Since the discovery of antibiotics, medical innovations have come a long way. The increased accessibility to the Internet, as well as an aging global population, are all pushing transformations in the pharmaceutical landscape. And as a result, the accompanying technology is evolving at a quicker rate than ever before.
All these provide constant opportunities every year for breakthroughs in drug discovery. What are some of the latest medical breakthroughs in 2022? In our brief post, we answer the question by outlining some of them.
Lets begin.
New treatment for the Reduction of LDL
High blood cholesterol levels, especially low-density lipoproteins (LDL-C), have always been a major facilitator of cardiovascular disease. After various research and testing, the experimental RNA drug Inclisiran showed some positive results in 2019. It was to be used in the treatment of primary hyperlipidemia in individuals with increased LDL-C while on a maximum tolerated dosage of statin therapy.
This chemically manufactured drug is administered by injecting a short interfering RNA that targets the PCSK9 protein into the bloodstream. Unlike regular statins, it requires just two doses per year, and it also delivers effective and persistent LDL-C reduction when used with statins.
Its results were well-received and it can help reduce drug noncompliance through long-lasting impact. This cuts off one of the primary causes of failure to decrease LDL levels and provides a more effective treatment.
Inclisiran was finally authorized by the FDA in December 2021 and it is widely regarded as a game-changer for people suffering from heart disease. Several organizations work to make drug breakthroughs like this a reality. A good example is the Center for Breakthrough Medicines.
Next Generation of mRNA Vaccinology
The next generation of mRNA vaccinology has come earlier than expected thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. There are now several medical advances in RNA production, purification, and cellular transportation. All these have facilitated the development of RNA therapeutics for a wide range of drug applications, including those that combat illnesses like cancer and the Zika virus.
Advanced MRNA vaccinology is welcomed because it provides several advantages. For one, the technique is both inexpensive and simple to build and it also saves time. The COVID-19 pandemic clearly emphasized the necessity for swift vaccine development and deployment globally. Through a common goal and rigorous investments during the pandemic, a successful COVID-19 vaccine was created, manufactured, licensed, and distributed in under a year.
However, this was only achievable due to prior research that provided the framework for mRNA technology. This game-changing vaccine discovery can rapidly and effectively deter, some of healthcare’s most difficult ailments.
New Drug for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetes affects nearly up to at least 5% of countries’ population worldwide. One of the latest medical innovations to combat the disease is a novel drug. This drug is a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-1) that helps to lower blood sugar.
The GLP-1 and GIP receptors, when injected under the skin, stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin and inhibit the hormone glucagon, minimizing blood sugar increases after meals. It also slows digestion, allowing people to feel fuller for longer periods.
Research in late trials shows that the drug drastically lowers hemoglobin A1C in type 2 diabetes and promotes weight loss. This makes it potentially one of the most effective diabetes drugs ever produced.
Conclusion
By always placing the best foot forward when it comes to medical innovation, we can continue to experience breakthroughs and wonder drugs. However, clinical trials and research procedures are still as important, because no breakthrough matters if it possibly poses a threat to human health.
