https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/77206 2026-04-11T01:10:34Z 2026-04-11T01:10:34Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/77988 2021-07-06T08:20:21Z 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Interactions between valproate and olanzapine/quetiapine in bipolar disorder Abstract: A combination of valproate with an atypical antipsychotic provides synergistic mood stabilizing, anti-depressant and anti-psychotic action in bipolar and schizoaffective disorders. Reports of rare, but serious, adverse drug reactions occurring on the addition of valproic acid to olanzapine and quetiapine monotherapy indicate a possible pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic drug-drug interaction. Some studies have shown that valproate affects drug metabolising enzymes responsible for the metabolism of olanzapine and quetiapine, resulting in altered antipsychotic plasmsa concentrations and interfering with clinical efficacy and toxicity. The aim of this study was thus to recruit patients on a combination of valproate/olanzapine or valproate/quetiapine to assess the possible effect of valproate on the plasma concentrations of these antipsychotics by comparing the drug concentrations in these patients with control groups of patients on quetiapine or olanzapine monotherapy. Description: M.SC.PHARMACOLOGY

2012-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/77918 2021-07-06T08:06:11Z 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Identifying compounds that enhance the resilience of isolated neuronal mitochondria against dysfunction induced by Aß42 and tau oligomers Abstract: The oligomeric intraneuronal accumulation of amyloid beta AB42 (AB42 ) and Tau has been directly linked to Alzheimer's Disease (AD) pathology and progression. In particular, mounting evidence indicates that oligomer-induced mitochondrial abnormalities are early occurrences, preceding neurological pathology and clinical symptoms characteristic of AD. Perforation of mitochondrial membranes leads to the release of pro-apoptotic proteins such as cytochrome c into the cellular cytosol, triggering neuronal apoptosis. The main aims of the study were to determine any effects of Ab42 and Tau aggregates on mitochondrial membranes and subsequently identify mitochondrial-protective compounds. The rationale behind the study was to gain further insight as to the mechanisms involved in AbTau induced mito-toxicity, and identify potential candidates for effective mitochondrial drugs in AD. Description: M.SC.PHARMACOLOGY

2012-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/77908 2021-07-05T05:28:29Z 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Community pharmacists; approach to pharmacological management of Alzheimer's disease in Malta and Gozo Abstract: In view of the projected rise in the Maltese elderly population in the next 20 years and the inevitable associated increase in the prevalence and incidence of neurological illnesses, healthcare professionals need to have a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia Community pharmacists are nowadays being integrated in the optimization of service provision to AD patients and their families however, little is known about how knowledgeable pharmacists are about AD. Description: M.SC.PHARMACOLOGY

2012-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/77744 2021-06-28T08:10:56Z 2012-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Doping in sport : the Maltese scenario Abstract: The use of substances to enhance performance is common amongst sportspersons of all categories and ages. While some of these substances are legal, others are illicit and some sportspersons still use them, despite the possible risks. World-wide the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is responsible for the research, education and development of anti-doping policies, rules and regulations. The World Anti-Doping Code (W ADC) is a document which harmonises anti-doping policies internationally. Malta was declared fully compliant by WADA only early in 2012, although doping tests had been carried out on a federation basis by some sports associations previously. Thus, while the extent of doping in sport in Malta is not known, positive results obtained from these tests indicate that this may be a reality. Description: M.SC.PHARMACOLOGY

2012-01-01T00:00:00Z