RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Animal models are increasingly used in Nursing science to study care approaches. Despite the scientific relevance and the ethical debate surrounding the use of experimental animals, there is a scarcity of scholarly literature exploring this topic in Nursing Schools. AIM: To evaluate perceptions and attitudes of nursing students enrolled in a Pharmacology course on the use of experimental animals and implementation of alternative methods, by comparing the experience for two academic years. An interdisciplinary collaboration has also been developed. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional, quantitative study was developed. Undergraduate nursing students were enrolled in the Pharmacology subject at the University of Leon (Spain). The study was carried out in the Pharmacology facilities. Students followed a two-session practical class regarding experimental animals and alternative methods in the Pharmacology course (Degree in Nursing) in two different academic years (2019-20/2020-21). At the end of the activity, they answered a questionnaire to assess their opinions on the use of experimental animals and alternative methods in Pharmacology and the 3Rs principle. RESULTS: A comparison of the students' perception with and without direct participation in the evaluation of promazine effects in mice was made. A total of 190 students participated in the teaching experience, providing high scores in all items (4-5 out of 5 points) regarding the teaching experience. Students became also aware of the advantages and disadvantages on the use of experimental animals, as well as the ethical considerations to bear in mind for their use and the need for alternative methods. CONCLUSIONS: In the students' opinion, the total replacement of animals by alternative techniques was very difficult, and they preferred to do the practice face-to-face. The alternative method designed was useful for the students to accept the employment of experimental animals in biomedical research and education, and know the legislation applied in the protection of animals.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Plantago ovata husk therapy could be used in patients with Parkinson disease to reduce the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, but it is important to know whether this compound modifies levodopa pharmacokinetics. The maintenance of constant plasma concentrations of levodopa abolishes the clinical fluctuations in parkinsonian patients. The aim of this randomised clinical trial was to establish the influence of the fiber Plantago ovata husk in the pharmacokinetics of levodopa when administered to Parkinson patients well controlled by their oral medication. METHODS: To evaluate the effects of this fiber on several biochemical parameters. 18 volunteers participated in the study and received alternatively two treatments (Plantago ovata husk or placebo) with their usual levodopa/carbidopa oral dose. On days 0 (initial situation), 14 and 35 of the study, blood samples were taken to assess levodopa pharmacokinetics and to determine biochemical parameters. RESULTS: Levodopa Cmax was very similar in the initial situation (603.2 ng/ml) and after placebo administration (612.0 ng/ml), being slightly lower (547.8 ng/ml) when Plantago ovata husk was given. AUC was very similar in the three groups: initial situation.- 62.87 µg.min/ml, fiber treatment.- 64.47 µg.min/ml and placebo treatment.- 65.10 µg.min/ml. Fiber reduced significantly the number of peaks observed in the levodopa concentrations, maintaining concentrations more stable. No significant differences were found in total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides with the administration of Plantago ovata husk. CONCLUSIONS: Plantago ovata husk administration caused a smoothing and homogenization of levodopa absorption, providing more stable concentrations and final higher levels, resulting in a great benefit for patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: EudraCT2006-000491-33.