The use of NSAIDs and nutritional supplements in athletes with osteoarthritis: prevalence, benefits, and consequences.

The use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and nutraceuticals, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, is common among athletes at all ages and levels of participation. The use of these drugs has significant effects on pain and swelling associated with injury; however, this use does have significant risks to the gastrointestinal, hepatic, and renal organ systems. In the athlete with degenerative changes in the joints, the use of these medications can become chronic and lead to an increased risk of adverse effects.

Glucose, insulin and potassium (GIK) during reperfusion mediates improved myocardial bioenergetics.

Previous studies suggest glucose, insulin and potassium (GIK) infusion during ischemia reduces infarct size and improves post-ischemic myocardial function in acute myocardial infarction and following surgical revascularization of the heart. The potential use of GIK when given only during reperfusion after a period of global ischemia, as might occur during cardiac arrest, is unclear. To test the hypothesis that GIK reperfusion improves post-ischemic myocardial bioenergetics and function, we utilized a perfused heart model.

Postischemic inotropic support of the dysfunctional heart.

Objective: To determine relative adenine nucleotide regeneration and improvement in left ventricular (LV) function using three commonly used adrenergic agents--epinephrine, dobutamine, and phenylephrine---during reperfusion after a period of global ischemia. After initial resuscitation from cardiac arrest, adrenergic agents are frequently required to support postischemic LV dysfunction. However, the relative effectiveness and associated bioenergetic changes associated with these agents in the postischemic heart are unclear.