discuss available and emerging treatments for itch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishadh Sutaria
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Waleed Adawi
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Rebecca Goldberg
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Youkyung S Roh
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Justin Choi
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Shawn G Kwatra
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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10
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Abstract
Pruritus is one of the most common and bothersome symptoms of skin disorders, and its clinical characteristics and related pathomechanisms have been well described in certain dermatologic conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and urticaria. Although pruritus is believed to be as common in cutaneous autoimmune connective tissue diseases (ACTDs) as in other inflammatory skin disorders, its true characteristics have not been elucidated either qualitatively or quantitatively. Pruritus is present in ACTDs with various prevalence rates, characteristics, and mechanisms depending on the disease types. Pruritus most frequently and severely affects the patients with dermatomyositis, in which itch is strongly correlated with disease activity and severity, thus increased itch could also indicate a disease flare. Patients with other ACTDs, including lupus erythematosus (LE), Sjögren syndrome (SS), morphea, and systemic sclerosis (SSc), also suffer from their fair share of pruritus. Unfortunately, the currently available treatments for ACTDs seem to have only limited and unsatisfactory effects to control pruritus. The extensive impact of pruritus on the patients’ quality of life (QOL) and functioning warrants more targeted and individualized approaches against pruritus in ACTDs. This review will address the prevalence, suggested pathogenesis based on currently available evidences, and potential treatment options of pruritus in various ACTDs of the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Joo Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Gachon Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
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11
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Abstract
Chronic pruritus, defined as an unpleasant sensation resulting in a need to scratch that lasts more than 6 weeks, is a prevalent and bothersome symptom associated with both cutaneous and systemic conditions. Due to complex pathogenesis and profuse contributing factors, chronic pruritus therapy remains challenging. Regardless of the well-established antipruritic properties of classic pharmacotherapy (topical therapy, phototherapy and systemic therapy), these methods often provide insufficient relief for affected individuals. Owing to the growing interest in the field of pruritic research, further experimental and clinical data have emerged, continuously supporting the possibility of instigating novel therapeutic measures. This review covers the most relevant current modalities remaining under investigation that possess promising perspectives of approval in the near future, especially opioidergic drugs (mu-opioid antagonists and kappa-opioid agonists), neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists, biologic drugs, Janus kinase inhibitors, ileal bile acid transporter inhibitors, aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists and histamine H4 receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radomir Reszke
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, 1 Chalubinskiego Street, 50-368, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Krajewski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, 1 Chalubinskiego Street, 50-368, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jacek C Szepietowski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Wroclaw Medical University, 1 Chalubinskiego Street, 50-368, Wrocław, Poland.
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12
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Abstract
Itch treatment is a major challenge in the dermatologist’s practice. We encounter patients suffering from pruritus on a regular basis, and often lack diverse treatment options to adequately respond to the patients’ needs. In the last 20 years, novel pathways have been investigated that were beyond the scope of histamine. Although most did not result in a molecule available on the Canadian market, it is interesting and important as health care providers to stay up to date with new neuronal pathways involved in itch transmission and potential new therapeutic options. In this review, we will discuss pathways targeted in new topical treatments such as antagonist of proteinase-activated receptor-2, the endocannabinoid system, neurotrophins and tropomyosin-related kinase A receptor, the transient receptor potential-vanilloid or transient receptor potential-melastatine ion channels. New systemic therapies are now focusing on antagonizing the neurokinin receptor, modulating the opioidergic system, or targeting itch cytokines such as interleukin-31.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurent Misery
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Brest, France
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13
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The uses of naltrexone in dermatologic conditions. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 80:1746-1752. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2018.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Sikora M, Rakowska A, Olszewska M, Rudnicka L. The Use of Naltrexone in Dermatology. Current Evidence and Future Directions. Curr Drug Targets 2019; 20:1058-1067. [PMID: 30887922 DOI: 10.2174/1389450120666190318121122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Naltrexone is a competitive opioid receptor antagonist approved as supportive treatment in alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. At a dose of 50-100 mg daily, naltrexone is used off-label in dermatology for the treatment of trichotillomania and different types of pruritus. At a dose as low as 1- 5 mg per day, naltrexone demonstrates immunomodulatory action i.e. modulates Toll-like receptors signaling, decreases release of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-6, interleukin- 12), inhibits T lymphocyte proliferation, down-regulates the expression of chemokine receptors and adhesion molecules. The efficacy of standard and low doses of naltrexone in a variety of dermatological disorders has been reported. These include diseases such as familial benign chronic pemphigus (Hailey-Hailey disease), dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, psoriasis and lichen planopilaris. Optimistic preliminary findings, low cost of therapy and good tolerance make naltrexone a promising alternative therapy or adjunct drug in dermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Sikora
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adriana Rakowska
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Olszewska
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lidia Rudnicka
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Warsaw, Koszykowa 82A, 02-008 Warsaw, Poland
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15
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Ekelem C, Juhasz M, Khera P, Mesinkovska NA. Utility of Naltrexone Treatment for Chronic Inflammatory Dermatologic Conditions. JAMA Dermatol 2019; 155:229-236. [DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2018.4093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Ekelem
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine
| | - Margit Juhasz
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine
| | - Pooja Khera
- Department of Dermatology, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC
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Toljan K, Vrooman B. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:medsci6040082. [PMID: 30248938 PMCID: PMC6313374 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6040082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Naltrexone and naloxone are classical opioid antagonists. In substantially lower than standard doses, they exert different pharmacodynamics. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), considered in a daily dose of 1 to 5 mg, has been shown to reduce glial inflammatory response by modulating Toll-like receptor 4 signaling in addition to systemically upregulating endogenous opioid signaling by transient opioid-receptor blockade. Clinical reports of LDN have demonstrated possible benefits in diseases such as fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, complex-regional pain syndrome, Hailey-Hailey disease, and cancer. In a dosing range at less than 1 μg per day, oral naltrexone or intravenous naloxone potentiate opioid analgesia by acting on filamin A, a scaffolding protein involved in μ-opioid receptor signaling. This dose is termed ultra low-dose naltrexone/naloxone (ULDN). It has been of use in postoperative control of analgesia by reducing the need for the total amount of opioids following surgery, as well as ameliorating certain side-effects of opioid-related treatment. A dosing range between 1 μg and 1 mg comprises very low-dose naltrexone (VLDN), which has primarily been used as an experimental adjunct treatment for boosting tolerability of opioid-weaning methadone taper. In general, all of the low-dose features regarding naltrexone and naloxone have been only recently and still scarcely scientifically evaluated. This review aims to present an overview of the current knowledge on these topics and summarize the key findings published in peer-review sources. The existing potential of LDN, VLDN, and ULDN for various areas of biomedicine has still not been thoroughly and comprehensively addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Toljan
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Kispaticeva 12, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Bruce Vrooman
- Section of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Dr, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03756, USA.
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Li Z, You Y, Griffin N, Feng J, Shan F. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): A promising treatment in immune-related diseases and cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 61:178-184. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Abstract
Pruritus in autoimmune connective tissue diseases is a common symptom that can be severe and affect the quality of life of patients. It can be related to disease activity and severity or occur independent of the disease. Appropriate therapy to control the itch depends on the etiology, and it is therefore essential to first work-up these patients for the underlying trigger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon P Smith
- Department of Dermatology, Connective Tissue Diseases Clinic, MGH, Bartlett Hall 622, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yahya Argobi
- Department of Dermatology, King Khalid University, College of Medicine, PO Box 641, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia.
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Pearson DR, Werth VP, Pappas-Taffer L. Systemic sclerosis: Current concepts of skin and systemic manifestations. Clin Dermatol 2018; 36:459-474. [PMID: 30047430 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Systemic sclerosis is an uncommon autoimmune connective tissue disease with multiorgan system involvement and significant associated morbidity and mortality. Cutaneous signs and clinical manifestations are of particular importance, as they may be recognized before systemic manifestations, allowing earlier risk stratification into the limited and diffuse cutaneous subtypes, as well as earlier initiation of treatment. Important cutaneous manifestations include Raynaud's phenomenon, digital ulcers, cutaneous sclerosis, calcinosis cutis, telangiectasias, pruritus, and dyspigmentation. Despite investigation of a wide variety of treatments, no FDA-approved pharmacologic therapies exist for systemic sclerosis, and data from high-quality studies are limited. In the following review, we will discuss skin-directed therapies. Although there is evidence to support specific treatments for Raynaud's phenomenon, digital ulcers, and cutaneous sclerosis, there are limited rigorous studies evaluating the treatment of other cutaneous signs and clinical manifestations. Additional randomized-controlled trials and large observational studies are necessary to develop future evidence-based treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Pearson
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Victoria P Werth
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lisa Pappas-Taffer
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Patten DK, Schultz BG, Berlau DJ. The Safety and Efficacy of Low-Dose Naltrexone in the Management of Chronic Pain and Inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Crohn's Disease, and Other Chronic Pain Disorders. Pharmacotherapy 2018; 38:382-389. [DOI: 10.1002/phar.2086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Itch and systemic sclerosis: frequency, clinical characteristics and consequences. Br J Dermatol 2017; 176:1392-1393. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.14998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Andersen HH, Imai Y, Petersen KK, Koenig J, Elberling J, Arendt-Nielsen L. Conditioning pain stimulation does not affect itch induced by intra-epidermal histamine pricks but aggravates neurogenic inflammation in healthy volunteers. Somatosens Mot Res 2016; 33:49-60. [DOI: 10.3109/08990220.2016.1173535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. H. Andersen
- SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Y. Imai
- SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinical Development Department, Clinical Department Center, Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K. K. Petersen
- SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - J. Koenig
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Section for Translational Psychobiology in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J. Elberling
- The Allergy Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L. Arendt-Nielsen
- SMI, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Abstract
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic multi-system autoimmune disease associated with disability and reduced quality of life. There is no effective treatment or cure to SSc, so it is important improve global health of these patients and reduce morbidity and mortality associated with SSc. It was made a literature review about quality of life in patients with SSc, regarding the several factors that should be considered and evaluated when attending to SSc patients. It was also considered the validated scales and questionnaires used to measure outcomes in patients with SSc. We concluded that it is important to have an interdisciplinary approach to SSc patients considering the patient's cognitive representations of the disease and what they value most like mobility and hand function, pain, fatigue, sleep, depression and body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Almeida
- Department of Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova Gaia/Espinho (CHVNG/E), Gaia, Portugal.
| | - Isabel Almeida
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine, Hospital de Santo António (HSA), Centro Hospitalar do Porto (CHP), Porto, Portugal; Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Investigation (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Portugal.
| | - Carlos Vasconcelos
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine, Hospital de Santo António (HSA), Centro Hospitalar do Porto (CHP), Porto, Portugal; Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Investigation (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Portugal.
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Razykov I, Levis B, Hudson M, Baron M, Thombs BD. Prevalence and clinical correlates of pruritus in patients with systemic sclerosis: an updated analysis of 959 patients. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2013; 52:2056-61. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ket275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Younger J, Noor N, McCue R, Mackey S. Low-dose naltrexone for the treatment of fibromyalgia: findings of a small, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced, crossover trial assessing daily pain levels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 65:529-38. [PMID: 23359310 DOI: 10.1002/art.37734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Accepted: 09/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether low dosages (4.5 mg/day) of naltrexone reduce fibromyalgia severity as compared with the nonspecific effects of placebo. In this replication and extension study of a previous clinical trial, we tested the impact of low-dose naltrexone on daily self-reported pain. Secondary outcomes included general satisfaction with life, positive mood, sleep quality, and fatigue. METHODS Thirty-one women with fibromyalgia participated in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced, crossover study. During the active drug phase, participants received 4.5 mg of oral naltrexone daily. An intensive longitudinal design was used to measure daily levels of pain. RESULTS When contrasting the condition end points, we observed a significantly greater reduction of baseline pain in those taking low-dose naltrexone than in those taking placebo (28.8% reduction versus 18.0% reduction; P = 0.016). Low-dose naltrexone was also associated with improved general satisfaction with life (P = 0.045) and with improved mood (P = 0.039), but not improved fatigue or sleep. Thirty-two percent of participants met the criteria for response (defined as a significant reduction in pain plus a significant reduction in either fatigue or sleep problems) during low-dose naltrexone therapy, as contrasted with an 11% response rate during placebo therapy (P = 0.05). Low-dose naltrexone was rated equally tolerable as placebo, and no serious side effects were reported. CONCLUSION The preliminary evidence continues to show that low-dose naltrexone has a specific and clinically beneficial impact on fibromyalgia pain. The medication is widely available, inexpensive, safe, and well-tolerated. Parallel-group randomized controlled trials are needed to fully determine the efficacy of the medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarred Younger
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94304-1573, USA.
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Fucito LM, Park A, Gulliver SB, Mattson ME, Gueorguieva RV, O'Malley SS. Cigarette smoking predicts differential benefit from naltrexone for alcohol dependence. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 72:832-8. [PMID: 22541040 PMCID: PMC3410039 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying factors that modify responsiveness to pharmacotherapies for alcohol dependence is important for treatment planning. Cigarette smoking predicts more severe alcohol dependence and poorer treatment response in general. Nevertheless, there is limited research on cigarette smoking as a potential predictor of differential response to pharmacological treatment of alcoholism. METHODS We examined the association between cigarette smoking and drinking outcomes in the COMBINE (Combined Pharmacotherapies and Behavioral Interventions for Alcohol Dependence) study, a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled 16-week trial comparing combinations of medications (i.e., acamprosate and naltrexone) and behavioral interventions (i.e., medical management, combined behavioral therapy) in 1383 alcohol-dependent individuals. RESULTS Smokers (i.e., more than one half the sample) significantly differed from nonsmokers on several demographic and drinking-related variables at baseline and generally had poorer treatment outcomes than nonsmokers. However, smokers who received naltrexone had better drinking outcomes than smokers who received placebo, whereas alcohol use among nonsmokers did not vary by naltrexone assignment. This pattern of findings occurred independent of whether patients received combined behavioral intervention or medical management and remained after controlling for alcoholism typology and baseline demographic differences. Approximately 9% of smokers quit smoking, and an additional 10% reduced their cigarette intake during treatment. Reductions in smoking did not vary by treatment assignment. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that naltrexone might be particularly beneficial for improving alcohol use outcomes in alcohol-dependent smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Fucito
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06511, USA.
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