New drugs in development

In August, Pipex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. acquired dnaJP1, an oral, once-daily RA medication that is currently in clinical trials. DnaJP1 is a biologic drug, like Humira and Remicade that inhibits inflammation by reducing T-cells ability to produce tumor necrosis factor (TNF). The difference is that the oral form eliminates the need for injections and infusions. A Phase II clinical trial involving 160 rheumatoid arthritis patients showed progressive improvement in patients taking dnaJP1 and more patients succeeded on dnaJP1 compared to those taking placebo. In addition, improvement continued after treatment with dnaJP1 was discontinued. In addition, laboratory tests have found that oral dnaJP1 results in an 80% reduction in the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by T-cells. Researchers are hopeful that oral dnaJP1 may be less toxic than the injectable biologics, meaning less likely to result in serious infections. They are also hopeful that the staying power of the drug within the body may mean that the drug rewires the immune system in a lasting way so the body does not attack itself causing inflammation.The maker of Actemra released clinical trial data this fall showing that the interleukin-6 inhibitor was able to slow structural joint damage by 85% after one year when combined with methotrexate. This was compared 67% when methotrexate alone. Actemra also improved physical function, and 47% of patients in the study achieved clinical remission, compared to an 8% remission rate found when patients take only methotrexate. In another international study of Actemra, more than 50% the patients receiving the drug achieved a 20% reduction in RA symptoms compared to just 26.5% who were taking the placebo plus methotrexate; and almost 44% of patients receiving the combination therapy reached at least a 50% reduction in symptoms compared to 10.8% of patients receiving placebo plus methotrexate.

Positive clinical trials for drugs already on the market. There were many clinical trials and studies completed regarding the safety and effectiveness of drugs that are already on the market. Some of the highlights include:

UCB, the maker of Cimzia, released positive results from several Phase III clinical trials this year, finding that Cimzia is effective both when taken alone and in combination=2 0with methotrexate. Either way, the results showed that Cimzia can significantly reduce signs, symptoms and pain associated with RA, and improved physical function. The combination treatment trial showed rapid, lasting improvements in both physical function and pain when Cimzia was used in combination with methotrexate, with positive results within as little as one week of treatment. The trials also showed that Cimzia inhibits progression of long-term joint damage with results for up to one year after ending the course of medication. Results of a large clinical trial for Rituxan, involving 2,578 patients showed that twice as many patients with RA achieved clinical remission when given three successive courses of Rituxan in combination with methotrexate. Only 8.8% achieved clinical remission if methotrexate was the sole treatment. When comparing patients who were given three courses of Rituxan versus one course, twice as many achieved a 70% improvement in their symptoms and progression of joint damage over the period of two years was significantly reduced. One study of hydroxychloroquine found that people who take it to treat their RA symptoms are half as likely to develop diabetes as people who do not take it. This study built on previous research and could mean that physicians might consider prescribing it more often. Hydroxychloroquine has been used as a DMARD to treat rheumatoid arthritis for decades, though it was originally developed as an anti-malaria drug. Researchers think that since people with RA are at higher risk of developing diabetes, use of this drug alone or in combination with others might be beneficial both for treatment of RA and preventing diabetes in those at especially high risk.

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It is funny to see, how he frowns his little head, as he observes his little extremities. Especially his toes. Those things seem to wobble in every direction and he still hasn’t found out, he is doing it himself.

It will not be long before he will. They grow up so fast. A little too fast to my likings. I suppose that is a good thing as well. Growing up means learning and even as adults, there is still so much to learn. It will helps us grow to be better persons.

Colossians 2:19
and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God.

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Another recent study from Spain also found that the best results come from more effective management of drug treatment, rather than access to new therapies. The team of researchers followed almost 800 patients in Spain from 2000-2004. The study, published online in Arthritis Research and Therapy concluded that while the clinical development of drugs has made great advances, it is the physician’s management of the available drugs, old and new, that makes the most difference. The researchers in Spain found that clinical trial results tend to show levels of remission and halts in disease progression that are not enjoyed by patients in real life. The authors stated that this difference could be due to patients included in clinical trials being younger on average, having fewer comorbidities and being selected for trial because they have a higher level of disease activity than real-life patients. The authors found that real-life RA patients (with both severe and mild disease) improved in terms of disease activity, disability and radiological progression independently of the availability of new therapies. The study seemed to conclude that better management by doctors in the future, meaning better selection of patients for early biologic treatment, will improve patients’ therapeutic response to treatment, their functional outcomes, and will improve cost-effectiveness of these drugs avoiding unnecessary prescriptions.

While these studies are clearly focused on better drug management from the physician’s perspective, I think the theme of better management is a broader goal for both patients and health care providers. For physicians and ancillary health care providers, it means not only keeping up with the latest innovations, but really taking the time to talk to their patients, listen to questions and concerns and follow the effectiveness of the treatments they prescribe. I also believe that better management is more than drugs, it is also management of lifestyle- patient education on diet, exercise, life stress and managing job duties.

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The plant is mainly cultivated for the roots. These are used for cooking, but also have medicinal purposes.

Ginger
Zingiber officinale

Origin:
The dried or fresh root of the ginger plant.

Dosage:
Powder, extract, tincture, capsules and oils, up to 2 g in three divided doses per day or up to 4 cups of tea daily.

Claims:
Decreases joint pain and reduces inflammation in people with OA and RA. Increases circulation in people with Raynaud’s phenomenon.

What we know:
Ginger contains active ingredients that may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger reduces nausea and vomiting and is a proven treatment for motion sickness and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Studies:
A recent study showed that ginger extract inhibited inflammation-causing chemicals, including TNF-α and COX-2. A 2005 study reinforced the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger. Another 2005 study showed ginger killed Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach ulcers. Ginger can interfere with medications for blood thinning. It should not be used if you have gallstones.
~Arthritis Foundation.

Ginger is also used as a remedie for dyspepsia, colic and diarrhea, and to disguise the taste of medicine. It has cholesterol lowering properties that may make it useful for treating heart disease.

You may already use it in the kitchen, to spice up a dish, but you can also make tea from the roots, simply by boiling them in water. If you prefer, you can add either honey, or lemon to it. The tea is commonly used to treat colds. Ginger beer and ale are commonly known to settle the stomach.

Before using fresh ginger for cooking, be sure to peel it. To keep the ‘fresh’ ginger fresh, wrap it tightly in a towel and put it in a plastic bag. This way it stays fresh in the fridge for about 3 weeks and up to 3 months in the freezer.

There are some negative effects to ginger as well. It can cause heartburn, bloating, gas, belching and nausea, particularly if taken in powdered form. Unchewed fresh ginger may result in intestinal blockage, and individuals who have had ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or blocked intestines, may react badly to large quantities of fresh ginger.

Since the plant can grow up to 4 feet high, it can be blown over and broken by the wind. The roots are anchored deeply in the ground though and will sprout again. We too can be broken by the winds of life. With our roots having a good foundation, God provides all we need, to sprout again.

Ezekiel 31:7
‘ Thus it was beautiful in greatness and in the length of its branches, Because its roots reached to abundant waters.

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The name stems from the fact, that the roots and fruits have all kinds of little claw looking appendages. This plant is available in nurseries.

Devil’s Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens
Also known as Devil’s Claw Root, Grapple Plant or Wood Spider

Origin:
A traditional herb used in South Africa.

Dosage:
Capsules, tincture, powder and liquid; take 750 mg to 1,000 mg three times a day

Claims:
Relieves pain and inflammation. May help lower uric acid levels in people with gout. Acts as a digestive aid and appetite stimulant.

What we know:
Harpagoside, the active ingredient in devil’s claw, appears to reduce pain and inflammation in joints. Some studies suggest stomach acid may counteract benefits, so take the supplement between meals when less stomach acid is released.

Studies:
In 2002, Phytomedicine published a study of 227 people with non-specific low back pain or OA of the knee or hip treated with devil’s claw extract. After eight weeks of taking 60 mg daily, between 50 and 70 percent of people reported improvement in pain, mobility and flexibility.

Do not take devil’s claw if you are pregnant, have gallstones or ulcers, or are taking an antacid or blood thinners. It can affect heart rate and may interfere with cardiac, blood-thinning and diabetes medication. It may also cause diarrhea.
~Arthritis Foundation.

It also works well for muscular pain, sprains, strains and sports injuries. Externally, Devil’s Claw has been used as an ointment in connection with sores, boils, and ulcers. It is also used to cleanse the lymph system and to remove toxins from the blood. Devil’s Claw is used to treat dandruff, insect bites, insect stings, lice and helps to heal cuts and scrapes.

The only thing I found for use in the kitchen on this herb was, that it is used to make tea. The taste of Devil’s Claw is rather bitter, so maybe that is a reason why it is not used for cooking.
The herb is nontoxic and relatively safe to take for a long time. The longer it is taken, the greater effect the healing powers will have.

God’s word is always safe and can be taken in always. The longer and more it is read and taken in, the greater effect the healing powers will have on our lives, health and well-being and can have a possitive effect on all those we interact with.

Philemon 1:6
that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

experiencingrheumatoidarthritis.blogspot.com

April was in a better shape then Ray and she didn’t need for us to drive them over. She dropped the kids off about half an hour later. Leo was wide awake and as happy as ever, holding his bottle, smiling while he was drinking. Lil’ Casey was in his usual fun making mood, although you could notice he knew something was up, since he got woke up so early. That didn’t stop him though.

Amber took care of Leo and both disappeared in her bedroom, where they went back to sleep. Lil’ Casey had his play cell phone with him and was just happy to sit on the couch, in between us. Talking and laughing. He managed to stay up till about 6, when I took him to the bedroom to put him to sleep.

April and Ray called, they were being taken care off, but it could take a while. Eventually, they got home around 10.30 AM, both feeling a bit better, but exhausted. The medication that was prescribed, took them out for almost the rest of the day.

It was around 5 PM when April came over. She was doing alright and Ray was feeling better, but still not up to snuff. Hopefully he will this morning, since he starts a new job. April and the boys left after 7 and I can tell you one thing, she left three tired people behind, haha. But it was worth it.

A good thing we always are up early. A better thing, we are able to take up the slack when it’s needed. Combine that, with spending an entire day with the grandchildren, and we have a lot to be thankful for!

The best thing however is, we did not have to do it alone. God gives what is needed. We could not have done it without Him!

Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.

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Pineapples are from origin native American plants, but became widespread through the tropics by sailors, who planted them wherever they landed, because the fruit contained the vitamin C to prevent sailor’s scurvy.

Bromelain
Pineapple, Ananas comosus

Origin:
Group of enzymes found in pineapple that break down protein.

Dosage:
Capsules and tablets; take 500 mg to 2,000 mg three times a day between meals.

Claims:
Decreases pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and OA, and increases mobility.

What we know:
There is some evidence that enzymes like bromelain have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects comparable to NSAIDs.

Studies:
A 2005 study done in Germany showed that bromelain activated immune cells that fight infection.

Bromelain can cause stomach upset and diarrhea and should be avoided if you are allergic to pineapples. It can also increase the effect of blood-thinning medicine.
~Arthritis Foundation.

It can be eaten plain but also mixed in with a salad. Canned fruit is great for baking, but don’t use it with gelatin, because the enzymes keep it from setting. It is a great meat tenderizer and adds flavor to marinades.

It is simple to grow it yourself. Place the cut-off top with the leaves in a bowl of water and it will root within a few weeks. You can then plant it in the yard, or a pot and grow your own fruit.

Remarkable, how quick and easy it roots. The results are seen in no time. The same goes for our words. They have an immediate effect and can be ingrained quickly. So we better make sure the words we utter are true and yield good fruit.

Isaiah 57:19
” I create the fruit of the lips: Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near,” Says the LORD, ” And I will heal him.”

experiencingrheumatoidarthritis.blogspot.com

Various parts of the plant have been used to make fabric, dye, paper, medicines, fishing nets and soap.

Flax seed
(Flax, Flax seed Oil, Linseed Oil) Linum usitatissimum

Origin:
Seed of the flax plant, containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and lignans (beneficial plant compounds, similar to fiber).

Dosage:
Whole seeds, ground meal or flour, capsules or oil. Whole seeds must be ground into meal or flour; 30 g (1 ounce) daily. Capsules, available in 1,000 mg to 1,300 mg, no typical dosage. Oil, 1 to 3 tablespoons daily.

Claims:
Eases symptoms of RA, lupus and Raynaud’s phenomenon. Lubricates joints and lessens stiffness and joint pain. Lowers total cholesterol and reduces risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Improves hot flashes and dry skin.

What we know:
Flax seed is high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that can be converted to EPA and DHA (the active ingredients in fish oil). Flax seed is a good source of fiber.

Studies:
Lack of studies on whether flaxseed improves symptoms of RA, but omega-3 fatty acids are known anti-inflammatories. Mixed results about whether flax seed, or flax seed oil, can accelerate or slow progression of prostate cancer. Fiber in flax seed can impair absorption of some medications, and as flax seed acts as a blood thinner, beware when taking blood thinners, aspirin or other NSAIDs. Flax seed should be avoided if you have hormone-sensitive breast or uterine cancer, and used with caution if you have high cholesterol and are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.
~Arthritis Foundation.

The bast of the stem of the flax plant is used for linen fabrics like damasks, lace and sheeting. Coarser grades are used for the manufacturing of twine and rope. Did you know Flax fiber is also a raw material for the high-quality paper industry, for the use of printed banknotes and rolling paper for cigarettes? Never too old to learn, huh.

For the weight-watchers amongst us, 100 grams of ground flax seed supplies about 450 kilo-calories, 41 grams of fat, 28 grams of fiber, and 20 grams of protein.

The sprouts are edible and have a light spicy flavor. Ground flax seed has a nutty flavor to it. One tablespoon of ground flax seeds and three tablespoons of water may serve as a replacement for one egg in baking by binding the other ingredients together. Substitute flax for fat in your recipes, using 3 tbsp ground flax seed for 1 tbsp of margarine, butter or cooking oil. Keep in mind, whatever you bake with it, it will brown quicker!

Flax seed is used in many recipes, I am sure you can find lots online, if you are interested. There are also grounding kits for flax seed available. Be careful though, consuming too much flax seeds can cause diarrhea, so know your limit.

This plant has been domesticated and grown, because of it’s benefits and many usages, for ages. People go through great lengths to grow, harvest and mold it into the end-product, they know it can be.

Maybe we could and should be more like Flax in God’s hands.

Isaiah 42:3
A bruised reed He will not break, And smoking flax He will not quench; He will bring forth justice for truth.

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Whenever his cup is empty, he usually comes up to me and hands it over. He then walks up to the kitchen and while doing so, looks over his shoulder if I am tagging along.

When I am not quick enough, he gestures with his little arm as a sign, meaning “Come on”. He stops in front of the fridge, opens it and waits till I get out his juice. All this is his way of asking for a refill.

The other day, much to our surprise, he walked up to Opa and handed him his empty cup. Opa didn’t get it right away. Not even when lil’ Kc walked up to the fridge and gestured. I told Opa, his grand son was asking for a refill, but I didn’t have to.

Apparently, it took a bit too long to suit our little rascal. He looked at Opa and said loud and clear: “Empy!” There was nothing to misunderstanding about that and he got his refill.

He sure has got his way of expressing himself. And of wrapping us around his cute little finger!

At times, there is one fire after another, taking my energy and leaving me drained. My cup is empty, so to speak. God is gracious and merciful and all I have to do, is hand him my empty cup and ask for a refill.

He does more then just fill it up. He makes it run over.

Jeremiah 31:25
For I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.”

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He was so eager to show me what he got. I picked him up, just as April, who stepped in carrying our Leo said: “Don’t touch him, he is sticky all over!”

Yup, I discovered that, since I had picked him up already. He had been sucking on a candy pacifier. His little face, hands and clothes, were covered with a thin layer of the sticky, sugary substance and he had already rubbed it off on me as well.

“Ohhh, he got it on your clothes now too!”, April said.
I couldn’t help but smile and told her I didn’t mind. That’s what the washer was for. Enjoying and sharing his enthusiasm, was much more important, then the stains on my clothes.

And he was more then willing to share. He tried to pop it in my mouth several times. I took his hand and pretended to taste it, while he had the biggest smile on his little face, as if he wanted to say: “Isn’t that good?!”

Yes, it was good. I got a taste of it, when I wiped the stickiness of my face. It was cherry flavor by the way.

It’s so good to see him be so happy and wanting to share with others. I hope he will always keep that and we will try to encourage him in it. Leading by example is a good way to show and teach. God has given us all we need to do so.

Isaiah 58:7
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?

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