This reference presents cutting-edge basic and clinical research on all forms of interferon (IFN) involvement in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS)-detailing topics from IFN-receptor molecular interactions to synergy and interference with other agents such as cytotoxic drugs and chemotherapy. Features detailed research findings on IFN ß -1a (Avonex) and IFN -1b (Betaseron).

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and often disabling disease of the nervous system, affecting about 1 million people worldwide. Even though it has been known for over a hundred years, no cause or cure has yet been discovered-but now there is hope. New therapies have been shown to slow the disease progress in some patients, and the pace of discoveries about the cellular machinery of the brain and spinal cord has accelerated. This book presents a comprehensive overview of multiple sclerosis today, as researchers seek to understand its processes, develop therapies that will slow or halt the disease and perhaps repair damage, offer relief for specific symptoms, and improve the abilities of MS patients to function in their daily lives. The panel reviews existing knowledge and identifies key research questions, focusing on: Research strategies that have the greatest potential to understand the biological mechanisms of recovery and to translate findings into specific strategies for therapy. How people adapt to MS and the research needed to improve the lives of people with MS. Management of disease symptoms (cognitive impairment, depression, spasticity, vision problems, and others). The committee also discusses ways to build and financially support the MS research enterprise, including a look at challenges inherent in designing clinical trials. This book will be important to MS researchers, research funders, health care advocates for MS research and treatment, and interested patients and their families.

"This practical resource encompasses the newest essential information on multiple sclerosis-focusing on those areas where progress has been made in research, bringing about new concepts of patient management"--Back cover.

Written by the foremost authority in the field, this volume is a comprehensive review of the multifaceted phenomenon of hepatotoxicity. Dr. Zimmerman examines the interface between chemicals and the liver; the latest research in experimental hepatotoxicology; the hepatotoxic risks of household, industrial, and environmental chemicals; and the adverse effects of drugs on the liver. This thoroughly revised, updated Second Edition features a greatly expanded section on the wide variety of drugs that can cause liver injury. For quick reference, an appendix lists these medications and their associated hepatic injuries. Also included are in-depth discussions of drug metabolism and factors affecting susceptibility to liver injury.

Multiple Sclerosis: A Mechanistic View provides a unique view of the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) and related disorders. As the only book on the market to focus on the mechanisms of MS rather than focusing on the clinical features and treatment of the disease, it describes the role of genetic and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of MS, the role of specific cells in the pathophysiology of the disease, and the pathophysiology of inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders related to MS. The book provides discussion of neurodegeneration and neuroregeneration, two critical emerging areas of research, as well as detailed discussion of the mechanisms of action of the approved and investigational drugs for treatment of MS and the emerging role of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRI) in investigations into MS. It is the only book on the market to offer comprehensive coverage of the known mechanisms of MS and related diseases, and contains contributions from physicians and researchers who are worldwide experts in the field of study. - Focuses on the pathophysiologic mechanisms of multiple sclerosis and the mechanisms of action in agents for the treatment of MS - Discusses the roles of neurodegeneration and neuroregeneration in MS and related diseases - Authored and edited by international leaders in the field of MS research

A comprehensive compendium of all commonly used antibiotics, including indications, side effects, dosage information, and drug/food interactions Antibiotics Manual: A Guide to Commonly Used Antimicrobials, Second Edition is a unique, user-friendly guide made for all who prescribe antibiotics. It’s the only book available that takes a 100% drug-listed approach to 200 of the most common antibiotics prescribed to patients each day. Presented in full color, it’s also a convenient reference for every clinician to consult once the decision to use a particular antibiotic has been reached. This edition of Antibiotics Manual includes newer antibiotics that have been released since the publication of the First Edition and updates prescribing information for the older antibiotics. This all-new Second Edition: Has a color-coded interior design which provides quick and easy point of care access for the user Includes 200 of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics, listed by both brand and generic names Features important recently-released antibiotics such as ceftaroline, tedizolid, and bedaquiline Antibiotics Manual: A Guide to Commonly Used Antimicrobials, Second Edition is a welcome book for physicians in all specialties of medicine who prescribe antibiotics. It is also a handy tool for pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants who want more information on the drugs they administer.

Biotechnology and Biopharmaceuticals: Transforming Proteins and Genes into Drugs, Second Edition addresses the pivotal issues relating to translational science, including preclinical and clinical drug development, regulatory science, pharmaco-economics and cost-effectiveness considerations. The new edition also provides an update on new proteins and genetic medicines, the translational and integrated sciences that continue to fuel the innovations in medicine, as well as the new areas of therapeutic development including cancer vaccines, stem cell therapeutics, and cell-based therapies.