Background: Medication decisions during early ED care affect prescribing quality and patient safety. Aim: This study aimed to characterize early ED medication use, assess World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing indicators and prescription rationality, and compare retrospective and prospective phases. Methods: This hospital-based observational retro-prospective study included 300 pharmacologically treated ED encounters: 150 retrospective records (1 September-30 November 2025) and 150 prospective encounters (1 December 2025-28 February 2026). Early management extended from initial ED assessment to patient disposition. Untreated visits were excluded; therefore, the encounter-level denominator was the 300 treated encounters. WHO indicators and a prespecified rationality checklist were applied. Categorical phase differences were tested using the chi-square test. Results: Most patients were 21-40 years old, and 58% were male. Intravenous fluids (80%) and analgesics (70%) were the most frequently administered medication categories. The mean number of medicines per encounter was 2.3. Generic and essential-list medicines comprised 90% and 95% of prescribed medicines, respectively. Antibiotics and injectables occurred in 30% and 80% of treated encounters, respectively. Polypharmacy (>5 medicines) occurred in 15% of encounters; 90% of prescriptions met all rationality criteria. Generic prescribing increased from 85% to 95% (approximate p = 0.008); differences in antibiotic and injectable prescribing were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Indicators suggested generally appropriate use among treated encounters, but interpretation is limited by convenience sampling, exclusion of untreated visits, incomplete case-mix comparison, and documentation-based rationality assessment. The results provide an audit baseline but not proof of improvement. Electronic prescribing, stewardship, pharmacist review, and repeat evaluation are recommended.
Background: Pharmacology teaching under the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum emphasizes clinically integrated, competency-driven learning. Understanding second-year MBBS students’ attitude, perception, and feedback regarding current teaching-learning methods can help guide curricular refinement. Aim: To assess the attitude, perception, and feedback of second-year MBBS students on teaching-learning methods in Pharmacology under the CBME curriculum. Methods: This observational, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among second-year (fourth-term) MBBS students at our institute from June 2025 to July 2025, after obtaining Institutional Ethics Committee approval (IEC letter no. 338/BRIMS/IEC/2025). A pre-validated, self-administered, 18-item Google Forms questionnaire (Content Validity Index 0.83 for the original 17-item protocol version, with one additional perception item included in the deployed instrument) assessing attitude (5 items), perception (9 items), and opinion on teaching-learning methodologies (4 items) was distributed. Data were analyzed descriptively as numbers and percentages. Results: Of 154 eligible students, 133 (86.4%) completed the questionnaire (81 male, 52 female). Most students (95%) enjoyed learning pharmacology, and all (100%) considered it essential for clinical practice, however, only 23% would consider it for postgraduate specialization. A majority favored case-based learning (63.2%) and audiovisual aids (69%), while 70% felt overwhelmed by the volume of information. Central nervous system pharmacology was rated the most difficult topic (58.6%). Conclusion: CBME-aligned teaching approaches, particularly case-based learning and audiovisual aids, are well received by second-year MBBS students, though the volume of pharmacological content remains a barrier, especially for postgraduate interest. Structured feedback mechanisms and targeted curricular reforms are recommended.
Background: The National Coordination Centre for the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India regularly issues drug safety alerts (DSA) to sensitize health care professionals. Cutaneous adverse reactions are commonly reported; hence, relevant knowledge about skin disorders comprising drug safety alerts, which are India-centric, further emphasizes the importance of pharmacovigilance. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical pattern and the drugs implicated in DSAs belonging to the system organ class (SOC) of skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. Methods: The “System Organ Class” classification by Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities was used to identify DSAs from the skin and subcutaneous tissue category. These safety alerts were evaluated for the type of disorder and the drugs implicated. Results: Of the 181 DSAs, 83 (45.86%) belonged to the SOC of skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. The most common cutaneous disorder is acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), followed by fixed drug eruption (FDE) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Antimicrobials accounted for 44.58% of cutaneous DSAs, followed by cardiovascular drugs in 14.46%. Conclusion: The most common cutaneous adverse reactions comprising DSAs are AGEP, followed by FDE and DRESS. Antimicrobials are the most common drug class implicated in safety alerts, followed by cardiovascular drugs.
Background: The renal collecting system comprises the minor calyces, major calyces, infundibula, and renal pelvis, which together facilitate urine drainage into the ureter. Aim: This study aimed to analyze morphological variations of the renal pelvicalyceal system with respect to the position of the renal pelvis and patterns of calyceal drainage in a cadaveric population. Methods: This descriptive cadaveric study was conducted on 50 kidneys obtained from 25 cadavers over 3 years. The pelvicalyceal system was exposed by careful dissection, and variations were classified based on the position of the renal pelvis according to the Sampaio and Ningthoujam classification systems. Data are expressed as frequency and percentage. Results: An intrarenal pelvis was observed in 23 (46%) specimens, followed by borderline pelvis in 12 (24%) and extrarenal pelvis in 8 (16%). Absence of renal pelvis was noted in 7 (14%) specimens. According to Sampaio’s classification, type AI was the most common (25, 50%). Based on the Ningthoujam classification, the bicalyceal pattern was the most frequent (27, 54%). A rare variation of extrarenal calyces with absent pelvis was observed in 1 (2%) specimen. Conclusion: The morphology of the renal pelvicalyceal system has significant variability. Awareness of these variations may aid in accurate radiological interpretation and endourological procedure planning. However, the findings should be interpreted in light of the limitations of cadaveric studies.
Heart rate variability (HRV) has emerged as a valuable non-invasive marker for assessing autonomic nervous system function in diabetes mellitus. This narrative review examines the pathophysiological mechanisms linking HRV alterations to diabetic complications, the clinical utility of HRV as a prognostic and diagnostic tool, and the innovative application of machine learning techniques in HRV analysis. Reduced HRV is consistently observed in individuals with diabetes and serves as an early indicator of cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, a common yet underdiagnosed complication. Traditional time-domain, frequency-domain, and nonlinear HRV metrics have demonstrated significant associations with glycemic control, microvascular complications, and cardiovascular events. Recent advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence have revolutionized HRV interpretation, enabling more sophisticated pattern recognition, risk stratification, and personalized medicine approaches. This review synthesizes current evidence on HRV pathophysiology in diabetes, evaluates established and emerging HRV assessment methods, and explores the transformative potential of computational approaches in optimizing diabetes management and preventing complications.
Background: Essential oils have a wide range of pharmacological activities, which determine their widespread use in medicine. Rhizomes with roots Valerian officinalis are used in medicine as sedatives and hypnotics. The pharmacological effect of this type of raw material is due, among other things, to essential oils. The leaves of Valerian officinalis, according to the literature, have a composition similar to that of rhizomes with roots and are promising for study in order to expand the range of raw medicinal plant materials for domestic production. Aim: The aim of this study was to quantify the essential oil content in the leaves of V. officinalis and qualitatively analyze it using thin-layer chromatography. Methods: Three series of Valerian officinalis leaves were harvested in 2023 from different regions of Belarus. The quantitative determination of essential oil was carried out in accordance with the State Pharmacopoeia of the Republic of Belarus by steam distillation using a Ginsberg apparatus (method B), Clevenger apparatus (method A), and Clevenger apparatus (method C). Qualitative analysis of the essential oil obtained from the leaves of V. officinalis was performed using thin layer chromatography. Results: Obtaining essential oil using methods B and C does not allow the extraction of essential oil for further analyses. The essential oil obtained using the Clevenger device (method A) has a light yellow color, does not thicken, does not form an emulsion, and has a peculiar pungent odor characteristic of the producing plant. Conclusion: The experimentally selected optimal conditions used to quantitatively determine the essential oil of Valerian officinalis leaves (method A (in accordance with the State Pharmacopoeia of the Republic of Belarus) when distilled for 4 hours, with a raw material-water ratio of 1:10 and using xylene essential oil as a solvent). The quantitative content of essential oil in the leaves of V. officinalis was 9.20±0.67 ml/kg. The essential oil of V. officinalis leaves is composed of sesquiterpene acids, specifically valerenic acid and acetoxyvalerenic acid. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 30-35]
Background: Handgrip strength is a quick and reliable indicator of general muscle strength and functional capacity. Its relationship with muscle endurance, as assessed by Mosso's Ergograph, has not been widely explored in young adults. Aim: This study aimed to compare handgrip strength and muscle endurance in physically active and inactive young adult females and analyze the correlation between grip strength and endurance parameters. Methods: Thirty female participants aged 22–26 years were categorized as physically active or inactive using the IPAQ (Table 1). The handgrip strength was measured using a standard dynamometer. Muscle endurance was assessed using Mosso's Ergograph by recording work done (kg·m), time to fatigue, and the total number of contractions. Independent sample t-tests were used to compare the groups. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to examine the association between handgrip strength and endurance measures. Results: The physically active group demonstrated significantly higher mean handgrip strength (Active vs. Inactive, p = 0.0048) and greater work done (kg·m) (Active vs Inactive, p = 0.0304). There was a moderate positive correlation between grip strength and work done (kg·m) (r = 0.57, p = 0.012) and between grip strength and the number of contractions (r = 0.55, p = 0.014). Conclusion: Handgrip strength shows a moderate positive correlation with muscle endurance as measured by Mosso's Ergograph. This supports the use of handgrip dynamometry as a simple, indirect proxy for assessing general muscle endurance, with implications for musculoskeletal health, physiology education , rehabilitation protocols, and fatigue-related research. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 36-40]
Background: Third-generation Tibetan descendants in the eastern Himalayas are presumed to possess genetic adaptations that confer resistance to high-altitude hypoxia. However, the impact of rapid ascent on this population particularly among native highlanders, remains poorly documented. Anecdotal evidence and observational data indicate that highlanders ascending rapidly (e.g., >500 m/day) may experience lower incidence and milder forms of these conditions than lowlanders. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate physiological effects and incidence of high-altitude illness (HAI) in eastern Himalayan highlanders during rapid ascent to altitudes above 14,300 feet. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in May 2020 at a government hospital in the Eastern Himalayas. Thirty-three male combatants of eastern Himalayan origin, who had resided at lower altitudes for over two years, were assessed using the LLSQ (Lake Louis Scoring Questionnaire) following acute high-altitude exposure. Results: The prevalence of AMS (acute mountain sickness) was 27.3% (n=9), with equal distribution across mild, moderate, and severe categories (n=3 each). High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and cerebral edema (HACE) each occurred in 9.1% (n=3) and 3 % (n=1) of patients respectively. Headache was the most frequent symptom (36.4%), whereas ataxia was the least (3.0%). Lower oxygen saturation (SpO₂ ≤85%) was significantly associated with AMS (χ² = 15.91, p < 0.001). No fatalities were reported. Conclusion: Third-generation Tibetan highlanders remain vulnerable to AMS, HAPE, and HACE during rapid ascent despite presumed genetic tolerance. Pharmacological prophylaxis and pulse oximetry monitoring are recommended in operational settings to mitigate risk and maintain functional capacity. This study represents the first systematic assessment of HAI incidence in Eastern Himalayan highlanders and highlights the need for high-altitude, tailored preventive strategies in primary healthcare. Significance: This study holds multidimensional clinical, operational, and scientific importance, particularly in the context of high-altitude medicine and indigenous populations. It debunks the myth of invulnerability in Tibetan highlanders, validates pulse oximetry as a frontline tool and drives evidence-based policy for the safety of thousands of native highlanders in military, tourism, and labour sectors at extreme altitudes. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 1-7]
Background: The inception of competency-based curricula in the medical education system of India has paved the way for student-centric, interactive teaching-learning methodologies such as problem-based learning (PBL) and self-directed learning (SDL). Aim: Because knowledge on osmolarity and body fluid balance has wide clinical applications, this study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of PBL and SDL in understanding the concept of osmolarity with volume–osmolarity diagram among first-year undergraduate medical students. Method: A total of 101 first-year undergraduate students were enrolled with informed consent. After the pre-test and briefing on the volume–osmolarity diagram, the participants were divided into Group 1 (n = 53) and Group 2 (n = 48). Group 1, with 8 subgroups, was given case scenarios and asked to illustrate findings in a volume–osmolarity diagram. Group 2 was guided to explore the topic with the necessary study material, followed by a post-test and feedback. Results: The mean post-test score (62.47 ± 19.21) significantly improved compared with the pre-test score (43.94 ± 12, p = 0.008). The mean pre-test scores between group 1 (44.54 ± 12.58) and group 2 (44.13 ± 13.33) was not statistically significant (p = 0.94), indicating that the students' understanding of the subject was similar at the outset. No statistically significant differences (p = 0.66) were observed when post-test scores were compared between group 1 (60.57 ± 22) and group 2 (64.58 ± 18.69). The analysis of subjective feedback responses showed that the PBL group had more favorable outcomes for all items in the feedback questionnaire, some of which were statistically significant, when compared with the SDL group. Conclusion: The above-mentioned results show that PBL and SDL are equally effective in facilitating the learning of physiological concepts. However, its impact on medical education needs to be better studied and ascertained with a wider range of topics. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 18-29]
Background: The automobile industry is a complex and dynamic work environment, where workers are exposed to various visual and auditory stimuli that requires rapid processing and response. Reaction time, a critical component of sensory-motor function, plays a vital role in ensuring work place safety and overall efficiency. However, the physical and mental demands of working in the automobile industry may impact workers' reaction times, potentially increasing the risks of accidents and errors. Despite these facts, there is limited research on the visual and auditory reaction times of automobile industry workers. Aim: To assess and compare the Visual reaction time (VRT) and Auditory reaction time (ART) of the automobile industry workers with the age matched controls. Methods: The study population includes 55 automobile industry workers (Group 1) and 55 non-industrial workers (Group 2). The reaction time was assessed using Inquisit 6.0 computer software released by Millisecond software in Seattle, Washington in the year 2020. The statistical analysis was done with unpaired t test using SPSS software version -22. Results: The mean and SD of VRT in industrial and non-industrial workers are 246.16±44.8 and 267.51±34.62 respectively. The mean and SD of ART in industrial and non-industrial workers are 280.38±67.08 and 246.98±29.42 respectively. The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in VRT and ART between 2 groups with fast ART in non-industrial workers (p [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 8-12]
Background: The cause of mortality is a very crucial point for making decisions related to health infrastructure. There is, however, a relative lack of mortality data concerning patients with dermatologic conditions. Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate inpatient mortality associated with dermatological diseases at a tertiary care center Methods: A record-based retrospective descriptive analysis of all patients admitted to the Department of Dermatology, Venerology, & Leprology, GGSMCH, Faridkot, from January 01, 2015, to February 20, 2024, was done. Results: There were 21 deaths out of 1274 admissions for patients with dermatological diseases. Hence, the mortality rate was 1.64%. There were 11 (52.4%) male deaths and 10 (47.6%) female deaths. Male-to-female ratio was 1.1. The largest number of deaths (n = 11,52.42%) occurred due to pemphigus vulgaris. Drug reactions were the 2nd most common cause of death (n = 7, 33.3%). Among drug reactions, TEN (n = 6) was the most common cause of death. Among the immediate causes of death, sepsis (30.74%) was the leading cause. Conclusion: Mortality was chiefly attributed to pemphigus vulgaris, followed in frequency by drug-induced reactions. The leading immediate cause of death was sepsis. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2026; 16(1.000): 13-17]
Background: Chess has long been used to evaluate fundamental cognitive functions including memory and problem solving, where the executive function is crucial. Studies show that chess enables young players to gain advantages in a variety of cognitive domains and it has been demonstrated that chess players have better spatial reasoning, long-term planning, decision-making, memory, cognitive development, academic performance, mental development, scholastic achievement, and strategic, creative, and critical thinking. The purpose of this study is to compare and assess cognitive functions among chess players and non-chess players aged 11 to 16 years in Western India. Methods: The study was conducted in total 120 participants- 60 chess players (case) and 60 non-chess players (control) aged 11-16 years with normal BMI and no cognitive impairment (MMSE test>24). Participants were assessed for cognitive functions using several tests- Executive function and selective attention (Stroop and Eriksen-Flanker test), Working memory (N-back test), Reaction time (Deary-Liewald task) and Intelligence (Bhatia Battery Tests of Intelligence). Results: Significant p values were found for Stroop congruent time (p<0.001), Stroop incongruent time (p<0.001), Eriksen-Flanker congruent time (p<0.001), Eriksen-Flanker incongruent time (p<0.001), N-back (working memory) correct response (p<0.001), Deary-Liewald Simple reaction time (p<0.001), Deary-Liewald Choice reaction time (p<0.001), Bhatia’s Battery Tests of Intelligence Quotient (p<0.001). Conclusion: In contrast to non-chess players, the chess players demonstrated better and enhanced cognitive functions- selective attention, executive function, working memory, single reaction time, choice reaction time and intelligence quotient.
Background: Vancomycin, a glycopeptide antibiotic, is primarily indicated for resistant Gram-positive infections, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). While infusion-related reactions such as "Red Man Syndrome" are well recognized, delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions, though uncommon, may present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in pediatric patients. Awareness of such reactions is essential to prevent unnecessary morbidity and ensure safe therapeutic continuation. Case Description: A child on intravenous vancomycin therapy developed erythematous maculopapular rashes localized to the face on the 5th day of treatment. There was no mucosal or systemic involvement, and hematological and biochemical parameters were normal. The rash subsided promptly after substitution of the initial vancomycin brand with an alternative formulation, along with supportive care using antihistamines and emollients. Causality assessment using the World Health Organization–Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC) criteria categorized the event as "probable". Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of recognizing formulation-specific reactions as a possible, though rare, cause of vancomycin-induced cutaneous ADRs. Thorough pharmacovigilance reporting and post-marketing surveillance are essential to validate such observations. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 439-442]
Background: Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a recently found marker of inflammation in acute and chronic conditions such as heart attack (myocardial infarction), heart failure, angina-pectoris, peripheral vascular disease, inflammatory conditions, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. The literature suggests that both C-reactive protein (CRP) and RDW are elevated in hypertensive patients almost simultaneously. Hypertension is a state of chronic inflammation. Several studies have shown increased levels of inflammation markers such as CRP, high-sensitive CRP (hs-CRP), Interleukin, and IL-1β in hypertension. hs-CRP was found to predict the changes in inflammation quite earlier. Aim: A few studies have been conducted on RDW in secondary hypertensives, but none in recent hypertensives or patients with hypertension for 2 years. Hence, this study aimed to explore whether cost-efficient RDW can be considered as an alternative to CRP to assess the inflammation levels in hypertensive, pre-hypertensive, and normotensive subjects. Methods: Ethical clearance was obtained from Chettinad Medical College and Research Institute, Chennai, India, and consent was obtained from both patients and controls. This is a case-control study that included 120 individuals, who were subdivided into three groups: normotensive, 40; pre-hypertensive, 40; and hypertensive, 40. Hypertensive patients were categorized into two groups based on the duration of hypertension: recently diagnosed hypertensive patients (who were diagnosed with hypertension for less than 6 months) and those on antihypertensive medication for less than or equal to 2 years. CRP, hs-CRP analysis, was performed based on the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay principle. Results: Pearson's χ2 test gave a p value of 0.002, suggesting a strong association between RDW and CRP. Conclusion: Further study is required to establish cost-effective parameters, such as RDW, for the early assessment of inflammatory changes in the pre-hypertensive stage and to understand the correlation between RDW and blood pressure. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 375-379]
Background: Smartphone use and other screen-emitting devices have surged, particularly among college students. Such devices are often used for both academic and recreational purposes, potentially affecting sleep quality. Aim: To explore the correlation between smartphone screen time (ST) and sleep quality among MBBS students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Government Medical College, Kottayam. A sample size of 370 MBBS students was selected using simple random sampling. Data on sleep quality were collected using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), while ST was measured using the Stay-Free ST app. Statistical analysis was conducted using Jamovi software, and associations were determined using the chi-square test and ANOVA. Results: The mean ST was higher among male students (5.55 ± 3.98 hours) than among female students (4.84 ± 1.89 hours). Sleep quality was similarly affected. A significant difference in ST was observed across academic phases, with third-year students reporting the highest mean ST (6.23 ± 2.04 hours). Poor sleep quality was reported by 49.8% of students, with a strong correlation observed between increased ST and lower sleep efficiency. The mean PSQI score of males was 6.00 ± 2.53, for females 5.74 ± 2.46, and across phases was between 5 and 6. Conclusion: The study concludes that there is a significant association between excessive smartphone use and poor sleep quality among MBBS students. Interventions aimed at reducing ST, particularly before bedtime, can help improve sleep quality and overall well-being among students. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(3.000): 246-252]
Background: Autopsies are essential for retrospective quality assessment of clinical diagnoses and medical education, providing insights into disease pathology and treatment efficacy. Despite advancements in diagnostic techniques, autopsies remain crucial for validating diagnoses and overlooked conditions. Aim: This study explores the histopathological findings of autopsies at a tertiary care medical college in Northeastern India, highlighting prevalent diseases and demographic distributions. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed 115 autopsy samples collected from April 2022 to April 2024 at a teaching hospital in Northeast India. Properly preserved samples were included. Ethical clearance was obtained, and data on patient history, socio-demographic details, and histopathological findings were collected. The variables analyzed included age, sex, gross evaluation, and histopathology. Data were expressed as frequencies and percentages, and the relationships between demographic variables and disease patterns were evaluated using the chisquare test with SPSS version 23.0. Results: Of the 115 cases, 53.9% were male and 46.1% were female, with the highest frequency in the 21–30 years age group (27.8%). The most common liver pathology was steatosis (37.8%), followed by hepatitis (11.1%) and haemorrhage (8.9%). In the lungs, alveolar haemorrhage (43.2%) and pigment deposition (27%) were predominant. Acute tubular necrosis (75%) was the most common kidney finding, whereas the heart showed mostly unremarkable findings (86.7%). Cerebral oedema was the most common brain pathology (16.7%). Conclusion: This study provides insights into the histopathological findings of autopsy cases in Northeast India. The results align with other regional and global studies, underscoring the importance of autopsies in understanding disease patterns and informing public health strategies. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore regional variations. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 308-313]
Background: Pharmacology textbooks are foundational pillars in medical education, bridging basic science with clinical practice. In the Indian context, K.D. Tripathi's Essentials of Medical Pharmacology is a preeminent resource. The recent transition to a Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum by the National Medical Commission (NMC) mandates a critical appraisal of such core texts. This study conducts an in-depth comparative analysis of the 8th and 9th editions of Tripathi to evaluate the extent and nature of updates, alignment with NMC competencies, and persistent gaps in the context of modern pharmacological education. Methods: A systematic, comparative descriptive analysis was performed through a direct, chapter-by-chapter and section-by-section comparison of the 8th and 9th editions. A standardized checklist was developed to assess five key domains: 1) Content Updates (new drugs, guidelines, and obsolete content), 2) Clinical Correlation and Problem-Based Learning (PBL) integration, 3) Alignment with NMC CBME guidelines, 4) Pedagogical Enhancements (visual aids, summaries, assessment tools), and 5) Digital Integration. This quantitative analysis was supplemented with qualitative feedback from structured surveys of 50 participants (25 medical educators and 25 final-year MBBS students) to gauge user perception and practical utility. Results: The 9th edition demonstrates substantial improvements, including the incorporation of newer drug classes like SGLT2 inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, updated antibiotic stewardship guidelines, and enhanced clinical case discussions in areas like Direct Oral Anticoagulants. Pedagogically, there is a marked improvement in high-resolution diagrams and summary tables, particularly in complex areas like autonomic nervous system pharmacology. However, significant gaps remain. Coverage of pharmacogenomics is cursory compared to international counterparts like Katzung & Trevor's Pharmacology. The integration of structured PBL modules is minimal, and digital resources, such as interactive quizzes or video lectures via QR codes, are notably absent. Conclusion: The 9th edition of Tripathi represents a significant, albeit incomplete, evolution towards meeting the demands of the CBME curriculum. While its core content remains robust and clinically relevant for the Indian healthcare setting, its educational methodology requires modernization. For future editions to remain competitive and maximally effective, a strategic focus on integrating digital learning tools, expanding pharmacogenomics and pharmacovigilance content, and embedding a comprehensive suite of case-based and problem-based learning exercises is strongly recommended. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 428-432]
Background: Peptic ulcers are characterized by gastrointestinal lining erosions that extend beyond the muscularis mucosae. Musa acuminata roots have been traditionally used in folk medicine for managing gastric ailments. Aim: To evaluate the antiulcer efficacy of an ethanolic root extract of M. acuminata by experimentally inducing ulcers in Wistar albino rats. Methods: Ulcers were induced using pyloric ligation and swim-stress methods. Rats received 200 or 400 mg/kg of the extract orally. Ulcer index, percentage inhibition, gastric volume, free acidity, and total acidity were assessed. Results: The extract significantly reduced ulcer indices at both doses (p < 0.05), with greater protection at 400 mg/kg, along with improved gastric parameters. Conclusion: Musa acuminata root extract exhibits gastroprotective activity likely mediated by cytoprotective effects and gastric acid secretion modulation, supporting its traditional use for peptic ulcer management. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 421-427]
Background: The outbreak of COVID – 19 had a great impact on our everyday lives. People of all professions have been tremendously affected by the pandemic and self- isolation. The lockdown had serious implications on mental health. Many students seldom faced issues and were not able to cope with a sudden change in classes and overall education. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the factors affecting students' performance in online classes during the pandemic period of COVID-19. Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Methods: The respondents were informed about the objective of the study. They were assured about confidentiality of data. The information used in this study was gathered through an online survey which was built using Google forms. It was circulated through social media. Data has been collected from 315 respondents who were studying in schools and universities. Results: 315 responses were analysed. Descriptive statistics show that 33.1% of the respondents belonged to schools and the rest 66.9% belonged to universities. Only 25% of students thought online classes are better than offline mode. 70% of students agreed that offline learning is more effective than online classes. 75% of students agreed that they do not get to spend time with their family members even though they attend online classes. Students faced difficulties like: Itching in the eyes, watering of eyes, headache, a feeling of dullness, reduced sleep and waking up tired, nausea and dizziness, blurred/double vision, dry/red eyes, neck/back pain. Conclusion: The start of online classes has proved to be a great burden and stressor for the student population. [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 301-307]
Background: Adansonia digitata, a plant of the Bombacaceae family is frequently used in traditional African medicineto treat various inflammatory conditions. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of a dry hydro-ethanolic extract of leaf powder(ADF), reconstituted with physiological water. Methods: The in vivo model of carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method is used. The rats received the extract at a dose of 10 mg/kg, while acetylsalicylic acid (10 mg/kg) was used as a reference, and the physiological water (1 ml/100g) was used as a control. Results: After oral administration, the extract significantly prevented edema of the rat paw at the 3rd and 5th hour (p [Natl J Physiol Pharm Pharmacol 2025; 15(6.000): 370-374]
