How to perform CPR in space; cannabis-based medicines liked to better sleep for patients with insomnia; GLP-1s ease heart failure and shrink carbon footprint – Morning Medical Update

How to perform CPR in space

Astronauts may want to rethink how they’d save a crewmate’s life in orbit. A new study presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2025 in Madrid found that the current “handstand method” of CPR recommended by NASA falls short in microgravity, while a mechanical piston device delivered chest compressions at the proper depth. Researchers tested the methods aboard parabolic flights that simulate weightlessness and say automatic compression devices may be the most reliable way to keep blood flowing during a cardiac arrest in space, although space agencies will need to weigh the lifesaving benefits against limited room and payload on future space missions.

Cannabis-based medicines linked to better sleep in patients with insomnia

A study in PLOS Mental Health found that people with insomnia reported improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety and less pain after up to 18 months on cannabis-based medical products. Although about 9% experienced side effects like fatigue or dry mouth, none were severe. Researchers say the findings support medical cannabis as a potential option when conventional insomnia treatments fall short.

GLP-1s ease heart failure and shrink carbon footprint

Back to the ESC Congress 2025, researchers reported that GLP-1 agonists not only reduced hospitalizations for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, but also cut greenhouse gas emissions, medical waste and water use. While the per-patient savings were modest, scaling to millions of eligible patients could prevent over 2 billion kilograms of CO₂ emissions — equal to 20,000 long-haul flights.