TAK-925 (danavorexton), an Orexin Receptor 2 Agonist, Reduces Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression and Sedation Without Affecting Analgesia in Healthy Adult Males.

Background: Orexin neuropeptides help regulate sleep/wake states, respiration, and pain. However, their potential role in regulating breathing, particularly in perioperative settings, is not well understood. TAK-925 (danavorexton), a novel, orexin receptor 2-selective agonist, directly activates neurons associated with respiratory control in the brain and improves respiratory parameters in rodents undergoing fentanyl-induced sedation.

Outcomes of an Emergency Department opioid alternatives Program implemented within a safety-net hospital system.

Background: The ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States has reinforced the need to provide multimodal and non-opioid pain management interventions. The PAMI-ED ALT program employed a multifaceted approach in the Emergency Department (ED) developing electronic health record (EHR) pain management order panels and discharge panels, as well as educating patients, clinicians, and ED staff on opioid alternatives, including non-pharmacologic interventions. The primary objective of this analysis was to compare changes in opioid and non-opioid analgesic administrations and prescribing in ED patients with select pain conditions (renal colic, headache, low back, and non-low back musculoskeletal pain) before and after implementation of PAMI ED-ALT.

The role of brainstem biopsy and targeted therapies in pediatric diffuse midline glioma/diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma.

Pediatric diffuse midline glioma (DMG), including diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), are aggressive brainstem tumors with a dire prognosis, traditionally diagnosed based on MRI characteristics. The recognition that molecular characteristics may determine prognosis and response to therapy has led to a reevaluation of biopsy necessity. This comprehensive review addresses the evolving role of brainstem biopsies in diagnosing and managing these tumors - both within the context of a clinical trial and in routine clinical care.

The role of MEK inhibition in pediatric low-grade gliomas.

Pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGGs) are the most common brain tumors in children. Many patients with unresectable tumors experience recurrence or long-term sequelae from standard chemotherapeutics. This mini-review explores the emerging role of MEK inhibitors in the management of pLGGs, highlighting their potential to transform current treatment paradigms.

The effect of dexmedetomidine vs. atracurium on intubation condition in children - a randomized clinical trial.

Background: Using neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) in pediatric induction protocol is a challenging matter. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to find a safer way for anesthesia in children. We compared the effects of dexmedetomidine with atracurium on intubation conditions in children aged 6-12 years under general anesthesia.